For us Illinoisans, the allure of a lakeside retreat, where the gentle lapping of waves sets the rhythm of your day and the fresh air invigorates your spirit, is a quintessential part of experiencing our state's natural charm. If you're seeking a camping destination that combines serene beauty with convenient amenities and a truly welcoming atmosphere, then Lake Sara Campground in Effingham, Illinois, is a spot that deserves to be at the top of your list. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it’s a gateway to the expansive outdoor opportunities that Lake Sara and its surrounding area proudly offer.
Lake Sara Campground has garnered a reputation for its helpful and accommodating service, even for last-minute arrivals. As one happy camper noted, "We didn't have a place to go last minute for the night and he helped us with the very last spot. We were also welcomed with a baby deer saying hi!" This speaks volumes about the friendly and flexible approach of the owner, ensuring that visitors feel welcome from the moment they arrive. The emphasis on cleanliness is also clear, with reviews praising the "clean and well kept" bathrooms – a crucial detail that elevates any camping experience.
What truly sets Lake Sara Campground apart is its prime location and the tranquil atmosphere it cultivates, especially during the off-season. Campers who stayed for an extended period highlighted their satisfaction, noting that "The owner is friendly and accommodating. We didn’t have any issues during our stay. Since it was off season, the campground was really peaceful and quiet." This quiet charm, coupled with the abundance of nearby attractions like a public beach, playgrounds, lakefront restaurants, and golf courses all within walking distance, makes it an incredibly appealing choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. It’s a place where relaxation is paramount, and outdoor adventures are always just a stone's throw away, embodying the best of Illinois’s recreational offerings.
Lake Sara Campground is perfectly situated at 15482 Wildwood Dr, Effingham, IL 62401, USA. For residents across Illinois, this address places it in a highly accessible region of central Illinois, making it a convenient destination from various parts of the state. Effingham is a well-known city in Effingham County, strategically located at the intersection of Interstates 57 and 70, which are major thoroughfares connecting much of the Midwest.
The campground's location approximately four miles west of the city of Effingham, directly on Lake Sara, is a significant advantage. This means easy driving access for both cars and RVs from major urban centers like Chicago, St. Louis (Missouri, but a primary hub for many Illinoisans), Indianapolis (Indiana), and Springfield. The proximity to Interstates 57 and 70 ensures minimal hassle in travel. Once off the interstate, a short drive on local roads, including Wildwood Drive, leads directly to the campground. This balance of being just a few minutes' drive from essential amenities in Effingham (like Walmart and various dining options) while enjoying a peaceful, remote, and lakeside setting is a key appeal. Visitors can easily stock up on supplies or enjoy a meal out before retreating to the tranquility of the campground. The surrounding area offers additional points of interest such as the Cross at the Crossroads, Ballard Nature Center, and local trails, further enhancing its accessibility and appeal for a comprehensive Illinois getaway.
Lake Sara Campground provides a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for various types of campers:
Lake Sara Campground boasts several features that make it a compelling choice for campers and visitors in Illinois:
For reservations, inquiries about site availability, or any other questions regarding Lake Sara Campground, please use the following contact information:
Address: 15482 Wildwood Dr, Effingham, IL 62401, USA
Phone: (217) 868-2964
Mobile Phone: +1 217-868-2964
It is highly recommended to call the campground directly, especially if you are planning a last-minute trip or visiting during peak season, to ensure availability and confirm specific site features that meet your needs. The accommodating owner and staff will be able to assist you with all your inquiries.
For us Illinoisans, finding a local camping gem that truly offers a blend of natural beauty, convenient access, and genuine hospitality is a significant discovery. Lake Sara Campground in Effingham perfectly embodies these qualities, making it an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for residents across our state.
Its prime location directly on Lake Sara is a major draw. We cherish our state's lakes, and having immediate access to boating, fishing, swimming at the public beach, and other water activities is incredibly appealing. This means less travel time and more time enjoying the water, a perfect scenario for a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation. The added bonus of having restaurants, a bar, and golf courses within walking distance truly elevates the experience, providing diverse entertainment options right at your fingertips.
The consistent praise for the campground's clean and well-kept bathrooms, laundry facilities, and accommodating owner speaks volumes about the quality of the stay. For Illinoisans who appreciate comfort and a welcoming atmosphere, these are crucial details. The ability to find a last-minute spot, as one reviewer did, also highlights a flexibility that is invaluable, especially for spontaneous adventures.
Whether you're seeking the peaceful quiet of an off-season retreat or a vibrant summer full of lakeside fun, Lake Sara Campground delivers. Its balance of serene natural surroundings and proximity to Effingham's amenities ensures that you get the best of both worlds. For families, couples, or solo travelers looking to create lasting memories in the great outdoors, Lake Sara Campground offers an authentic, comfortable, and friendly Illinois camping experience right in our own cherished backyard.
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Grilling
RV camping
RV electric hookup
RV water hookup
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Public shower
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Credit cards
Debit cards
Credit cards
Good for kids
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
We didnt have a place to go last minute for the night and he helped us with the very last spot. We were also welcomed with a baby deer saying hi! The bathrooms were clean and well kept. He was nice and helped us on the spot. Thank you so much!
We stayed here for a month and a half during October & November to visit family in the area. We were really happy with our stay. The owner is friendly and accommodating. We didn’t have any issues during our stay. Since it was off season, the campground was really peaceful and quiet. The surrounding area has a lot to offer so it really adds to the appeal of this campground. There’s a public beach, playground, restaurant/bar right on the water, golf courses, and more all within walking distance. When we come home next, we look forward to booking here again.
Overall it’s a quiet camp ground, seems like it caters more to the seasonal customers. Price rates are pretty good depending on the spot you’re in. Some spots you’ll be charged by the kilowatt some spots you don’t. Full hook ups, but definitely recommend a hose that’s at least 50ft long depending on where you are at some of the water hook ups aren’t functioning. Also, you can definitely tell the campground isn’t used to many kids, the main entrance people don’t slow down much. So make sure you don’t get a spot on the front if you have children! We stayed here for almost 6 weeks. It was the cheaper option than the campground on the other side of town. So you have that as a plus.
Great family campground!! We stay every year for a local festival. Clean shower house with hot water. Zach is always really nice and accommodating.
This campground is really going downhill. The "management" does not mow the grass often enough. Several campers as you enter the park are old with tarps spread over the roofs when it rains. Several of the lots are filled with junk including the manager's home. This place needs a major cleanup! Don't bother to call or text...the manager never bothers to answer! We were seasonal campers for MANY years. Finally had enough!