Closed
The campground is currently showing as closed on Recreation.gov. The facility normally operates year-round with winter reservations available by calling the campground directly at 618-364-6289.
About
Blue Heron Marina and Campground, now operating as Bluegill Bay Marina and Campground, occupies a prime location on the northwestern shore of Crab Orchard Lake. The campground is situated within Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, a 44,000-acre refuge near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers that serves as a critical migration haven along the Mississippi Flyway. The facility has been operated by The REEF LLC since January 2025.
The campground offers 34 campsites equipped with water and 50-amp electric hookups, with pricing ranging from $18/night for primitive sites to $45/night for full hookup sites. Three bathhouses provide hot showers and flush toilets, and a dump station is available on-site. The camp store sells bait, firewood, ice, and snacks. Fire pits are permitted, and campers must observe quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
The marina component features 137 boat slips for daily or annual rental, a boat ramp, fishing piers, and watercraft rentals including kayaks, pontoons, and paddle boats. The refuge offers excellent fishing for crappie, bluegill, and bass, along with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and beach access. Pets are allowed but must be leashed (10 feet maximum) and are not permitted in restrooms, the beach, or picnic areas.
Directions
From I-57 in Marion, go west on Illinois Route 13 about three miles to Illinois Route 148, then turn left (south) and go two and one-half miles to the refuge entrance.