Sangchris Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Sangchris Lake State Park is found between Chicago and St. Louis in Rochester, Illinois. It encompasses over 3,000 acres of lush forest, and the lake provides visitors with 120 miles of shoreline to enjoy. The lake was constructed as a power station cooling lake in 1964 when Commonwealth Edison dammed Clear Creek with a 50-foot earthen dam.
Spring 32 - 74 F
Summer 64 - 85 F
Fall 34 - 79 F
Winter 19 - 55 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Sangchris Lake State Park
Sangchris Lake State Park has two campgrounds. Deer Run Campground is the larger of the two and has 80 campsites with electrical hookups, 40 primitive sites, five tent-only spots, and five equestrian campsites. It’s located on the northern side of Sangchris Lake. All of these campsites are pet-friendly, and guests have access to a dump station. Reservations are accepted here, but the campground is closed from mid-January until March. Hickory Point Campground is found on the eastern side of Sangchris Lake near the boat dock. This campground features 55 campsites with electrical hookups, 10 primitive sites, and two cabins. This pet-friendly campground includes restrooms with flush toilets, a shower facility, and a playground. Water access and the showers are closed from November through March each year. ADA-accessible campsites are available in both campgrounds.
What to Do at
Sangchris Lake State Park
Fishing enthusiasts and boaters flock to this mid-west location to take advantage of Sangchris Lake’s water sports and activities. Hunters appreciate the park’s uplands with its abundance of small game. Over 20 miles of scenic trails are enjoyed by hikers and those on horseback, and the public archery range is ideal for novice archers looking to improve their skills.
Fishing
As a designated State Fish Preserve, anglers will discover a variety of colorful species in Sangchris Lake State Park waters. The park frequently hosts fishing tournaments for both children and adults. The lake is regularly stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, flathead catfish, and carp. You’re welcome to fish from the shoreline, or you can access the water by boat from the east and west shores or from the Strawkas Point Launch.
Nature Watching
You'll find animals such as squirrels, deer, doves, and waterfowl in Sangchris Lake State Park as you explore the hiking trails or enjoy boating on the lake. Geese, herring, and ducks are frequently seen near the water, and campers will discover that the raccoons are always nearby.
Stargazing
Stargazing is always a popular activity in Sangchris Lake State Park due to the wide-open skies over the lake. The park’s rural location away from city lights makes it easy to see the stars and constellations. Remember to bring your telescope for celestial viewing.
Flora and Fauna
As you explore the lush forests of Sangchris Lake State Park, you’ll discover oak, maple, persimmon, and butternut trees. They put on a colorful show each fall as their leaves turn. Visiting the park during the spring and summer seasons allows you to view all of the area’s bright wildflowers in bloom.
Hiking
There are only two designated hiking trails in Sangchris Lake State Park, but visitors are welcome to walk along the 20 miles of equestrian trails. The Cottonwood and Deer Run Trail Loop provides you with a 1.2-mile hike, while the Sangchris Lake Loop is a 6-mile path that starts in a prairie setting and then takes you through the woods. History buffs will enjoy the signage along the trails and the old cemetery.
Boating
Motorboats with up to 25 horsepower, canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are all welcome on Sangchris Lake. Boats with a horsepower over 25 are asked to operate at wake speed in order to preserve the calm waters. You can access the lake from Strawkas Ramp, East Ramp, or West Ramp.
How to Get to
Sangchris Lake State Park
Sangchris Lake State Park is a 24-minute drive from Springfield, Illinois. Head west on E Myrtle St. toward S 4th Street. Turn right on S 4th Street. In 0.4 miles, take a right on S Grand Avenue East. After 7.6 miles, turn right on Cardinal Hill Road. In 5.2 miles, turn left on County Rd. 9 S/New City Road. Sangchris Lake State Park will be in 4.3 miles.
Entering Sangchris Lake State Park
RVs up to 55 feet in length are welcome in Sangchris Lake State Park. The park’s roads are wide and paved, and there are no driving restrictions for RVs. You’ll find three main parking lots here. They are near the entrance and group camping area, by the visitor center, and near the Maple Flats Area. All parking lots include handicapped accessible spaces, and there’s a wheelchair ramp at the park office. The park is open year-round.
Sangchris Lake State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Sangchris Lake State Park
Fall is an excellent time to visit Sangchris Lake State Park. The fall colors are beautiful, and the weather is still warm enough to enjoy fishing, boating, and camping.
On land, you’ll find squirrels, deer, and raccoons in Sangchris Lake State Park. The water attracts geese, herring, and ducks, and the lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, bulkhead, catfish, and carp.
Sangchris Lake State Park has two campgrounds with designated RV campsites. Deer Run Campground features 80 sites with electric hookups and Hickory Point Campground includes 55 RV campsites with electrical hookups.
Hickory Point Campground is first come, first served while Deer Run Campground does accept reservations. Campsites range from $10 to $35.
Pets are allowed throughout Sangchris Lake State Park. They must be kept on a leash at all times.