RV rental Forbes Lake, IL: Motorhome rentals, camper van rentals and more

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Discover Forbes Lake RV rentals for memorable road trips

What can you expect from a lake that’s named after a renowned natural scientist? A great lake and an even better camping experience for sure. Forbes Lake, named after Stephen A Forbes is in the state of Illinois and has earned the claim of being one of southern Illinois’ best fishing lakes and a great destination for a motorhome camping trip for the entire family. Forbes Lake is a part of the Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area and is very close to the cities of Salem and Centralia. Rent an RV in Marion County, IL and set out on an outdoor adventure.

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How to rent a RV in Forbes Lake

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Getting Outdoors

Forbes Lake is known for sport fishery, with abundant populations of bluegill, crappie and largemouth bass. The lake spans 585 acres, providing ample opportunities for excellent fishing. Other fish species in the lake include redear, channel catfish, hybrid striped bass and walleye sauger hybrid. For trout fishing, visit the lake in the spring and fall seasons.

Camping at Forbes Lake

Park your RV rental at Forbes Lake and enjoy easy access to the lake and its recreational activities. The Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area is home to the Oak Ridge Campground that has 115 campsites, with facilities that include pull-thru sites, big rig access, tent camping, 30 amp electric, water, electricity, cell phone coverage, fire rings, restrooms, and showers. Recreational facilities include fishing, boating, hiking, and a playground for the kids to run around in. This is a pet-friendly campground so bring your furry friends along.

Exploring the Area

Marion County campers have lots to discover in the areas surrounding Forbes Lake. The city of Centralia is about 32 miles from Forbes Lake and offers quite a lot to explore. Known for its wineries and orchards, Centralia has a typical southern Illinois charm to it.

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Popular nearby hiking trails and campgrounds

  • Hiking TrailLocation
  • Bryan Memorial Park Nature Trail, ILSalem, IL
  • Sam Dale Lake Loop Trail, ILFlora, IL
  • Devil's Prop, ILMount Vernon, IL
  • Newton Lake Trail, ILNewton, IL
  • Carlyle Lake and Eldon Hazlet State Park Trail, ILCarlyle, IL
  • Illini trail, ILCarlyle, IL
  • Chipmunk Trail, ILCarlyle, IL
  • Little Prairie Nature Trail, ILCarlyle, IL
  • Old Fox Chase Ground Hiking Trail, ILRamsey Lake State Park, IL
  • Rend Lake Bike Trail, ILWayne Fitzgerrell State Park, IL

Recent RV rental reviews in Forbes Lake

Johnathan L.

August, 2025

The RV was very nice with comfortable beds and furniture. The best part of the RV for us was the 2 showers which both had plenty of hot water. This was the first time that I stayed in a camper without having to take quick showers that were cold after the first 5 minutes or having to wait between showers for the water heater to recover.
The only complaint about the trip was the inability of the AC to keep up with the mid afternoon heat. I don't fault the RV though. The Heat index outside was >115. Once the sun went down it cooled off and was perfect overnight.
I will definitely rent this camper again if available next year.
Courtney O.

July, 2025

So clean and made you feel like home! Had everything we needed and the hosts were super friendly and easy to work with. Can’t wait to rent again next summer!
G. Lee P.

July, 2025

The convenience of having the camper delivered to the site and ready for our use. Matt and Kristi were very helpful and responsive to us as first time camper renters. We will definitely rent again for the convenience.

Frequently asked questions about renting an RV near Forbes Lake

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