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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion

Makanda, Illinois · Williamson County · Campground

Overview The Devils Kitchen Campground and bathhouse are closed this season due to infrastructure repair needs. The group pavilion is closed to camping but open for day use activities as a first come first served picnic area.Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion is situated in the south central portion of the Crab Orchard Nati…

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37.64276, -89.10708
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About Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion

Overview The Devils Kitchen Campground and bathhouse are closed this season due to infrastructure repair needs. The group pavilion is closed to camping but open for day use activities as a first come first served picnic area.Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion is situated in the south central portion of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion sits on a small peninsula giving your group solitude to enjoy a front row seat to view numerous species of waterfowl and shorebirds, also giving you the serene view of sunrises & sunsets on the lake. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, located relatively close to the confluence of two of the Nation's great rivers, the Ohio and Mississippi, the refuge's 44,000 areas is ideally situated to provide a migration haven for the thousands waterfowl and other migrating birds that journey the Mississippi Flyway each fall and spring. The refuge has many faces. On the north side of the refuge Crab Orchard Lake is an outdoor enthusiasts dream come true. This 7,000 acre lake offers two campgrounds, marinas, and several boat launching ramps. Throw in fishing sites, hunting opportunities, picnic areas, and swimming and you begin to understand why this refuge is one of the top ten most visited in the Nation.Drive the roads on the refuge's south side and you discover a more solitary portion of Crab Orchard NWR filled with the pristine Devils Kitchen and Little Grassy lakes, nature trails with waterfalls, and a National Wilderness Area offering a place to seek relaxation, adventure, or something in between. On the refuge's east side, you will find great opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, biking and educational activities at the visitor center and you may find yourself coming back again and again.Recreation Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is host to a multitude of recreational opportunities including hiking, picnicking, photography, boating, hunting, fishing, camping, wildlife observation, and envi

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion

Heading to Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion?

No central reservation system listed for Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10284754) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I contact Devils Kitchen Group Pavilion?

You can reach the park at phone: Headquaters: 618-997-3344.