For those looking for a tranquil camping region in the nearby area, Lake Murphysboro State Park just west of Murphysboro provides that and more.

Since its completion in 1951 the lake has provided quality fishing for a variety of fish species including largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish, according to Robert Catt, site superintendent for Lake Murphysboro State Park.

The lake features 7.5 miles of shoreline making it ideal for the shoreline fisherman, Catt said.

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Average depths in the lake are 12 feet and the deepest spot is 36 feet.

J.P. Morgan and wife Bert, from Broken Bow, Neb., came to see what is on the outskirts of Interstate 57 on their way to the National Campers and Hikers Association convention at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds starting July 7th.

The Morgans have found Lake Murphysboro State Park to be a pleasant campground during their stay.

We came in here late on Sunday night and the ranger on duty came out to help us find a site and get parked, Mr. Morgan said.

Mrs. Morgan, who has been camping for over 25 years, added, The campers here are very respectful and helpful- everything here has been super.

Two Park Forest residents, Bill Mumma and wife Naomi, were making their first camping trip into the area and decided on Lake Murphysboro for its location.

It’s a good fishing spot here. I caught a lot of nice bluegill and catfish this week, Bill Mumma said. We also came here for the fact that it’s not so crowded.

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The Mummas said they go camping at least once a month and prefer the State Parks throughout Illinois.

There are 20 tenting sites avail

see CAMPING, page 11