Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Vandalia, IL is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Illinois camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Vandalia, IL. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Okaw Valley Kampground, located near Brownstown, IL, is a great spot for a relaxing stay. This place is perfect for those traveling with big rigs, as it offers spacious sites that can accommodate even the largest RVs. The campground is known for its friendly and accommodating staff, who are always ready to help out.
One of the standout features here is the large pond, which is great for a leisurely walk or some casual fishing. There's also a well-maintained playground that kids will love, complete with slides and other fun equipment. If you're looking to cool off, the pool is a nice touch, with hours from 9 AM to 7 PM.
The campground is clean and well-kept, with updated bathrooms and showers. For those needing to stock up on essentials, there's a small market on-site. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
Several visitors have mentioned how convenient the location is, especially for a quick stopover. It's close to the highway, making it an easy in-and-out for travelers. Despite its proximity to the road, noise levels are surprisingly low, allowing for a peaceful night's sleep.
Whether you're staying for a night or a few days, Okaw Valley Kampground offers a pleasant and hassle-free camping experience. With its combination of natural beauty and practical amenities, it's a solid choice for anyone passing through the area.
Welcome to Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, nestled near Carlyle, Illinois. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations, so there's something for everyone.
One of the standout features here is the spaciousness of the sites. Visitors often rave about the large, well-maintained sites shaded by old-growth trees. It's a perfect setup whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your big rig. Plus, the campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
The campground is equipped with electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations. Showers and toilets are available, though some campers have noted they didn't use the showers during their stay. Firewood is available on-site, and campfires are allowed, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
For those interested in activities, the campground doesn't disappoint. There's a swimming pool open during the summer months, multiple playgrounds, a basketball court, and sand volleyball. If you're into water sports, the nearby lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and even jet skiing. Boat ramps are free to use if you have a campsite, which is a nice perk.
The nearby town of Carlyle has all the essentials, including a Walmart and several dining options. A highly recommended Mexican restaurant is a local favorite.
Overall, Illini Campground is a fantastic spot for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to enjoy nature with the convenience of modern amenities. The friendly hosts and beautiful surroundings make it a place you'll want to return to again and again.
$15 - $30 / night
Boulder Campground is situated on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest manmade lake.
Boulder Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Boulder Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas. Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available as well as nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
Camping No Show - Camping no-show customers who do not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by check out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date will be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit their reservation. If the no-show service fee is greater than the reservation amount, the customer will not be charged any additional service fees. Cancellations - A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
$18 / night
Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area near Iuka, IL, is a solid spot for camping with a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations. The campground is open from mid-May to late December, offering a good stretch of time to enjoy the outdoors.
One of the standout features here is the availability of electric and water hookups, making it convenient for RV campers. The campground also has showers and toilets, which are pretty standard for a state park. If you’re into fishing, there's a lake that’s big enough for ski boats but also nice for kayaking. Some folks have mentioned that the fishing could be better, but it’s still a decent spot to cast a line.
For those who like to stay active, there are hiking trails, though a few campers noted that the trails could use better markings. If you’re bringing pets, they’ll have a blast chasing squirrels around the campground. And if you’re planning a campfire, you’re in luck—there’s plenty of wood available, and you don’t even need to bring your own.
The campground is also pretty quiet, especially if you’re there during the off-peak times. Some campers have mentioned that the sites are well-spaced, giving you a bit of privacy. Plus, there’s a market nearby if you need to pick up any essentials.
Overall, Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area offers a good mix of amenities and activities, making it a worthwhile stop whether you’re planning a quick overnight stay or a longer camping trip.
Coles Creek Campground is situated on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis and a few miles from the town of Carlyle, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.
Coles Creek Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Coles Creek Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas. Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
Camping No Show - Camping no-show customers who do not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by check out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date will be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit their reservation. If the no-show service fee is greater than the reservation amount, the customer will not be charged any additional service fees. Cancellations - A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
$150 / night
We are your premier Effingham, Illinois Campground family owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. We are an RV Park and Campground ideally located on the north shores of Lake Pauline in scenic South Central Illinois. If you are searching for a quiet and peaceful setting within 1 mile of I-70 and I-57, call or book online today!
Camp Lakewood Campground is open year round
**Hours of Operation: **
All Kiefer Campgrounds are open 24 hours a day. Our registration office and store hours vary depending on season. Site deliveries will be made only during open office/store hours. Night check-in is available anytime the office is closed and you can reserve online 24 hours a day.
Campground Policies:
Pool Policy:
The pool is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 9:00 a.m. to dusk. There is no lifeguard on duty. State law requires that anyone (15) fifteen years old or younger be accompanied by a guardian of (21) twenty-one years of age or older while in and/or around a pool area. Therefore, we will ask any children swimming without an appropriate guardian to leave the pool and pool area. We put your child’s safety above all else, and we hope you agree with us. We also must stipulate the following while in the pool area: NO smoking, NO pets, NO food nor drinks, and NO diving and/or running for safety purposes.
Golf Cart Policy:
We now allow privately owned golf carts on our properties! All drivers must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. All drivers must sign a liability waiver before using their cart on property. The owner of the cart is financially responsible for any damage caused by their cart to the campground property or any other camper’s property on the grounds.
Pet Policy:
We love pets! We welcome all non-aggressive pets that visit us on a leash with their owner attached. Please remember that others walk where you and your pet walk, so please pick up what they leave behind. If we all do our part, no one will be stepping into anything unpleasant. Please keep your pets feeling safe at all times. Pets often do not like being left alone in a strange place or around strange humans and may need your assistance and reassurance.
Check In/Check Out Policy:
All campsites will be paid for in advance (at check-in). Check-in time begins at 1:00 p.m. Check-out time is 12:00 p.m. for campsites and 11:00 a.m. for cottages and cabins. If you need a late check-out, please make arrangements with the office.
**Campsite Policy: **
We allow only one (1) camping unit and six people per site. Additional charges will occur for more than two adults per site. Only one passenger vehicle allowed per site. All others are asked to park in the visitors parking. If you have concerns with this guideline, please contact the office.
$35 - $120 / night
Coon Creek is a large campground that sits on the western shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central Illinois. Families enjoy the playground, swimming area and shaded campsites within the facility. The lake and surrounding land offer outdoor activities for people of all ages, including fishing, swimming, picnicking and simply relaxing. Click Here for the Lake Shelbyville Virtual Tour
Lake Shelbyville offers a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. Coon Creek provides a boat ramp, and for those without a boat, several ponds with farmed fish are available around the lake. Hunting areas within a short drive offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock. Visitors can also explore the lake shore on foot via a 0.7-mile nature trail within the facility.
Lake Shelbyville offers a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. Coon Creek provides a boat ramp, and for those without a boat, several ponds with farmed fish are available around the lake. Hunting areas within a short drive offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock. Visitors can also explore the lake shore on foot via a 0.7-mile nature trail within the facility.
This facility overlooks the lake shore and is heavily forested with plenty of shade. Oak and hickory are the lake region's dominant tree species, and foliage turns a variety of red, orange, purple and yellow each fall, while prairie flowers dot the landscape in spring and summer. Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.
Wolf Creek State Park, Woods Lake Waterfowl Refuge and Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex are popular locations for wildlife watching, birding and hunting near Lake Shelbyville.
$18 / night
$25 / night
Sherwood Forest Campground, located at 920 City Lake Road, is situated in a wooded setting adjacent to Hillsboro Lake. There are 125 permanent campsites, 15 short term campsites, and two host sites. All sites have electrical and water hookups with a dump station available within the campground. There is a clean, well maintained shower house facility as well as another public comfort station available for campers and their guests. Other amenities include a covered stage, pavilions, and a playground.
$25 - $45 / night
Okaw Valley Kampground, located near Brownstown, IL, is a great spot for a relaxing stay. This place is perfect for those traveling with big rigs, as it offers spacious sites that can accommodate even the largest RVs. The campground is known for its friendly and accommodating staff, who are always ready to help out.
One of the standout features here is the large pond, which is great for a leisurely walk or some casual fishing. There's also a well-maintained playground that kids will love, complete with slides and other fun equipment. If you're looking to cool off, the pool is a nice touch, with hours from 9 AM to 7 PM.
The campground is clean and well-kept, with updated bathrooms and showers. For those needing to stock up on essentials, there's a small market on-site. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
Several visitors have mentioned how convenient the location is, especially for a quick stopover. It's close to the highway, making it an easy in-and-out for travelers. Despite its proximity to the road, noise levels are surprisingly low, allowing for a peaceful night's sleep.
Whether you're staying for a night or a few days, Okaw Valley Kampground offers a pleasant and hassle-free camping experience. With its combination of natural beauty and practical amenities, it's a solid choice for anyone passing through the area.
Welcome to Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, nestled near Carlyle, Illinois. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations, so there's something for everyone.
One of the standout features here is the spaciousness of the sites. Visitors often rave about the large, well-maintained sites shaded by old-growth trees. It's a perfect setup whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your big rig. Plus, the campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
The campground is equipped with electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations. Showers and toilets are available, though some campers have noted they didn't use the showers during their stay. Firewood is available on-site, and campfires are allowed, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
For those interested in activities, the campground doesn't disappoint. There's a swimming pool open during the summer months, multiple playgrounds, a basketball court, and sand volleyball. If you're into water sports, the nearby lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and even jet skiing. Boat ramps are free to use if you have a campsite, which is a nice perk.
The nearby town of Carlyle has all the essentials, including a Walmart and several dining options. A highly recommended Mexican restaurant is a local favorite.
Overall, Illini Campground is a fantastic spot for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to enjoy nature with the convenience of modern amenities. The friendly hosts and beautiful surroundings make it a place you'll want to return to again and again.
$15 - $30 / night
Boulder Campground is situated on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest manmade lake.
Boulder Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Boulder Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas. Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available as well as nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
Camping No Show - Camping no-show customers who do not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by check out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date will be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit their reservation. If the no-show service fee is greater than the reservation amount, the customer will not be charged any additional service fees. Cancellations - A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
$18 / night
Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area near Iuka, IL, is a solid spot for camping with a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations. The campground is open from mid-May to late December, offering a good stretch of time to enjoy the outdoors.
One of the standout features here is the availability of electric and water hookups, making it convenient for RV campers. The campground also has showers and toilets, which are pretty standard for a state park. If you’re into fishing, there's a lake that’s big enough for ski boats but also nice for kayaking. Some folks have mentioned that the fishing could be better, but it’s still a decent spot to cast a line.
For those who like to stay active, there are hiking trails, though a few campers noted that the trails could use better markings. If you’re bringing pets, they’ll have a blast chasing squirrels around the campground. And if you’re planning a campfire, you’re in luck—there’s plenty of wood available, and you don’t even need to bring your own.
The campground is also pretty quiet, especially if you’re there during the off-peak times. Some campers have mentioned that the sites are well-spaced, giving you a bit of privacy. Plus, there’s a market nearby if you need to pick up any essentials.
Overall, Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area offers a good mix of amenities and activities, making it a worthwhile stop whether you’re planning a quick overnight stay or a longer camping trip.
Coles Creek Campground is situated on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis and a few miles from the town of Carlyle, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.
Coles Creek Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Coles Creek Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas. Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
Camping No Show - Camping no-show customers who do not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by check out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date will be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit their reservation. If the no-show service fee is greater than the reservation amount, the customer will not be charged any additional service fees. Cancellations - A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
$150 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Vandalia, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Vandalia, IL is Okaw Valley Kampground with a 4.2-star rating from 21 reviews.
What parks are near Vandalia, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Vandalia, IL that allow camping, notably Carlyle Lake and Lake Shelbyville.
