Camper submitted image from Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam - 1
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Camper submitted image from Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam - 2
Nature
Camper submitted image from Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam - 3
Roads
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Water
Camper submitted image from Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam - 5
Signs & Maps

Established Camping

Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam

Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam, near Chester, Illinois, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy some time by the water. With around 15 sites featuring 50 amp hookups, it’s a convenient choice for RV campers, and the views of the river are a definite highlight.

The campground offers basic amenities like a shower house and vault toilets, making it comfortable for a weekend stay. Visitors have noted that it’s a great place for fishing, with good catches of catfish and crappie reported. As one camper mentioned, “This place is really good for fishing,” so bring your gear if you’re keen on casting a line.

For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, there’s a short, paved trail leading to a scenic overlook of the confluence of the Kaskaskia and Mississippi Rivers. While the area is primarily for camping and fishing, the peaceful surroundings and the sound of the river create a relaxing atmosphere. Just keep in mind that it’s first come, first served, so plan accordingly if you want to snag a good spot.

Description

US Army Corps of Engineers

This recreation area is part of Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River

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Location

Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam is located in Illinois

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

38.18868321 N
89.88749555 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

5 Reviews

Reviewed Jan. 2, 2023

Kaskaskia river project

Ran by the U.S. army core of engineers. About 15 sites all have 50 amp hook up. Water fill available during season and dump station. $20 a night with shower house and vault toilets. Back up to river with great view, and boat ramps. First come, first serve.

Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam by Matthew H., January 2, 2023
  • Review photo of Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam by Matthew H., January 2, 2023
  • Review photo of Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam by Matthew H., January 2, 2023
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Sep. 26, 2021

Basic amenities, not bad for a local getaway.

USE THE ADDRESS ON THE WEBSITE, NOT FROM THIS APP

This campsite is actually about 25 miles or so south from what the app is showing on here, use the website listed above to get the correct address. All RV sites with electric, about 10 near the lock & dam and 5 further down the road near the trail head/old boat ramp. The camp sites further back are better shaded and near restrooms. First come first serve, as far as I could tell. Not much to do besides camp & fish, no swimming allowed. The boat dock near the trail head was closed & dried up. The trail is very short, flat, & paved, leads to a nice overlook of the confluence. I camped closer to the lock & dam, it was decent. The activity at the lock & dam was loud during early morning. No shade on one side but fire ring, electric, & picnic table provided. Paid $20. I will go back & try to snag a better site for a weekend & explore the visitor center.

Site9
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam by MoonieStealthSUV T., September 26, 2021
Reviewed Oct. 6, 2020

Unable to find this location

There is no signage for this location , the only slight indication is a boat ramp sign that leads to a area by the river , there is a pavilion and it appears you can fish , but no camping location anywhere

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2018

Nice fishing spot

This place is really good for fishing. Good catfish and crappie bass sauger etc.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jun. 6, 2018

Hidden gem

This is a very clean campground with electric only hook-up. It had nice big concrete pads, a large picnic table and large fire pit/grill at each site. Water was available close to the restrooms and is accessible to fill campers. Parking area at each site could accommodate two vehicles. The capsites were located next to the Kaskaskia River. There is a recreation area with a large pavilion and fishing is accessible from here. By the camping area there is a hiking trail through the woods that ends at the confluence of the Kaskaskia and Mississippi Rivers. This trail is paved for walking, bicycles and wheelchairs. There is also a boat ramp close to campsites.

Site9
Month of VisitMay

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam?

    Camping at Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam can starts at $10.00.

  • Are fires allowed at Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam does not have wifi.