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Established Camping

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

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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.

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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

37.98282682029588 N
89.94600820047798 W

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Connectivity

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    Some Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 7/31/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 7/31/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

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

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


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Reviews

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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

Where is Kaskaskia River Campground located?

The Kaskaskia River Campground is located along the Kaskaskia River in Illinois, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It's important to note that the actual location is approximately 25 miles south of where some map applications might show it. For accurate directions, visitors should use the official website address rather than third-party navigation apps to avoid confusion. The campground is situated near the Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam (formerly known as the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam).

What amenities are available at Kaskaskia River Campground?

Kaskaskia River Campground offers electric-only hookups with 50-amp service at all sites. The campground features spacious concrete pads, large picnic tables, and fire pit/grills at each site. Water fill stations are available near the restrooms for campers to fill their tanks. Facilities include a shower house and vault toilets. Each site has enough parking space to accommodate two vehicles. The campground also provides a dump station for RVs. The grounds are well-maintained and clean, creating a pleasant camping environment.

Can you camp near Kaskaskia Lock and Dam?

Yes, camping is available near the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam. There are approximately 15 campsites in the area, with about 10 sites located near the lock and dam itself and 5 additional sites further down the road near the river. These are first-come, first-served sites that cost $20 per night. The sites back up to the river, offering great views for campers who enjoy waterfront settings.

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at Kaskaskia River Project?

The Kaskaskia River Project offers excellent fishing opportunities, with visitors reporting good catches of catfish, crappie, bass, and sauger. The location features boat ramps for easy river access. Campsites along the river provide scenic views perfect for wildlife watching and relaxation. There's also a pavilion area for gatherings or picnics. The lock and dam itself can be an interesting attraction to observe. The natural setting creates opportunities for photography, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors along the riverside.