Camping near Altamont, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
What to do:
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Coon Creek (IL), have great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, "The beach area with life jackets available for the kids too" which makes it a fun family activity.
- Hiking: Trails are abundant in places like Fox Ridge State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "Great place, quiet, and a ton of trails!" Perfect for those who love to explore nature.
- Swimming: Campgrounds such as Okaw Valley Kampground feature pools. One review noted, "A nice pool with a big covered pavilion," making it a great spot to cool off.
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Sangchris Lake State Park Campground, a reviewer said, "Restrooms and a shower house that are clean," which is a big plus for many.
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites. A visitor at Coles Creek Recreation Area mentioned, "Great campsite has lots of sites including a section just for first come first serve," highlighting the variety of options available.
- Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the welcoming staff. One camper at Spring Creek Campground said, "Bob showed up as I pulled in and made sure I was all set for the night," which adds a personal touch to the experience.
What you should know:
- Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area, are only open from mid-May to late December. A camper noted, "We stayed here for the eclipse in April," so plan your visit accordingly.
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Coon Creek (IL) has "NO showers," which might be a dealbreaker for some.
- Bug Spray Recommended: Campers at Coles Creek Recreation Area mentioned, "Only reason it's 4 stars and not 5 is because it is decently buggy," so be prepared.
Tips for camping with families:
- Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. One camper at Camp Lakewood said, "The playground is adorable and retro," making it a hit with kids.
- Family Activities: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. A family at Okaw Valley Kampground enjoyed "walking/hiking wooded trails" and found it family-friendly.
- Safety First: Always check for life jackets and swimming areas. A review from Coon Creek (IL) mentioned, "The beach area with life jackets available for the kids," ensuring a safe swimming experience.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A camper at Archway RV Park noted, "Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection," so be prepared with the right adapters.
- Site Layout: Be aware of the campground layout. One RV traveler at Archway RV Park mentioned, "Sites are nice, although all sites face each other," which might feel cramped.
- Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure a pleasant stay for everyone. A visitor at Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area mentioned noisy neighbors, so keep that in mind when planning your trip.
Camping near Altamont, Illinois, offers a mix of fun activities, friendly environments, and beautiful nature. Whether you're with family or just looking for a peaceful getaway, this area has something to offer everyone.
