Best Tent Camping near Alton, IL

Tent campers near Alton, Illinois have access to several established campgrounds within an hour's drive, including Klondike Park in Augusta, Missouri and Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park in Wildwood, Missouri. These locations offer a mix of walk-in tent sites and drive-in camping areas with varying levels of amenities. McCully Heritage Project in Kampsville, Illinois provides tent camping with hiking trails and water access approximately 30 miles north of Alton, while Waverly Lake City Park offers more primitive tent camping options.

Most tent sites in the region feature fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Walk-in tent sites at Klondike Park require campers to park and carry gear a short distance to their campsite, offering more seclusion than drive-in options. Seasonal considerations affect availability, with some campgrounds limiting services during winter months. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park closes its main bathhouse from November through March, leaving only vault toilets available. Water access points are scattered throughout most campgrounds, but primitive sites may require campers to bring their own water supply.

The tent camping experience near Alton provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring natural areas. Klondike Park features walk-in tent locations situated around a former quarry turned lake, offering scenic views and access to hiking trails. The park connects to the Katy Trail, making it popular with cyclists seeking tent camping options. Tent sites at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park are set among wooded areas that provide shade and a sense of seclusion despite being relatively close to St. Louis. According to one visitor, "Some sites are more private and shaded than others. Sites like #19 and 20 were more secluded, offered more trees and privacy." Tent campers should note that raccoon activity has been reported at several campgrounds, particularly at Babler State Park.

Best Tent Sites Near Alton, Illinois (10)

    1. Countryside Escape

    2 Reviews
    Edwardsville, IL
    13 miles

    $15 - $16 / night

    2. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Wildwood, MO
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 458-3813

    "We loved our stay at Babler, aside from the snow & wind - the park is great! Review below ⬇️

    ⛺️ S I T E R E V I E W ⛺️

    📍 Dr. Edmund A."

    "Nice state park close to St Louis. Good, if short, trails. The campground is used a lot by RV and campers, not so much by tenters. Lots of campsites had electric."

    3. Klondike Park

    14 Reviews
    Augusta, MO
    43 miles
    Website

    $10 - $65 / night

    "There is hiking trails which was wonderful. There is a winery nearby. My campsite was amazing, it was clean and wasn't too far from the restrooms. There is picnic tables and fire rings."

    "A few drive up sites and lots of hike in spots around a quarry turned lake. Beautiful and clean setting. We stayed in site 24. There were picnic tables and a fire pit at our site."

    4. McCully Heritage Project

    5 Reviews
    Kampsville, IL
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 653-4687

    $20 - $100 / night

    "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood. We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks."

    "Great for tent camping and hiking."

    6. St. Charles County Klondike Park

    5 Reviews
    Augusta, MO
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 949-7535

    "Stayed at a walk-in site for a night and enjoyed it. Some sites are closer to the highway and cars flying down the road can make it hard to sleep but after midnight, they stopped."

    "The campground is located in a gym of a park located along the Missouri River. Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand. Tent camping only. There is water available in the park."

    7. Waverly Lake City Park

    3 Reviews
    Woodson, IL
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 435-4611

    "There are portable toilets that are kept clean. There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit."

    8. William R. Logan Conservation Area

    2 Reviews
    Silex, MO
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 441-4554

    "Plenty of tent spots with tree cover and fire pits. Lighting bugs came out at night."

    10. Indian Camp Creek Park

    Be the first to review!
    Foristell, MO
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 949-7535
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Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Alton, IL

326 Reviews of 10 Alton Campgrounds



Guide to Alton

Tent camping near Alton, Illinois offers a variety of unique experiences, from serene lakeside settings to vibrant natural surroundings. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several options to explore.

Tips for tent camping near Alton

  • Pack bug spray: Campgrounds like Countryside Escape are known for their beautiful surroundings, but mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially near water.
  • Bring your own firewood: While some sites provide firewood, others, like McCully Heritage Project, may charge for it, so it's wise to come prepared.
  • Plan for restroom access: Facilities can vary; for instance, Sandstone Spring & Camp offers toilets but no showers, so know what to expect.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy fishing and kayaking at McCully Heritage Project, where the scenic pond offers plenty of opportunities for water activities.
  • Explore hiking trails at St. Charles County Klondike Park, perfect for families looking to enjoy the outdoors.
  • Visit nearby attractions in St. Louis, just a short drive from Countryside Escape, allowing for a mix of camping and city exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Alton, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Alton, IL is Countryside Escape with a 1-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Alton, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Alton, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.