Tammy S.
Guide
GuideLithia Springs
Nice park, lovely views
Lovely views of the lake. We had site 60. Lots of area around us, space between sites. Our sight was not the most level, but we made it work.
Camping near Cisco, IL
67 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Cisco, Illinois range from lakeside sites to rural RV parks, with options spanning basic tent camping to full-service RV hookups. Friends Creek Campground in Cisco provides tent and RV sites with electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities. Other nearby developed campgrounds include Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, offering year-round camping with multiple accommodation types including cabins and glamping options. The region includes both county and state-managed recreation areas within short driving distance, with amenities varying from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, particularly along the shores of Clinton Lake and Lake Shelbyville.
Access and amenities at camping areas around Cisco vary significantly by season, with most developed campgrounds operating between May and November. Gravel campsites are common, with varying levels of shade and privacy between locations. According to one visitor at Friends Creek Campground, "This hidden gem of a campground is very quiet and serene - surrounded by tall trees and next to a tall grass prairie conservation area." Water levels at nearby lakes can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access and boat launching conditions. Most campground options require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though coverage may vary at more remote camping areas.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region, with several developed campgrounds situated on or near bodies of water. Clinton Lake State Recreation Area and Weldon Springs State Park Campground feature boat-in camping options alongside traditional drive-in sites. Campers report that sites with lake views tend to be the most popular, particularly at Lake Shelbyville's camping areas. A review of Friends Creek noted, "In mid-Illinois a campground waits for you. Well tended grassy sites with an impeccable grassy picnicking area." Several campground options accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some providing separate tent-only areas for a more primitive experience. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, with prairie, woodland, and aquatic habitats supporting diverse species.
Best Campgrounds near Cisco (67)
1. Friends Creek Campground
"In mid-Illinois a campground waits for you. Well tended grassy sites with an impeccable grassy picnicking area. There was plenty of room in our site but most of the campground is empty."
"This hidden gem of a campground is very quiet and serene - surrounded by tall trees and next to a tall grass prairie conservation area - complete with historic schoolhouse, mowed trails to a nearby creek"
from $10 - $25 / night
Check Availability2. Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
"We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach."
"Our site was adjacent to numerous paths that easily led to the beach, playground, the rocky path for fishing, and a secluded swimming hole."
from $10 - $30 / night
Check Availability3. Weldon Springs State Park Campground
"It’s a nice Illinois state park. Very quiet. Clean bathrooms, the consecution stand is closed. So can’t rent boat etc. but a nice lake to paddle canoe/kayak ."
"Good fishing near by with walking trail surrounding pond. Plenty of wildlife friendly locals."
4. Moraine View State Recreational Area
"I never did all of the trails but spent an afternoon hiking with a friend last summer."
"It’s also never super convenient to need to pack up just to go to a dump station but as long as your fine walking to the community restrooms, you should be fine."
from $40 - $20 / night
Check Availability5. Arrowhead Acres
6. D & W Lake RV Park
"Stayed here 2 nights on our way to Northern Illinois, easy access off the interstate, sites are spacious, grounds are well maintained, staff was very courteous and friendly, nice lake with trail around"
"It is close to the main highway, but far enough to not be noticeable. Sites are level and in good condition. Owner greets you on entering and then guides you to your site. "
8. Tom & Carol's RV Park
9. Tin Cup RV Park
"Had AC going but could hear road noise from interstate/ nearby roads."
10. Champaign Sportsmen's Club
Drive Time
- 17 min from Decatur, IL
- 20 min from Champaign, IL
- 44 min from Bloomington, IL
- 49 min from Springfield, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Cisco, IL
78 Photos of 67 Cisco Campgrounds
Art S.
Friends Creek Campground
Abdul Basith Asim M.
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
Steve H.
Weldon Springs State Park Campground
Sarah M.
Moraine View State Recreational Area
Ryne T.
Bo Wood
juliana
Forrest W. Bo Wood
Lori W.
Eagle Creek State Park Campground
Tanya B.
Prairie Pines Campground
Michael M.
Wolf Creek State Park Campground
Meg S.
Coon Creek (IL)
Debra M.
Opossum Creek
Recent Reviews near Cisco, IL
361 Reviews of 67 Cisco Campgrounds
Madison M.GuideComlara County Park
Quiet and beautiful, but not the best bathrooms
$25 a night for 30 amp hookup is pretty good! The sites are clean and spacious. It’s quiet too! Pretty lake, but sites aren’t right on the lake.
The bathrooms need some work. Water had a boil order on it and showers only worked in the men’s room. Water was HOT! Which is great! However, the water smelled metallic…
- IIrene M.Guide
Lake Taylorville City Campground
In the middle of long-term campers
Challenge to find the assigned camping site, which turned out to be on a slope with a picnic table in the middle of it, which I was unable to move, so I took another spot that was somewhat flatter. There are only 12 overnight campsites at this campground which do have concrete slabs however they are all very slanted and the electric box is a ways away. In addition, the bathhouse is no where near these sites.
Cha M.
ScoutSangchris Lake State Park Campground
Common smaller campground with great views
This is the bigger campground between hickory point and deer run options. The shower house, snack shop, and city water are onsite. There are vault toilets near the primitive camping, as well as another water spigot. Playground, pavillion, and sand volleyball court give options to entertain kids, with plenty of fishing, trails, and lake views to entertain the adults. We primitive camped here at the closest site to the parking. #57 is the closest, with the rest of the primitive sites being more of a trek to the site. However, the privacy, quietness, and views are 100% worth the trek to us. We did camp with a doggo, who does bark at passerby’s that are “too close” in her opinion but otherwise doesn’t. All the campers during our stay except for one very disruptive couple, did not complain at all and many came to give her loves or treats to help prevent further barking when they passed by. And honestly, the couple that did make the comment, clearly need to be at different campgrounds because the host had to come break them up after quiet hours began and they didn’t respect that rule. We also then were woken up by the same couple as they were packing up the next morning due to them yelling at each other. The hosts did try to make sure they slowed down while passing this site though, and I do believe if we had made some sort of complaint to them, they would have handled it immediately. We love this campground, and honestly we feel as if anywhere there are rvs allowed, you will likely have someone make a comment about the dog. It’s never been other tent campers, even the ones on electric sites. The snack shop has ice (currently $3 even a bag, with hosts including tax in the $3 to make it easier for campers), firewood bundles (not sure on price) as well as many smaller campground necessities including snacks and drinks, some fishing tackle, and some other camping things such as bug spray and sunblock. I did not check any prices on those. There is technically a bait shop also nearby, though between two longer stays here and at deer run, we’ve only seen him open once. And according to one of the hosts, he doesn’t seem to have “regular hours” other than he’s for sure closed Sundays and Mondays. The following Tuesday after learning this, he was also closed all day. So I’m not sure about anything there. He does also have an ice machine outside though.
- Cha M.Scout
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Small, quiet, state park camping
Couple camping here, spent multiple nights in a row in primitive camping here. As mentioned, only well water available on the campgrounds here, however you still have access to amenities available at hickory point just a short drive away. Shower house and city water available that way. Playground for kiddos on site. Lots of people bring pets, including equestrian for those campsite. Those do include the post to tie up on at each site. The hosts (bob and dawn were really checking in on us that stay, including being able to help when we accidentally killed our car battery. They also made thorough and consistent rounds which we appreciated. Also had Lynn, one of the idnr guys here, come back at the end of his shift to make sure we had learned about the storms coming in. He even checked in again the next chance he got to make sure we were okay still. We did end up leaving early, to which there is not refunds (I think this is state parks in general) however at $6 a night for primitive, we took that loss especially during an extreme heat warning (for multiple days). If you want a quieter campsite, I would recommend this one over hickory point as hickory point seems to be more RVers instead of the more primitive style of camping tends to be.
Julie F.
RangerWolf Creek State Park Campground
So many sites. Great camp hosts
Rolled in on a July Saturday at 6:30pm. There are hundreds of sites at this campground and so many were still open. Was looking for a Class C site (I.e. rustic site, no hookups). Chatted with camp hosts « papa Bruce » and « grandma sugar burger » They were so sweet and accommodating. For same day, it’s first come first serve so bring cash - you can online pay with a card online 3 days minimum before. 8$ Class C and 20$ Class A (hookup). Dump station and water and trash receptacles. Lots of hiking trails and eating activities - sadly we didn’t have time to explore.
- IIndia J.
TravelerDeer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Great campground, private and quiet primitive sites!
We've stayed at Hickory Point before, but this was our first time at Deer Run. It has not disappointed! The primitive sites (there are 5 with no electric or water hookups) are off set in the back of the campground, providing privacy and quiet, which is what we were going for this time. The primitive sites without electric or water are $6 a night, and you can for pay up to 14 nights at a time. There are electric and water hook up sites for $8 a night, they just aren't as private but still lovely! The showers are at the Hickory Point campground (just a minute or two drive) and available for use with the Deer Run camp sites as well. There are well water spigots at Dee Run and Hickory Point, but the city water spigot is at Hickory Point only. It rained quite a bit our first two nights here, but there are so many trees covering the primitive sites you couldn't really feel it until it was thunder storming. We stayed nice and dry inside the tent. There are a LOT of sassy raccoons who will still your food - and the containers that never had food in them in fact- as well waking up to crows cawing every morning- may not be everyone's thing, but I sure enjoy that aspect. The hosts are fantastic and make rounds every 2-3 hours each day, anything we've needed they e been able to help with or point us in the direction to go next. Great campground to stay at, whether for a night or a week, no complaints here thus far!
Chris G.ScoutCamp A While
Quiet and small - great for overnight stop
Called last minute and owner was helpful and clear. Price was great and we got water & electric we needed. Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. We had a class C so was easy, but may be more challenging for a larger rig. Owner's dog was older, slow and very friendly. Opposite of our two small puppies :)
If looking for a quick overnight that allows you to rest for the next day this is a good option.
- LLeah B.Scout
Opossum Creek
Leisure Weekend
It is a small campground with options of lake view for your walk-in tent sites. Bathrooms were clean and shower was hot with good water pressure. It was pretty quiet.
Fishing could be done at the docks which wasn’t very far but not a good place to fish on land and couldn’t access water by sites very well. No trails. It’s a good place to go just to sit and relax. But not much activities.
Guide to Cisco
Camping near Cisco, Illinois offers a mix of prairie and forested environments across central Illinois. Seasonal flooding impacts water levels, particularly at Clinton Lake where summer temperatures often reach 85°F with high humidity. During spring and fall, temperatures range from 50-70°F, providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area features warm waters that attract anglers. "Clinton Lake is a boating destination as the waters are unusually warm due to the discharge from the nearby nuclear plant," explains Stacia R. The campground includes several loops with direct lake access for fishing.
Hiking trails: Friends Creek Campground offers conservation area trails across the road near a historic schoolhouse. "Start at the one room schoolhouse and make your way down wide trails. They aren't that long but take a few and they add up," notes Art S. The park includes both wooded trails and mowed paths through tall grass prairie.
Lake swimming: Weldon Springs State Park Campground provides a swimming area popular with families. "The park has beautiful natural meadows, an old schoolhouse to explore, and a large pond with trails all the way around it," reports Jamie G. Some visitors note the concession stand might be closed, so bring your own refreshments.
Boating options: Moraine View State Recreation Area offers kayaking on a scenic lake surrounded by campsites. "Large body of water. Not really clean enough to enjoy swimming," mentions Debbie B. The park includes both a boat launch and swimming beach, though beach hours may be limited to weekends during certain periods.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Weldon Springs features dedicated hike-in backcountry camping areas. "Short walk from the parking lot if carrying heavy gear, but still spaced out enough to feel isolated. Vault toilets right at the parking lot as well," shares Elizabeth W. These sites provide a more primitive experience compared to the main campground.
Wildlife viewing: Friends Creek Campground offers prairie and woodland habitats supporting diverse species. "This hidden gem of a campground is surrounded by tall trees and next to a tall grass prairie conservation area - complete with historic schoolhouse, mowed trails to a nearby creek, gentle rolling hills, trees, birds & wildlife," reports Kate O.
Spacious campsites: Campers appreciate the room between sites at Friends Creek. "Lovely, treed, clean and quiet. Tent and RV sites, including 50 amp sites!" notes Kathi V. The campground maintains well-manicured grounds with grassy sites and clean facilities.
Off-season tranquility: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area offers year-round camping with fewer crowds outside summer. "Had practically the whole campground to ourselves. Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear," explains Matthew I. Winter campers should prepare for limited water access during colder months.
What you should know
Campsite selection timing: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly at area campgrounds. "We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach. There was a walking path from our site to the shore," explains Linda N. at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for summer weekends.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds near Cisco operate between May and November. At Coon Creek, "Part of the campground is open after Labor Day, but the main season is Memorial day to Labor day," notes Michael M. Always check seasonal availability before planning your trip.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The showers/bathrooms are centrally located and could be crowded if the camp was full," reports Art S. about Friends Creek. At other locations, "bathrooms seemed dirty even for campground bathrooms & 1 stall was broken," according to Sarah M.
Alcohol restrictions: Several state park campgrounds prohibit alcohol. Weldon Springs and Moraine View State Recreation Area have no-alcohol policies in all camping areas. According to a visitor, "Different loops have very different feels...some are very shaded in the trees, some more open with a prairie type view."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: D & W Lake RV Park offers recreation areas for children. "There's plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park," reports Luna L. The campground includes a fishing lake where kids can practice catch-and-release fishing.
Beach proximity: Choose sites near swimming areas for easier access with children. "We have camped here several times, and found depending on the crowds, it can feel a little like a party spot or can be quiet and calm," notes Stacia R. about Clinton Lake. Beach access typically costs around $2-3 per person during operating hours.
Kid-friendly hiking: Friends Creek offers gentler trails suitable for families. "We hiked a bit on the trails and played in the creek. Highly recommend," shares Sara W. The park features mowed paths that are easier for younger hikers to navigate.
Camp activities: Coon Creek provides waterfront access ideal for family exploration. "There are several paths down to the waters edge and the beach, lots of little hiking, tons of Geocaching, and a great little beach," explains Melissa B. Consider bringing insect protection as "the bugs really get bad at night."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Arrowhead Acres Campground provides full-service sites for larger rigs. "Hosts were very friendly. Grounds were clean and roomy," reports Brooke. The campground offers electric, water, and sewer connections in a peaceful setting.
Site leveling: Most developed campgrounds in the area feature gravel pads. "All sites are gravel and level. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," notes Lee D. about Friends Creek Campground. This helps minimize setup time and makes for easier parking.
Highway access: D & W Lake RV Park offers convenient interstate proximity. "Super easy on and off the highway. With that you do get some noise but not too bad," explains Charles M. The location provides a strategic overnight stop for RVers traveling through central Illinois.
Electric options: Friends Creek Campground offers both 30-amp and 50-amp electric sites. "We grabbed a non-electric site but most have electric. The showers/restrooms are centrally located," shares Art S. RVers should note that specific campsite numbers aren't reserved—just the type—so early arrival means better site selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Cisco, IL?
What camping is available near Cisco, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Cisco, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 67 campgrounds and RV parks near Cisco, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Cisco, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Cisco, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cisco, IL is Friends Creek Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 13 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cisco, IL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cisco, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Cisco, IL.
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