Campsites near Augusta, Illinois sit within western Illinois farmland, approximately 100 miles northwest of Springfield at 650 feet elevation. The area features rolling hills surrounding multiple lakes and state parks with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with limited or no winter camping options in this region.
What to do
Hiking trails around lakes: At Argyle Lake State Park, visitors can access multiple trails. "The 5 mile journey was popular even though it is a series of steep climbs and descents. We loved it and our dog loved meeting all the other dogs walking their owners around the lake," notes one camper about the road trail that circles the lake.
Fishing opportunities: Fish from shore or bring a boat to Wakonda State Park in Missouri. "Each parking site has steps down to the lake for bank fishing. There are also John boats and kayaks for rent," reports one visitor. The park limits motors to under 9hp, creating a quieter fishing experience.
Swimming beaches: Cool off during summer months at dedicated swimming areas. "There is a sandy beach for swimming," mentions a Wakonda State Park visitor. Similarly, at Spring Lake Park, families appreciate the designated swimming zones separate from fishing areas.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Camp Nauvoo offers a mix of sunny and shaded pull-through sites. "The sites are sunny and all are pull-through but some have shade. The park streets are gravel with concrete pull-through sites," reports one camper. Many sites include grassy areas on either side.
Clean facilities: Driftwood Campground & RV Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "The showers and restroom were impressively clean. The hosts could not have made me feel more welcome," writes a tent camper. Another notes, "Clean bathrooms, friendly staff, nice park across street for walking dog."
Affordable pricing: The region offers budget-friendly camping options. "Great value for $32. Full hookups," reports a Camp Nauvoo visitor. At Argyle Lake State Park, basic non-electric sites run as low as $8 per night, making it accessible for weekend trips.
What you should know
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs significantly across campgrounds. At Camp Nauvoo, "AT&T had 3 bars of LTE and Verizon 1 bar of LTE service. AT&T Speedtest: 56.8 Mbps down, 9.3 Mbps up."
Reservation policies: Spring Lake Park - Macomb operates differently than some parks. "They don't take reservations but while it is usually full you can still get a spot," explains one regular visitor. For holiday weekends, early arrival is recommended.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds close by November 1st. One Driftwood Campground visitor noted, "Our first night out in our new travel trailer. Very impressed with the park when it was supposed to be closed. They extended their season because the weather was so good."
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. At Camp Nauvoo, "If you are southbound on Illinois Hwy 96, the left turn off the highway is very sharp and steep. Might be easier to continue about a mile south and use the scenic turnout to turnaround."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wakonda State Park offers child-friendly amenities. "There's a playground and boat access and swimming," notes one visitor. Another camper adds, "Lots of families with kids riding bikes around the loop and some playing wiffle ball in the open field."
Bike-friendly loops: Several campgrounds feature paved roads ideal for children's bikes. "Our kids love argyle for the paved roads they can easily ride bikes on, the 2 playgrounds and the room to run!" shares a regular visitor to Argyle Lake.
Swimming options: During summer months, families appreciate dedicated swimming areas. "There is a sandy beach for swimming," mentions a Wakonda visitor, while another notes the "small lakes with swimming and fishing."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers at Camp Nauvoo report, "Site was level. No neighbor on passenger/awning side." At Driftwood Campground, "Clean facilities, full hookup sites with concrete pads."
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when parking. At Camp Nauvoo, "Utilities were located in different spots. 20A/30A/50A electric in the middle, water near the rear, and sewer near the front."
Pull-through availability: Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area offers various site types. "Choice of full hookup or just electric on outer perimeters of each loop," notes a recent visitor. Wakonda Lake Campground features "concrete pad was large enough for our camper and rug along with the picnic table! A lot of room!"
