Campgrounds near Bartonville, Illinois offer varied overnight options from basic tent sites to waterfront RV spaces. The area sits along the Illinois River at approximately 450-500 feet elevation, creating a riparian landscape with seasonal fishing opportunities. Weather conditions range from humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F to cold winters dropping below freezing, which affects campground availability.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for anglers. At Millpoint Park, you can "access one of 2 small little lakes where you can simply cast a line in from the dock or around the perimeter." The park also has a "fantastic boat launch that will have you fishing, kayaking and experiencing this body of fresh water shortly after you anchor into your spot."
Nature trails exploration: Walk through adjacent preserves with marked paths. Millpoint Park is "completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing a sublime encounter with nature," while Carl Spindler Campground offers "a short nature trail that leaves directly from the area. The trail starts off as a boardwalk over an interesting marsh area and then transitions to a primitive trail."
Water recreation: The Illinois River provides swimming and boating options. At Condits Ranch, campers enjoy "the small fishing pond, the swimming hole and the clubhouse" which are "great to mix in to keep the youngsters entertained." Another reviewer mentioned they have "a small beach area" for swimming.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature larger-than-average camping spots. At Millpoint Park, "there's about 80 sites – all of which are incredibly spacious, unlike a lot of other RV parks." Sites include "standard water, sewage and electric hook-ups, relatively new picnic tables and in-ground fire rings."
Affordable rates: Area campgrounds maintain competitive pricing for the region. At Comlara County Park, "our site was huge" while maintaining reasonable rates. Carl Spindler Campground offers "the price of $27/night for full hook-up" which is considered "a great rate" by reviewers.
City skyline views: Unique vantage points offer unusual perspectives. One camper at Millpoint Park noted it "will frame one of the most beautiful sunsets as you look west to Peoria during Happy Hour." This makes glamping in Bartonville, Illinois distinctive from more remote locations.
What you should know
Water quality issues: Mineral content affects drinking water at several sites. At Millpoint Park, "the water here has a lot of iron in it, so don't attempt to drink it, but according to the locals, it's fine to shower in, so I would encourage you to bring a decent amount of bottled water with you." Similarly at Carl Spindler, guests note that "water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird."
Seasonal insect preparation: Summer brings specific pest challenges. A Millpoint Park camper advises "if you haven't camped out here in central Illinois during the summer, you will want to bring good DEET spray to keep the ticks away as well as hard-core smoke or scent-fused candles that are peppermint, eucalyptus or lavender-scented to keep the gnats at bay."
Limited amenities at some parks: Several locations offer basic services only. At Deer Creek Campground, "amenities are minimal, there are just port-a-potties for restrooms but they are very clean. There are not a lot of stores in the area (closest is about ~15 minutes) so pack all of your stuff."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several sites feature dedicated children's areas. At Kentuckiana Campground, there's a "huge slide in the holler" and "decent little parks" making it a "great place for kids." The playground was described by another visitor as looking "fantastic" with "nice big areas with playgrounds for kids."
Beach swimming options: Water access points suitable for children exist at multiple locations. Condits Ranch offers "a beach and playground for the kids" that provides safe swimming opportunities. One reviewer "did NOT want to leave" because of the family-friendly amenities.
Entertainment alternatives for rainy days: Weather contingency planning is important. At Condits Ranch, campers report "a good enough LTE signal to stream Netflix" which helps during "a rainy weekend." The campground also has "a general store with necessities" including "movies to borrow."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies: Some locations require minimal adjustment. At Millpoint Park, RVers enjoy "a nice pull-through site that required minimal leveling" while mentioning the "beautiful views of the Upper Peoria Lake/Illinois River." Carl Spindler Campground notes that "sites are very level here."
Full hookup availability: Multiple parks offer complete RV services. Millpoint Park has "a combination of back-in and pull-thru sites offering up standard water, sewage and electric hook-ups." Similarly, Kentuckiana Campground provides "full hookups on most sites."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have specific entry requirements. For luxury glamping in Bartonville, Illinois area, note that Sankoty Lakes requires special entry procedures as "the RV area is only accessible by driving around the side of the complex and through a neighborhood, and then you have to wait for someone to come open the gate."