Central Illinois offers relatively flat terrain with prairie landscapes surrounding Bloomington, where camping elevations average 800-850 feet above sea level. Visitors to the area can experience four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping is available at several locations, though facilities may be limited compared to the April through October prime season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Friends Creek Campground provides small creek fishing for those seeking quieter waters. The conservation area extends across the road with trails starting at the historic one-room schoolhouse. "We hiked a bit on the trails and played in the creek. Highly recommend," shares one visitor.
Bowling and brews: Take a break from nature with an evening at Landmark Bowling Center near Carl Spindler Campground. "If you want to visit Peoria, this is an ideal place to stay. The campground is part of a marina on the Illinois River and not too far from downtown," reports one camper who enjoyed the local attractions.
Wildlife viewing: The Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve surrounds Millpoint Park, creating excellent bird watching opportunities along the Illinois River. A recent visitor noted, "We went camping for the weekend and absolutely loved this place! Nice gravel lanes with well-manicured sites."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently praise the generous spacing at Friends Creek Campground. "Very nice small campground with well spaced sites. The bathrooms were very clean," reports one reviewer who appreciated the campground's layout and maintenance.
Budget-friendly options: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area offers affordable camping with electric sites starting at $20 after check-in. "Walk-in at night pay in morning, $8 dollar for camping and $20 with electricity after check in," notes one visitor who appreciated the flexibility.
Waterfront access: Many campsites offer direct access to water. "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 which was perfect for our young family to go back and forth on," shares a Clinton Lake visitor.
What you should know
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water systems. At Millpoint Park, "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird," notes a camper who recommends bringing drinking water supplies.
Reservation systems vary: Not all campgrounds guarantee specific sites. At Friends Creek Campground, "If you reserve a camping spot it's just to have a site. Specific campsites aren't reserved. Get here early and you have your choice," explains a visitor.
Off-season limitations: Services may be reduced in colder months. "Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear. The RV fill was shutdown too. Water option we're the lake or a 30 min drive into town for bottled," reports a Clinton Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: D & W Lake RV Park offers family-friendly amenities just minutes from Champaign. "There's plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park. Wonderful campground and only about 10 min from downtown," shares a visitor who enjoyed the convenience.
Beach considerations: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area charges $2 for beach entry (10am-7pm), offering an affordable swimming option for families. Restrooms are "decent" according to visitors, and the camp store "has everything needed for fire and bbq."
Loop selection matters: Different camping loops offer distinct experiences. At Clinton Lake, "The different loops have very different feels...some are very shaded in the trees, some more open with a prairie type view." One family noted that "the alcohol restricted loops can get loud from all the families."
Tips from RVers
Site variety: Kentuckiana Campground offers full hookup options with varying levels of privacy. "Spaces are tight. Most are pull-though but there isn't a lot of room between campers so don't expect much privacy. Grounds are very well kept and they have two nice ponds stocked with fish," reports an RVer.
Seasonal considerations: Sites with shade are premium during summer months. "Since the grounds are newly setup, the trees are newly planted, so no shade yet. I imagine this will be a place we're more likely to stay at during early spring or fall, because of the lack of shade," notes a visitor to Sankoty Lakes.
Assistance available: Many glamping locations in Bloomington, Illinois provide practical help for arrivals. At Kentuckiana Campground, "They will have a runner guide you to your spot and assist you in parking. The sites are a bit cramped. When unhitching if there is anyone waiting to drive by, you feel kind of rushed."