Pere Marquette State Park serves as the camping hub in the Brussels area, offering access to both the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,040 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the 80s and winter dropping to the 30s. Most camping areas require navigating the Brussels Ferry across the Illinois River unless approaching from the north via Route 100.
What to do
Hiking trails with river views: At Pere Marquette State Park, the trail system offers varying difficulty levels with scenic overlooks. "Pere Marquette has many options for your stay... Outside, the hiking is worth the effort. The views from the bluffs are gorgeous," notes Shawn M., who recommends the cabins for those seeking more privacy than the campground.
Kayaking on nearby lakes: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, located about 40 miles from Brussels, provides water recreation options. "We love going here and watching the sunsets. This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," according to Lindsey C., who frequently visits from St. Louis.
Bird watching for eagles: Winter months bring bald eagles to the confluence of the rivers. "In winter there are a lot of eagles feeding in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers which meet at the park. The Lewis & Clark expedition started nearby," explains Joel R. from Pere Marquette State Park, who also recommends trying the Sunday fried chicken dinner at the lodge.
Explore historic towns: The region offers several historic river towns within driving distance. "Just down the road from Grafton IL," notes Hannah S. about Pere Marquette State Park, highlighting the proximity to this historic river town with shops and restaurants.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural setting at Pere Marquette. "The camp sites were sandy grassy ground, kind of hilly, and the sites were kind of close together but not bad. Each site had a picnic table and a fire ring. Beautiful hiking on dirt trails with gorgeous views of the Illinois River," reports Leah H.
Quick access from St. Louis: Cuivre River State Park Campground offers camping options within an hour's drive of St. Louis. "Great state park right outside of St Louis. Park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer," Kyle R. mentions about the convenient location.
Variety of accommodation options: From tent sites to cabins, the camping areas provide multiple options. "Pere Marquette has many options for your stay. The campground may need a little attention and some lots are not level, but the area is worth the hassle. If you prefer, The Lodge has great character and a wonderful great room," shares Shawn M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers regularly report wildlife sightings. "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" Maria E. shares about her experience at Cuivre River State Park.
What you should know
Ferry access requirements: Brussels is surrounded by rivers, requiring ferry crossings from most directions. The Brussels Ferry operates daily from 6am to midnight, with occasional closures during high water events. Allow extra time for ferry waits during summer weekends.
Limited amenities in Brussels: The town itself has minimal services. "Jerseyville is about 10 minutes away with all the stores you could want," notes Joshua Y. about shopping options near Hillbillie Ranch, which is located about 15 miles north of Brussels.
Weather and flooding concerns: Riverside camping areas can experience flooding. "It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," Annie C. observed about a campground in the region, highlighting the importance of checking conditions before arrival, especially in spring.
Limited mobile coverage: Cell reception varies throughout the area, with higher elevations typically providing better coverage. Prepare for potential communication limitations, particularly in ravines and low-lying areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "We spent a couple nights here at an electric site near the playground. We really enjoyed the hiking and views," noted one camper about Pere Marquette State Park.
Wildlife education opportunities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers wildlife viewing around its lake. "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake- deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes," Annie C. explains, making it an educational opportunity for children.
Recreational activities: Multiple options keep children engaged. "This park is beautiful. Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots. Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," Joseph F. shares about his family's experience.
Safety considerations: Bluffs and waterways require supervision. Many campsites are situated near water features or steep terrain, requiring additional vigilance with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose carefully at Pere Marquette. "This park has great hiking for Illinois. The campground has 88 sites total1-85 are either 30 amp or 50 amp electric sites," explains Michael M., who also mentions ongoing upgrades to add "more 50 amp, water and sewer to some sites."
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "The site we had was very small and there are train tracks that run near by the campground so it can be quite noisy," Charles S. notes about a campground near Six Flags, emphasizing the importance of checking site details beforehand.
Water access considerations: Sundermeier RV Park in St. Charles offers reliable utilities. "Positives: Really nice people at check in. It does have 30 amp service even though this app shows it doesn't. 30 pound water pressure. Nice level concrete pad with a picnic table," Jack G. reports, although he notes the urban environment may not appeal to all campers.
Off-season camping: "Spent two nights. Office Staff was super friendly. Went above and beyond for service. Separate handicap shower facilities are always a huge plus for us. Thirty minute drive into see Gateway Arch. Not a bad swap for some peace and quiet," Mary D. shares about staying at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, highlighting the benefits of camping near but not in St. Louis.
