Best Campgrounds near Brussels, IL
Camping in the Brussels, Illinois area centers around Pere Marquette State Park, which serves as the primary developed campground in the region. Located along the Illinois River near its confluence with the Mississippi, this state park offers electric hookups for RVs and designated tent sites in a wooded setting. The park features 88 campsites with most providing 30 or 50 amp electrical connections, while a smaller section is reserved for tent-only camping without electricity. Several nearby options across the Mississippi River in Missouri include St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park and Cuivre River State Park Campground, both offering additional RV, tent, and cabin accommodations.
Access to camping areas requires navigating the Great River Road that follows the Mississippi River corridor. Pere Marquette State Park remains open year-round with most amenities available regardless of season, though summer weekends typically see higher occupancy rates. Water connections are shared between sites, with campers advised to bring extra hose length as water sources may be positioned some distance from individual campsites. The campground provides a dump station for RVs, showers, and restroom facilities that are generally well-maintained. "We spent a couple nights here at an electric site near the playground. We really enjoyed the hiking and views. The facilities were fine, consistent with IL state parks," noted one camper from The Dyrt.
Many visitors highlight Pere Marquette's spacious sites as a key advantage compared to more crowded campgrounds. The camping area features mature trees providing partial shade throughout the grounds. Several reviewers mentioned the excellent hiking opportunities with trails leading to scenic overlooks of the Illinois River valley. Proximity to Grafton allows campers to enjoy local attractions including wineries, restaurants, and antique shops. A camping fee of $20 per night applies to sites with electricity, while tent-only sites without hookups cost $8 per night. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "Campgrounds close to Pere Marquette Lodge. Is located just north of Grafton that has many food and drink and antique shops. Campground is on the Illinois River with the Mississippi River nearby."
