Best Tent Camping near Brussels, IL
Tent camping options near Brussels, Illinois include established campgrounds within a 40-mile radius that cater to tent campers seeking natural settings. McCully Heritage Project in Kampsville offers tent camping with basic amenities in a natural conservation area setting. While closer to St. Louis, Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park provides tent sites with more facilities, though requires a slightly longer drive from Brussels.
Tent sites at McCully Heritage Project feature picnic tables and fire rings, with drinking water and toilets available on the property. Access is primarily drive-in, though some walk-in sites exist for those seeking more seclusion. The campground allows fires and provides firewood for campers. Basic toilet facilities are available, and the park charges a modest fee rather than being free. Most tent campgrounds in the region operate year-round, though spring and fall typically offer the best camping conditions with fewer insects and moderate temperatures.
The tent camping experience at McCully Heritage Project provides good opportunities for hiking on maintained trails with various difficulty levels. The area offers a peaceful atmosphere away from urban settings with space between campsites for privacy. Tent campers particularly appreciate the natural setting and proximity to fishing opportunities. The property features ponds suitable for paddleboarding and kayaking, adding recreational options beyond hiking. A review on The Dyrt described it as "a small and not crowded place to camp with all you need and hospitality. Great for tent camping and hiking."