Camping in the Butler area encompasses natural wetlands and mixed hardwood forests across central Illinois terrain ranging from 500-600 feet in elevation. Sites typically experience hot, humid summers and cold winters with spring and fall offering more moderate camping conditions. While luxury yurt camping near Butler, Illinois exists at some locations, several traditional campgrounds provide year-round access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sangchris Lake State Park Campground, the shoreline features multiple fishing docks accessible directly from campsites. "All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake. Several fishing docks in campground," notes Greg S. The park allows fishing year-round with peak seasons in spring and fall.
Swimming options: Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area maintains a zero-entry swimming pool open during summer months for a $5 weekend fee. According to Brooke C., "There are three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months. Lots of families with kids, bike rides and plenty of other lake and outdoor activities in the area."
Miniature golf: Families staying at Springfield KOA can access on-site miniature golf without leaving the campground. "This KOA has many family activities, including a pool, mini golf, jumping pillow & a huge field for the kids to play," reports Cynthia K. The course requires no additional reservation but may close during inclement weather.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Lithia Springs, campers appreciate the spacious layout and separation between camping areas. One camper explains, "We love this campground. Great sites, lots of space and privacy. Reservation only! Beach in the summer and trails for all seasons." Sites on the point require water tank filling upon arrival.
Well-maintained bathhouses: Many campers note the consistently clean facilities at area campgrounds. "The bathroom was the cleanest I have seen at a campsite," shares Shirley M. about Okaw Valley Kampground. The campground maintains air-conditioned shower houses near most sites.
Lake access: Waterfront sites remain the most popular camping option. "We stayed in site #12 overlooking the lake. The site was large and level although it can be tricky to back into," explains a visitor to Lithia Springs. Most lakeside sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring camping often brings muddy conditions. Andrea S. warns about Country Bend Campground: "The sites are sunk down, poorly rocked and extremely narrow. The majority of sites are backup only, which is a recipe for disaster with all of the rain central Illinois has had this Spring. Be prepared for mud and standing water. 4wd a must."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "If camping on weekends May to September will need to book in advance," advises Nathan E. about Lithia Springs. For holiday weekends, reservations may need to be made 3-6 months ahead.
Camp store availability: Coles Creek Recreation Area maintains a well-stocked market during operating season. "Nice new bath house for those who need it. This is a COE campground and takes our senior pass. If you are needing a full hookup site, make sure you book early!" explains Rhonda B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for different age groups. "The campground is well maintained and bathrooms/showers are kept clean. Easy access to lake, my family has been coming here every year for 20 plus years," shares Nathan E. about his experiences at Lithia Springs.
Weekend activities: Country Bend Campground organizes weekend events, especially during holidays. "This place is a campers dream with great staff always happy to see you," Kate T. observes about the family-friendly atmosphere. Halloween brings special decorations and trick-or-treating between campsites.
Affordable tent options: For families seeking yurt camping alternatives near Butler, Illinois, several campgrounds offer less expensive tent sites. Mike G. notes about Sangchris Lake: "I stayed at the tent sites. They are first come, first served, and a short walk from the parking spots." These sites often cost $10-15 less per night than RV sites.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Large RVs may encounter challenges at some locations. Liz G. shares this warning about Country Bend: "Our motorhome is a big rig a 42 foot diesel pusher. They squeezed site was 7 ft wide with little gravel mostly wet grass and mud. Our 40000 lb RV was 8 1/2 ft wide."
Hookup variations: Electric-only sites prevail at many state parks, with full hookups limited to specific loops. "Half the campsites have electric hookups and water near the sites, the other half now have full hookups and 50 amp service," explains Michael M. regarding Lithia Springs.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds offer dump stations, but availability can vary seasonally. "Since the dump station was also in this line, we couldn't dump. Normally this wouldn't be a problem, but I talked my husband out of dumping when we left the state park we were at because we were going to a KOA with a full hookup site!" Cynthia K. explains about a maintenance issue at Springfield KOA.
