Best Camping near Carlinville, IL

Carlinville is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Carlinville. Find the best campgrounds near Carlinville, IL. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Carlinville, IL (54)

    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Country Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Country Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Country Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Country Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Country Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Country Bend Campground

    2. Country Bend Campground

    10 Reviews
    24 Photos
    24 Saves
    Litchfield, Illinois

    Country Bend Campground is a beautiful and fun camping destination in Central Illinois! We are located just minutes from Exit 60 on I-55 near Litchfield, IL, right off Route 66, between Springfield and St. Louis!

    This family oriented campground offers a pool, four fishing ponds, pedal boating, putt-putt, a game room, lots of open space, and a variety of activities to keep the kids and kids at heart busy! We offer RV, Tent, and Luxury Cabin rental.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from The Double J Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Double J Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Double J Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Double J Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Double J Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Double J Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherwood Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherwood Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherwood Forest

    5. Sherwood Forest

    6 Reviews
    3 Photos
    38 Saves
    Hillsboro, Illinois

    Sherwood Forest Campground, located at 920 City Lake Road, is situated in a wooded setting adjacent to Hillsboro Lake. There are 125 permanent campsites, 15 short term campsites, and two host sites. All sites have electrical and water hookups with a dump station available within the campground. There is a clean, well maintained shower house facility as well as another public comfort station available for campers and their guests. Other amenities include a covered stage, pavilions, and a playground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pere Marquette State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pere Marquette State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pere Marquette State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pere Marquette State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pere Marquette State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pere Marquette State Park Campground

    6. Pere Marquette State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    32 Photos
    224 Saves
    Brussels, Illinois

    Pere Marquette State Park is a nature lover's paradise. In addition to enjoying the spectacular views of the Illinois River and its backwaters from several points atop the bluffs, visitors can take advantage of a variety of year-round recreational opportunities, including horseback riding, camping, hiking, fishing, hunting and boating.

    Pere Marquette's Visitor Center has a 3-D map of the park and wealth of other displays and exhibits concerning the Illinois River, wildlife habitat, local history and geology.

    Fall color drives are popular along the wooded ravines and riverside roadways at and near Pere Marquette. In January and February, the park is a hot-spot for bald eagle watching. For many years, the park has hosted tours of the river bluffs and woods for visitors to get an up-close look at wintering bald eagles in the hundreds along the Mississippi River and lower Illinois River near the park.

    Campers will find plenty to like at Pere Marquette, from camp sites and cabins to the popular Youth Tent Camp and three group camps. Campground reservations can be made at ExploreMoreIL.

    The beautiful Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference Center is an ideal place to stay for a weekend or weekday getaway. Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the lodge has been expanded and updated in recent years. The mammoth stone fireplace in the lobby soars to a roof height of 50 feet, and is said to weigh 700 tons. There are 50 spacious guest rooms and 22 stone guest cabin rooms.

    While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts. At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors. Pets must be kept on leashes at all times. Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call ahead to the park office before you make your trip. We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only footprints.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $10 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kamper Kompanion RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamper Kompanion RV Park

    7. Kamper Kompanion RV Park

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    13 Saves
    Litchfield, Illinois

    Great hiking and biking at beautiful Lake Lou Yager.

    • Go antiquing at the many antique shops in the area just like "Nana's Antiques" right across the highway from us.

    • only 8 short minutes into the town of Litchfield. Where you can find really good diners off of famous "Route 66"

    • we are also 60 minutes from downtown St Louis and the famous Gateway Arch

    • the Lincoln Memorial Presidential Library located in Springfield just 40 minutes north of us.

    • and our favorite feature is we are located right off of famous "ROUTE 66". So when you come and visit have your picture taken in front of the famous Route 66 sign located on the office building.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Acres Jellystone
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Acres Jellystone

    9. Rustic Acres Jellystone

    4 Reviews
    2 Photos
    7 Saves
    Litchfield, Illinois

    At Rustic Acres Jellystone Park™, create memories that will be cherished forever! We have attractions and activities for the whole family, including our swimming pool, jumping pillow, laser tag, gaga ball pit, hey rides, two playgrounds, themed weekends, and more. Our large spacious sites will have you relaxing whether you stay in a one of our cabins or you bring your family RV. Your next family vacation will be one of memories that last a lifetime. Come relax and enjoy Rustic Acres Jellystone Park™ today!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    10. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    24 Reviews
    72 Photos
    111 Saves
    St. Charles, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $60 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 54 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Carlinville

Recent Reviews in Carlinville

287 Reviews of 54 Carlinville Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park
    Nov. 12, 2024

    Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park

    Close to downtown, view of the arch, lots of trains

    $70 per night, plus $20 pet fee and $5 reservation fee. Stayed two nights passing through to visit Gateway Arch National Park. Casino is pretty old looking on the outside. Park is not staffed, you get a gate code in your email to access the park. Spots are concrete and gravel, very urban camping. There are trains every 15-30 minutes all day long. Casino has a metro stop that takes you into St Louis over the river. First time paying a pet fee for a overnight stay. Not very busy in November, maybe 25% of spots full in the half of the park that is open. Utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper.

  • John H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Waverly Lake City Park

    Nice little lake and camp ground

    I've stayed here a couple times now. Each time there has only been one other person. It's quiet and peaceful, however there's not much to do. As far as I know there's no running water. There are portable toilets that are kept clean. There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit.

  • Aaron B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Sangchris Lake State Park Campground

    Lakeside Relaxation

    These walk in sites check all the boxes.  At the western part of the RV loop, is a peninsula of primitive tent camping spots to choose from.  About half the sites were filled by the second day we were there.  We settled on 62, which is spacious and provides access to the path from the front and behind where you can walk into site 64 as well.  A parking area with a single spot for each camp site is well marked and by two vault toilets.  Park staff and host were great.  A decent fishing spot is just in front of site 64.  $8 for IL residents is hard to beat, if you don't need an RV spot with electric.  A water source is also by the parking spots.  The weekend we were there the weather had cooled some and a great breeze was coming off the lake.  Springfield being so close is a bonus.

    The only negative is like any spot and how previous people leave the camp looking before you are there.  Some garbage in the fire pit and random spots are par for the course in any state park.  Pick up the trash and dump it in the dumpster by the parking lot.  Leave the site better than you found it is our motto.

  • Nathaniel B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Aug. 8, 2024

    St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    Best campsite we've found to explore STL

    Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation. It is a city park and had that feel... not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos. Five minutes from food and stores. 30 minutes from downtown Saint Louis. I'll

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park

    Can’t beat the convenience just wish it were a tad less sketch

    I’m just happy there are a lot of people here. Half the place is full but there’s just an underlying sketchy vibe. Gateway arch is a 20min walk and baseball stadium just 15min beyond that. Hard to beat that convenience. Just want to feel a tad safer.

  • Nick W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park

    Great short term camping

    Nice spots and facility. Great place to just drop in for a short 1 night stay. Well maintained facility. No staff on site, book via camplife and they send you a gate code

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Trails Campground
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Timber Trails Campground

    Wonderful layover and family friendly

    Timber Trails Campground is a easy layover off of I-70, offering a family-friendly environment. The park provided us an easy in and out, pull-through site that was level and convenient. The campground had a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and recreation. Our experience was hassle-free and enjoyable.

  • Dennis P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park

    Great location!

    Even though this RV park is in a city, we felt safe. And it's view of the Gateway Arch can't be beat. Easy check in, but the camp host said the shaded spots were too narrow, they were not. Stayed three nights and saw all the sites: The Gateway Arch, Union Station, aquarium, botanical gardens, Anheiser Busch brewery tour, Guido's restaurant. Asphalt level pads with FHU, both 30 & 50 amp service. We have had a fun time here even doing laundry.

  • Olivia L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
    May. 27, 2024

    Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

    Great

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  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillbillie Ranch
    May. 18, 2024

    Hillbillie Ranch

    Hillbillie Ranch is not there anymore

    They are no longer a campground. Bought out now private property.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Apr. 19, 2024

    St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    Good now, and will be really nice when the trees get bigger

    Stayed here most of the several weeks we needed to be in St. Louis for family matters. Definitely our favorite place in the area. The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees. The nicest spots are the ones by the lake, with only one neighbor and a better view of the lake. The staff are kind and helpful. Water and electric worked fine. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Trash and recycling receptacles are huge and convenient. My only complaint is the poorly thought out sink situation in the bathrooms which make it impossible to wash in a sanitary way as you must hold the tap to keep the water flowing and there are no paper towels to that with, only hand dryers. There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bridgeview park
    Feb. 15, 2024

    Bridgeview park

    Excellent view

    Nice little park, port a potties, water and pavilion with grills and trash receptacles. Great views of the lake. Closes at 10:30

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
    Feb. 1, 2024

    Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

    Clean park, cheap prices. Would definitely come back

    The park is reasonable priced, beautiful surrounding and friendly staff. Would definitely come again. The only downside is that it’s somewhat far from supply stores

  • David F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
    Nov. 30, 2023

    Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area

    State Park away from busier Illinois

    https://camp.exploremoreil.com/ 84 electric RV sites all reservable except 21 First Come sites. 18 sites are full hookup. Several 50 amp sites but majority are 30 amp. Modern Shower house and 7 Vault toilet buildings. Newer Campground so Shade Trees are smaller still. Have camped here 4 times past 3 years. Like the quite agricultural Illinois environment but suggest shopping for your needs prior to leaving larger cities as most of the few small towns are limited to a Bar and Dollar store.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamper Kompanion RV Park
    Nov. 6, 2023

    Kamper Kompanion RV Park

    Kamper Companion Family Favy

    We really enjoyed Kamper Companion! We stay there every time we pass through Litchfield. Quiet, family friendly, and great for our dogs. We love the dog yard!

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Illinois State Fair Campground
    Oct. 17, 2023

    Illinois State Fair Campground

    Large campground, good location, good value

    On the state fairgrounds just off gate 10 or 11. Very large number of spaces…older bathrooms/ showers but very clean. All spaces seem to have electricity and water.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Illinois State Fair Campground
    Sep. 28, 2023

    Illinois State Fair Campground

    Clean, beautiful urban camp

    We always leave late on the first day of a trip and get stressed. This was an easy 3/4 day trip from our house and a great place to relax. Great thick grass carpet spots if you want.Great level paved pads if you want.Friendly checking , friendly security driving around all night. Lots of showers, mine was good and hot. Some traffic noise All kinds of open spots if it isn’t fair week. Don’t just show up fair week.

  • Sonia  Nathan B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Buena Vista Farms Campground
    Sep. 4, 2023

    Buena Vista Farms Campground

    Nice and Quiet

    If your looking just to get way and relax or go explore Jacksonville or Springfield you can get there in 40 minutes.

    The wifi isn’t strong enough to reach back to where we were but that was okay, I guess we didn’t need to watch tv anyways.

    You can still here some cars because of the highway but it wasn’t like really crazy. The part is a decent size if you don’t want to hear traffic go further in the back.

    Terry the owner she is super nice and friendly you would want to come back just for that alone.

    The wifi isn’t so strong but i guess we didn’t need to watch TV. If you don’t want to hear the traffic I suggest getting a spot in the back. The part is a decent size we really didn’t hear it until the morning so by that time it getting up and getting ready to go and explore. You can hit Springfield in bout 40 mins or downtown Jacksonville in 15.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park
    Aug. 15, 2023

    Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park

    Easy and felt safe

    Great location for the arch or downtown visit. We felt safe in a rough looking area of STL. Big rig friendly. Pay attention to email for check in process and gate code.

  • JASON L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
    Jul. 28, 2023

    Sangchris Lake State Park Campground

    Hickory Point Heaven

    There's really no way to describe this campground except for: Accommodating. Beautiful. Clean. Convenient. Peaceful. Relaxing. We have spent many weekends here and have never had a bad experience. Tony and Danielle and the rest of the entire campground host staff and crew do absolutely everything to make sure you have a great stay!!! We appreciate them and this wonderful campground. Our favorite sites are 13, 18, 23. Please visit and enjoy!



Guide to Carlinville

Camping near Carlinville, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Cuivre River State Park Campground. Campers have enjoyed the "beautiful prairie view and lots of great trails" available in the area.
  • Fishing: Spend a relaxing day fishing at Okaw Valley Kampground. One visitor mentioned, "a nice little fishing area (no license required catch and release)" which makes it easy for families to enjoy.
  • Boating: Take advantage of the water access at Coon Creek (IL). Campers have noted the "beach access" and "boat launch on grounds," perfect for a day on the water.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. One reviewer said, "The grounds are clean and pleasant," making it a comfortable stay.
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors have praised the helpful staff at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area. A camper shared, "Wonderful hosts checked us in," highlighting the welcoming atmosphere.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Pere Marquette State Park Campground. One review noted, "Lots of room between level sites," which is great for families needing space.

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds, like Cuivre River State Park Campground, can get busy, especially during peak seasons. One camper mentioned, "I am bad at making reservations, but we got lucky with the last spot."
  • Limited Shade: Some campgrounds, such as St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, have fewer trees for shade. A visitor noted, "Not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty," so be prepared for sunny days.
  • Check Amenities: Before heading out, check the amenities at your chosen campground. For example, Coon Creek (IL) has "no showers," which might be a dealbreaker for some.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. Okaw Valley Kampground has a "very nice updated playground" that kids will love.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has food options. At Coon Creek (IL), you can order pizza and wings from nearby, making meal planning easier.
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and pillows for a cozy night. One camper at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area mentioned, "We had a perfect view of the lake," so make sure your setup is comfortable for everyone.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. Campers at Double J Campground and RV Park appreciated the "good gravel spots with full hookups."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight, so check the dimensions before booking. A visitor at Casino Queen RV Park noted, "The shaded spots were too narrow," so plan accordingly.
  • Stay Connected: If you need internet access, check for Wi-Fi availability. Campers at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park mentioned good connectivity, making it easier to stay in touch.

Camping near Carlinville, Illinois, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular campground near Carlinville, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carlinville, IL is Beaver Dam State Park Campground with a 3.4-star rating from 11 reviews.

  • What parks are near Carlinville, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Carlinville, IL that allow camping, notably Carlyle Lake and Lake Shelbyville.