Champaign, Illinois sits on a relatively flat prairie landscape with an elevation of around 740 feet above sea level. The surrounding area features numerous recreational lakes and forest preserves within a 30-60 minute drive from the city center. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with humidity levels often exceeding 70%, making water-based camping locations particularly popular during peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At D & W Lake RV Park, campers can enjoy catch-and-release fishing with blue gill and bass available in the on-site lake. "Pulled in about 7pm and immediately was greeted by the manager who showed us to our site, helped us pull in get settled and brought us firewood. The lake behind our trailer is beautiful and can be fished Catch and Release with Blue Gill and Bass," notes Luna L.
Hiking trail variety: Friends Creek Campground offers multiple well-maintained trails that pass through tall grass prairie conservation areas. "There is a historic schoolhouse, mowed trails to a nearby creek, gentle rolling hills, trees, birds & wildlife and a small bridge," explains Kate O. The trails connect to a tall grass prairie area across the road from the main camping area.
Stargazing events: The dark skies at Harry L Swartz Campground provide excellent night sky viewing conditions away from city light pollution. "Our second visit was in August for the Perseid meteor shower and a local expert came to give a talk and there was a meteor viewing party of sorts, so that was very interesting," shares Rachel. The campground has earned Dark Sky Park designation.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area offers large, well-spaced sites for a more private camping experience. "Sites were somewhat open but there were tons of trees and grass behind each spot so it didn't feel so exposed. We loved the option for fishing and swimming in a nearby watering hole," says Linda N. Multiple camping loops provide different terrain options from wooded to more open prairie views.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses at Fox Ridge State Park Campground. "All sites were spacious and shaded. We did not use any of the facilities but were impressed with how secluded our campsite felt. Each site is isolated by trees and growth and the entire campground is shaded," notes Allen S. The no-alcohol policy also helps maintain a family-friendly atmosphere.
Lake access: The unusually warm waters at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area make swimming comfortable even in early spring and late fall. "You will definitely want to bring a suit. The lake is surprisingly warm. No dogs allowed on the beach. The sites were spacious, and ours had a path to the lake," explains Melissa B. The warm water temperatures result from discharge from a nearby power plant.
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most glamping close to Champaign, Illinois requires advance booking, especially during summer weekends. At Forrest W. Bo Wood, "Nice place for a weekend visit or a week of fun on Lake Shelbyville. Sites are spread out fairly well and there's plenty of shade from the summer sun," according to Tim F. Weekday availability is generally better than weekends.
Seasonal considerations: Friends Creek Campground operates from May 1 to November 1, while most other area campgrounds remain open year-round. "Nice little campground with nice spacious sites and super clean bathhouses and pit toilets. The fire pits are well kept and the camp host was very kind! He came around with suckers for the kids and just to check in," reports Sara W.
Road noise: Some campgrounds close to major highways experience traffic noise. "Our only 'problem' with the park can't be changed. The interstate noise could be heard all night, and at times overpowered the sounds of nature. This is probably only an issue for tenters, though," notes Julie P. about D & W Lake RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area has a dedicated swimming beach with separate entrance fee. "2 dollar beach entry 10-7 pm, 8 dollar for camping and 20 with electricity after check in. Restrooms are decent. Lady at store has everything needed for fire and bbq," explains Abdul Basith Asim M.
Playground options: D & W Lake RV Park features playgrounds, open grass areas, and a dog park for family activities. "There's plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park. Wonderful campground and only about 10 min from downtown," says Luna L. The half-mile walking trail around the lake is suitable for children of all ages.
Educational opportunities: At Friends Creek Campground, families can explore the historic one-room schoolhouse with guided tours available by appointment. "Start at the one room schoolhouse and make your way down wide trails. They aren't that long but take a few and they add up," suggests Art S. The conservation area extends across the road with additional trails.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Wolf Creek State Park Campground offers numerous electric sites but limited full hookup options. "Nice big spots. 30 and 50 amp available. Right on lake Shelbyville. 309 spots 141 are reservable," notes Sonya A. Water access points can be spaced far apart, so bring extra hose length.
Site selection: At D & W Lake RV Park, pull-through sites provide easier access for larger rigs. "Very nice looking campground. When we drove in, 1st impression, it gave off a 'Welcome' feel. Check-in was easy, we were pre-paid, we were taken directly to our pull-thru site," shares Ricky L.
Winter camping considerations: Some area campgrounds remain open but with limited services during winter months. "Had practically the whole campground to ourselves. Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear. The RV fill was shutdown too," warns Matthew I. about Clinton Lake State Recreation Area during off-season.
