Camping options near Chandlerville, Illinois range from primitive walk-in sites to full-hookup RV campgrounds across flat agricultural terrain interspersed with forested public lands. The area sits at approximately 500 feet elevation with distinct seasonal variations, including hot, humid summers reaching 90°F and cold winters often below freezing. Spring camping often means dealing with muddy conditions after snowmelt, while fall brings milder temperatures and fewer crowds at sites within the 26,000-acre Jim Edgar Panther Creek conservation area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes at Jim Edgar Panther Creek - Family Campground provide diverse angling experiences with multiple species. "Praire Lake Campground has 3 facilities on the lake. FAMILY camp for Rv, Tentand cabins. 1. 84 sites with Electric or 19 have FHU," notes reviewer David F.
Historic exploration: Visit Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site Campground to experience living history demonstrations. "Love this place and have been visiting here ever since I was little! I love to walk through all the old buildings and learn about Lincoln's way of life. They even had horses and a bull out in the pastures," writes Leah H.
Trail hiking: Networks of maintained trails spread throughout the conservation areas. At Questing Hills Equestrian Campground, "Trails are well marked and maintained over 26 miles of trails," according to Alicia B., making this a good option for hikers and horse riders alike.
What campers like
Unique terrain: The topography surprises many visitors expecting only flat farmland. At Anderson Lake SFWA, campers appreciate the natural setting. "Simple yet beautiful & peaceful. We have been here 3 Xs over the pas years as a stop over while traveling... just a nice place on a beautiful lake. Nice for bird watching," reports Donna G.
Dark skies: Rural location provides excellent night sky viewing at most campsites near Chandlerville, Illinois. At Crazy Horse Campground, campers enjoy evenings under the stars. "It's in the middle of nowhere but only about 20 minutes to the nearest small town. No Verizon wireless service here or anywhere for about a 45 mile radius," mentions Sarah S.
Privacy in primitive areas: Walk-in sites at Primitive Campground offer seclusion rarely found at developed campgrounds. "Stayed one night in July. We tent camped in site 1 of the primitive campground. There are 7 sites well spaced with a picnic table, fire ring, trash can and three sided shelter in each site. Pit toilets are in the middle. Each site is along the tree line with plenty of shade," shares Amanda C.
What you should know
Wind exposure: Several campgrounds report significant wind due to the open terrain. At Prairie Lake Campground, Lucas T. mentions it's "nice, well kept campground but being newer has small trees with little shade. Also has been very windy on the few occasions we have stayed with an open field at entrance."
Water access: Water sources vary significantly between campgrounds. At Lincoln's New Salem Park, Jeffrey F. notes: "Just electric at sites, no water. Water available at just a few sites. Dump station available. I would give it 5 stars but they should have water at all sites."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise despite rural settings. At Buena Vista Farms, Jennifer K. observed, "Even though it was a bit off of the interstate, the noise from the highway was awful. The prairie land is flat which lends itself to easily traveling road noise."
Tips for camping with families
Safe environments: Many campgrounds prioritize family-friendly atmospheres. At Prairie Lake Campground, Brandy C. says, "I went with a church group. This campground seemed well laid out and was affordable. It also felt like a safe environment for the family."
Recreational activities: Multiple campgrounds offer on-site diversions for children. At Buena Vista Farms Campground, Sarah S. found, "They offer kayaks, canoes, and peddle boats free to campers. There is an open cabin with games, books, and WiFi. Basketball court, play area, and outdoor games. Staff were friendly and helpful."
Weekend programming: Look for campgrounds with scheduled activities. At Crazy Horse Campground, Leanne B. shares, "Every weekend has an event. Bluegrass to crafts. Right outside of Jacksonville, Ashland, Virginia, and close enough to Springfield."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Prairie Lake Campground offers various hookup options. Jennifer K. reports, "Site has electricity with water centrally located in the center of the loop. We needed a 100 ft fresh water hose to fill up."
Leveling considerations: Most campgrounds have relatively flat sites. At Riverfront Park Campground, Adam F. notes the practical amenities: "The campground is on the IL river and has water and electric hookups. No sewer, but there is a dump station on site."
Weather preparations: Spring camping means preparing for water issues. Kaitlin D. warns about Lincoln's New Salem campground: "Not 5 stars since we had to leave a day early due to weather. Not their fault but sites became a lake and couldn't even step outside."
