Glamping experiences near Chatham, Illinois provide a mixture of outdoor adventure with comfort in a region characterized by gently rolling farmland, mixed hardwood forests, and several lakes. Located 10 miles south of Springfield at approximately 600 feet above sea level, the area features a mix of private and state-managed camping facilities. Most campsites in this region remain open from April through October, with a handful maintaining year-round accessibility depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sangchris Lake State Park Campground, anglers can access multiple fishing docks directly from the camping area. One visitor notes, "All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake. Several fishing docks in campground." The lake is stocked and provides good catch rates for those arriving early.
Kayaking: Waverly Lake City Park offers peaceful paddling conditions on its small lake. A camper shared, "It's quiet and peaceful, however there's not much to do. As far as I know there's no running water." The lake has a 4-consecutive day per month camping limit.
Hiking trails: Riverside Park features multiple interconnected trails with river views. A hiker commented, "Lots of fun trails with great views! Most trails are accessible from the parking area. Good for pictures at sunrise and sunset!"
Family games: Crazy Horse Campground maintains two catch-and-release fishing ponds, playgrounds, and volleyball courts. According to one visitor, "Catch and release fishing, small beach area with volleyball. Sites are small but clean."
What campers like
Lakefront access: Campers at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground appreciate the proximity to water. One reviewer shared, "We always get sites with our own private dock to fish from. Spotty reception but it's great to unplug." Sites directly on the water book quickly during summer months.
Spacious sites: Springfield KOA offers larger campsites with more separation than many other facilities in the area. A camper noted, "This area is QUIET! No trains, no interstate noise. It was great after a long day traveling." The campground sits in a rural setting about 20 minutes from downtown attractions.
Clean facilities: Country Bend Campground maintains well-kept shower houses and common areas. One reviewer mentioned, "Clean shower houses with warm water. We just purchased our seasonal campsite earlier in the season." The campground has undergone recent renovations under new management.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds in the Chatham area organize structured activities, especially on weekends. A visitor to Crazy Horse Campground reported, "Every weekend has an event. Bluegrass to crafts." Most events are family-friendly and included with camping fees.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds close between late October and early April. A Riverside Park camper advised, "We were looking for somewhere last minute on the 4th of July and we were welcomed here." Calling ahead during shoulder seasons is recommended.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have spotty or no cell reception. A visitor to Crazy Horse Campground warned, "No Verizon wireless service here or anywhere for about a 45 mile radius." Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Reservation needs: During summer weekends, especially holidays, advance reservations are essential. A camper at Country Bend shared, "Super great people helped accommodate us on a holiday weekend for a baseball tourney we were playing in."
Weather impacts: Spring storms can create muddy conditions at some sites. A Springfield KOA visitor noted, "Campground could use some extra gravel on their roads and in the sites, but, still a nice place to relax and recharge." Sites near water may experience more drainage issues.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Deer Creek Campground offers open play areas near the beach. A family noted, "Nice place and people very helpful and beach is so clean." The beach area is regularly maintained throughout the summer.
Swimming options: Country Bend Campground features an inground swimming pool popular with families. A parent shared, "Big things happening at Country Bend Campgrounds. This beautiful campground has many things to offer and is only a few minutes from the local drive-in movie theater."
Budget activities: The Springfield KOA includes mini-golf and other included activities. A family camper mentioned, "Super clean and peaceful. This KOA has many family activities, including a pool, mini golf, jumping pillow and a huge field for the kids to play."
Spacing considerations: When glamping with children in Chatham, select sites away from water if safety is a concern. A reviewer at Sangchris Lake advised, "I have been coming here for years with my family when I was younger. The place is as pristine as it was when I was a kid."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer electric-only sites with water access points nearby. At Sangchris Lake, a camper explained, "Electric only but water available and nice dump station. All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake." Bringing extra water hoses can be helpful.
Site leveling: Prepare for slightly uneven terrain at some campgrounds. A Riverside Park RVer shared, "All RV/camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses. We had electricity and water hookups and a picnic table available." Most sites require minimal leveling blocks.
Supply proximity: Most campgrounds are 15-30 minutes from major stores. A visitor to Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area noted, "The park is reasonable priced, beautiful surrounding and friendly staff. The only downside is that it's somewhat far from supply stores." Stock up before arrival.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads. A Springfield KOA camper warned, "Lots of wonderful signs directing you to the campground once you exit the interstate. The roads leading to the campground are narrow, luckily we didn't encounter someone coming the other way!" Arrival during daylight hours is recommended.
