Pet-friendly campgrounds near Chatham, Illinois provide camping options around an area located in Sangamon County, approximately 10 miles south of Springfield. The region features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 580 to 620 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with a few offering year-round access despite central Illinois winter temperatures that regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: Prairie Lake at Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers multiple fishing opportunities with a boat dock containing about 6 slips. "Small fishing lake. 2 campground host sites with wood and ice for sale," notes Steve H., while Amanda C. mentions that "hiking trails, kayaking and fishing are available."
Historical site exploration: The Illinois State Fair Campground provides convenient access to Lincoln historical sites. "Short drive 2.5 miles to Lincoln home. 1 mile from Lincoln's Tomb," writes Jeffrey F. Bill S. adds this is a "Great place to spend a night or even longer to see Lincoln historical sites!"
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Waverly Lake City Park features trails with minimal crowds. "My wife and I really enjoy this campsite," says Darren D. John H. reports, "I've stayed here a couple times now. Each time there has only been one other person. It's quiet and peaceful."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sangchris Lake State Park Campground consistently receives praise for maintenance. "This campground is very well kept. Beautiful setting and delightful people that run it," notes Jeanne D. Garrett and Savannah B. add that "We spent two nights at the Hickory Point Campground and had a wonderful time. The views of the lake were exactly what we hoped for!"
Spacious campsites: The Kampground in Mechanicsburg offers ample room between sites. Jay M. remarks, "The bathrooms were really clean, property well maintain, staff was extremely nice and hospitable, and the area is really quiet with neighbors far enough away that any noise we made went unheard."
Family amenities: The Double J Campground and RV Park provides numerous recreation options. "Fantastic camp hosts, large pull through spots, pool, mini golf, and more. Very convenient to get too and the check in is very fast," according to Russ G. Jessica T. notes they're "Super well maintained grounds" with "river rock driveways (not gravel) and sites- well packed down and regularly grated."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Central Illinois experiences strong winds at some campgrounds. At Primitive Campground, Lucas T. warns it can be "Always super windy too!" Another camper notes being "Windy. Under developed CG. Lots of hunting and fishing opportunities but grounds are years always from being fully grown."
Reservation requirements: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Chatham require advance planning. At Springfield KOA, reservations are essential during peak season. Cynthia K. describes it as "in a rural area. The signage to get there was very good, plus we had our GPS to help out. This area is QUIET! No trains, no interstate noise."
Seasonal availability: Campgrounds operate on different schedules. Illinois State Fair Campground operates "April 1 to October 31" according to their listing, with Jeffrey F. noting it costs "$20 a night" and has a "Large campground over 300 sites. All sites have electric, most have water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Deer Run Campground, J N. mentions, "Playground was great for kiddos. Hosts were nice and fairly helpful." Another reviewer notes the "good clean campground, restrooms were clean and they have a playground to keep the kids entertained and fishing nearby."
Budget-friendly options: Riverside Park offers affordable camping with amenities. Leslie G. notes "All RV/camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses. We had electricity and water hookups and a picnic table available. This site is close to a large industrial strip for shopping and restaurants if you don't want to cook!"
Wildlife awareness: Keep food secured at all campgrounds. At Waverly Lake, Darren D. advises, "Be mindful of field roaches and raccoons at night, as we had to learn the hard way the morning after our first night. Oh, and the mosquitoes are BRUTAL. Come prepared."
Tips from RVers
Site surface quality: Some campgrounds require additional gravel during wet conditions. At Springfield KOA, Mary G. reports "Campground could use some extra gravel on their roads and in the sites, but, still a nice place to relax and recharge."
Full hookup availability: Illinois State Fair Campground offers a row of full hookups. Shelby R. explains, "This is a nice campground with full hookup in the middle of the state fairgrounds. The host is very friendly and gave us a golf cart ride around the fairgrounds and took us to the farmers market."
Pull-through accessibility: Double J Campground provides easy access for large rigs. According to Patricia G., there are "Nice level site, pull-through for overnighters (thank you) lots of grass and walking areas for pets, pool, playground etc." Nick H. confirms this is "A nice quick stay. In and out here for an overnight. No issues nice facility."
