Campsites near Clayton, Illinois cluster around the Mississippi River and farm country with elevations ranging from 500 to 700 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with overnight temperatures between 40-65°F. Most campgrounds in this region close for winter between November and March, though a few RV parks near Clayton maintain year-round operations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 6 lakes: Wakonda State Park offers multiple fishing lakes with boat rentals available. "There are a couple of water spikots scattered around the campgrounds, and there is one hiking trail that heads out of the campground near the woodlot. Elsewhere in the park is a nice swimming beach with a place to shower off the sand, and some interesting cement tunnels/bunkers that kids might have fun exploring," notes Annie C. about Boulder Lake Campground.
Hiking trails: various lengths: The trail system at Wakonda State Park includes routes ranging from half a mile to 3 miles. Mary N. mentions, "Great trails too, ranging from half a mile to 3 miles. Nice lakes, kayaking rentals available, and a swimming beach too." Hiking paths generally remain open year-round, weather permitting.
Beach swimming: sandy shoreline: The swimming beach at Wakonda Lake Campground provides summer recreation from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Nice lakes plus swimming and boating facilities. We stayed by Wakonda Lake in an oversized site with steps leading down to a little beach," reports Muffy Clark G.
What campers like
Concrete pads: level sites: Many RV sites at Driftwood Campground feature concrete pads that keep equipment level even after rain. Joey S. shares, "Clean facilities, full hookup sites with concrete pads. A pool for the warm months, and a conservation site across the street. Plenty of fishing on the Mississippi river."
Campsite privacy: varies by location: Primitive Campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers well-spaced sites with natural buffers. Amanda C. describes, "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."
Winter camping options: limited availability: While most campgrounds close during winter months, Cozy C RV Campground maintains year-round operations. Victoria G. notes, "Pulled in 4/12, smaller campground, very few people here this time of year. Owners live right off the property so very convenient. Very nice owner Helen, came by the site to check us in."
What you should know
Highway noise: varies by campground: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. A reviewer at Buena Vista Farms Campground mentioned, "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."
Bathhouse conditions: seasonal considerations: Facility maintenance varies throughout the camping season. According to one Cozy C RV Campground reviewer, "The not so great: The date was in late December so we expected some winterizing. So the water was off at the site. It was also off at the bath house. No water for bathing, washing hands, toilets or washing dishes."
Lake conditions: clarity varies: Lakes in the region may have varying water clarity depending on season and recent weather. One camper at Boulder Lake Campground noted, "The lakes are not clear and had snakes which we saw while fishing. The park itself didn't offer nice views."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: mini-golf and games: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond standard outdoor recreation. Sarah S. from Buena Vista Farms Campground shares, "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."
Kid-friendly exploration: concrete tunnels: Wakonda State Park features unique concrete structures that interest children. "Elsewhere in the park is a nice swimming beach with a place to shower off the sand, and some interesting cement tunnels/bunkers that kids might have fun exploring," mentions Annie C.
Activity levels: busy during summer: Mark Twain Lake Jellystone Park tends to be lively during peak season. Cathy S. notes, "I found the camping area to be tight but what a fun place to be. Being after Labor Day the water par was closed, but looked like fun. Mini golf was booming. They had nice pavilion areas for gatherings."
Tips from RVers
Hookup access: placement varies: At Cozy C RV Campground, the site layout provides easy pull-through access. Annie C. explains, "RV sites include pull through and back in with water and electric hookups, and a dump station on site."
Site spacing: tight in some areas: Some RV parks have limited space between neighboring units. Heather B. at Woodyz Acres RV Park & Campground comments, "The spots we had were very close together. Would not have enjoyed that if we were there longer. I think there are other spots with more room, but not 100% sure? We had full hook ups."
Off-season arrival considerations: For RV camping near Clayton, Illinois during shoulder seasons, advance communication helps ensure services are available. Candace M. at Woodyz Acres notes, "The good: The reservation process was friendly and they accommodated our after hours arrival. The electrical connections were great with 50/30/20 amp receptacles. Location was convenient and easy to access."
