RV sites near Rochester, Illinois offer a mix of state park and private campground options within a 30-mile radius. The area sits amid flat prairie and agricultural land with elevations around 600 feet, creating camping environments that range from lakeside to wooded settings. Weather patterns bring hot, humid summers with thunderstorms and mild spring and fall seasons ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing at Sangchris Lake: The 3,000-acre lake at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities with multiple docks. "All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake. Several fishing docks in campground," notes Greg S., who appreciated the lakeside access.
Hiking trails: Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area offers extensive hiking trails for all skill levels. "Watch out for the poison ivy and get a map from an employee to hike the trails. They can be hard to find but camping is fantastic!" advises Chelle L.
Miniature golf: Family entertainment is available at Country Bend Campground with their 18-hole putt-putt course. One camper mentioned, "This beautiful campground has many things to offer... It has a pool, swing sets, playground, cabins, ponds with stocked fish, beautiful walking trails, camping, welcome center, baseball field, volleyball, games, horseshoes, paddle boats, miniature golf, and so much more."
Lincoln historical sites: Located just 2.5 miles from Illinois State Fair Campground, Springfield's Lincoln attractions provide educational day trips. "Short drive 2.5 miles to Lincoln home. 1 mile from Lincoln's Tomb," reports Jeffrey F., highlighting the convenience for history buffs.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained shower houses and restrooms. At The Double J Campground and RV Park, Steven V. noted, "Everything was good and bathrooms clean. Good dog areas with mowed grass."
Shade options: Many campgrounds offer tree coverage to escape summer heat. "Very clean and quiet. There is a lot of shade in the main part of the park. It has a huge pool, putt-putt golf, and washer and dryers," reports Shelly W.
Helpful campground hosts: Staff assistance receives frequent praise across area campgrounds. At Prairie Lake Campground, one reviewer shared, "Very friendly and helpful campground host drove over from the RV campground to register us and even offered to take our stuff to our site."
Weekend activities: Organized events create community atmosphere, especially at Country Bend Campground. "Holiday weekends have so many planned activities, some for all ages. We really loved the bridges with trails to ponds, and the jumping pillow," writes Kaitlin D.
What you should know
Water access varies: While electric hookups are standard, water connections differ between campgrounds. At Springfield KOA, a reviewer noted, "Sites have power and water, you have to go to dump station on the way out as there aren't individual sewers."
Site conditions after rain: Drainage issues affect some campgrounds during wet periods. "The gravel could be a bit thicker but it was decent. The shower house was clean but cold," observed Jana C. about Double J Campground.
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Sangchris Lake State Park, a camper advised, "If you want a lake spot, make a reservation way in advance."
Wind exposure: Some campgrounds lack mature tree coverage, creating wind issues. At Prairie Lake, a camper observed, "This is a 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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature equipment for children. One reviewer at Kamper Kompanion RV Park stated, "We really enjoyed Kamper Companion! We stay there every time we pass through Litchfield. Quiet, family friendly, and great for our dogs. We love the dog yard!"
Swimming opportunities: Pools provide summer recreation at select campgrounds. "Clean, nice playgrounds for kids. Putt golf was a little run down. A little muddy as it rained that morning, but not a mud pit like some campgrounds," reports Terry about Springfield KOA.
Bike-friendly areas: Paved roads in some campgrounds create safe cycling zones. "Lots of families with kids riding bikes around the loop and some playing wiffle ball in the open field," noted a camper at Prairie Lake Campground.
Budget options: Primitive camping sites offer affordable alternatives. "Just $6 a night. Hiking trails, kayaking and fishing are available... Each site is along the tree line with plenty of shade," reports Amanda C.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through sites: Double J Campground offers convenient access for larger rigs. "We have stayed here twice, and will stay again for sure when in the area. Fantastic camp hosts, large pull through spots, pool, mini golf, and more. Very convenient to get too and the check in is very fast," shares Russ G.
Site layout considerations: At Sangchris Lake, site selection matters for comfort. "Site 24 is huge and level with a picnic table and fire ring. Electric but no water at site. The site is totally private on one side because of a lake inlet and there's a large back area right on the lake," explains Susan L.
Electrical capacity: During peak summer usage, some campgrounds face power challenges. At Illinois State Fair Campground, a camper reported, "A large campground with water and electric. Few sites have sewer. You have the option of paved parking lot or on the grass. We chose the grass for the shade trees."
Overnight RV stops: Kamper Kompanion provides efficient stays for those passing through. "Easy on off, right by highway, pulled in after dark and they met us to show us to the site and got us settled. Easy pull thru site with 40' and toad," notes Jessica T.
