61 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Clinton, Illinois provides several established campgrounds within close proximity, primarily state parks and recreation areas that accommodate a range of camping styles. Weldon Springs State Park Campground and Clinton Lake State Recreation Area are the two primary developed camping areas, both offering tent and RV sites with varying amenities. Arrowhead Acres Campground near downtown Clinton provides electrical hookups and water access. Most campgrounds in the region support both primitive tent camping and sites with electrical connections for recreational vehicles, while Clinton Lake State Recreation Area also features cabin accommodations and glamping options.
Access to most camping areas remains open year-round, though facilities and services may be limited during winter months. Many sites require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when campgrounds reach capacity. Electrical hookups are available at most established sites, with Clinton Lake offering some full hookup options including sewer connections. The region experiences typical Midwestern seasonal variations with humid summers and cold winters. Spring camping may encounter muddy conditions, while fall provides more moderate temperatures and fewer insects. A visitor noted, "We came during Fourth of July and never felt like it was overly crowded. Sites were spacious but wasn't much privacy, which didn't bother us because it allowed for our kids to play with the other kids easily."
Campers consistently mention the natural features and recreation opportunities as highlights of the Clinton area campgrounds. Weldon Springs features wooded tent sites that provide more seclusion than the RV areas, with hiking trails and fishing opportunities at the park pond. Clinton Lake State Recreation Area provides beach access, boating facilities, and swimming areas that make it popular with families. Several camping areas include shower facilities and modern restrooms, though maintenance quality varies between locations. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area, with one camper reporting, "The best part was watching the hummingbirds at the north, marshy end of the lake." Some campers report issues with raccoons in the tent camping areas at Weldon Springs, suggesting proper food storage is essential.
"Had a nice site on loop by the lake, but not on the lake. A short walk downhill though the trees. We were able to tie up our canoe there once we launched it by the concession stand."
"It’s a nice Illinois state park. Very quiet. Clean bathrooms, the consecution stand is closed. So can’t rent boat etc. but a nice lake to paddle canoe/kayak ."
"Really nice campground on Clinton Lake. Has a really nice beach for swimming and picnics. Have about 20 nice full hook up spots and a bunch of electric sites."
"We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach."
from $10 - $30 / night
Check Availability"The showers/restrooms are centrally located and could be crowded if the camp was full. We set up and walked some in the trails."
"This hidden gem of a campground is very quiet and serene - surrounded by tall trees and next to a tall grass prairie conservation area - complete with historic schoolhouse, mowed trails to a nearby creek"
from $10 - $25 / night
Check Availability"I never did all of the trails but spent an afternoon hiking with a friend last summer."
"It’s also never super convenient to need to pack up just to go to a dump station but as long as your fine walking to the community restrooms, you should be fine."
from $40 - $20 / night
Check Availability"Two small lakes with fountains. You can hear the fountains at night, it's nice. Excellent price for tent camping."
"Near the back you can camp right alongside the river. Amenities are minimal, there are just port-a-potties for restrooms but they are very clean."
"Comlara is a beautifully laid out hidden gem in Illinois. Evergreen Lake is the perfect back drop to the campground."
"Located just northwest of Bloomington, which is located absolutely smack-dab in the middle of the state of Illinois, you’ll discover a nature wonderland over here nearly hidden from plain site."
"highway next to a commercial big rig gas station, but if you are doing some heavy duty highway traveling with your RV or 5th wheel and simply need a place to hold up for the night, then this place really"
"bit more than a year ago provided quite a bit of detail on this campground, I’m following up on that review by sharing more fotos as well as providing a topline update: Highlights: (1) Closely located"
from $35 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. "
"Surround by corn fields in the warmer months."
Guide$25 a night for 30 amp hookup is pretty good! The sites are clean and spacious. It’s quiet too! Pretty lake, but sites aren’t right on the lake.
The bathrooms need some work. Water had a boil order on it and showers only worked in the men’s room. Water was HOT! Which is great! However, the water smelled metallic…
GuideChallenge to find the assigned camping site, which turned out to be on a slope with a picnic table in the middle of it, which I was unable to move, so I took another spot that was somewhat flatter. There are only 12 overnight campsites at this campground which do have concrete slabs however they are all very slanted and the electric box is a ways away. In addition, the bathhouse is no where near these sites.
ScoutThis is the bigger campground between hickory point and deer run options. The shower house, snack shop, and city water are onsite. There are vault toilets near the primitive camping, as well as another water spigot. Playground, pavillion, and sand volleyball court give options to entertain kids, with plenty of fishing, trails, and lake views to entertain the adults. We primitive camped here at the closest site to the parking. #57 is the closest, with the rest of the primitive sites being more of a trek to the site. However, the privacy, quietness, and views are 100% worth the trek to us. We did camp with a doggo, who does bark at passerby’s that are “too close” in her opinion but otherwise doesn’t. All the campers during our stay except for one very disruptive couple, did not complain at all and many came to give her loves or treats to help prevent further barking when they passed by. And honestly, the couple that did make the comment, clearly need to be at different campgrounds because the host had to come break them up after quiet hours began and they didn’t respect that rule. We also then were woken up by the same couple as they were packing up the next morning due to them yelling at each other. The hosts did try to make sure they slowed down while passing this site though, and I do believe if we had made some sort of complaint to them, they would have handled it immediately. We love this campground, and honestly we feel as if anywhere there are rvs allowed, you will likely have someone make a comment about the dog. It’s never been other tent campers, even the ones on electric sites. The snack shop has ice (currently $3 even a bag, with hosts including tax in the $3 to make it easier for campers), firewood bundles (not sure on price) as well as many smaller campground necessities including snacks and drinks, some fishing tackle, and some other camping things such as bug spray and sunblock. I did not check any prices on those. There is technically a bait shop also nearby, though between two longer stays here and at deer run, we’ve only seen him open once. And according to one of the hosts, he doesn’t seem to have “regular hours” other than he’s for sure closed Sundays and Mondays. The following Tuesday after learning this, he was also closed all day. So I’m not sure about anything there. He does also have an ice machine outside though.
ScoutCouple camping here, spent multiple nights in a row in primitive camping here. As mentioned, only well water available on the campgrounds here, however you still have access to amenities available at hickory point just a short drive away. Shower house and city water available that way. Playground for kiddos on site. Lots of people bring pets, including equestrian for those campsite. Those do include the post to tie up on at each site. The hosts (bob and dawn were really checking in on us that stay, including being able to help when we accidentally killed our car battery. They also made thorough and consistent rounds which we appreciated. Also had Lynn, one of the idnr guys here, come back at the end of his shift to make sure we had learned about the storms coming in. He even checked in again the next chance he got to make sure we were okay still. We did end up leaving early, to which there is not refunds (I think this is state parks in general) however at $6 a night for primitive, we took that loss especially during an extreme heat warning (for multiple days). If you want a quieter campsite, I would recommend this one over hickory point as hickory point seems to be more RVers instead of the more primitive style of camping tends to be.
RangerRolled in on a July Saturday at 6:30pm. There are hundreds of sites at this campground and so many were still open. Was looking for a Class C site (I.e. rustic site, no hookups). Chatted with camp hosts « papa Bruce » and « grandma sugar burger » They were so sweet and accommodating. For same day, it’s first come first serve so bring cash - you can online pay with a card online 3 days minimum before. 8$ Class C and 20$ Class A (hookup). Dump station and water and trash receptacles. Lots of hiking trails and eating activities - sadly we didn’t have time to explore.
TravelerWe've stayed at Hickory Point before, but this was our first time at Deer Run. It has not disappointed! The primitive sites (there are 5 with no electric or water hookups) are off set in the back of the campground, providing privacy and quiet, which is what we were going for this time. The primitive sites without electric or water are $6 a night, and you can for pay up to 14 nights at a time. There are electric and water hook up sites for $8 a night, they just aren't as private but still lovely! The showers are at the Hickory Point campground (just a minute or two drive) and available for use with the Deer Run camp sites as well. There are well water spigots at Dee Run and Hickory Point, but the city water spigot is at Hickory Point only. It rained quite a bit our first two nights here, but there are so many trees covering the primitive sites you couldn't really feel it until it was thunder storming. We stayed nice and dry inside the tent. There are a LOT of sassy raccoons who will still your food - and the containers that never had food in them in fact- as well waking up to crows cawing every morning- may not be everyone's thing, but I sure enjoy that aspect. The hosts are fantastic and make rounds every 2-3 hours each day, anything we've needed they e been able to help with or point us in the direction to go next. Great campground to stay at, whether for a night or a week, no complaints here thus far!
ScoutCalled last minute and owner was helpful and clear. Price was great and we got water & electric we needed. Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. We had a class C so was easy, but may be more challenging for a larger rig. Owner's dog was older, slow and very friendly. Opposite of our two small puppies :)
If looking for a quick overnight that allows you to rest for the next day this is a good option.
ScoutIt is a small campground with options of lake view for your walk-in tent sites. Bathrooms were clean and shower was hot with good water pressure. It was pretty quiet.
Fishing could be done at the docks which wasn’t very far but not a good place to fish on land and couldn’t access water by sites very well. No trails. It’s a good place to go just to sit and relax. But not much activities.
ScoutThis campground was highly recommended to us by a few friends who have been there before, which speaks volumes to begin with. It is just off of interstate 55, which means there is constant road noise. However, we found ourselves acclimated to it fairly quickly, most likely BECAUSE it’s constant. Other than that, the campground is very quiet and peaceful, especially considering the number of campers we saw come and go and that were there at any given time. One advantage of being so close to the interstate is that it is very handy for travelers passing through needing a place to crash for a night or two. In fact, we saw a lot of that during our stay. There is a general store on site and it is within easy driving distance from Chatham and Springfield in case you need something. Of course Springfield is also a great place to sight see. The owners and staff are very friendly and accommodating. The grounds and facilities are clean and well maintained. There is a pool, miniature golf, pedal carts and some other games to keep you entertained, especially if you have children. The sites are fairly close to one another. Not sardines close, but close enough. To be very clear, this is a GREAT place if you don’t mind the “closeness” of the community-type environment. However, it just isn’t for us and, for that reason alone, we probably won’t be back unless we’re just passing through.
Camping spots near Clinton, Illinois provide access to woodlands and prairie landscapes in the heart of the Midwest. The area sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level with seasonal temperatures ranging from winter lows around 15°F to summer highs around 85°F. The region contains several state-managed recreation areas with both open and wooded camping options in proximity to lakes and streams.
Backpacking and hiking trails: Weldon Springs State Park Campground offers designated backpacking sites separate from the main camping areas. "Short walk from the parking lot if carrying heavy gear, but still spaced out enough to feel isolated. Vault toilets right at the parking lot as well. Next to a big grassy area and hill for group games," notes Elizabeth W. about the backcountry sites at Weldon Springs.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide lake and pond access for fishing. "Great camping and great fishing. Scenic little park. Tent and trailer camping here, but the real reward is in the primitive backpacking sites," says Bree C. about fishing at Weldon Springs. Several campgrounds rent boats seasonally, particularly at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area where the water is unusually warm due to discharge from the nearby nuclear plant.
Historical exploration: The area contains historical sites including an old schoolhouse at Friends Creek Campground. One reviewer mentions, "The park also has a historic schoolhouse, and guided tours are available by calling." Several hiking trails connect to historical markers and memorials, with trails maintained for year-round access.
Secluded woodland sites: Many campers appreciate the wooded tent sites available at several campgrounds. "We loved how the tent sites (especially as you go further back like to sites 6-10) just had a secluded woodsy feeling to them," notes a camper about the hiking sites at Weldon Springs State Park. The primitive areas provide more privacy than main campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Friends Creek Campground receives high marks for maintenance. "Friends Creek is a small campground with nice spacious sites and super clean bathhouses and pit toilets. The fire pits are well kept and the camp host was very kind," says Sara W. Other reviewers consistently mention the well-maintained showers and restrooms throughout this campground.
Lake views and access: Multiple campgrounds offer waterfront sites. A camper at Moraine View State Recreational Area mentions, "This campground surprised us. We got there in the dark and woke up to Fall colors, Canadian geese, trails, playgrounds. We got in without a reservation and upgraded to a beautiful spot on the water." Some campgrounds have direct paths from sites to the shoreline.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area have different access levels by season. "Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear. The RV fill was shutdown too. Water option we're the lake or a 30 min drive into town for bottled. Not a big deal but something to be prepared for," notes Matthew I. about Clinton Lake during off-season.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds use first-come, first-served site selection even with reservations. At Friends Creek Campground, "if you reserve a camping spot it's just to have a site. Specific campsites aren't reserved. Get here early and you have your choice," explains Art S. Always check individual campground policies when booking.
Alcohol policies: Alcohol rules vary significantly between campgrounds. Some areas, like Weldon Springs tent sites, have strict no-alcohol policies with signs stating "coolers are subject to inspection," while other campgrounds permit alcohol. Check regulations before arrival to avoid issues.
Beach access options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas with varying amenities. "We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach. There was a walking path from our site to the shore which was perfect for our young family to go back and forth on," reports Linda N. about Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, though some beaches have separate entry fees.
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, check proximity to play areas. At Comlara County Park, "There are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow," mentions Sage C. Some campgrounds have multiple play areas scattered throughout different camping loops.
Site selection strategy: For families, certain camping loops offer better experiences. "The different loops have very different feels...some are very shaded in the trees, some more wide open with a prairie type view," notes Stacia R. about Clinton Lake, where some loops are designated as family-friendly while others may attract more of a party atmosphere.
Full hookup availability: Limited full hookup sites exist in the region and book quickly. "Have about 20 nice full hook up spots and a bunch of electric sites. Our family spent a week there and loved it," says Brandon E. about Clinton Lake State Recreation Area. Call ahead for information on sewer connections, as many campgrounds offer only electric and water.
Level site considerations: Many campgrounds have varied terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts. Site is very large however. Does have nice shade," notes Kathie M. about a specific site at Comlara County Park. Some campgrounds provide concrete pads while others have gravel or grass parking surfaces.
Overnight convenience stops: For travelers passing through, Love's RV Stop offers easy highway access with full hookups. "Brand new, clean, well laid out. Easy in, easy out. No need to enter the truck stop. Showers in separate building," reports Alan K. This option provides security gates and convenient amenities for overnight stays about 20 miles from Clinton.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Clinton, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Clinton, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 61 campgrounds and RV parks near Clinton, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Clinton, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clinton, IL is Weldon Springs State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Clinton, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Clinton, IL.
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