Best Campgrounds near Collinsville, IL
Camping options near Collinsville, Illinois include established campgrounds that accommodate a mix of tents, RVs, and cabins within a 30-mile radius of the city. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, located in nearby Granite City, offers primitive tent camping with basic amenities and sits approximately 15 miles northwest of Collinsville. Several private facilities like the St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA and Cahokia RV Parque provide more developed camping experiences with hookups and amenities. The region serves as a convenient base for visitors to St. Louis attractions while maintaining access to Illinois outdoor recreation areas.
Many campgrounds in the Collinsville area operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through September. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground operates from May 1 to September 30, while other facilities like MGM Campground and Scott AFB FamCamp remain open year-round. Reservations are recommended at most established campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and holiday periods. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation concerns, making most sites accessible without specialized vehicles or equipment. Water levels at Horseshoe Lake can affect site selection and activities. A camper noted, "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast."
Visitors consistently mention the value offered at public camping areas near Collinsville. Horseshoe Lake State Park receives positive reviews for its affordable rates ($8 per night) and privacy between campsites despite basic facilities. The campground provides access to fishing and boating opportunities but prohibits swimming. Several reviews indicate the campground features clean, well-maintained grounds with sufficient spacing between sites. Private campgrounds in the area offer more amenities but at higher prices, with access to swimming pools, playgrounds, and full hookups. Proximity to major highways provides convenient access to St. Louis attractions, including the Gateway Arch, which is visible from some camping areas when conditions permit. One review mentioned, "The campground is relatively small but has great sites to camp. Very private and clean. Not much to do if you have kids. If you're looking for quiet camping trip this is a great park."
