Collison, Illinois offers camping areas within a rolling prairie landscape with elevations around 650-700 feet above sea level. Located in Vermilion County, this central Illinois region experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers often exceeding 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Campgrounds near Collison typically feature a mix of wooded sites and open areas with varying access to water features.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Kickapoo State Recreation Area provides multiple water activities for outdoor enthusiasts. "Nice place to canoe!" notes Lucas T., who also advises visitors to respect the park's alcohol restrictions. The park's 22 lakes and access to the Middle Fork River make it ideal for kayaking and canoeing adventures.
Hiking variety: Forest Glen Preserve's trail system includes a challenging 11-mile backpacking loop requiring advance permits. "The backcountry sites have trash cans and pit toilets for convenience. There is a nearby water source but it will need to be filtered," explains Sally R. The preserve also offers shorter day hikes through diverse ecosystems.
Wildlife viewing: Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area provides excellent opportunities for nature observation. "Nice campground with out of this world views!" reports Makada L. The area's diverse habitats support numerous bird species, deer, and small mammals throughout the various seasons.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Turkey Run State Park Campground earns praise for its generous sites. "We stayed at site #35. It is in a very quiet, off the main road, in a circle, in full shade. It's is very close to the restroom but a distance from the camp store and dumpster," shares Michelle M., adding that "the site was huge but given the unevenness it would be difficult for tents."
Affordability: Kickapoo State Recreation Area offers excellent value for campers on a budget. "We paid only $20 for our one night stay. Big, beautiful and well maintained. We had electricity, free showers, topped off our water tank. It's a great deal," shares Rob G., highlighting the reasonable pricing for what you receive.
Variety of camping styles: Campers appreciate the range of options available. "Depending on what you would like this campground has a little bit of everything. There are camp sites that are walk to for some more distance from others, a lot of close drive to spots, RV, and a lot of close boat camping sites," explains Jennifer S. about Kickapoo State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Primitive camping conditions: Harry L Swartz Campground offers a more rustic experience during certain periods. "The shower house was closed but pit toilets were available," notes Art S., who also mentioned finding "a 8" deep creek to cross (thanks small tree branch to walk across!)" while hiking the nearby Oak Burl trail.
Reservation requirements: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Collison require advance planning. "We weren't able to make a reservation less than 5 days in advance online so we tried to call. No one in the office except Th-Sunday and it was Wednesday," shares Sadie R. about her attempted last-minute stay at Harry L Swartz Campground.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal variation. "It was cool for our visit or we would have melted. Some sites are mostly shaded and beautiful. Sites 40-48 get full sun until around 2 in the afternoon," explains Art S. about Harry L Swartz Campground's exposure during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: D & W Lake RV Park provides recreational facilities for younger campers. "There's plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park," notes Luna L., making it a convenient option for families with both children and pets.
Pet-friendly activities: Many campgrounds near Collison welcome four-legged family members. "The lake trail provides a half-mile walking loop perfect for dog walks with scenic water views," explains one visitor about D & W Lake's features, which include a dedicated dog exercise area.
Entertainment options: Shades State Park Campground offers activities for the whole family. "Camped here with my wife and sons. We had a blast hiking Shades State Park and nearby Turkey Run State Park. We enjoyed that not every site was packed and we had some privacy. My boys enjoyed the playground and my wife enjoyed the modern showers," shares Micah N.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Prairie Pines Campground provides comprehensive services for extended stays. "Nice space between sites. Free WiFi. Very large and clean bathrooms. Laundry also available in bath house," reports Rhonda W. about the park's amenities that make longer visits more comfortable.
Site leveling challenges: Turkey Run State Park requires preparation for uneven terrain. "The site was very uneven. It definitely sloops to the back corner. It's was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end," warns Michelle M. about site #35, suggesting RVers bring adequate leveling equipment.
Easy access locations: Some campgrounds offer convenient entry points for larger vehicles. "Close to Champaign, IL off I-57 is this charming, open and clean grass covered park. Large sites with full hook ups, picnic table and scattered large trees," Jennifer B. describes about Prairie Pines Campground's accessibility for RV travelers.
Legend
