Best Campgrounds near Carlinville, IL

Camping near Carlinville, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Cuivre River State Park Campground. Campers have enjoyed the "beautiful prairie view and lots of great trails" available in the area.
• Fishing: Spend a relaxing day fishing at Okaw Valley Kampground. One visitor mentioned, "a nice little fishing area (no license required catch and release)" which makes it easy for families to enjoy.
• Boating: Take advantage of the water access at Coon Creek (IL). Campers have noted the "beach access" and "boat launch on grounds," perfect for a day on the water.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. One reviewer said, "The grounds are clean and pleasant," making it a comfortable stay.
• Friendly Staff: Many visitors have praised the helpful staff at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area. A camper shared, "Wonderful hosts checked us in," highlighting the welcoming atmosphere.
• Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Pere Marquette State Park Campground. One review noted, "Lots of room between level sites," which is great for families needing space.

What you should know:

• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds, like Cuivre River State Park Campground, can get busy, especially during peak seasons. One camper mentioned, "I am bad at making reservations, but we got lucky with the last spot."
• Limited Shade: Some campgrounds, such as St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, have fewer trees for shade. A visitor noted, "Not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty," so be prepared for sunny days.
• Check Amenities: Before heading out, check the amenities at your chosen campground. For example, Coon Creek (IL) has "no showers," which might be a dealbreaker for some.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. Okaw Valley Kampground has a "very nice updated playground" that kids will love.
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has food options. At Coon Creek (IL), you can order pizza and wings from nearby, making meal planning easier.
• Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and pillows for a cozy night. One camper at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area mentioned, "We had a perfect view of the lake," so make sure your setup is comfortable for everyone.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. Campers at Double J Campground and RV Park appreciated the "good gravel spots with full hookups."
• Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight, so check the dimensions before booking. A visitor at Casino Queen RV Park noted, "The shaded spots were too narrow," so plan accordingly.
• Stay Connected: If you need internet access, check for Wi-Fi availability. Campers at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park mentioned good connectivity, making it easier to stay in touch.

Camping near Carlinville, Illinois, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking comfort.