Camping near Springfield, Illinois offers options within a 30-mile radius of Illinois' capital city. The region has predominantly flat terrain with elevations around 600 feet above sea level and four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, making May through October the primary camping season, though several campgrounds remain open year-round with varying amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sangchris Lake State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access with multiple docks. According to one camper, "Sangchris Lake receives particularly positive reviews for its lakeside camping options with good fishing opportunities."
Historical exploration: Visit Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site Campground for a unique educational experience. "This is a wonderful place to visit. I enjoy learning about some of our family history. We have relation to the Trent, Graham, and Jackson families from the original area. Their cabins are reconstructed for touring as well as the old school house," shares one visitor.
Outdoor recreation: The Kampground (formerly The Last Resort) offers quiet surroundings for relaxation. A camper noted, "The new owner has really done a fantastic job of restoring this property which was formerly a church kids camp. The bathrooms were really clean, property well maintained, staff was extremely nice and hospitable."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The Double J Campground and RV Park consistently receives praise for maintenance. One visitor commented, "Fantastic camp hosts, large pull through spots, pool, mini golf, and more. Very convenient to get too and the check in is very fast."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at campgrounds near Springfield. A review of Springfield KOA states, "Campground is quiet and in a nice wooded area but still only 5-10 minutes from nearby shopping and attractions in Springfield."
Affordability: Primitive Campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers budget-friendly options. "Stayed one night in July. We tent camped in site 1 of the primitive campground. There are 7 sites well spaced with a picnic table, fire ring, trash can and three sided shelter in each site. Just $6 a night," reports a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Springfield area can experience sudden weather changes. One reviewer at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground noted, "Not a 5 star since we had to leave a day early due to weather. Not their fault but sites became a lake and couldn't even step outside."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited winter availability. At the Illinois State Fair Campground, a camper explained, "We came Labor Day weekend to site see Lincoln museum and when we arrived there were motorcycle races going on next to the camp office and shower house and it was packed!"
Site conditions: Gravel sites can become muddy after rain. A Springfield KOA visitor shared, "Nice and quiet campground, we stay there during the Illinois State Fair every August and it is about 20 mins away from the fairgrounds. Only down fall is there needs to be more rock on the sites, the sites get muddy after a rain!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Deer Run Campground offers recreation for children. A visitor mentioned, "Sites were decent. Lack of flushing toilets and bathhouse is why I knocked it down a few. Outhouse was passable but a bathhouse would go a long way to upgrading the facility. Playground was great for kiddos."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer facilities specifically for families. At Primitive Campground, a reviewer said, "I went with a church group. This campground seemed well laid out and was affordable. It also felt like a safe environment for the family."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. A Lincoln's New Salem visitor shared, "Such a great way to show the kids how life was like for pioneers on the homesteads."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Riverside Park provides necessary amenities for RVs. A camper noted, "All RV/camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses. We had electricity and water hookups and a picnic table available."
Level sites: The Illinois State Fair Campground offers options for various RV sizes. According to a visitor, "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."
Site accessibility: The Double J Campground makes arrival easy. One RVer said, "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."
