Best Campgrounds near Edwardsville, IL

Camping near Edwardsville, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Cuivre River State Park Campground. Campers rave about the “beautiful prairie view and lots of great trails” that make for a perfect hiking adventure.
• Fishing: Head to Coles Creek Recreation Area for some fishing fun. One visitor mentioned, “The lake is a prime fishing and boating lake,” making it a great spot for anglers.
• Sightseeing: Visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, just a short drive from St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA. A reviewer noted, “Great location for the arch or downtown visit,” highlighting the convenience of this campground.

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground. One review stated, “The sites themselves are very clean and well kept,” which is a big plus for many.
• Spacious Sites: At Washington State Park Campground, visitors enjoy the “lots of room between sites,” making it feel less crowded and more private.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Families love the amenities at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. One camper mentioned, “The playground was good for the kiddos,” making it a hit for families with children.

What you should know

• Reservations: It’s wise to make reservations ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Cuivre River State Park Campground noted, “I am bad at making reservations, but we got lucky with the last spot in the RV section.”
• Ticks: Be cautious of ticks, especially at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground. One visitor had a rough experience, stating, “I have never experienced a tick infestation like I did at this park.”
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Casino Queen RV Park, may have limited amenities. A camper mentioned, “No staff on site, book via camplife,” so be prepared for a more self-service experience.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, where there are “lots of things to rent - bikes, paddle boats, etc., for daytime activities.”
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Washington State Park Campground enjoyed “great hiking trails” and “a swimming pool if the river isn’t your thing.”
• Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Cuivre River State Park Campground mentioned, “Be aware some bathrooms might be locked up,” so having snacks can help keep everyone happy while you explore.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A reviewer at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA noted, “The site was not level front to back,” which can be a hassle for RVers.
• Bring Extra Supplies: Always have extra supplies on hand. One camper at Casino Queen RV Park mentioned, “Pay attention to email for check-in process and gate code,” indicating that being prepared can save you time.
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of the location. A visitor at Coles Creek Recreation Area said, “Great place for fishing and boating,” so make sure to explore the local area while you’re there.

Camping near Edwardsville, Illinois, has a lot to offer, from beautiful parks to family-friendly activities. Whether you’re in an RV or tent camping, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!