Tent camping near Edwardsville, Illinois requires driving approximately 30-45 minutes to reach suitable campgrounds, as the immediate area lacks dedicated tent camping facilities. Most options are across the Mississippi River in Missouri, where campers can find both primitive sites and more developed campgrounds. The region features a mix of forested terrain and river access points with elevations ranging from 400-600 feet above sea level.
What to do
Hiking local trail systems: At McCully Heritage Project in Kampsville, campers can explore well-maintained hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "There's a house to rent or primitive camping trails have a map but need a little more marking on newer sections. Very well maintained. Neat look out points," notes Alicia B. The trail system includes several overlooks of the Illinois River valley.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access, particularly at St. Charles County Klondike Park where "We easily fit a dozen people over the 4th of July. Nice hiking trails near. Watch for ticks. Don't be alarmed if you see cats or the neighbors dogs roaming around the site. They are friendly," according to Eric. The park features a small lake stocked with fish and Missouri River access.
Mountain biking: Klondike Park offers technical mountain biking sections within the park boundaries. "I have bike-packed along the Katy and this is an excellent spot for an overnight(s) stay. It is a tough, but short, climb from the trail. You may have to walk up the hill - challenge made," says Mike L. The park connects directly to the 240-mile Katy Trail, allowing for extended rides.
What campers like
Affordability: The McCully Heritage Project charges minimal fees while providing basic amenities. "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood. We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks," mentions Eric in his review. The $10 per night fee helps maintain the natural area.
Variety of terrain: Babler State Park offers diverse camping environments within one location. "What we liked about this campground was the comfortable feel of being at a state park with plenty of trees, hiking trails, space between sites, but also the convenience of having a level, paved site with electricity and television/phone reception," reports Nancy W. The campground features both open, sunny sites and more secluded wooded areas.
Privacy options: Experienced campers recommend specific sites for more seclusion. "I camped as part of the Big MO Ride and Row event. It was my first visit to the park. Campsites are walk in, but a short walk. Some are more private and shaded than others. Our site, 35, like its neighbor sites was small and pretty close to others. Other sites like #19 and 20 were more secluded, offered more trees and privacy," says Shawn M. about Klondike Park.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta experiences significant seasonal fluctuations in occupancy. "This was our first camp in our new to us travel trailer. Not many trees. Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue. This is the site of the American Trap Shooters Association 'Grand' Event. During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full," explains Chip. The complex becomes nearly empty during off-season weekends.
Wildlife presence: Local campgrounds have active wildlife populations, particularly after dark. "Make sure to store your food securely overnight - the racoons are pretty thick and hungry at night," warns Mike L. about Klondike Park. Similar issues affect most campgrounds in the region.
Overnight parking limitations: While dispersed camping is limited, some locations permit overnight parking. "This is a paved lot past the ballfields. Pull in at the sign and follow the road. The lot is beside private property so I called the police to verify parking is still allowed and they said no problem. No tent camping allowed," notes Barbara P. about Rainey Park (now Wright Park) in Carrollton.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For family camping with children, accessibility matters. "Best campsite ever! Even has a shared camp kitchen very clean showers house very spacious some campsites are close together but everyone seemed nice. Bring your own wood. My kids loved exploring out there," writes Jonathan P. about St. Charles County Klondike Park.
Consider trail difficulty: When hiking with children, select appropriate trails. "The park has a lot to offer. The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids or folks that are not used to hiking," advises Scott M. about Babler State Park. Most area parks offer trails ranging from easy 0.5-mile loops to more challenging 3-4 mile routes.
Look for playground access: Some campgrounds provide additional recreation facilities. "I just love the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," mentions Leo S. about the McCully Heritage Project. Most family-friendly campgrounds in the region maintain basic playground equipment.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Tent campers should note that many sites are designed primarily for RVs. "Nice state park close to St Louis. Good, if short, trails. The campground is used a lot by RV and campers, not so much by tenters. Lots of campsites had electric. All had the standard pininic tables and fire rings, and the campground has a decent and clean shower house. You might end up pitching your tent on a parking pad as many tent sites don't have level grassy spots for your tent," explains Annie C. about Babler State Park.
Verify facility availability: Check which amenities remain open during your visit. "Maybe we are spoiled by Arkansas State Parks and the standard amenities they have. Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip," notes Archie S. about Babler State Park. Off-season camping often means reduced facilities.
Consider signage limitations: First-time visitors should prepare for navigation challenges. "The signage is not great and the visitor center was closed (presumably due to COVID concerns) so there was no one to ask directions. We ended up dragging our camper through the whole park before we found the road to the campgrounds," shares Archie S. about Babler State Park. Download park maps before arrival when possible.
