Camping options near Fairview Heights, Illinois include both primitive sites and full-service facilities with varying rates. The area sits at approximately 530 feet elevation with a humid continental climate that features hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures reach the high 80s while spring and fall offer more moderate camping conditions between 60-75°F.
What to do
Explore the Katy Trail: At Sundermeier RV Park, campers have direct access to this popular recreation path. "You can literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles. Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River," notes Cheryl K.
Paddle on the lake: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers water recreation opportunities with boat rentals. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish," according to Mats.
Visit downtown St. Louis: Many campgrounds provide convenient access to city attractions. "We stayed in a tent spot... Clean bathrooms and pool looked like it was taken care of. Spent the day in Forest park, a much prettier place to park and explore," writes Peter H. about St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA.
What campers like
Budget-friendly primitive camping: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers affordable sites. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," shares Helge Vandel J. Another camper, Travis, notes, "Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast. Camping can be reserved but no need. Just pick your spot go to the office building, and fill out the form, pay and slide in envelope and drop in box."
Spacious sites: Many campsites provide ample room for setup. "The spaces are a bit close together and not many trees but I've been to worse. The not many trees is do to it still being a fairly new campground. The lake is nice and they have some spots close to it," writes Barbie B. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
On-site food options: Cahokia RV Parque features a restaurant that receives positive reviews. "Our favorite part of this park is the onsite Sawmill BBQ restaurant. While we prepare most of our meals, we were so tired; we decided to give the joint a try and, wow, are we glad we did! Delicious food for a reasonable price!" explains Jenni W.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railway activity. At Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, "There are trains every 15-30 minutes all day long. Casino has a metro stop that takes you into St Louis over the river," according to Josh F.
Weather considerations: The area can experience significant rainfall and flooding. "While we were there they had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues so it was flooding pretty bad but also our RV was right next to a creek that had risen really high," reports Charlie & Danielle B. about Covered Bridge RV Park.
Limited shade: Many newer campgrounds lack mature trees. "You are on the entire opposite side of the base, away from everything, absolutely everything. You are only kinda close to the golf course which being Illinois the golf course and golf course cafe run seasonally by days and various hours depending on what month of the year," notes MGySgt K. about Scott AFB FamCamp.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park. Minimal playground but they still enjoyed it," shares Sarah S. about St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA.
Nature exploration opportunities: Wildlife viewing can engage children. "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru, I really hope to be back here some day!" mentions Kent B. about Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground.
Rental activities: Family-friendly equipment rentals provide entertainment options. "We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving then they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!" comments Barbie B.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Pay attention to hookup placement when setting up. "Utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper," warns Josh F. about camping at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Leveling requirements: Not all sites are perfectly level. "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun," advises MGySgt K. about Scott AFB FamCamp.
Gate access considerations: Some pet-friendly camping sites near Fairview Heights require advance registration. "You need a code to get in the gate, so you must register in advance. It was hot in late July and with no trees on the larger sites, it seemed hotter. But the full hookups worked great with no issues," reports Richard H.
