Cabin camping near Fults, Illinois offers options within 40 miles of this Mississippi River community. The area sits at approximately 400 feet elevation and experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, making late spring and early fall the most comfortable seasons for cabin stays. Most cabin sites are located within state parks and recreation areas where water activities and hiking trails provide the primary attractions.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Randolph County State Recreation Area features a 65-acre lake for fishing. According to one visitor, "This campground is located on a small lake in Southern Illinois and managed by the department of natural resources. Good place for Camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking and boating."
Explore prehistoric petroglyphs: Washington State Park Campground offers unique cultural attractions. As one camper noted, "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! We camped in mid-March 2021 for 7 days and thoroughly enjoyed the area. The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see."
Canoe and kayak rentals: Several parks offer water recreation opportunities. One visitor to Washington State Park shared, "My husband and i kayaked here and it was amazing! probably the best short trip you could take on a kayak. It started pouring halfway thru our ride, but even still we had a blast!"
Hiking trails for all abilities: Meramec State Park Campground provides multiple trail options. A camper mentioned, "Nice hiking trails, all easy/moderate. Rent canoes (not sure about kayaks) on site."
What campers like
Shaded cabin sites: Many visitors appreciate the tree cover at area campgrounds. At Perryville RV Resort, one reviewer commented, "Nice large shaded sites. Friendly and helpful staff." Another added, "Very well kept and clean campground. Great big trees, very shaded, great store."
Cave tours: Unique geological features attract visitors to several parks. A camper at Meramec State Park noted, "Absolutely beautiful area and the park rangers did a great job describing its history and landscape. Highly recommend taking a cave tour of Fisher Cave! So neat!"
Swimming options: Multiple recreation areas provide swimming facilities. At St. Joe State Park Campground, a visitor shared, "Two clean and well kept swimming areas, great trails, good camp sites, and great bathrooms/showers!"
Proximity to St. Louis: Locations within an hour of the city make weekend cabin stays convenient. One camper at Washington State Park observed, "This is a nice campground if you're looking for an easy place to get to from St Louis. The campsites are nice and shaded."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites require advance planning. A camper at Washington State Park reported, "The campground hosts were especially helpful and friendly," suggesting staff can assist with arrangements.
Seasonal availability: Several parks have limited cabin operations in winter months. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort, which operates seasonally, a visitor noted, "We stayed here last minute for Labor Day Weekend and the staff were great with finding us a good tent site available."
Primitive vs. modern options: Amenities vary widely between locations. At Cahokia RV Parque, which offers more modern facilities, a camper shared, "Beautiful coded bathrooms with showers. They were heated and warm and very well marked."
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty at more remote parks. One visitor to Meramec State Park mentioned, "The cell phone service is virtually non-existent. We had planned to work from here and had to cut our visit short."
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity-focused campgrounds: Family-oriented facilities offer structured recreation. A visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park explained, "This is not a rugged style campground as there are many amenities such as a pool, putt putt golf, volleyball, and more. They also host daily kids activities and crafts."
Check for playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. At Perryville RV Resort, a camper noted, "Playground was fun and safe. Lake for fishing. We would definitely go back."
Consider cabin proximity to bathhouses: This can be important for families with young children. A visitor to St. Joe State Park advised, "I've camped at both campgrounds offered at St. Joe. CG#1, the spot has a nice gravel tent pad with border, picnic table, and a fire pit. The spot also offered a concrete section for a camper and cars. A great spot with a minute walk to a very well kept shower house and bathroom."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some parks have uneven terrain. A camper at Cherokee Landing mentioned, "This campground is ok. Not the nicest for the price you pay. What it has going for it is it's location. The electrical connection was a bit iffy. The sites tended to pool water but it was raining when we arrived."
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds are near major roads. At Perryville RV Resort, one visitor observed, "The bad parts of this place was the fact that rules didn't seem to apply. Someone was playing loud music till at least 1130pm when we went to bed. The highway is also extremely close and can be heard at all times."
Full hookup availability: Options vary by location. A reviewer at Cahokia RV Parque noted, "Level gravel sites with FHU near downtown St. Louis. Sites are close together, with some shade," indicating the trade-off between amenities and space.
