Cabin accommodations near Godfrey, Illinois range from rustic to modern with varying levels of amenities and privacy. Located in the Mississippi River valley at approximately 600 feet elevation, the area experiences humid summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for camping. Seasonal closures affect some locations, with several campgrounds operating only from April through October.
What to do
Water recreation access: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers paddleboat and kayak rentals with a 3-mile paved trail surrounding the lake. "This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," notes one visitor who appreciates watching sunsets on the water.
Fishing opportunities: McCully Heritage Project provides well-stocked ponds with accessible fishing areas. A frequent visitor mentioned, "A friend discovered this gem a while back and we now frequent it. 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."
Hiking trails: Cuivre River State Park features extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels through wooded areas. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," according to a reviewer who recommends checking out the trail around the lake.
Biking on the Katy Trail: Klondike Park provides direct access to the Katy Trail for cyclists. "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," shares a cyclist who frequently uses the park.
What campers like
Proximity to St. Louis attractions: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers access to city amenities while maintaining a park atmosphere. "Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! Five minutes from food and stores. 30 minutes from downtown Saint Louis," reports a camper who found this location ideal for exploring the city.
Natural setting with wildlife viewing: Beaver Dam State Park provides opportunities to observe local wildlife in a natural setting. According to one reviewer, "Quiet midweek in tent camping area except for heavy equipment in field nearby. Large campground with open space and playground for kids. Short walk to beautiful lake."
Family activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive family-oriented activities on-site. "We stayed here last minute for Labor Day Weekend and the staff were great with finding us a good tent site available. 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," shares a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
Clean facilities: Cahokia RV Parque maintains well-kept bath houses and common areas. "We had a great experience in the 4 nights we spent here. The grounds, pool, laundry, and bathrooms were all in excellent repair and clean. The park was quiet, but very family friendly," notes a reviewer who was particularly impressed with the maintenance standards.
What you should know
Site sizes and spacing: Sites at Country Bend Campground vary greatly in size and levelness. A reviewer warns, "The sites are sunk down, poorly rocked and extremely narrow. The majority of sites are backup only, which is a recipe for disaster with all of the rain central Illinois has had this Spring. Be prepared for mud and standing water. 4wd a must."
Weather considerations: Heavy rain can affect accessibility at multiple campgrounds in the area. During flooding seasons (typically spring), some facilities close temporarily. At St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA, a camper noted, "We stayed in a tent spot... Had shade and a nice concrete pad to park on. Good clean power. Clean bathrooms and pool looked like it was taken care of."
Local supplies: Limited shopping options exist near most camping areas. "There really is nothing around the RV park" regarding grocery options at many locations, requiring advance planning. At Cahokia RV Parque, a visitor advises, "I was planning on grabbing a gallon of milk when we got there...if you need groceries or anything, stop and get them before you get close. Stop in the town before."
Reservation requirements: St. Charles County Klondike Park requires advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "The campground is located in a gym of a park located along the Missouri River. Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand. Tent camping only," explains a reviewer who used the park as a base for exploring Missouri Wine Country.
Tips for camping with families
Kids' activities: Country Bend Campground offers multiple recreation options for children. "This is a really great campground! Huge campground with a lot of different areas. Holiday weekends have so many planned activities, some for all ages. We really loved the bridges with trails to ponds, and the jumping pillow," reports a parent who appreciated the variety of options.
Safety considerations: Look for campgrounds with staff presence and well-lit common areas. A visitor to St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park appreciated that "the staff are kind and helpful" and that "trash and recycling receptacles are huge and convenient," making for a cleaner environment.
Cabin amenities for families: Rustic Acres Jellystone provides family-friendly cabin options. A visitor described their experience: "The campsites are small and a bit pricey, but it is a great family friendly place. Good pizza and amazing ice cream at the store! Kid fun and themed activities, bounce trampoline pillow, pool, etc. Friendly staff and good security."
Wildlife awareness: Most area campgrounds have active wildlife, including raccoons. A Klondike Park visitor warns, "Make sure to store your food securely overnight - the racoons are pretty thick and hungry at night," suggesting visitors use proper food storage containers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds require effort to level RVs. At Cahokia RV Parque, a reviewer noted, "The spaces are tighter, but that was expected being closer to a city. There is a playground, pool and pond area to walk around. We were pleased with the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers and had no major complaints."
Hookup locations: Water and electric connections may be inconveniently placed at some sites. Check with staff about hookup placements when booking. A visitor mentioned that at one campground, "our water hook up and electric hookup was significantly far apart," suggesting campers bring extension hoses or cords.
Entrance accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads or entrance points. St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA received this observation: "A little sketchy getting off east bound ramp then having to cross three lanes of traffic to make a left hand turn at the first light. Entrance to campground is tight, swing wide."
