Best Campgrounds near Grand Tower, IL

Grand Tower, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Grand Tower is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Grand Tower, Illinois (101)

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Recent Reviews near Grand Tower, IL

558 Reviews of 101 Grand Tower Campgrounds



Guide to Grand Tower

Camping near Grand Tower, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Easy walking distance to the observation trail that is the highlight of this park."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Gun Creek. A camper noted, "Bring a fishing pole for amazing lake views!"
  • Horseback Riding: Check out Sam A. Baker State Park Campground for horseback riding opportunities. One review said, "There is plenty to do from hiking to horseback riding."

What campers like

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Jackson Falls, don't have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "No drinking water... be prepared."
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds at popular spots like Sam A. Baker State Park Campground on weekends. One visitor said, "Very busy on Fridays and weekends."
  • Road Conditions: The roads to some campgrounds, such as Jackson Falls, can be rough. A camper mentioned, "The road getting there does vary in surfaces but our van made it fine."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like St. Joe State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "There are two great trails in the park and there was staff on site doing educational programs that my kids really loved."
  • Quiet Campsites: Choose quieter campgrounds like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs for a more relaxing experience. One camper mentioned, "We had the place nearly to ourselves."
  • Bring Snacks: Make sure to pack snacks and drinks, as some campgrounds, like Gun Creek, don't have markets nearby. A visitor noted, "No market... bring your own supplies."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Not all sites are level or spacious. A camper at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground mentioned, "Campground was really tight."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Shawnee Forest Campground. A reviewer said, "The sites are very close together, so there is not much privacy."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Make sure to know where the nearest dump station is, especially at places like St. Joe State Park Campground. A camper noted, "Dump station backs up for up to an hour on Sundays."

Camping near Grand Tower, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there's something for every camper.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Grand Tower, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Grand Tower, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 101 campgrounds and RV parks near Grand Tower, IL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Grand Tower, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Grand Tower, IL is Giant City State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 24 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grand Tower, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Grand Tower, IL.

  • What parks are near Grand Tower, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Grand Tower, IL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.