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 (103)

    1. Turkey Bayou Campground

    12 Reviews
    Gorham, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 687-1731

    "We took a chance camping here since we hang hammocks but we found a site that had some trees nearby. We were pleasantly surprised to see a port-a-pottie at the campground."

    "Stayed during the eclipse so crowds were intense but the hosts lets us camp where we could find room, the site was clean and the pond was beautiful (as always bring the bug spray when camping near the"

    2. Trail of Tears State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    McClure, MO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 290-5268

    "PRO 

    Senior discount saving $6 

    Able to reserve on-line 365 days prior to arriving 

    Very friendly and helpful camp host 

    Unobstructed view of the Mississippi River 

    Great dark sky viewing 

    No highway"

    "As close to camping next to the Mississippi river as you can get"

    3. Giant City State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Makanda, IL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 457-4836

    "There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp. There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here."

    "Each site has electricity and access to water. Some have more.

    All the hiking in the park is some of the best in Illinois. The visitors center has a lot of great information."

    4. Pine Hills

    4 Reviews
    Alto Pass, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 253-7114

    $10 / night

    5. Wine Trail Wilderness

    2 Reviews
    Pomona, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 263-9625

    $20 - $50 / night

    "Surrounded by wineries, hiking places, historic sites, close to town for dining out, visiting for special events. Whatever you may schedule."

    6. Lake Murphysboro State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Murphysboro, IL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 684-2867

    "We had pit toilets, but had to drive elsewhere for showers. I would come back again."

    7. Devils Backbone Park

    2 Reviews
    Grand Tower, IL
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (618) 684-6192

    "There are 21 miles of trails throughout the park and a large lake. The attractions are all relatively close to the road (cave, "hidden" spring, and trout streams)."

    8. Johnson Creek

    5 Reviews
    Ava, IL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 253-7114

    "single, double, and triple camping spots set up on three loops in this small campground nestled in the corner of shawnee national forest. there's a central bath house located near check in. only amenities"

    "The site was fairly secluded, and right on Kincade lake."

    9. Little Grassy Lake Campground

    7 Reviews
    Makanda, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 457-6655

    $15 - $35 / night

    " We've been wanting to explore southern Illinois for a long time, but it's a six hour (min)  drive from our home."

    "The lake is quiet and clean. A nice hidden gem located a short drive from beautiful hiking trails. We will definitely be back."

    10. Apple Creek Conservation Area

    1 Review
    Altenburg, MO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 290-5730
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Showing results 1-10 of 103 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Grand Tower, IL

563 Reviews of 103 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 103 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 Turkey Bayou Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 12 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.