Cabin camping near Grand Tower, Illinois centers around the Mississippi River bluffs where elevations range from 340 to 580 feet. The region's limestone formations create distinctive terrain features, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F and high humidity. Camping facilities vary widely across state parks and private campgrounds within a 25-mile radius of Grand Tower.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Lake Murphysboro State Park, fishing is available with multiple access points around the 145-acre lake. "I've camped here several times with family and also with Boy Scouts. The regular campground is ok. Regular state park stuff... lots of free fire wood, hiking, fishing and canoeing!" notes a visitor.
Rock climbing opportunities: Giant City State Park offers sport and traditional climbing routes on sandstone formations. "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else," explains a reviewer who visited in winter.
Winter stargazing: Cabin campers visiting during colder months experience excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "Due to the somewhat rural location you could not beat the view of the stars at night," reports one Giant City visitor who stayed during winter months.
Labyrinth games and activities: Camp Manitowa at Cedar Point offers unique recreation options beyond standard camping. "Since this is used as a summer camp, there are a variety of activities around. I saw frisbee golf, a labyrinth maze game, a beach and some canoes (no lifeguard) among other activities spread around."
What campers like
Peaceful lake views: Randolph County State Recreation Area provides cabin sites with scenic views of its 65-acre lake. "Stayed here a week with two toddlers and it was great! Easy walk to the lake with a gorgeous view, 2 different playgrounds walkable distance from campground."
Shaded, well-maintained sites: Perryville RV Resort offers shaded cabin accommodations with careful groundskeeping. "The property itself is beautiful. Spots are intermingled in the trees and it is spectacular in the morning," according to a recent visitor who noted the contrast between the natural setting and proximity to the highway.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently note the upkeep of bathroom and shower facilities. "Giant City has both electric sites for campers and primitive sites for tents. All are shaded and quiet. Showers/bathrooms are really nice and clean," mentions a reviewer who appreciated the comfort during shoulder seasons.
Wildlife encounters: Many cabins offer opportunities for wildlife viewing right from the site. "The nature is beautiful and cute little forest bunnies running around!" reports a Randolph County visitor who stayed a full week with young children.
What you should know
First-come-first-serve policies: Crab Orchard Lake operates with limited advance booking options. "The biggest thing about this campground is first come first serve..and one loop is closed for renovations. Most you can spend here is 14 days, which lots of locals do," warns a regular visitor.
Weekend noise levels: Several campgrounds report different experiences on weekends versus weekdays. "Someone was playing loud music till at least 1130pm when we went to bed. We also witnessed dogs being left outside unattended and barking for 20 minutes straight starting at 735am," notes a Perryville visitor.
Seasonal closures: Facilities and trail access vary significantly by season throughout the region. "We camped with several other families and everyone enjoyed this park," explains a Lake Murphysboro visitor, though some trails close during hunting seasons.
Tight site spacing: Many cabin areas have limited space between units. "The layout is a bit strange as some firepits are next to power source. Some sights are on top of one another," observed a camper at Lake Murphysboro State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When selecting a cabin site at Randolph County State Recreation Area, check distance to playground facilities. "2 different playgrounds walkable distance from campground. The workers were super nice and helpful," notes a family who stayed with toddlers.
Water activities for children: Touch of Nature Education Center offers cabin accommodations with lake access. "Camp Amenities include: lodges, cabins, shelters, parking, fire pits/fireplaces all with wood supplied, amphitheaters, fishing along Little Grassy Lake, trails, swing set," reports a visitor who used the educational center facilities.
Cabin capacity planning: Most cabins accommodate 4-6 people, but configurations vary significantly. "We stayed in rv campground. The spot we chose had a beautiful view! The layout is a bit strange as some firepits are next to power source," notes a Lake Murphysboro visitor who found site selection critical for family comfort.
Evening activity options: Giant City State Park offers structured family programs during peak seasons. "Giant City is a great place to go with your family! The trails are fun and interesting while the lodge is fantastic! Amazing food there! The scenery is beautiful and the lookout tower gives amazing views!" writes an enthusiastic family visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site angles and approaches: Maneuvering challenges exist at several area campgrounds. "Tight spots and harsh back up angles. Only 3 paved spots," warns a Randolph County visitor, noting the difficulty of positioning larger vehicles.
Dump station logistics: Plan dump station usage carefully at state parks. "Make sure you fill up at the dump station before you get to the campground because there's no easy way to turn around if you miss it. It's approximately a mile before the campground on your left," advises a Randolph County camper.
Highway noise considerations: The Landing Point RV Park provides cabin accommodations with convenient highway access but some ambient noise. "Right off a hiway (W) and a bit noisey, but all in all a nice park, especially for a night over. Sites are reasonably spaced, many with large trees."
Water hookup variability: Cabin visitors should verify water access before arrival. "There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp," notes a Giant City visitor, while another camper at Randolph County suggests improvements: "needs water hookups."
