Granite City sits along the Mississippi River floodplain in southwestern Illinois, just 15 minutes from downtown St. Louis. The area features a mix of industrial zones and natural spaces with elevations ranging from 400-450 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers more comfortable 60-75°F days.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers a 2,400-acre lake popular with anglers. "Nice lake for fishing and boating," notes camper Annie C., who appreciates the park's "lovely location" with "peaceful tent camping on Walkers Island at $8 per day."
Water activities: At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboats to explore the 140-acre lake. "They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots," shares Joseph F., who adds that his "kids had a blast riding bikes."
Hiking trails: Pere Marquette State Park offers multiple hiking trails with river views from the bluffs. "The hiking trails are plentiful and quiet," says Chad K. The park features "great hiking for Illinois" according to Michael M., who adds that "the scenic drive to the park by the Mississippi and Illinois rivers is worth the trip alone."
What campers like
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Horseshoe Lake's low rates. "Great site 8 dollars a day!" exclaims Felion, who had "a great experience" as a first-time camper. Another visitor notes it's a "great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."
Convenient location: St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA provides easy access to metropolitan attractions. "Spent one night on our way through. We had tram tickets for the arch so we needed a shore power hookup for run the AC for our dog," writes Jessica N., who found it to be a "great overnight stop close to St Louis attractions."
Swimming facilities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options during hot Illinois summers. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "all campsites are on the lake," according to Jim S., who describes the park as "very clean and spot on! Open all year. 24/7 security. Close to civilization but inside the river levy so also very peaceful."
What you should know
Train noise: The St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA experiences periodic train disturbances. "It's not in the prettiest location, very industrial and the train tracks run close. First night one came through blowing its horns around 5am," reports Peter H. Another camper notes that "trains pass 2 blocks away several times nightly, but after the first night you won't notice."
Industrial setting: Some campgrounds near Granite City are located in industrial areas. The St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA is "in an industrial area off the beaten path a little," according to Stephanie S., though she found it "nice overall" with good bathrooms and recreational facilities including "pool, playground and bouncepad."
Seasonal closures: Check operating schedules before visiting. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground operates from May 1 to September 30, while the St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA runs from March 25 to November 1. Some facilities like showers and water connections may close during winter months at year-round parks.
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