Best Campgrounds near Greenville, IL
Camping options within 30 miles of Greenville, Illinois center around Carlyle Lake, the largest lake in Illinois, with multiple well-established campgrounds managed by state agencies and the Army Corps of Engineers. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area offers over 300 electric sites and primitive tent camping areas, with some sites directly on the lakeshore. Nearby, the Corps of Engineers operates several highly-rated campgrounds including Dam West, Dam East, and Coles Creek Recreation Area, all featuring lakeside camping with varying levels of hookups. Private campgrounds like Timber Trails in Mulberry Grove and Bonanza Campground in Smithboro provide additional options for RV travelers seeking full hookups within a short drive of Greenville.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October, though Eldon Hazlet remains open year-round. Reservations are essential during summer weekends and holidays, particularly for waterfront sites. Spring flooding occasionally affects access to some areas, as noted by campers at Eldon Hazlet. The region experiences typical Midwestern seasonal variations with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Many campgrounds offer electric hookups but have centralized water access points. As one camper noted, "There is only one fill station to fill your freshwater tanks, so during busier times there can sometimes be a line of people waiting." Cell service is generally adequate throughout the area, with most reviewers reporting 2-3 bars of service.
Shaded sites are highly valued by visitors to the region, with mature trees providing relief from summer heat at many campgrounds. "Most sites have plenty of shade and room in between so you were not right on top of your neighbors," reported one camper at Eldon Hazlet. Fishing opportunities are exceptional, with Carlyle Lake recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and popular for boating. Many campgrounds feature clean shower facilities, playgrounds, and beaches for swimming. The relative proximity to St. Louis (about an hour's drive) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations. Visitors particularly appreciate the spacious sites at Corps of Engineers campgrounds, with one reviewer noting, "The campground has it all: full hookups, reservable sites, walk-up sites, and all sites are large!"
