The camping sites near Havana, Illinois sit within Mason County's unique sandy soil ecosystem, where prairie meets river and creates a distinct environment for outdoor recreation. Approximately 160 feet above sea level, this area along the Illinois River features fluctuating water levels that influence camping conditions throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F while summers regularly climb above 85°F with high humidity.
What to do
Hiking through sand prairies: Sand Ridge State Forest offers unusual terrain for Illinois with trails that traverse sandy soil and pine forests. One visitor noted, "The trail is a mix of sand and soil. It's quite an unexpected discovery in Illinois. We didn't see anyone else on the trail but we saw cars parked so hikers were out there."
Kayaking on Anderson Lake: Anderson Lake State Conservation Area provides excellent water access with "good location for fishing and kayaking also." The shallow backwaters and coves create protected paddling areas even when river conditions aren't ideal.
Winter camping experiences: For off-season visitors, Pine Campground offers year-round access. "We spent Christmas 2020 here! We camped in spot B4. One of the park staff stopped by. He was super nice, and offered some great info for future visits. Toilets were open, and he did mention we could still use the water spigot!"
Bird watching opportunities: The Illinois River serves as a major migratory flyway. "My wife loves birds, and if it weren't for all of the geese on the lake we wouldn't have enjoyed our stay here." The wetlands and backwater lakes attract numerous waterfowl species during spring and fall migrations.
What campers like
Pine forest camping environment: The unusual pine forest setting at Sand Ridge creates a distinctive camping experience. "This is a nice size campground that feels larger because so few are camping here this weekend. Our site is up against the woods giving us a sense of being on our own."
Affordable primitive options: For budget-conscious campers, the area offers several low-cost alternatives. "Just $6 a night. Hiking trails, kayaking and fishing are available but we didn't get a chance to take advantage of those things. Very friendly and helpful campground host drove over from the RV campground to register us."
Small-town accessibility: Riverfront Park Campground provides urban convenience with natural settings. "Havana has a few good bars to check out all walking distance from the campground. $30 a night and it does book up so be sure book in advance. Also there is a short trail to hike close by as well."
Clean facilities: Despite rural locations, many campgrounds maintain good standards. "Anderson Lake has clean facilities, nice area right on Illinois River" and another camper noted "Simple yet beautiful & peaceful. We have been here 3 Xs over the past years as a stop over while traveling. They only have vault toilets, but clean."
What you should know
Limited shade in some areas: Several campgrounds lack mature trees. "Being newer has small trees with little shade. Also has been very windy on the few occasions we have stayed with an open field at entrance."
Water quality varies: Bring filtration equipment for camping in this region. "The water here is very good and drinkable right out of the pump with no mineral flavor or discoloration" at Pine Campground, but this varies by location.
Reservation requirements differ: Evening Star Camping Resort requires advance booking, while primitive areas often don't. "The staff isn't always there, so you could end up with a free place to stay (especially if you come late)."
Seasonal flooding impacts: The Illinois River and backwater lakes experience regular flooding cycles. "This time no water due to water break issue. Just a nice place on a beautiful lake."
Bug protection essential: Insect populations can be significant, especially near water. "The bugs (of all kinds including ticks and mosquitoes) are pretty terrible and I would recommend going either in the early spring or late fall. Not June."
Tips for camping with families
Planned activities: Prairie Lake Campground offers structured entertainment. "Lots of families with kids riding bikes around the loop and some playing wiffle ball in the open field. Each spot had a picnic table and fire ring."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds provide secure environments for children. "I went with a church group. This campground seemed well laid out and was affordable. It also felt like a safe environment for the family."
Seasonal event weekends: Many campgrounds host special family-friendly events. "Love to swim in the pool, play in the bags tournaments, enjoy the fundraiser in July for St. Jude Children's Hospital, mini golf, basketball and theme weekends. My favorite is the chili cook off and Halloween weekends are a blast!!"
Trail difficulty warnings: Some hiking paths may challenge younger children. "If this is a concern, I recommend asking around to find the best trail for you."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most conservation areas offer electric only. "Nice campground and relatively inexpensive. Hasn't been around that long so few trees in the campground proper. We go there in the spring to de-winterize."
Water access points: Filling tanks requires planning. "No water or electric hook ups so bring your generator. There are water pumps to fill up your water tanks, but you will need a funnel to get the water in your hose since there is no threaded tip on the pump."
Late arrival procedures: Horseman's Park and other rural sites have minimal staffing. "One odd point is that we couldn't find a way to pay. During office hours, you pay at the ranger's place just down the road. We arrived late but he came around the next morning to check in everyone."
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies across campsites. "Most sites are level some have a mild incline in the drive but would still be able to level out a camper with some blocks."
