Top Tent Camping near Hillsboro, IL
Searching for a tent camping spot near Hillsboro? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Hillsboro. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Hillsboro campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Hillsboro, IL (9)
1. Spillway (IL)
Shelbyville, Illinois3 Reviews•3 Photos•4 SavesOverview
Spillway is a day use area on the shore of the Kaskaskia River just below the Lake Shelbyville dam.
Situated in the heart of central Illinois, the river, lake and surrounding land offer outdoor activities for people of all ages, including fishing, picnicking and simply relaxing by the water.
Natural Features:
This facility is mostly open with some wooded areas. Oak and hickory are the dominant tree species.
Foliage turns a variety of red, orange, purple and yellow each fall, while prairie flowers dot the landscape in spring and summer.
Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.
Recreation:
Spillway is a fun place to relax along the river. It has plenty of open space and a playground for children.
Lake Shelbyville and the Kaskaskia River also offer a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth and smallmouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. For those without boats, there are also several ponds with farmed fish available around the lake.
Hunting areas located within a short drive offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock.
Facilities:
This facility has a reservable picnic shelter that can accommodate 50 people. Six picnic tables, a playground, volleyball courts, fish cleaning station, flush toilets and spigots for drinking water are provided.
Nearby Attractions:
Wolf Creek State Park, Woods Lake Waterfowl Refuge and Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex are popular locations for wildlife watching, birding and hunting near Lake Shelbyville.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- Tents
- Market
2. Keyesport Rec. Area
Keyesport, Illinois1 Review•6 Photos•3 SavesOverview
Keyesport Recreation Area is situated on the western shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of small towns combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.
Recreation
The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground as well as a swimming beach. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Facilities
Keyesport provides one reservable group picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 75 people. Boaters have the convenience of a marina, boat ramp and fish cleaning station. Families can enjoy a nice swimming beach and playground.
Natural Features
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas. Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (618) 594-2484.
Nearby Attractions
The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$30 / night
3. Waverly Lake City Park
Woodson, Illinois3 Reviews•10 Photos•5 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
4. Countryside Escape
Edwardsville, Illinois2 Reviews•4 Photos•19 SavesPick from a variety of spots from the lakeside, to secluded forest, to open field for pitching your tent on this orchard land! This property is open to dispersed camping wherever you prefer. Equipped with fire pits, pond for viewing water fowl, and bathrooms with showers inside the house. This is a great spot to spend the night on your way to or from St. Louis, Chicago or Indianapolis. Close to St Louis and all the fun there! Great biking in the area, hiking at Pere Marquette State Park, and swimming and water sports at Horseshoe Lake State Park. Firewood can be bought on site, grocery, convenience stores, restaurants, fast food and gas stations easy drive of 10-15 min.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
$15 - $16 / night
5. Hidden Ridge
Be the first to review!Carlinville, Illinois•3 Photos•9 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
6. Kaskaskia River Camp
Be the first to review!Shelbyville, Illinois•1 SaveTent camping. Limited electric and water. Canoe and boat rentals, bait and showers. On river bank.
- Fires
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Showers
- Drinking Water
7. Dam West (Day Use)
Be the first to review!Shelbyville, IllinoisOverview
Dam West Day Use Area offers reservable group picnic shelters on the shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central Illinois.
The lake and surrounding land offer outdoor activities for people of all ages, including fishing, swimming, picnicking and simply relaxing. Boaters have year-round access to the lake, even during high lake elevations.
Natural Features:
This facility is mostly open with a clear view of the lake. About half of the land around the lake is forested, with oak and hickory as the dominant species. Foliage turns a variety of red, orange, purple and yellow each fall, while prairie flowers dot the landscape in spring and summer.
Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.
Recreation:
Boaters have access to a multi-lane boat ramp and courtesy dock, and hikers can explore the shore using a number of trails. The General Dacey Trail begins at Dam West Recreation Area and makes its way through Shelbyvilles Forrest Park.
Lake Shelbyville offers a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. For those without a boat, several managed ponds with farmed fish are available around the lake.
Hunting areas, located a short drive away, offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock.
Facilities:
Dam West Day Use Area has four group picnic shelters; three can accommodate about 50 people each, while one can host up to 100. The shelters each have six picnic tables, and the facility provides volleyball courts, a large public beach with showers and a playground.
Nearby Attractions:
Wolf Creek State Park, Woods Lake Waterfowl Refuge and Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex are popular locations for wildlife watching, birding and hunting near Lake Shelbyville.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
8. Dam East (Day Use)
Be the first to review!Shelbyville, IllinoisOverview
Dam East Day Use Area sits above the shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central Illinois.
The lake and surrounding land offer outdoor activities for people of all ages, including fishing, picnicking and simply relaxing by the water.
Natural Features:
This facility sits above the lake with a steep descent to the shoreline. Oak and hickory trees dominate the landscape.
Foliage turns a variety of red, orange, purple and yellow each fall, while prairie flowers dot the landscape in spring and summer.
Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.
Recreation:
With a playground, volleyball court and horseshoe pit, Dam East Day Use is a fun place for families to relax along the lake.
Within a short drive, Lake Shelbyville offers a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. For those without a boat, several ponds with farmed fish are available around the lake.
Nearby hunting areas offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock.
Facilities:
This facility offers one reservable group picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 50 people. Six picnic tables, a large grill, flush toilets and electric hookups are provided.
Nearby Attractions:
Wolf Creek State Park, Woods Lake Waterfowl Refuge and Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex are popular locations for wildlife watching, birding and hunting near Lake Shelbyville.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
9. Shady Grove Campground — Hidden Springs State Forest
Be the first to review!Mode, IllinoisShady Grove Campground accommodates groups by reservation only. Ground fires are allowed only in the fire rings provided.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
Recent Tent Reviews In Hillsboro
338 Reviews of 9 Hillsboro Campgrounds
Dam East - Mcnair Campground
Location Great for Travel
McNair ACE: Tate 4 for cleanliness and stopover location for travels on nearby highway. (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good
(72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)
Overall Rating: 4 Price 2024: $ 9w interagency pass Security: no Usage during visit: 1/3 Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: no Site Spacing: closer Pad surface: blacktop Reservations: Required Campground Noise: No Outside Road Noise: no Through Traffic in campground: no Electric Hookup: yes Sewer Hookup: no Dump Station: yes Potable Water Available: At site Bathroom: Nice flush Showers: small private Cell Service (AT&T): 2-3 bars Setting: near lake Recent Weather: 80s Insects: no Host: yes Rig Size: large Sites: Outside sites are by far the best. 16,17,18 are favorites .
Dam East Recreation Area
GREAT LOCATION for STOPOVER
East Dam ACE, IL: Not an interesting view from here, but well maintained campground . Quiet.
(Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good(72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)
Overall Rating: 4 for cleanliness and location for travels on nearby highway. Spillway is not particularly pretty. Price 2024: $9 w interagency pass Security: No gate Usage during visit: 60% during the week Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: No Site Spacing: Good Pad surface: Blacktop Reservations: Required. Can be made upon arrival through rec.gov Campground Noise: Quiet Outside Road Noise: No Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: At nearby ACE campground Potable Water Available: At site Bathroom: In adjacent day use area Showers: No. Nearby - check w host. Pull Throughs: Some Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars Setting: along Kaskasia River/ spillway Recent Weather: 80s Insects: no Host: yes Rig Size: large Sites: Some sites are along the spillway.
Waverly Lake City Park
Nice little lake and camp ground
I've stayed here a couple times now. Each time there has only been one other person. It's quiet and peaceful, however there's not much to do. As far as I know there's no running water. There are portable toilets that are kept clean. There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Lakeside Relaxation
These walk in sites check all the boxes. At the western part of the RV loop, is a peninsula of primitive tent camping spots to choose from. About half the sites were filled by the second day we were there. We settled on 62, which is spacious and provides access to the path from the front and behind where you can walk into site 64 as well. A parking area with a single spot for each camp site is well marked and by two vault toilets. Park staff and host were great. A decent fishing spot is just in front of site 64. $8 for IL residents is hard to beat, if you don't need an RV spot with electric. A water source is also by the parking spots. The weekend we were there the weather had cooled some and a great breeze was coming off the lake. Springfield being so close is a bonus.
The only negative is like any spot and how previous people leave the camp looking before you are there. Some garbage in the fire pit and random spots are par for the course in any state park. Pick up the trash and dump it in the dumpster by the parking lot. Leave the site better than you found it is our motto.
Coon Creek (IL)
Unfriendly park attendants
Check in crabby park attendants. Tried to change to another site that was available, I was told they only check people in and out, that was it! I was told to flag down a Ranger for help. My family will never come here again!
Sherwood Forest
Great
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Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground
Nice spot and great value
Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$.
Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground
Great Community camp not too far off the highway
My sister and I stopped here on our way to wisconsin, We were surprised how lovely it was! Birds everywhere and the lake was so huge. The camp sites were big and many of them, the bathrooms were always clean and had AC!
Timber Trails Campground
Wonderful layover and family friendly
Timber Trails Campground is a easy layover off of I-70, offering a family-friendly environment. The park provided us an easy in and out, pull-through site that was level and convenient. The campground had a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and recreation. Our experience was hassle-free and enjoyable.
Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground
A beautiful little spot !
First off, a bang for you buck compared to some surrounding camp sites. They have PLENTY of sites, most with some view of the water. They have a boat launch, bathrooms, and showers. We stayed here 3 nights. The shores are quite rocky so it can be difficult to access the water just to swim. Overall, it was great. My only complaint is there is only one trash located in the beginning on the park & it was full, full, full!!!
Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
Beautiful secluded location
We stayed for 1 night, had a spot in the back with a perfect view of the lake. Lots of room for dogs.
Okaw Valley Kampground
Nice clean and convenient
Family owned with a nice little fishing area (no license required catch and release) paddle boats and camp store. A nice pool with a big covered pavilion, clean restrooms and showers with hot water. We had a level pull thru gravel site with a picnic table and small fire ring and didn’t have to unhook for our overnight. Walking/hiking wooded trails 2 cabins available- several seasonal folks. We were there on a Sunday evening and didn’t really see anyone. Little bit of road noise but so convenient! Thanks Barb!
Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
Wonderful surprise
Arrived just after a terrible storm so parts of the park were closed for clean up. The parts that were open were all cleaned up, spacious sites, easy access, with fantastic hosts. An absolutely beautiful evening in gorgeous surroundings…we’ll be back and so glad we stumbled upon this place. Didn’t use the showers so can’t report on the facilities….
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
Great
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Hillbillie Ranch
Hillbillie Ranch is not there anymore
They are no longer a campground. Bought out now private property.
Spillway (IL)
Great
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Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Beautiful views
Came here in winter and it’s really beautiful. Lots of amenities and big spots, will come again
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
Clean park, cheap prices. Would definitely come back
The park is reasonable priced, beautiful surrounding and friendly staff. Would definitely come again. The only downside is that it’s somewhat far from supply stores
Eagle Creek State Park Campground
Wonderful Experience :)
The views were incredible and it wasn’t too busy.
Kamper Kompanion RV Park
Kamper Companion Family Favy
We really enjoyed Kamper Companion! We stay there every time we pass through Litchfield. Quiet, family friendly, and great for our dogs. We love the dog yard!
Illinois State Fair Campground
Large campground, good location, good value
On the state fairgrounds just off gate 10 or 11. Very large number of spaces…older bathrooms/ showers but very clean. All spaces seem to have electricity and water.
Illinois State Fair Campground
Clean, beautiful urban camp
We always leave late on the first day of a trip and get stressed. This was an easy 3/4 day trip from our house and a great place to relax. Great thick grass carpet spots if you want.Great level paved pads if you want.Friendly checking , friendly security driving around all night. Lots of showers, mine was good and hot. Some traffic noise All kinds of open spots if it isn’t fair week. Don’t just show up fair week.
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Beautiful, affordable and friendly
The camp host was super friendly, the sites were large and the primitive sites at the back were incredibly beautiful! The prices were very low.
St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA
No pets allowed in camping area
Wild pads are allowed in the RV area. They are not allowed in the camping area.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Hickory Point Heaven
There's really no way to describe this campground except for: Accommodating. Beautiful. Clean. Convenient. Peaceful. Relaxing. We have spent many weekends here and have never had a bad experience. Tony and Danielle and the rest of the entire campground host staff and crew do absolutely everything to make sure you have a great stay!!! We appreciate them and this wonderful campground. Our favorite sites are 13, 18, 23. Please visit and enjoy!
Carlyle lake
Illini campground 7/23
Awesome campground, fill hoses available for your rig, 30 amp power. Fun little trails, boat rentals and a swimming “beach” . On-site store and nicely groomed campgrounds.
MGM Campground
MGM lakeside
Great place , but difficult to make reservation.
Guide to Hillsboro
Camping near Hillsboro, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone.
What to do
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Coon Creek (IL), have great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, "The beach for swimming was the kids' favorite part," highlighting the fun for families.
- Hiking: Trails abound in places like Pere Marquette State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "They have wonderful campgrounds and really great trails," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
- Swimming: Campgrounds such as Okaw Valley Kampground feature pools and nearby lakes. One review stated, "A nice pool with a big covered pavilion," which is great for cooling off on hot days.
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Coon Creek (IL) said, "The bathrooms are smoke-free and clean," which is a big plus for many.
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are spacious and the campground is quiet," making it ideal for relaxation.
- Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. One review from Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area noted, "Wonderful hosts checked us in," which adds a personal touch to the experience.
What you should know
- Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Sangchris Lake State Park Campground, are only open from April to January. Make sure to check the dates before planning your trip.
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. For instance, Coon Creek (IL) lacks showers, so be prepared for that if you choose to stay there.
- Bug Spray Recommended: Some campers have noted that certain areas can be buggy. A visitor at Coles Creek Recreation Area mentioned, "Only reason it's 4 stars and not 5 is because it is decently buggy," so pack your insect repellent.
Tips for camping with families
- Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. Okaw Valley Kampground has a "very nice updated playground," which keeps the little ones entertained.
- Family Activities: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. One family at Double J Campground and RV Park enjoyed, "Three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball, and a pool during summer months."
- Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds allow pets, making it easier to bring the whole family. A camper at Coon Creek (IL) appreciated that "pets are allowed," ensuring no one gets left behind.
Tips from RVers
- Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. Campers at Casino Queen RV Park noted, "Asphalt level pads with FHU," which makes for a comfortable stay.
- Easy Check-In: Many RV parks offer straightforward check-in processes. A visitor at Cahokia RV Parque mentioned, "The night check-in board was easy to find," making it hassle-free.
- Proximity to Attractions: Choose campgrounds close to local attractions. One camper at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park enjoyed being "just a 20min walk to the Gateway Arch," making it easy to explore the area.
Camping near Hillsboro, Illinois, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hillsboro, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hillsboro, IL is Spillway (IL) with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Hillsboro, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Hillsboro, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.