Best Campgrounds near Oakland, IL

Campgrounds surrounding Oakland, Illinois provide a mix of developed and primitive sites for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Walnut Point State Park Campground, located just outside Oakland, offers both RV and tent camping with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Fox Ridge State Park Campground, situated near Charleston approximately 15 miles south of Oakland, provides additional options including cabin rentals and glamping opportunities. The Oakland region features multiple state parks and private campgrounds supporting diverse accommodation types from basic tent sites to full-service RV facilities with water and electric connections.

Seasonal considerations affect campground availability in the Oakland area, with some facilities operating year-round while others maintain limited seasons. Walnut Point State Park and Fox Ridge State Park remain open throughout the year, while private options like Hebron Hills Camping typically operate from May to October. Most developed campgrounds offer reservable sites, though some maintain first-come, first-served areas, particularly for tent camping. Amenities vary significantly between locations, with state parks generally providing shower facilities, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations for RVs. As one visitor noted, "Walnut Point State Park is a hidden gem in East Central Illinois with walk-in tent sites in a shady woody area and lake views."

The camping experience near Oakland features notable water access and recreational opportunities. Many campers highlight fishing as a primary attraction at Walnut Point State Park, where the lake is well-stocked and maintained. Hiking trails represent another significant draw, with Fox Ridge State Park receiving particular praise for its extensive trail system through forested hills that contrast with the surrounding flat farmland. Campers consistently mention the quiet, family-friendly atmosphere at area campgrounds. Several visitors appreciate the spacious, shaded campsites that provide privacy between neighboring units. The concession facilities at Walnut Point earn specific mention, with visitors noting the availability of kayak rentals, bait sales, and occasional special events including dinner specials and live music during summer months.

Best Camping Sites Near Oakland, Illinois (73)

    1. Walnut Point State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Oakland, IL
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 346-3336

    "A great lake for fishing and kayaking. A hidden gem in central Illinois with a great little family owned restaurant. The staff and camp host are super friendly and helpful!"

    "Walking trails all around the campground, all sites close to or on the lake. Little restaurant, ice cream, and kayak rental place on site through October 17. Good fishing spot. Several playgrouds."

    2. Fox Ridge State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Charleston, IL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 345-6416

    $20 / night

    "Close to Eastern Illinois University and lake Charleston which has trails."

    "The park and trails are usually busy since the park is near the Eastern Illinois University. The no-drinking campground prevents many noisy student campouts."

    4. Casey KOA

    7 Reviews
    Charleston, IL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 932-5319

    "This is a KOA Journey, it is right off the interstate in a nice little town in East Central Illinois. It has full hookup, and electric and water sites."

    5. Turkey Run State Park Campground

    70 Reviews
    Marshall, IN
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 597-2635

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Short drive from Chicago (3 hours?) and you are in lush forest. You have to pick the right campsite or you will have no cover and big campers on either side of you."

    "But close to a good size hill. Not a grass spot. No water hookup. But would recommend. Little store has lots to offer. Gas station and good near by. Fantastic walking trails within a mile or 2 also."

    6. Hebron Hills Camping

    Be the first to review!
    Oakland, IL
    1 mile
    +1 (217) 346-3385

    7. Mill Creek Park

    1 Review
    Marshall, IL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 889-3901

    "Incredible people who will gladly be your new best friend, super clean, Great Lake to be on, tons of trails to hike."

    8. Kickapoo State Recreation Area

    29 Reviews
    Oakwood, IL
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 442-4915

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Stayed here on Dec. 10, 2021 (yes the night of all the tornadoes throughout the Illinois/Kentucky/Tennessee area), I and everyone else at the campsite got pretty lucky, we were just outside the path of"

    "Great little campground in Central Illinois. Some pretty trails overlooking, beside, and sometimes through water."

    10. Bella Vita Private Resort

    Be the first to review!
    Charleston, IL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (224) 385-2860

    $25 - $65 / night

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Recent Reviews near Oakland, IL

404 Reviews of 73 Oakland Campgrounds


  • Jill C.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Friends Creek Campground

    Secluded and Cozy

    We stayed here during our travels from Kansas to Indiana. While we only stayed one night, it was long enough to know that should we travel nearby again-this will be our stopping point. Easy to access from the highway yet while in the park, we experienced pure bliss and quiet. Spacious sites and an abundant amount of shade made this stay even better! The camp hosts do an excellent job as the grounds and bathhouse were all immaculate! These are electric only sites however there are several water spigots to fill the tank prior to parking. For ease, there are even potable water spigots at the dump station and the bathhouse as well. Our site was fairly level and easy to maneuver into. For reference, we have a 34’ fifth wheel. When reserving, note that there are a handful of 50 amp sites, several 30 amp sites and tent sites available.

  • L
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Friends Creek Campground

    Great campground

    Very nice small campground with well spaced sites. The bathrooms were very clean. The Macon County website is a bit wonky to navigate. The camp host is a jewel. Be aware that there are 50 amp sites and 30 amp sites. The 50 amp sites are more expensive. Would definitely return.

  • Joshua R.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park

    Its ok

    Camp sites had some trash from previous campers. Bathrooms were dirty and outdated. Only scolding hot water in the shower. Host and another staff member made me turn my camper to face the other direction so the door wouldn't face another camp site, even though I have a door on both sides after we had camp set up. Sites themselves are nicely spaced apart. Place was pretty empty for our 4 day weekend there.

  • Mercedes K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Camp Lakewood

    Great Place!

    Great place! Enjoyed the serene atmosphere and friendly staff. Loved the pizza too.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Peaceful Waters Campground

    Peaceful Waters

    Cute little park, off of 41, most sites are water and electric, most do not have sewer but there's a dump station. Very affordable. Owners are very nice and easy to communicate with. Theres a campstore and ice on site. Great fishing pond. Look around for cute carvings. Very close to Turkey Run, Shades, and Raccoon Lake!

  • Napoleon H.
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Turkey Run Canoe & Camping

    Arrived after hours but found a spot

    Nice campground electric hookups my 34' travel trailer fit nicely

  • B
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Bo Wood

    Family camping

    Extremely peaceful spot and friendly camp host. Great shower/bathroom facilities (could be little cooler in there in the summer)


Guide to Oakland

Camping near Oakland, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Turkey Run State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Trail 7 leads to a small stream running past a recessed cave. It’s a peaceful spot."
  • Fishing: At Fowler County Park, you can enjoy fishing in the stocked lake. A visitor shared, "Bring your fishing gear; they stock the lake."
  • Swimming: Enjoy the beach access at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area. One family noted, "We couldn’t have asked for a better location for our family and our interests."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings at Shakamak State Park. A reviewer said, "Most of the sites are shady and have a great view."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors enjoy the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area. One camper remarked, "The bathhouse was clean, plenty of showers, flush toilets."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Terre Haute Campground are noted for being great for families. A reviewer mentioned, "Lots of free activities for kids. Friendly and helpful staff."

What you should know

  • Privacy Concerns: Some campgrounds, like Turkey Run State Park Campground, have sites that are close together. One camper noted, "Many sites are in an open area without a lot of trees or bushes between them."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for raccoons at places like Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area. A visitor humorously warned, "Don’t turn your back to your dinner table if there’s food out."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Shades State Park Campground, have basic facilities. A reviewer mentioned, "The vault toilets were dirty, and the women’s stalls didn’t have doors."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites that are spacious and have shade, like those at Shakamak State Park. One camper said, "The sites are mostly all shaded and very flat."
  • Plan Activities: Bring bikes for the kids, as many campgrounds have trails. A visitor at Fowler County Park mentioned, "It makes for a great base camp for a weekend of biking."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep food secure to avoid wildlife encounters. A camper at Turkey Run State Park Campground advised, "Raccoons come out looking for food, so lock it all up at night."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Terre Haute Campground noted, "Most sites are gravel, and some are too tight for big rigs."
  • Use Adapters: If you’re on a 50-amp site, ensure you have the right adapter for your RV. A visitor at Fowler County Park mentioned, "You will need an adapter to use 30amp from a 50amp site."
  • Stay Connected: Some campgrounds offer decent Wi-Fi. A camper at Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area said, "The Wi-Fi was above average for this type of private campground."

Camping around Oakland, Illinois, provides a variety of experiences, from scenic views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Oakland, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Oakland, IL is Walnut Point State Park Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 9 reviews.