Tent camping options surrounding Grand Tower, Illinois include campgrounds across both Illinois and Missouri. Located in the Mississippi River floodplain with elevations ranging from 360-400 feet, this region experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 86-90°F from June through August. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fishing access: At Lake Girardeau Conservation Area, tent campers can enjoy fishing opportunities with kayak or boat access to improve catches. A camper noted the area is "a good area for fishing, kayaking or canoeing. It is a no-wake lake," making it peaceful for anglers seeking quiet water.
Creek exploration: Apple Creek Conservation Area provides opportunities for water-based activities near its primitive campsites. A visitor mentioned, "Apple Creek is a very short distance north on the gravel road. The creek is a good place to fish and you can launch a kayak the boat ramp."
Trail hiking: Explore the extensive network of trails at Turkey Ridge Campground in Ferne Clyffe State Park. A camper shared, "There are lots of well maintained trails to hike... hikes that include bluffs, caves, creeks, etc. Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
What campers like
Seclusion during weekdays: Campers appreciate midweek stays for greater privacy. One camper at Turkey Ridge mentioned, "My brother and I camped here in September on a weekday. We were the only tent campers, so it was nice and peaceful. The sites are large and include a cooking grate."
Clean facilities: Backpack Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park provides primitive sites with necessary amenities. A camper observed the "walk up primitive sites are secluded, wooded, and within a pit toilet and water source."
Easy water access: Many tent campers value camping near water sources. One camper at Dutchman Lake Camp described it as a "beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway," while another mentioned "great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing."
What you should know
Primitive conditions: Many campgrounds in the region offer basic amenities only. At Backpack Campground, a camper noted, "Not a lot of tent sites, but enough. Nice wooded primitive sites with easy access to water and toilets." The same camper warned, "Only issue I found at all was firewood is surprisingly difficult to come by."
Vault toilet conditions: Facilities at some campgrounds require low expectations. One Turkey Ridge camper reported that outhouses were "pretty bad" with a "storm of flies came shooting out the hole like a tornado."
Site proximity concerns: Campsite spacing varies considerably between campgrounds. A Turkey Ridge camper mentioned, "Spots are pretty close to each other. There is camping you can walk off to," suggesting better privacy for those willing to carry gear further from parking areas.
Tips for camping with families
Best trails for children: Select trails appropriate for younger hikers. At Ferne Clyffe State Park, a camper recommended specific paths: "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids."
Beach options: North Marcum Day Use Area provides swimming opportunities with child-friendly conditions. A visitor described it as "a beautiful little beach on Rend lake. The beach is also tidy and free of a lot of trash, perfect for the youngsters to play in."
Cave exploration: Children particularly enjoy exploring the cave features in the region. A Turkey Ridge camper shared that their family visits "Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
Tips from RVers
Electric service reliability: When planning the best tent camping near Grand Tower, Illinois, note that some sites with electric hookups may have occasional issues. At Turkey Ridge, one RVer mentioned, "On arrival, the electric wouldn't work. Apparently a breaker was involved. Camp host fixed it."
Site selection: Different sites offer varying levels of privacy and space. A Turkey Ridge camper suggested specific sites: "#35 is a nice location. Large yard and not super close to other campers. #53 is smaller but very private."
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping may mean fully booked campgrounds despite cooler temperatures. A camper at Turkey Ridge noted they "Camped end of April and park was full," indicating popularity during shoulder seasons.
