Tent camping near Jerseyville, Illinois offers opportunities for overnight stays within a 45-minute radius of town, where elevations range from 400 to 700 feet above sea level across a diverse landscape of hills and river valleys. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer highs averaging in the upper 80s and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Fall camping season typically extends from September through early November, with spring camping beginning in April.
What to do
Fishing access: At Waverly Lake City Park, campers can fish the small lake directly from their sites. "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," notes John H.
Trail exploration: The McCully Heritage Project in Kampsville offers multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "There's a house to rent or primitive camping trails have a map but need a little more marking on newer sections. Very well maintained. Neat look out points," explains Alicia B. The trails connect to scenic overlooks of the Illinois River valley.
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours provide the best opportunity for spotting white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. "A day out with the kiddos. I just love the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," shares Leo S. about their experience at McCully Heritage Project.
What campers like
Natural settings: Campers at William R. Logan Conservation Area appreciate the secluded environment. "Plenty of tent spots with tree cover and fire pits. Lighting bugs came out at night," notes Kelly C. The conservation area features multiple primitive camping areas spread across the property.
Affordability: Budget-conscious tent campers mention the value of staying at McCully Heritage Project. "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," states Michele G. Most tent sites in the Jerseyville area range from $10-15 per night for primitive camping.
Diverse terrain: The unique landscape at Klondike Park offers campers varied hiking experiences. "Campsites were great. Stayed at a walk-in site for a night and enjoyed it. Trails are beautiful and perfect for families wanting to just come to a park for a day and hikers," reports Jake K.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Water access varies throughout the year at campgrounds near Jerseyville. John H. mentions Waverly Lake restrictions: "There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit." Most area campgrounds reduce services from November through March.
Wildlife encounters: Proper food storage is essential when tent camping in the region. "Make sure to store your food securely overnight - the racoons are pretty thick and hungry at night," warns Mike L. about camping at St. Charles County Klondike Park.
Road noise: Some campsites near highways experience traffic noise. "Some sites are closer to the highway and cars flying down the road can make it hard to sleep but after midnight, they stopped," explains Jake K. about Klondike Park. Request sites farther from roads when making reservations.
Limited facilities: Many tent camping options near Jerseyville offer minimal amenities. Annie C. notes about William R. Logan Conservation Area: "Free primitive campground near a lake in William Logan. No frills camping at about 8-10 sites near the main entrance off Route RA, with most being in an open circle configuration with the main road cutting through the middle."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offers family-friendly camping within an hour of Jerseyville. "The campground is not very large. Most of the sites are small. This works well for me since I like to talk and meet other campers. The park has a lot to offer. The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids or folks that are not used to hiking," shares Scott M.
Site selection: Choose sites with natural features that appeal to children. "There is a seasonal bathhouse, which is clean and well kept, but serves all 43 campsites with its 3 stalls and 2 showers per gender. The cabins look great from the outside and sit back in the woods," notes Shawn M. about Klondike Park.
Water play options: During summer months, look for tent sites near water features. Eric from McCully Heritage Project shares: "We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks. We easily fit a dozen people over the 4th of July. Nice hiking trails near. Watch for ticks."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Small RVs and pop-up campers fare better than large rigs at most Jerseyville area tent campgrounds. "Babler is located off I-64 in the chesterfield area about 30 minutes from Saint Louis. There are many spots to choose from. Basic and electric/water sites. Tent and Rv set ups are mixed," April D. explains about Babler Memorial State Park.
Utility considerations: Few campgrounds near Jerseyville provide full hookups. "The site provides wood, ice, water, shower house and outhouses. There are equestrian and hiking trails. No rivers or water available. It is quiet and some areas are on hills," continues April D. about Babler Memorial State Park.
Seasonal accessibility: RV campers should check road conditions before visiting primitive sites. Annie C. mentions about Logan Conservation Area: "There are some larger stocked lakes with another primitive camping area but the road was temporarily closed, so I wasn't able to check those out."
