Best Campgrounds near Jacksonville, IL

Camping near Jacksonville, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Pere Marquette State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "They have wonderful campgrounds and really great trails," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The lake has boat access and some good fishing spots," perfect for those looking to cast a line.
• Cave Tours: Visit the nearby Mark Twain Cave & Campground for an exciting cave exploration. One camper noted, "The cave tour is interesting," adding a unique twist to your camping trip.

What campers like:

• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Double J Campground and RV Park. A reviewer said, "The campsites are nice and wide, gravel like the roads," which allows for a comfortable stay.
• Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One camper at Illinois State Fair Campground mentioned, "The showers were clean," which is always a plus when camping.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Mark Twain Cave & Campground said, "The office folks here were very nice and accommodating," making for a welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know:

• No Alcohol at Some Campgrounds: If you're planning to enjoy a drink, keep in mind that some places, like the Illinois State Fair Campground, do not allow alcohol. A reviewer noted, "NO alcohol allowed," so plan accordingly.
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area, may not have electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "No electric hookups," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
• Seasonal Availability: Check the seasonal availability of campgrounds. For example, Sangchris Lake State Park Campground is open from April 1 to January 16, so plan your trip accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Siloam Springs State Park Campground, one parent shared, "Great hiking trails for all ages," making it a fun spot for families.
• Bring Extra Supplies: Be prepared for anything. A family camping at Beaver Dam State Park Campground mentioned, "Walmart is about ten minutes away if you need groceries," so stock up before you head out.
• Choose the Right Campsite: Some sites may be better suited for families. A camper at Illinois State Fair Campground noted, "Campsites are close together, but not too busy while I was there," which can be ideal for families looking for a quieter experience.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookups: Make sure to check if the campground has the necessary hookups for your RV. A visitor at Double J Campground and RV Park said, "Good gravel spots with full hookups," which is essential for a comfortable stay.
• Plan for Noise: Some campgrounds, like Mark Twain Cave & Campground, may have nearby highway noise. One camper mentioned, "The noise from the highway bordering both cornfield and campground, however, was loud and constant," so be prepared for some background sounds.
• Use GPS for Directions: Ensure you have accurate directions. A camper at Mark Twain Cave & Campground noted, "The RV GPS wanted to take us around town," so double-check your route.

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Jacksonville, IL!