Best Dispersed Camping near Kampsville, IL

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Kampsville, Illinois, with Silo Access Area (also known as O'Neil Creek) offering the most developed primitive sites. Located directly on the Mississippi River, this area features 13 sites suitable for RVs and travel trailers, with three curved sites designed for easier access. The recently paved area has a boat ramp and ongoing reforestation efforts, though no hookups or drinking water are available. As one visitor noted, "you sit and watch the barges and various things float by," though campers should expect frequent train noise from nearby tracks.

Other dispersed camping can be found at Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite, which allows reservations and permits alcohol, unlike Silo Access Area. According to a review, the site "has several areas to setup a tent has a metal fire pit." Ranacker Conservation Area offers an additional option with toilet facilities but prohibits pets. Campers at all locations should come fully self-contained as amenities are minimal—most areas lack trash collection, toilets, and potable water.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Kampsville, Illinois (3)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Kampsville, IL

5 Photos of 3 Kampsville Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kampsville, IL

6 Reviews of 3 Kampsville Campgrounds


  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2021

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    Free river side camping.

    Primitive camping on the Mississippi River. This is mostly a wide gravel bar that you can set up camp on with great views of the big river. But there are no amenities, and few sites. The road through the campground is nicely graded and there is obviously some work being done to restore the flora- trees being planted, areas marked off for restoration. You will be very close to active train tracks, so bring your earplugs. Be sure to be self contained as there is no vault toilet or porta potty currently. The best sites are at the opposite ends of the flat circle where there are large gravel areas ideal for parking RV’s. The boat ramp was a bit of a mess with logs and sandbars, but I suspect the US Army Corps of Engineers are still in the process of cleaning this access area up from flooding from previous years.

  • Cyndy & Selena R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2023

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    Great quiet location ON the Mississippi River

    Very impressed with this beautiful location. The site is right on the Mississippi River!

    There are 13 sites for RVs and Travel Trailers. Three sites are curved to pull in and out easily. Site 13 is large enough for 2 RVs. There is a large boat ramp. The area is freshly paved and undergoing reforestation. However, there are a lot of trees. No water, no electrical hookups, and no bathrooms. There is 1 small trash bin. Mosquitoes are prevalent.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 28, 2022

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    great spot to watch the river

    This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by.  you sit and watch the barges and various things float by.  really great.  you are close to the RR tracks but there aren't that many trains.  It is not exactly where The dyrt sends you.  on Google maps it's listed as Oneil  Creek, though the entrance is marked as Silo Access.  It's about 1 mile north off RT 79 from Calumet Creek access.  It's a great place.

  • Matthew H.
    Oct. 19, 2021

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    Not for tents

    Nice campground with a great view of the Mississippi. You won’t miss the train as it comes by 3-4 times a day. And lots of barges and river boats that are fun to watch not restrooms or hook ups of any kind. So bring your rv, water and a generator. But we will going back again for sure. Can beat free and great views


Guide to Kampsville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Kampsville, Illinois, where nature meets tranquility. With several options available, campers can enjoy scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Kampsville, Illinois

  • For a serene experience right on the Mississippi River, consider the Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek, which offers a beautiful setting with ample space for RVs and travel trailers.

Enjoy river activities while free camping near Kampsville

Dispersed campers should check out Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite(s)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kampsville, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kampsville, IL is Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek with a 4.2-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Kampsville, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Kampsville, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.