Kampsville sits in western Illinois along the Illinois River, about 65 miles north of St. Louis. The area features limestone bluffs, hardwood forests, and river valleys with an elevation ranging from 420-680 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions around 60-75°F, making these seasons ideal for upscale outdoor accommodations in the region.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Pere Marquette State Park: The park offers excellent bald eagle watching opportunities during winter months. "The hiking is worth the effort. The views from the bluffs are gorgeous," notes one visitor at Pere Marquette State Park Campground.
Fishing at Waverly Lake: This quiet local spot provides peaceful fishing with minimal crowds. "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," reports a camper who enjoyed the solitude at Waverly Lake.
Kayaking at Cuivre River State Park: Located about an hour's drive from Kampsville, this park offers kayak rentals and a scenic lake. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered," states a visitor at Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Bluegrass music events: Some regional campgrounds host regular music events throughout camping season. "Every weekend has an event. Bluegrass to crafts. Right outside of Jacksonville, Ashland, Virginia, and close enough to Springfield," shares a camper at Crazy Horse Campground.
What campers like
Wooded campsites with wildlife: Many campers appreciate the natural setting and animal encounters. "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" reports a visitor at Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Lodge dining at Pere Marquette: The historic lodge restaurant serves notable meals. "The lodge has a restaurant and giant chess board!" mentions one camper, while another adds "The bonus is the fried chicken... the lodge has one of the best fried chicken dinners around on Sunday," according to a visitor at Pere Marquette State Park Campground.
Lake activities for families: Water features at campgrounds near Kampsville provide recreation options. "The park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer (was not open in the winter)," shares a camper at Cuivre River State Park.
Wine tasting proximity: The region offers easy access to local wineries. "Great CG near Grafton! Easy drive and several winery's. Nice trails as well!" notes a Pere Marquette visitor about the glamping-friendly location.
What you should know
Limited facilities at some sites: Not all camping areas offer full amenities. "As far as I know there's no running water. There are portable toilets that are kept clean. There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit," cautions a visitor at Waverly Lake City Park.