Tent camping near Kampsville, Illinois centers primarily around riverside and conservation areas within Calhoun and adjacent counties. The region sits at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, with elevations ranging from 420 to 560 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with temperatures between 55-75°F.
What to do
Fishing access: At Vandalia Community Lake, campers can fish directly from their sites. "Right on the lake, plenty of fish," notes a camper, while another mentions, "Gorgeous little lake...Very quiet. Lots of fishing."
Paddling opportunities: McCully Heritage Project offers water recreation options beyond hiking. "We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks," shares one visitor who frequently returns to the area.
Wildlife observation: The wetlands near Dupont Reservation Conservation Area provide excellent wildlife viewing. "This is a free primitive campground on the Mississippi River. Most sites have some sort of fire ring and a gravel spot to pull a vehicle in," explains one camper who notes the riverside setting offers chances to "watch boat traffic from your site."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike the description of McCully Heritage Project, Waverly Lake City Park offers well-spaced campsites. "Each site is spread out and fairly well," reports a visitor who stayed multiple nights, adding "It's quiet and peaceful, however there's not much to do."
River views: Campers at William R. Logan Conservation Area appreciate the natural setting. "Plenty of tent spots with tree cover and fire pits. Lighting bugs came out at night," notes one reviewer who gave the location a positive rating despite its rustic amenities.
Budget-friendly options: Several conservation areas near Kampsville offer free camping. At Dupont Reservation, a visitor observed, "All sites fronting the river, shaded by trees. Mix of campers, fishermen and hunters. A few trains at night but not many. Vault toilets. No tables, no fire rings."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: The Mississippi River campgrounds can be impacted by high water. A camper at Dupont Reservation warns, "This area WILL flood if the river floods; it WILL be buggy in the summer as the campground backs to a large wetlands area."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Kampsville have minimal amenities. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, one visitor notes, "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local wildlife at several campgrounds. At Vandalia Community Lake, campers mention "there is a stray cat that stalks your food," while at Waverly Lake, one camper advises, "Be mindful of field roaches and raccoons at night, as we had to learn the hard way the morning after our first night."
Tips for camping with families
Day activities: McCully Heritage Project offers family-friendly amenities beyond just camping. "I just love the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," reports a visitor who brought children to the area.
Safety considerations: When tent camping with families near Kampsville, be aware of noise factors. At Dupont Reservation, a camper mentions, "On the other side of the wetlands is an active train track, so you may have train noise as well as barge noise on the river."
Stay limits: Some campgrounds restrict duration of stays. At Waverly Lake, a camper points out, "There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit," which requires planning for longer family trips to the Kampsville region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For those with smaller RVs near Kampsville, finding level spots is important. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, a camper advises, "All campsites and patios are paved and level with a comfortable amount of space between sites. Picnic tables and fire pits are located at each site. Sites are a mix of shaded, partial-shade, and full sun."
Access limitations: Many conservation areas near Kampsville have limited RV facilities. At William R. Logan Conservation Area, a visitor notes the basic nature of the 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."
