Top Tent Camping near Kampsville, IL

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Kampsville and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best tent camping sites near Kampsville. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Kampsville's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Kampsville, IL (9)

    Camper-submitted photo from McCully Heritage Project
    Camper-submitted photo from McCully Heritage Project
    Camper-submitted photo from McCully Heritage Project
    Camper-submitted photo from McCully Heritage Project
    Camper-submitted photo from McCully Heritage Project
    Camper-submitted photo from McCully Heritage Project

    1. McCully Heritage Project

    5 Reviews
    6 Photos
    46 Saves

    Pitch your tent in one of four widely spaced sites. Each site has enough room for multiple tents and includes a fire pit and picnic table. The sites are just a short walk from our shower/restroom facility. The fishing ponds are just a quarter mile walk from the campsites, and access to the numerous trails throughout our 940-acre property is directly from the campsites. While we have four designated sites, it is rare for all to be full, and likely that you'll be the only campers here most days. We are located in a very remote/rural part of Illinois in a county nestled between the Mississippi& Illinois Rivers, but only 75 miles north of downtown St. Louis. We have been included in John Shirle's"The Best in Tent Camping: Illinois."

    The McCully Heritage Project is a 940- acre environmental center located one mile south of Kampsville in beautiful and remote Calhoun County. We are a private non-profit left as the legacy of Howard and Eva McCully.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rainey Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainey Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainey Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainey Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainey Park
    Camper-submitted photo from William R. Logan Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from William R. Logan Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from William R. Logan Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from William R. Logan Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from William R. Logan Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from William R. Logan Conservation Area

    3. William R. Logan Conservation Area

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    17 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park

    4. Waverly Lake City Park

    3 Reviews
    10 Photos
    5 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Dupont Reservation Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Dupont Reservation Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Dupont Reservation Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Dupont Reservation Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Dupont Reservation Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Dupont Reservation Conservation Area

    5. Dupont Reservation Conservation Area

    2 Reviews
    16 Photos
    16 Saves

    Visit the Missouri Department of Conservation's website for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Vandalia Community Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Vandalia Community Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Vandalia Community Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Vandalia Community Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Vandalia Community Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Vandalia Community Lake

    6. Vandalia Community Lake

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    8 Saves

    Visit the Missouri Department of Conservation's website for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • No image available

      7. Indian Camp Creek Park

      Be the first to review!
      10 Saves

      Indian Camp Creek Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is St. Charles County’s largest park with 603 acres, including more than 10 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use. Camping, disc golf, fishing and an inclusive playground are just some of the amenities found there. Situated at the confluence of Big Creek and Indian Camp Creek, fishing is plentiful. A large lake on the property is stocked with bluegill, bass, and catfish.

      History lovers will find the park exciting as well and will want to find their way to the historical Cannon family cemetery. This cemetery has been preserved on park property and has headstones dating back to the early 19th century. Additionally, a "ghost structure" of the original log cabin built in the late 1800s on the site still stands in the park.

      Climb to the top of the restored silo, which serves as an observation tower, and discover the beautiful prairies, vast wooded hills, and protected habit found throughout the park.

      Group camping site is designed for large group activities and can accommodate up to 100 guests or 200 for an additional fee. Eight individual sites also are available. Rental Fee is $75 per weekday night, or $150 for mandatory two-day weekend reservation.

      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Picnic Table
      Camper-submitted photo from Countryside Escape
      Camper-submitted photo from Countryside Escape
      Camper-submitted photo from Countryside Escape
      Camper-submitted photo from Countryside Escape

      8. Countryside Escape

      2 Reviews
      4 Photos
      19 Saves

      Pick from a variety of spots from the lakeside, to secluded forest, to open field for pitching your tent on this orchard land! This property is open to dispersed camping wherever you prefer. Equipped with fire pits, pond for viewing water fowl, and bathrooms with showers inside the house. This is a great spot to spend the night on your way to or from St. Louis, Chicago or Indianapolis. Close to St Louis and all the fun there! Great biking in the area, hiking at Pere Marquette State Park, and swimming and water sports at Horseshoe Lake State Park. Firewood can be bought on site, grocery, convenience stores, restaurants, fast food and gas stations easy drive of 10-15 min.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group

      $15 - $16 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Ridge
      Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Ridge
      Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Ridge

      9. Hidden Ridge

      Be the first to review!
      3 Photos
      9 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Trash
      • Picnic Table

    Recent Tent Reviews In Kampsville

    221 Reviews of 9 Kampsville Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from Waverly Lake City Park
      September 12, 2024

      Waverly Lake City Park

      Nice little lake and camp ground

      I've stayed here a couple times now. Each time there has only been one other person. 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. There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit.

    • Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
      August 8, 2024

      St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

      Best campsite we've found to explore STL

      Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation. It is a city park and had that feel... not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos. Five minutes from food and stores. 30 minutes from downtown Saint Louis. I'll

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee Lakes Campground
      June 30, 2024

      Cherokee Lakes Campground

      Secluded and spacious tent camping sites

      I spent a night here camping while on a road trip. The check-in was quick and easy. The host showed me the tent campsites, which are secluded and private from the RV sites. The sites are outfitted with a picnic table and brick fire rings. Some have water spickets. There's a central covered picnic area. Lots of shade and tall trees. You'll want to check them for dead limbs before setting up your site. I didn't ask if hammock camping is allowed. There are at least two sites that would work nicely for a hammock. A portable toilet is available to keep the area sanitary for urgent needs; the flush toilets, laundry, and fitness center at the main entrance are also available for a longer walk or short drive.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Hillbillie Ranch
      May 18, 2024

      Hillbillie Ranch

      Hillbillie Ranch is not there anymore

      They are no longer a campground. Bought out now private property.

    • Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
      April 19, 2024

      St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

      Good now, and will be really nice when the trees get bigger

      Stayed here most of the several weeks we needed to be in St. Louis for family matters. Definitely our favorite place in the area. The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees. The nicest spots are the ones by the lake, with only one neighbor and a better view of the lake. The staff are kind and helpful. Water and electric worked fine. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Trash and recycling receptacles are huge and convenient. My only complaint is the poorly thought out sink situation in the bathrooms which make it impossible to wash in a sanitary way as you must hold the tap to keep the water flowing and there are no paper towels to that with, only hand dryers. There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Vandalia Community Lake
      April 15, 2024

      Vandalia Community Lake

      Peaceful!

      Gorgeous little lake. Vault toilets. Our camp fire ring was shaped like a heart! Probably not on purpose but we liked it. Very quiet. Lots of fishing. And we actually saw the cat!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Siloam Springs State Park Campground
      October 30, 2023

      Siloam Springs State Park Campground

      Hidden Gem of Illinois...

      This site was so much better than what I was expecting! My friend, Kari, her 3 Doodles, my Beagle, and I camped out the first night in the group section, because there's hardly anyone there and we got there too late in the day to actually start hiking. In the morning, we loaded up our packs, put the little packs on the dogs (they have to carry their own food and water), and headed up the Red Oak Backpacking Trail. I don't know if we started at the beginning or not, but we parked by a little wooden bridge and the hill to start off our adventure kinda kicked my ass a little bit. After we made it up the initial incline, the landscape was beautiful and varied from flat areas to valleys and some creeks (which I was very thankful for after a few hours in 90° and 25 lbs on my back). We ended up setting up camp at a spot we thought was nice just before it got dark, because we didn't know where or how much further the primitive hike-in campsites were. The next day, we figured it out, but we wouldn't have made it there before dark. Towards the end, there were stairs built into the earth that were way too difficult to manage when your legs are jelly and your pack is heavy, so it was almost easier trying to take the side of the stairs and make your own little path, so just a heads up there. We had so much fun the whole time and I can't wait to go back for some snow camping later this year (they are open year round)!!!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Dupont Reservation Conservation Area
      October 21, 2023

      Dupont Reservation Conservation Area

      Lovely camground along the banks of the Mighty Miss

      It’s actually the Ted Shanks Conservation Area. Dupont is a bit further north, no camping there that we saw.

      . 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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Beyond the Trail RV Park
      October 10, 2023

      Beyond the Trail RV Park

      Convenient Location

      The location of the campground is ideal being located adjacent to the Katy bike trail and within walking distance from restaurants, a brewery and wineries.  The sites are mostly open, small and tight for larger RVs. The roads are all gravel as are the sites and there is limited grassy areas. The site services, electric, water and sewer, are located to the front of the site and extensions were needed for both the electric and sewer. The park has no onsite laundry and there are none in town. If it wasn't for the location I would probably give the park 2 stars.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Mark Twain Cave & Campground
      August 26, 2023

      Mark Twain Cave & Campground

      Accommodating Staff

      Coming into Hannibal, the RV GPS wanted to take us around town up to I-72. Had we been on our toes, we could have turned right at the“campground sign,” making our trip a bit easier and shorter. We came into the campground(CG) and resort area with some other campers. There was plenty of parking, and we checked in at the gift shop where you can purchase cave entry tickets. Our friends had come in the day before and told us that our reserved site E-05 was long enough for our new 40’ 2” Brinkley Model G, but we would need to park our F-450 elsewhere. Our friend suggested F-17, which was an easy back-in. F-17 was available, and was actually cheaper, so we saved$6 on the back-in site. The office folks here were very nice and accommodating, as we had expected to arrive the day prior with our friends, but due to loading up our new rig, we arrived a day late. The nice people at the office helped us work out this situation plus changed our campsite when we arrived. We proceeded to F-17 and settled down for our first camping night in our Brinkley. The F area back-ins are fairly new, with few trees to block the satellite. The older pull-throughs have mature trees and a lot of shade, so satellite would be spotty depending on the site. The water and electric are towards the back of the site, with the sewer in the middle. The water pressure was good. We got one bar on Verizon, and the CG WiFi worked better than average for a CG this size, but we were here for just an overnight from Monday to Tuesday. We were told that this private CG fills up on the weekends.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Beyond the Trail RV Park
      August 2, 2023

      Beyond the Trail RV Park

      Safe, convenient, last minute

      Easy to book online even the day of. Choose your spot ahead of time and pull in, easy as that! There are RV & tent sites, bathrooms with hot showers. Had no problem booking around 7pm the day of and arrived around 1 am quietly set up in my previously reserved spot. Check out is at 2 pm

    • Camper-submitted photo from Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
      July 26, 2023

      Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground

      If I Could Leave Zero Stars I Would

      I have stayed in hundreds of places and hiked many miles and have never experienced a tick infestation like I did at this park. I stopped counting at 20(!!!) pulled off my dogs(yes, they are on prevention meds), myself(yes, I was wearing DEET), and inside my camper in just two days. 0/10 do NOT recommend

    • Camper-submitted photo from Pittsfield City Lake
      July 14, 2023

      Pittsfield City Lake

      Nice small CG just above the lake

      We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 33 for just 1 night in late June. This is a relatively small CG, 33 sites, and there were only a handful or so of sites available when we arrived on a Friday afternoon and they do not accept reservations. The showers were clean and hot. The electric and water hookups on some sites, at least ours, was at the back and on the wrong side. Our electric cord just reached the post. AT&T coverage varied, with 1-2 Bars of LTE service and speeds between 0.4 and 3.5 MB/s. We had a clear view of the southern and northern sky, so we were able to get DISH coverage on all three western satellites at our site and Starlink had speed up to 12 MB/s.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
      June 30, 2023

      Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground

      Good and Simple

      Good spot for a St.Louis stop. Sites are paved and relatively level. $25 for electric only but with a dump and fresh water fill up stations. Hot water showers in bathrooms. Reservations on the website are until 7pm day-of or first-come first-served need to arrive by 9pm before gate closes. Little tags on each site to say which is still available for that night. No pay station so if office is closed can pay in the a.m.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
      June 22, 2023

      Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground

      Huge Spaces- Very Private and Clean!

      We booked this campground because we were spending time in St Louis. It only took about 35 minutes to get from here to downtown. The campground is close to grocery stores and lots of shopping! The sites themselves are very clean and well kept. Our site, 32, was huge and grassy! If you want to be close to the playground and bathrooms, this site was perfect.

    • Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
      April 20, 2023

      St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

      Nice but expensive

      This is a city run camp with like-new amenities. Unfortunately it sits on the wrong side of a levee with not much atmosphere. The water is part of the Missouri river flood control. An overnight site in my opinion.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Beyond the Trail RV Park
      April 10, 2023

      Beyond the Trail RV Park

      Great location

      Loved this location, clean, micro brewery outside the gate. Immediate access to Katy trail. Bring your bikes or rent e-bikes in town. Lots of wineries nearby and several pub type restaurants nearby. Walmart is 17 mins away.

    • Camper-submitted photo from McCully Heritage Project
      January 26, 2023

      McCully Heritage Project

      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.



    Guide to Kampsville

    Camping near Kampsville, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds have great hiking options. For instance, at Pere Marquette State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "They have wonderful campgrounds and really great trails." This makes it a perfect spot for those who love to explore nature on foot.
    • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Beaver Dam State Park Campground is a good choice. A visitor noted, "It’s a real pretty place to just get away for a weekend or so," highlighting the lake's fishing opportunities.
    • Water Activities: At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Pine Lakes, families can enjoy swimming and other water activities. One camper shared, "Facilities very clean and family oriented. Very fun for kids."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park said, "The grounds are clean and pleasant," which is a big plus for many.
    • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. At Sundermeier RV Park, a camper mentioned, "The people here are great," making the experience more enjoyable.
    • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. One reviewer at Cuivre River State Park Campground noted, "Nice big area with several clearings and fire rings," which is perfect for families or groups.

    What you should know:

    • Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Pittsfield City Lake mentioned, "There were only a handful or so of sites available when we arrived on a Friday afternoon."
    • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek, a camper pointed out, "There is no water, no electrical hookups, and no bathrooms," so be prepared for primitive camping.
    • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or train tracks. A camper at Sundermeier RV Park noted, "It is near a highway, there a railroad bridge right next to it," so keep that in mind if you're sensitive to noise.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. At 370 Lakeside Park, one reviewer said, "The playground was good for the kiddos," making it a great spot for families.
    • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A camper at Buena Vista Farms Campground mentioned, "Had a blast, pond was nice, did some fishing," which suggests a fun way to enjoy meals outdoors.
    • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water or trails. A visitor at McCully Heritage Project noted, "Watch for ticks," reminding families to stay vigilant.

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Sundermeier RV Park mentioned, "Good power, water and sewer connections," which is essential for a comfortable stay.
    • Space for Big Rigs: If you have a larger RV, look for campgrounds that accommodate big rigs. At Cuivre River State Park Campground, one camper said, "The full hookup loop has a lot of room," making it easier to navigate.
    • Noise Considerations: Be aware of potential noise from trains or highways. A camper at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek noted, "You will be very close to active train tracks," so plan accordingly if you're sensitive to sound.

    Camping near Kampsville, Illinois, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specific amenities and features of each campground to find the best fit for your adventure!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kampsville, IL?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kampsville, IL is McCully Heritage Project with a 4.8-star rating from 5 reviews.

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

      TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Kampsville, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.