3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Campgrounds near Kane, Illinois concentrate along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, with Pere Marquette State Park Campground providing one of the region's primary developed camping areas. Located approximately 20 miles southwest of Kane, Pere Marquette offers electric hookups, showers, and toilets with sites suitable for tents, RVs, and limited glamping options. Additional campground options include McCully Heritage Project near Kampsville and Beaver Dam State Park Campground near Plainview, both offering cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping. The surrounding area supports a mix of state parks and private campgrounds with varying levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks.
The camping season in this region typically runs year-round at several locations, though services may be limited during winter months. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly for weekend stays during peak summer months when riverside sites fill quickly. Seasonal flooding significantly impacts campground availability, especially at locations like St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, which can experience closures during high water periods. Access roads are typically paved or well-maintained gravel suitable for most vehicles, though some primitive areas may require higher clearance. "Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, they were not so keen on having tent campers. But they were very nice and gave me the general lowdown on this 'in the city' campground," noted one visitor describing their experience at a local park.
Riverside camping experiences dominate the region, with several reviewers highlighting the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers as a major attraction. Pere Marquette State Park receives consistently positive feedback for its hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly winter eagle watching. According to one visitor, "Great hiking in the park, and a bike trail passes by the front. Lots of historical buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's." Campgrounds throughout the area vary in noise levels, with some locations experiencing train, highway, or airport noise, while others offer more secluded settings. Most developed campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water, though primitive sites may have limited amenities. Campers frequently mention the mix of outdoor activities available, including fishing, boating, hiking, and cycling on nearby trails as highlights of camping in this region.
"Great little campground just outside of Grafton, Illinois, on the Mississippi River. The campground is located in an open grove of old trees. There were owls when we were there."
"Campgrounds close to Pere Marquette Lodge. Is located just north of Grafton that has many food and drink and antique shops. Campground is on the Illinois River with the Mississippi River nearby."
from $10 - $20 / night
"They have really awesome trails to ride. I would recommend to anyone wanting a place to play on their toys. It’s 20 a day to ride. 35 for water and electric."
from $35 / night
"I've been to 370 Lakeside Park many times to walk around the huge lake and to hear concerts in the summer, but I had never camped there. Still haven't. I'll explain."
"All hookups were conveniently located. Shower house and restrooms were clean and well maintained/cleaned every day. Had a lakefront site but didn’t get to fish this time."
from $35 - $60 / night
"Nice hiking trails near. Watch for ticks. Don’t be alarmed if you see cats or the neighbors dogs roaming around the site. They are friendly."
"There’s a house to rent or primitive camping trails have a map but need a little more marking on newer sections. Very well maintained. Neat look out points"
from $20 - $100 / night
"Our site, though, was the smallest in the loop, tucked away in the weeds, and the only area to pitch our tent was on a slight slope."
"It’s close to our house and there’s always something new to do each time. The bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade."
Available this weekend
from $14 - $36 / night
"The trail map is very basic and not totally accurate. The trails are poorly marked but with basic knowledge of your compass points you can figure them out."
"There is a nice walking trail path that goes around the exterior of the lake. The lake has boat access and some good fishing spots. There is also a restaurant and store on the lake."
"We were able to park next to our 5th wheel with enough room to not feel crowded while using the picnic bench. Also the site was level. We stayed for a week to enjoy St. Louis, St."
"To hot and tired to walk around but there is aa park and access to a walking trail that looks nice. It is on path of airport it seems but plane noise does not bother us. It was not to bad."
from $56 - $61 / night
"It’s quietly tucked in along the Mississippi River (except for a train that runs nearby). Nice level concrete pads with electric hookup! Water (not potable) and dump available."
"Lakeside is down the road to fill up. No shade and smaller sights great access to the rivers. Site 17 accommodate a 38ft fifth wheel will just hang over the back a little to fit."
from $25 / night
TravelerCamp Host is very friendly and brought firewood to our site. Bath/shower house was clean. We were in the equestrian campground due to our 73 foot overall length. It was a great stay for visiting family. There are a lot of outdoor activities at the lake area, but no pool.
ScoutMy favorite spot in all of St. Louis! The lady who is the owner and the front desk attendant are wonderful and I have never had a problem here with anything! Free WiFi, laundry, and a public shower and bathroom if needed! There’s also cool walking/biking trails and a park with a children’s playground as well! The gas station is also walking distance for any small necessities
ScoutMy favorite RV spot in St. Charles. It’s pretty quiet minus the cool boats and train but other than that it’s peaceful…also love the price!
TravelerThe campsite is nice plenty of spaces spaced out nicely, but there’s absolutely no signage. took us forever to decide where we could park and what to do. tiny little sign on the Rangers house. Led us to a website and then charged us $50. Not what we were expecting. Plan ahead on this one.
GuideThis is a nice, clean, little campground.Free of charge dispersed.No hookups , car pads , fire pits right on the mississippi river , just beautiful , really , really impressed
ScoutNice and easy. Good spacing between sites
ScoutThis is one of the worst state parks I’ve ever visited. The sites are small no water or electricity. Takes 15 minutes from civilization to get there.
TravelerTrails in the area re nice but facilities for this many sites are limited. Sites are close to each other.
TravelerCame to Riverside landing on a Tuesday-Thursday for car camping and there was only a few other RVs and one other tent camper. Reserved a spot right on the river, very scenic and quiet. Right by some train tracks so trains do run by, but that was the only loud noise! No restrooms here so bring your own amenities if you aren’t in an RV
Camping spots near Kane, Illinois primarily cluster around the Mississippi and Illinois River confluence area, with many sites located within the region's rolling hills and forested valleys. The area sits at relatively low elevations of 400-650 feet, creating a terrain that's subject to seasonal Mississippi River flooding between March and June. Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though water systems at some locations shut down during winter months from November through March.
Hiking trails access: Pere Marquette State Park Campground provides extensive hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. "We did a 7 mile loop that led us to an amazing overlook. Excited to go back!" shares Andrew S., who visited the park while staying with family near St. Louis.
Fishing opportunities: At McCully Heritage Project in Kampsville, campers can access multiple fishing spots. "We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks," notes Eric, adding that the site comfortably accommodates large groups.
Winter wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent wildlife observation during colder months. "In winter there are a lot of eagles feeding in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers which meet at the park. The Lewis & Clark expedition started nearby," explains Joel R. about the wildlife viewing opportunities at Pere Marquette.
Affordable camping access: McCully Heritage Project provides budget-friendly camping options. "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood," reports Eric. The site charges just $10 per night, which "helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," according to Michele G.
Historical structures: Many campers appreciate the historical elements throughout the region. "Lots of historical buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's," Annie C. notes about Pere Marquette State Park, where camping is divided between RV, tent-only, and group camping sections.
Lake activities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers numerous water-based recreation options. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles)," explains Mats, highlighting the variety of available activities.
Flooding impacts: Riverside campgrounds frequently experience closures due to high water. "It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," Annie C. explains about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, adding that the city responded with "new sod, a new bathhouse, and some general sprucing up."
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience train noise that can affect light sleepers. At Sundermeier RV Park, "The lower# sites are closer to the trains, and the higher# sites were further away," advises Bea, noting that "the planes and trains stopped after about 10-11pm."
Limited shaded sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer minimal shade. "It seems to be new, and there are trees planted, but it will be awhile before they provide any shade," Susan L. mentions about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, where sites are positioned in an open setting.
Playground access: Cuivre River State Park Campground offers family-friendly facilities including playgrounds. "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" recommends J K., who visited the park with children.
Water activities for kids: Many families appreciate the safe water recreation options. "The lake is picturesque and busy. Lotsa fisher people here. The trail goes all the way around the lake with several fishing spots," shares Shelly S. about Beaver Dam State Park, noting special features like "a fish cleaning pavilion complete with pull down hoses."
Site selection for privacy: When camping with families, site selection matters for privacy. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," notes Cody S. about Cuivre River State Park, where many sites offer good separation from neighbors.
Hookup availability: Beaver Dam State Park Campground provides essential RV services. "All sites are shaded and mostly level with pull-thru or back-in parking. Each site has electric, however the water spigots are scattered about," explains GoWhereYouAreDraw N., adding that "the restroom and shower house is very clean."
Dump station quality: RVers should note varying dump station quality across campgrounds. At Hillbillie Ranch, "It has water and electric (50/30) hookups. There is a dump station but it could be better," mentions Joshua Y., who found the campground "more for toys (dirt bikes and atvs) than camping."
Site leveling challenges: RV campers often note leveling issues at some campgrounds. "Pere Marquette has many options for your stay. The campground may need a little attention and some lots are not level, but the area is worth the hassle," advises Shawn M., who prefers staying in the park's cabin accommodations for more privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Kane, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Kane, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 66 campgrounds and RV parks near Kane, IL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Kane, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kane, IL is Pere Marquette State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kane, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Kane, IL.
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