Pere Marquette State Park Campground offers primitive and RV camping options near Kane, Illinois, with sites situated on sandy, grassy ground among mature trees. The campground features 88 sites total, with Class A sites providing 30-amp or 50-amp electric hookups for $20 per night and approximately 15 Class C tent sites without electric for $8 per night. Most campsites include a fire ring and picnic table, though the sites are somewhat close together on hilly terrain. Recent renovations have added more 50-amp, water, and sewer connections to select sites, with plans for expanding both RV and tent camping areas.
What to do
Explore historic structures: Visit the historic buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s at Pere Marquette State Park Campground. "Beautiful hiking on dirt trails with gorgeous views of the Illinois River. The lodge has a restaurant and giant chess board!" notes Leah H.
Fish the lakes: Anglers can access multiple fishing opportunities at Country Bend Campground with its stocked ponds. One visitor mentioned, "Plenty of lakes/ponds to fish. We couldn't boat while there due to COVID but look forward to going back and taking our kayaks."
Paddleboating and cycling: Rent various watercraft and bikes at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, which provides lake access and recreational equipment. "They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots," reports Joseph F.
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers budget-friendly sites at $8 per night with basic amenities. "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved. Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast," writes Travis.
Wildlife viewing: Campers appreciate the natural surroundings and animal sightings near Kane. "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake - deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes," notes Annie C. about the St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park area.
Miniature golf and recreation: Family activities like putt-putt golf add to the camping experience. "18 hole putt putt, lots of outdoor games, planned activities on the weekends, shaded sites, and air conditioned cabins! This place is a campers dream with great staff always happy to see you," writes Kate T. about Country Bend Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping accommodations near Kane operate from April through November, with some sites closing for winter. At Yogi Bears Jellystone Park, "Came when all the water activities were closed for the season. Cannot wait to come back!" reports Nick W.
Site spacing varies: Campsite privacy differs significantly between locations. For Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, "The campground is not very large. Most of the sites are small. This works well for me since I like to talk and meet other campers. However, if you prefer some space while camping, this one may not be for you," advises Scott M.
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality and availability fluctuates across sites. "There is one main bathhouse with free showers that was very clean. There are also two vault toilets located in the campground. The campground is open year-round but the bathhouse with flush toilets closes November 1 and doesn't reopen until spring," explains Nancy W. about Babler Memorial State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule your day around organized events at family-oriented campgrounds. "Holiday weekends have so many planned activities, some for all ages. We really loved the bridges with trails to ponds, and the jumping pillow," shares Kaitlin D. about Country Bend Campground.
Pack for insects: Prepare for local bug populations, especially during warm months. "Waverly Lake City Park is quiet and fairly private experience. Each site is spread out and fairly well. Be mindful of field roaches and raccoons at night, as we had to learn the hard way the morning after our first night. Oh, and the mosquitoes are BRUTAL," warns Darren D.
Safety amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional security features for families. "The office told me that they have 24 hour on site security also," mentions Annie C. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, making it a safer option for families seeking glamping near Kane.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Ask for assistance when selecting appropriate sites for larger rigs. "The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs," recommends Nancy W. about Babler Memorial State Park.
Water hookup variations: Water connections aren't standard at all campgrounds. "No water hookup. We called Kate Tuxhorn the owner and she said sorry i forgot to tell you that you have to tap in your neighbors water," reports Liz G. about her experience at Country Bend Campground.
Accessibility considerations: Note entrance and navigation challenges at certain campgrounds. "A little sketchy getting off east bound ramp then having to cross three lanes of traffic to make a left hand turn at the first light. Entrance to campground is tight, swing wide," advises James P. about St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA.
