Scott County Park serves as an excellent base for camping near Keithsburg, Illinois, approximately 32 miles northeast across the Mississippi River. The area features a mix of wetlands, woodlands, and prairie landscapes with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F. Primitive camping sites in the region cost $22-33 per night, while full hookup RV sites range from $33-45 depending on season and amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Spring Lake Park - Macomb, visitors can enjoy shoreline fishing with multiple species available. "The lake is great for boating and fishing and there are boats for rent during the warmer months," notes Kyle D. Another camper mentions "good fishing" with "beautiful sunsets on west side of campground."
Hiking trail exploration: Multiple interconnected trails run through the region, particularly at Wilderness Campground. "A ton of the best hiking trails converge at this CG, so if you're tent camper and want to be located right in the thick of nature, while having direct access to prize hiking above just about anything else, then this is your haven," writes Stuart K. The trails offer varied terrain through "woodlands, wetlands and prairie grasslands."
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, water activities abound. "Kayak/Canoe/Pontoon rentals. CHEAP primitive camping. Miles of trails. Staff and caretakers keep the trails extremely clean. Excellent views of the large lake the trails go around," shares Nick D. about Spring Lake Park.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities in the Keithsburg area. At Geneseo Campground, campers appreciate "very clean shower house" and consistently well-kept grounds. As Tom N. notes, the campground offers "friendly staff, very clean and peaceful. Nice shower rooms and amenities and very reasonably priced."
Private shower accommodations: Multiple campgrounds feature individual shower rooms rather than communal facilities. At Camelot Campground, Marc W. observed, "Bathroom facilities were fantastic and a reason for potential return. I have only seen a couple other campgrounds over ten years of camping that compared. They must have recently done a remodel. Private shower rooms that were perfectly cleaned."
Quiet camping environments: Despite highway proximity at some locations, campers report peaceful stays. "No traffic noise. Our site was across from the picnic area & we had a nice view of the lake. Nice place to relax after a day on the road," writes Cynthia K. about Camelot Campground.
What you should know
Off-season limitations: Water services and amenities may be restricted during cooler months. Marc W. notes, "I was glad they were open to begin with, but the website did not mention that the premium patio site with full hook up would not have water service while we were there." Several campgrounds close entirely from late October through April.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near interstates. At Little Bear Campground, Shannon G. reports, "I was surprised that the interstate noise was much quieter than I thought it would be." Consider site location if road noise is a concern.
Seasonal host availability: Most campgrounds offer on-site hosts selling firewood and providing assistance. James M. mentions that Woodside Campground offers "host, nicely maintained heated showers and restrooms, play area, firewood, available on site, RV pads are hard surface, have fire rings, water, electric, tables."
Tips for camping with families
Pool and water feature access: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. Matthew K. notes that Camelot Campground "is pretty big lots of full time campers. Camp ground is open year round... Mini golf is available with a pool. Had to go here once just to use the dump station."
Kid-friendly amenities: At Camp Liberty, James M. explains the camp "offers site for all tastes: primitive and modern cabins and lodges, tents for small or large groups and couples. Hard roads, fire pits, tables, water, showers, supplies. Surrounded by nature with forest, prairie, and lake. Trails, and even guided activities."
Rental equipment options: Equipment rentals expand family activity options. As Stuart K. advises, "Maybe you have a kayak or canoe, but in the case you don't, do yourself a favor and rent one from the good people at Geneseo Campground in which to explore the Hennepin Canal - trust me, you won't be disappointed."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV glamping near Keithsburg, Illinois, choosing the right site matters. At Woodside Campground, Stuart K. observes the campground "is definitely more geared for the RVs – especially the much larger ones, so if you have a very big rig, this likely is the best CG for you – with each site offering FHUs with electric, water & sewage, fire rings and picnic tables."
Leveling considerations: Site levelness varies significantly across campgrounds. At Camelot Campground, Mindy W. advises, "Sites are small however pull through sites are 2x as big, but they cost a little more." Other campers note that some campgrounds have "very deep ruts that needed to be leveled out."
Full hookup availability: While many sites offer electric, not all provide complete hookups. Mike B. at Geneseo Campground noted sites "could use some gravel" despite full hookups, suggesting preparation for various surface conditions. James M. adds that Woodside Campground features "RV pads are hard surface, have fire rings, water, electric, tables."
