J
Jack G.
Scout
ScoutThe Double J Campground and RV Park
Greta stop
Great stop for Route 66 we sorted it all online late at night. Lovely and quiet with amazing facilities that are worth the price
Camping near Petersburg, IL
45 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping near Petersburg, Illinois encompasses a mix of historic sites, state parks, and family-friendly campgrounds within the agricultural heartland of central Illinois. Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site Campground offers a unique combination of camping and historical immersion, with paved sites and full hookups just steps from a living history village depicting Abraham Lincoln's early adult years. Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area, located about 20 miles west of Petersburg, provides multiple camping options including the Primitive Campground and Family Campground areas. The surrounding countryside features gently rolling terrain with a blend of woodlands, lakes, and the agricultural landscape typical of central Illinois.
Most campgrounds in the Petersburg area are open from April through October, with some facilities like Lincoln's New Salem available year-round. Summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Heavy rainfall can create muddy conditions at some campgrounds, particularly those with gravel sites. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with stronger signals near Springfield and more limited coverage in rural areas. Reservations are recommended for weekend stays during peak summer months, especially at Lincoln's New Salem, which fills quickly during special events and historical reenactments.
The camping experience varies considerably between the different facilities near Petersburg. Lincoln's New Salem offers a more developed camping experience with paved sites, modern amenities, and proximity to historical attractions. As one visitor noted, "We loved this campground with its paved sites and roads. It's a great family campground with the historic village nearby." In contrast, Jim Edgar Panther Creek provides a more natural setting with both primitive and electric sites. According to reviews, "The quiet agricultural Illinois environment" is a highlight, though visitors should "shop for needs prior to leaving larger cities as most small towns are limited to a bar and dollar store." Fishing opportunities abound at several nearby lakes, and wildlife viewing is common throughout the area's public lands.
Best Campgrounds near Petersburg (45)
1. Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
"Like the quite agricultural Illinois environment but suggest shopping for your needs prior to leaving larger cities as most of the few small towns are limited to a Bar and Dollar store."
"From our cabin we walked grassy paths to a lovely bridge. Around the pond's perimeter are dispersed sites for tent-camping or possibly day-use."
from $6 / night
Check Availability2. Lincolns New Salem Historic Site Campground
"Not their fault but sites became a lake and couldn’t even step outside. Barely any AT&T service. Couldn’t use phone as hotspot at all."
"I love to walk through all the old buildings and learn about Lincoln's way of life. They even had horses and a bull out in the pastures!"
from $10 - $30 / night
Check Availability3. Illinois State Fair Campground
"Not too close to your neighbor. Take time to walk around the fairgrounds as they are pretty. The 4H building has a lovely garden out front."
"20 per night for a a pull behind RV on an electric/water site. $30 for a full hookup. Large clean bathrooms, dated but useable."
from $20 / night
Check Availability4. Lincoln's New Salem Park IL Historic Preservation Agency
"Nor did we know there were hiking trails! The hiking trails are located on the road up the hill directly across from where you turn off of the highway to drive up to the village."
5. The Double J Campground and RV Park
"We stayed here in order to visit Springfield, Illinois, and we really enjoyed this spot."
"The campground is next to a large corn field that has recently been cut; I suspect during the growing/harvest season there may be dust and noise from equipment, and perhaps overspray from any chemicals"
6. Jim Edgar Panther Creek - Family Campground
"Praire Lake Campground has 3 facilities on the lake. FAMILY camp for Rv, Tentand cabins. 1. 84 sites with Electric or 19 have FHU. 2."
7. Riverside Park
"All RV/ camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses. We had electricity and water hookups and a picnic table available."
"Lots of fun trails with great views! Most trails are accessible from the parking area. Good for pictures at sunrise and sunset!"
from $20 - $50 / night
8. Questing Hills Equestrian Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
"Trails are well marked and maintained over 26 miles of trails."
from $20 / night
Check Availability9. Crazy Horse Campground
"If you need a place to get away from city life but don't want to travel far away from town, you can't beat this place."
"Right outside of Jacksonville, Ashland, Virginia, and close enough to Springfield. We were there last weekend and will be there again at the end of the month. Happy Camping!"
10. Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest
"The trail is a mix of sand and soil. It’s quite an unexpected discovery in Illinois. We didn’t see anyone else on the trail but we saw cars parked so hikers were out there. "
"It’s a nice get away from the city. I haven’t stayed at any of the backpacking sites, but the main campground. It is located under a bunch of tall pines, and feels fairly open."
from $8 / night
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Drive Time
- 31 min from Springfield, IL
- 1 hr 4 min from Decatur, IL
- 1 hr 5 min from Bloomington, IL
- 1 hr 9 min from Peoria, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Petersburg, IL
23 Photos of 45 Petersburg Campgrounds
Hannah S.
Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
Richard R.
Illinois State Fair Campground
Adam F.
Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest
Joy H.
Horseman's Park — Sand Ridge State Forest
Grace D.
Springfield KOA
Darren D.
Waverly Lake City Park
Jamie C.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Colin H.
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
J K.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Terri W.
Hidden Ridge
Steve H.
Weldon Springs State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Petersburg, IL
200 Reviews of 45 Petersburg Campgrounds
- I
Irene M.
GuideLake Taylorville City Campground
In the middle of long-term campers
Challenge to find the assigned camping site, which turned out to be on a slope with a picnic table in the middle of it, which I was unable to move, so I took another spot that was somewhat flatter. There are only 12 overnight campsites at this campground which do have concrete slabs however they are all very slanted and the electric box is a ways away. In addition, the bathhouse is no where near these sites.
Cha M.ScoutSangchris Lake State Park Campground
Common smaller campground with great views
This is the bigger campground between hickory point and deer run options. The shower house, snack shop, and city water are onsite. There are vault toilets near the primitive camping, as well as another water spigot. Playground, pavillion, and sand volleyball court give options to entertain kids, with plenty of fishing, trails, and lake views to entertain the adults. We primitive camped here at the closest site to the parking. #57 is the closest, with the rest of the primitive sites being more of a trek to the site. However, the privacy, quietness, and views are 100% worth the trek to us. We did camp with a doggo, who does bark at passerby’s that are “too close” in her opinion but otherwise doesn’t. All the campers during our stay except for one very disruptive couple, did not complain at all and many came to give her loves or treats to help prevent further barking when they passed by. And honestly, the couple that did make the comment, clearly need to be at different campgrounds because the host had to come break them up after quiet hours began and they didn’t respect that rule. We also then were woken up by the same couple as they were packing up the next morning due to them yelling at each other. The hosts did try to make sure they slowed down while passing this site though, and I do believe if we had made some sort of complaint to them, they would have handled it immediately. We love this campground, and honestly we feel as if anywhere there are rvs allowed, you will likely have someone make a comment about the dog. It’s never been other tent campers, even the ones on electric sites. The snack shop has ice (currently $3 even a bag, with hosts including tax in the $3 to make it easier for campers), firewood bundles (not sure on price) as well as many smaller campground necessities including snacks and drinks, some fishing tackle, and some other camping things such as bug spray and sunblock. I did not check any prices on those. There is technically a bait shop also nearby, though between two longer stays here and at deer run, we’ve only seen him open once. And according to one of the hosts, he doesn’t seem to have “regular hours” other than he’s for sure closed Sundays and Mondays. The following Tuesday after learning this, he was also closed all day. So I’m not sure about anything there. He does also have an ice machine outside though.
- Cha M.Scout
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Small, quiet, state park camping
Couple camping here, spent multiple nights in a row in primitive camping here. As mentioned, only well water available on the campgrounds here, however you still have access to amenities available at hickory point just a short drive away. Shower house and city water available that way. Playground for kiddos on site. Lots of people bring pets, including equestrian for those campsite. Those do include the post to tie up on at each site. The hosts (bob and dawn were really checking in on us that stay, including being able to help when we accidentally killed our car battery. They also made thorough and consistent rounds which we appreciated. Also had Lynn, one of the idnr guys here, come back at the end of his shift to make sure we had learned about the storms coming in. He even checked in again the next chance he got to make sure we were okay still. We did end up leaving early, to which there is not refunds (I think this is state parks in general) however at $6 a night for primitive, we took that loss especially during an extreme heat warning (for multiple days). If you want a quieter campsite, I would recommend this one over hickory point as hickory point seems to be more RVers instead of the more primitive style of camping tends to be.
- IIndia J.
TravelerDeer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Great campground, private and quiet primitive sites!
We've stayed at Hickory Point before, but this was our first time at Deer Run. It has not disappointed! The primitive sites (there are 5 with no electric or water hookups) are off set in the back of the campground, providing privacy and quiet, which is what we were going for this time. The primitive sites without electric or water are $6 a night, and you can for pay up to 14 nights at a time. There are electric and water hook up sites for $8 a night, they just aren't as private but still lovely! The showers are at the Hickory Point campground (just a minute or two drive) and available for use with the Deer Run camp sites as well. There are well water spigots at Dee Run and Hickory Point, but the city water spigot is at Hickory Point only. It rained quite a bit our first two nights here, but there are so many trees covering the primitive sites you couldn't really feel it until it was thunder storming. We stayed nice and dry inside the tent. There are a LOT of sassy raccoons who will still your food - and the containers that never had food in them in fact- as well waking up to crows cawing every morning- may not be everyone's thing, but I sure enjoy that aspect. The hosts are fantastic and make rounds every 2-3 hours each day, anything we've needed they e been able to help with or point us in the direction to go next. Great campground to stay at, whether for a night or a week, no complaints here thus far!
Chris G.ScoutCamp A While
Quiet and small - great for overnight stop
Called last minute and owner was helpful and clear. Price was great and we got water & electric we needed. Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. We had a class C so was easy, but may be more challenging for a larger rig. Owner's dog was older, slow and very friendly. Opposite of our two small puppies :)
If looking for a quick overnight that allows you to rest for the next day this is a good option.
- GGary N.Scout
The Double J Campground and RV Park
Perfect campground, unless…
This campground was highly recommended to us by a few friends who have been there before, which speaks volumes to begin with. It is just off of interstate 55, which means there is constant road noise. However, we found ourselves acclimated to it fairly quickly, most likely BECAUSE it’s constant. Other than that, the campground is very quiet and peaceful, especially considering the number of campers we saw come and go and that were there at any given time. One advantage of being so close to the interstate is that it is very handy for travelers passing through needing a place to crash for a night or two. In fact, we saw a lot of that during our stay. There is a general store on site and it is within easy driving distance from Chatham and Springfield in case you need something. Of course Springfield is also a great place to sight see. The owners and staff are very friendly and accommodating. The grounds and facilities are clean and well maintained. There is a pool, miniature golf, pedal carts and some other games to keep you entertained, especially if you have children. The sites are fairly close to one another. Not sardines close, but close enough. To be very clear, this is a GREAT place if you don’t mind the “closeness” of the community-type environment. However, it just isn’t for us and, for that reason alone, we probably won’t be back unless we’re just passing through.
Tobin B.GuideWaverly Lake City Park
Little Cabin Anywhere
Very quiet, clean, nice place. Easy to get to. Clean porta pots. Can stay up to 4 days. Picnic tables. Place for fire. Free camping. First come first serve.
- SSebastian D.Guide
Springfield KOA
Favorite KOA so far
This was the first out of two campground of america/KOAs I visited on my roadtrip. It's nice, has all the amenities of a campground of america. I purchased wood, there is a shower and laundry. The tent site is down a little gravel path, and near the woods. It's my favorite campground of america so far, mostly since it's far enough from the highway so you arent disturbed by freeway noise at night. Temp at night in april 2026 felt like high 40Fs
Guide to Petersburg
Camping sites near Petersburg, Illinois occupy the agricultural heartland where summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity levels. The region's topography consists of mixed woodlands, grasslands, and small lake systems across gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 500-650 feet. Winter camping options remain available at select locations with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing between November and March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area provides multiple fishing lakes. "Hiking trails, kayaking and fishing are available" at the Primitive Campground, according to Amanda C., who notes the area has "a shelter, picnic table, and fire pit that you can cook on."
Historical immersion: Visit the reconstructed village depicting frontier life near Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site Campground. "All the kids were feeding one of the horses handfuls of grass over the fence. And I love that everyone is in period clothing for events," writes Leah H. about the Lincoln's New Salem Park.
Hiking exploration: Sand Ridge State Forest offers unique terrain with sandy trails and unexpected vegetation. "It touches on all the various ecosystems that are found here. It was a great hike and not that difficult at all," notes a reviewer at Pine Campground, who adds you can find "prickly pear as you roam the natural area."
What campers like
Spacious primitive sites: The primitive camping area at Jim Edgar Panther Creek provides seclusion and basic amenities. "There are 7 sites well spaced with a picnic table, fire ring, trash can and three sided shelter in each site. Pit toilets are in the middle," reports Amanda C., who adds the sites are "along the tree line with plenty of shade."
Clean facilities: The Family Campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers modern amenities. According to Steve H., the campground features "Clean bathrooms with showers. Choice of full hookup or just electric on outer perimeters of each loop."
Affordability: State-operated camping areas provide budget-friendly options. One camper noted of the primitive sites, "Just $6 a night" with "Very friendly and helpful campground host" who "drove over from the RV campground to register us and even offered to take our stuff to our site."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring storms can create challenging conditions. A visitor to Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site reported, "Not their fault but sites became a lake and couldn't even step outside" after heavy rain.
Cell service limitations: Limited connectivity affects many campgrounds in the region. "Barely any AT&T service. Couldn't use phone as hotspot at all," notes a camper at Lincoln's New Salem.
Rural isolation: Petersburg's rural location means limited access to supplies. According to one camper, you should "shop for needs prior to leaving larger cities as most small towns are limited" in shopping options.
Wind exposure: Several campsites in the area experience significant wind, particularly at newer campgrounds with limited tree growth. A visitor described one campground as "always super windy too" and another mentioned it "can be pretty windy" with "sites that are right on the lake."
Tips for camping with families
Educational value: The historical sites provide learning opportunities for children. "It's quite charming like a step back in time. There is also a little diner/ice cream shop for lunch or a snack. And plays in the outdoor amphitheater in the evenings," writes a visitor to Lincoln's New Salem.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds maintain a particularly family-friendly atmosphere. Brandy C. notes that the Primitive Campground "seemed well laid out and was affordable. It also felt like a safe environment for the family."
Recreation options: Family-oriented campgrounds offer various activities. At Crazy Horse Campground, you'll find "Catch and release fishing, small beach area with volleyball" and weekend events, as Sarah S. reports.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Consider site positioning when booking. Jennifer K. describes her experience at Prairie Lake Campground: "Our spot, #78 sat under a tree with great shade" and notes that "Site has electricity with water centrally located in the center of the loop."
Hookup details: Full-service options vary by campground. At the Double J Campground and RV Park, Kelsie L. explains you'll find "Full site hookups 30/50 amp, water, sewer, cable and WiFi," though notes the "WiFi is about the speed of dial up."
Seasonal considerations: Some RVers note the lack of shade at newer campgrounds impacts summer comfort. At one site, a reviewer commented, "With limited shade it would be hot as blazes in mid summer," suggesting spring and fall visits might be preferable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Petersburg, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Petersburg, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Petersburg, IL is Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area with a 4.4-star rating from 21 reviews.
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