Camping options around Lexington, Illinois occupy flat to gently rolling terrain with elevations averaging 750 feet above sea level. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures typically ranging from 75°F to 90°F and moderate precipitation of 3-4 inches monthly during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in this region sit along waterways or near conservation areas, providing access to the Illinois River watershed and associated wetland habitats.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Woodford State Conservation Area, visitors can access prime fishing spots along the series of levees surrounding the campground. "Plenty of parking. Friendly caretakers. Has a fish cleaning station to gut & clean your catch," notes one camper, highlighting the practical amenities for anglers.
Kayaking excursions: Water enthusiasts can paddle the Illinois River with rental equipment from local outfitters. "We took advantage of that for some steaks. Yum. One of the best attributes of this campground is its natural beauty. It's right on the river and most all of the campsites are either river front or river view," shares a visitor about the river access.
Trail exploration: The Rock Island Trail State Park offers walk-in tent sites with access to hiking paths. The primitive setups require campers to carry in their supplies but reward with quieter surroundings. Trail surfaces are primarily gravel with some dirt sections, and paths are wide with mowed areas extending at least two feet on either side.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the landscape diversity near Lexington. A visitor at Kayak Starved Rock Campground noted, "We had an enjoyable weekend here relaxing and getting away from the city. Our campsite was wonderful and was on a point on the river that has a 180 degree view of the river."
Wildlife viewing: The conservation areas provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers. A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk," shares a visitor at Buffalo Rock State Park Campground.
Campfire cooking: Fire rings with cooking grates are available at many sites. "There is a picnic table and fire pit at the site and although the site was narrow the site was pretty deep so we could've put up multiple tents easily. We enjoyed cooking onsite with our Coleman stove but there is also a grill grate that folds over the fire pit as well," reports a camper.
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas can become waterlogged after storms. A Woodford visitor warns, "It floods out when it storms. Alot of gnats. Entry road needs repairs," indicating campers should check weather forecasts before booking during rainy seasons.
Site spacing: At some campgrounds, proximity to other campers may impact privacy. "The biggest thing we disliked about this place is how close the campsites are to one another. With a tent at every site, you're almost right on top of the next site, enough to clearly hear the person snoring two tents over," notes a camper.
Portable toilets: Kayak Starved Rock Campground maintains clean facilities despite being primitive. "We found our site which was close to the Porta potties. The Porta potties were shockingly clean! The potties also have motion sensor lights in them for at night visits. They also have wipes, spray underarm deodorant, hand sanitizer and automatic air freshener."
Tips for camping with families
Scout activities: The Starved Rock State Park Youth Campground provides dedicated space for organized groups. "If you are here with your girl/boy scout troop, church group or youth connection team, then you've just discovered a super amazing spot to lay down some tents and get busy with connecting with nature in a primitive camping experience that won't soon be forgotten."
Playground access: Some locations offer recreational facilities for children. At Hickory Hill Campground, families will find "an in-ground pool opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day, basketball court, mini golf, shuffleboard, pool table, ping pong and various soda and snack vending machines and games in the recreation center."
Easy access sites: For families with smaller children, consider locations with drive-up convenience. "We called in the afternoon and got a full hook up, pull through spot. Lots of nice amenities for families," reports one visitor at Hickory Hill Campground, noting the ease of setup with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most areas near Lexington have minimal elevation changes but may require minor adjustments. "Gravel sites but mostly level," notes a visitor to Hickory Hill Campground, suggesting basic leveling blocks may be sufficient.
Seasonal residency: Some campgrounds have a mix of transient and permanent campers. "This seems to be more of a full time camping location. Lots of buildings and I was offered a lot for sale. Golf carts seem to be the most common mode of travel as there are plentiful," shares one RVer about the community atmosphere.
On-site amenities: RVers appreciate the convenience of facilities like laundry and provisions. "The amount of amenities at Hickory Hills is a pretty long list that includes... fully-stocked general store, which also serves as the main office where you will check-in upon arrival, offering up firewood, snacks, water, ice and other sundries. There's also a coin laundry and bottle propane station."
