Camping options around Mackinaw, Illinois center on the Illinois River watershed, where elevations range from 450-700 feet and summer temperatures average 80-85°F. Most campgrounds in this area are seasonal, typically operating from April through October, with closures during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Water access sites often have specific regulations regarding shoreline use.
What to Do
Fishing from shore or dock: At Millpoint Park, anglers can catch multiple species without requiring a boat. "We were able to do some fishing and kayaking. We caught some bluegill, buffalo, and large mouth bass," reports Marie B., who appreciated the waterfront access.
Wildlife observation trails: The boardwalk trail at Carl Spindler Campground offers unique wetland viewing. "We enjoyed the short nature trail that leaves directly from the area. The trail starts off as a boardwalk over an interesting marsh area and then transitions to a primitive trail eventually leading you to the lake shoreline," explains Nancy W.
Local attractions: Visitors staying at Kamp Komfort can easily access Bloomington attractions. "Should you need anything, I would encourage you to explore nearby El Paso, which has some nice surprises awaiting you, such as Ruth's Garden Tea Room or coffee at Java Café," suggests a camper familiar with the area.
What Campers Like
Spacious waterfront sites: Comlara County Park offers generous waterfront camping areas. "Our site was huge. Right by jones pond," notes Melissa B. The park's layout allows for better spacing between campsites than many commercial campgrounds.
Boat access: Carl Spindler Campground provides direct river access. "If you're a boater, this is a great place for you as this is a marina!" explains Lee D., highlighting the practical water access that many campers prioritize.
Clean facilities: Love's RV Stop maintains high standards for their bathhouses. "The grounds are nice... Concrete pad is very large, depending on your rig, you could probably fit 3 or 4 cars at the site, to give you an idea of the size," reports Ryan L., noting the practical advantages of their newly designed sites.
What You Should Know
Water quality issues: Across several rv sites near Mackinaw, Illinois, water quality can be inconsistent. "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird," notes Melissa C. about Millpoint Park, suggesting campers bring drinking water.
Highway noise factors: Many campgrounds in the area have proximity to highways. "Kamp Komfort is literally RIGHT NEXT to the major highway 74 running through these parts connecting Peoria to Bloomington," explains a reviewer, highlighting the trade-off between convenience and noise.
Limited shade at newer facilities: Sankoty Lakes lacks mature trees. "Since the grounds are newly setup, the trees are newly planted, so no shade yet. I imagine this will be a place we're more likely to stay at during early spring or fall, because of the lack of shade," notes Ryan L.
Reservation challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing systems. "Then, you have to go onto your phone, to a site nowhere mentioned by loves until you get to the site, and are blocking traffic while trying to figure all this out because yes, there is a coded gate to get in and out," explains Brandon S. about the Love's RV Stop check-in process.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground options: Hickory Hill Campground offers multiple family amenities. "The amount of amenities at Hickory Hills is a pretty long list that includes an in-ground pool opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day, basketball court, mini golf, shuffleboard, pool table, ping pong," notes Stuart K.
Protected swimming areas: Comlara County Park has designated swimming zones separate from boat traffic. "Large lots are nice... Good rates but the kicker is the $20.00 fee per boat/kayak to get on the lake plus the fee for the swimming area was a bit much for us," cautions Marcie J., highlighting the additional costs families should budget for.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly riding areas. "Sort of small, which made it easy for kids to ride around on bikes, and for us to walk to the playground," mentions Ryan L. about Kamp Komfort's layout.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many RV sites near Mackinaw require adjustment. "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts. Site is very large however. Does have nice shade," advises Kathie M. about Comlara County Park, providing practical information for larger rigs.
Gate access codes: Love's RV Stop requires digital check-in. "The convenient app-managed reservation system is seamless and provides for an incredibly simple, remote check-in and payment process," explains Stuart K., noting this security feature that affects arrival timing.
Power cord length: Some sites have unusual electrical layouts. "In the overflow 'unpaved' section there is 1 station of power for 4 campers. So you definitely need a LONG power cord," warns Kaitlin D. about Carl Spindler Campground, suggesting RVers pack extension cords.
