Camping options near Maryville, Illinois offer varied terrain across elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet above sea level, with the Mississippi River floodplain influencing local camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping provides milder weather between 50-75°F. Seasonal thunderstorms frequently occur between May and September, requiring adequate rain protection for tent campers.
What to do
Water activities on Carlyle Lake: At Coles Creek Recreation Area, campers access 26,000 acres of water surface for boating, swimming and fishing. "Great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," notes one visitor. The campground features a dedicated beach area for swimmers.
Hiking the Illinois bluffs: Pere Marquette State Park Campground offers trails with significant elevation changes uncommon in this region. "This park has great hiking for Illinois. The campground has 88 sites total 1-85 are either 30 amp or 50 amp electric sites," explains one reviewer. The park's scenic drive along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers adds another activity option.
Wildlife viewing: Horseshoe Lake State Park provides opportunities to observe migrating birds and local wildlife. "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru, I really hope to be back here some day!" shares one camper. The park's proximity to St. Louis makes it accessible for weekend trips while still offering natural surroundings.
What campers like
Affordability: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its value. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," writes one camper. Another adds, "Good fishing, trails and memories waiting to be made. 8$ a night."
Security and maintenance: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park maintains 24-hour security and clean facilities. "Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation," mentions one reviewer. Another notes, "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees."
Privacy levels: Different campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. At St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA, one camper observed, "When you first pull down the road you'll be worried you're going to end up in the train yard, but the campground is hidden and actually really quiet and secluded." Horseshoe Lake offers "very private and clean" sites according to one 5-star review.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. At Granite City KOA, "a train honked early in the morning," notes one camper. Another mentions, "Pretty nice campground, but is near a racetrack. Loud engine noises can be heard past 10pm."
Seasonal closures and flooding: Water levels impact campground availability. "This park cannot be accessed because of flooding" at certain times, warns a visitor about Eldon Hazlet. During winter months, facilities may be limited as noted at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground: "The campground is open year-round but the bathhouse with flush toilets closes November 1 and doesn't open until the spring."
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds report inconsistent water quality. One camper at Eldon Hazlet noted: "Only complaint that I have was the potable water supply. I filled by trailer's tank at the drinking water supply when you enter the campground. It was extremely dirty with a lot of copper colored solids."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Seasonal activities make fall camping particularly appealing for families with children. At Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, "The campground hosts are sprinkled throughout the grounds and are always friendly and accommodating. They have a huge Halloween event every year where people decorate their sites (pretty extensively) and there's a haunted house, then kids trick or treat from site to site."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, one visitor mentioned, "The grounds are clean and pleasant...There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground." Eldon Hazlet offers "three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months."
Rental options for yurt camping: Families seeking yurt camping near Maryville, Illinois can find options at St. Louis West Historic Route 66 KOA. The campground includes "a heated pool, bike rentals, basketball courts, a country store for firewood, supplies, and gift shop," according to one visitor who adds, "Great campsite that is pet friendly and very family friendly!"
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds have limited dumping facilities. At Coles Creek, one RVer noted, "The only thing I would change is the ONE dump station for this massive campground." Plan accordingly during busy weekends.
Leveling requirements: Site topography varies significantly between campgrounds. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, sites are described as "gravel to park on with grass around it," while at Scott AFB FamCamp, "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun."
Full hookup reservations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with complete services. At Coles Creek Recreation Area, one RVer advises: "If you are needing a full hookup site, make sure you book early!" The combination of waterfront locations and complete hookups makes these premium sites particularly desirable for RV camping near Maryville.
