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Metropolis, Illinois provides access to several campgrounds that accommodate a range of camping styles throughout the region. Fort Massac State Park Campground offers developed sites along the Ohio River with electric hookups, shower facilities, and spacious sites suitable for both tent and RV camping. Nearby, Lake Glendale Recreation Area provides dispersed camping opportunities approximately 30 miles northeast of Metropolis. The area includes established campgrounds with modern amenities alongside more primitive options, with most facilities offering picnic tables, fire rings, and basic facilities for overnight stays.
Advance reservations are recommended for many of the established campgrounds in the region, especially during summer months and holiday weekends. Fort Massac State Park typically requires reservations at least three days in advance through their online system, though same-day arrivals may find available sites with assistance from camp hosts. Roads throughout the camping areas are generally well-maintained with paved access to most developed sites, while some areas can become muddy during rainy periods. Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, though services may be limited during winter months. "Beware that signage is poor and we had trouble finding the correct entrance, it is NOT the entrance by the fort and visitor center," noted one visitor regarding Fort Massac State Park.
Campers consistently mention the Ohio River views as a highlight of camping at Fort Massac State Park, with several reviews noting the scenic sunrises and sunsets over the river. The sites are described as spacious and mostly shaded, providing comfortable accommodations even during hot weather. While highway noise affects some nearby campgrounds like Fern Lake in Paducah, Kentucky, Fort Massac maintains a quieter atmosphere despite its proximity to town. A review mentioned that the park offers "surprisingly quiet surroundings, well maintained spacious campgrounds for tent and RV," along with hiking trails and historical attractions. Bathroom facilities at several area campgrounds have been recently renovated, with Fort Massac featuring private bathroom/shower combinations that receive positive mentions from visitors.
"Located on the edge of Paducah, Kentucky this is the perfect place to stay if you are going to the quilt shows or visiting the National Quilt Museum."
"This is a convenient and pleasant campground, just off exit 3 on I24 in Paducah. The staff was friendly and walked us to our site and showed us the hookups."
from $45 - $65 / night
Check Availability"We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go."
"Super friendly camp host, conveniently located off the interstate and feels pretty secure and tranquil. I will say some of the gravel was washed out which is surprising given how dry it’s been."
from $40 / night
Check Availability"Nice little park on the side of a small town in metropolis, Illinois"
"It is easy access from the highway and a nice quiet spot for the night. There is a new bath house with nice, private bathrooms/shower combinations."
"Our favorite in all of Illinois!!"
"Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many that back right up to Lake Glendale."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability"Lake Glendale is a true southern Illinois gem. They have recently improved the shower houses, the kids love the playground, and there is SO much shade!"
"Ill Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods and Trail of Tears segments on ATT cell service was spotty but I drove to Dixon Springs SP where there was a cell tower."
from $12 - $44 / night
Check Availability"However, by Saturday morning (Easter weekend) all but 5 sites had cleared out and we had the place nearly to ourselves for the rest of the stay. "
"Loved all the hikes within walking distance, a bit of a drive in but fun to explore"
from $15 / night
Check Availability"We were a bit nervous about this campground when reading reviews and seeing the location (there is an Impact Incarceration Program that shares the border), but I'm glad we found it."
"There was a couple nice playgrounds for the kids to play on and plenty to walk around and see."
"Lots to do nearby if you don't like fishing! Ranger came through and was very friendly & helpful."
from $30 - $90 / night
Check Availability"The one downside to this place was that it was pretty close to the road, so I felt like we could hear all the traffic. The campsites are a little small as well, but we didn't mind."
GuideSite 44 sits under a beautiful tree with shade most of the day. The bathrooms are clean as are the insides of the washers and dryers. There is only 1 other camper here yet cars and golf carts are often driving through the campground. A bit unsettling.
ScoutThere are only a few open sites here. The majority are year round campers. You can’t see the lake from most of the campground. Staff was very nice and helpful
ScoutVery level, gravel pull thru spots. Guided to site.
ScoutGood camping for a night or two. When it’s crowded it does get a little loud. Shower house works as it should. 3 bathroom houses throughout the tent camping section.
GuidePristine campsites with steamy hot showers! What more could you want?! One bar with mint mobile but starlink works no problem! No sewer hook up at all sites but no matter! There’s a dump site! The lake is beautiful and quiet with a swimming area! Definitely a must stay!
TravelerStayed at Taylor Bay on a trip up to see the Elk & Bison Prairie (very close, perfect for going during their peak activity time). I usually prefer to camp at a site with a water spigot, so it was a change not having one. Pack in plenty of water for drinking and rinsing plates. Can't bring in any wood from outside Land Between Lakes, but you're able to use anything dead or downed around the area. I drove through a couple nearby campsites and picked up some dead wood off the side of the road and we were plenty set. Standard racoon business, they're there and they want your stuff. Drive-in sites were helpful for storing food in the car overnight, but I'd recommend a bear bag contraption of sorts to avoid racoons getting in your trash. Ticks were a bit present, but that's mostly the season and this particular year's high. One bathroom situated in the center of the site, no light inside so bring a flashlight! Lots of TP inside which was appreciated. For tent campers, I recommend staying back in the shadier campsites away from the lake. Most of the sunnier, lake-front sites were already claimed by RVs, but the back sites were more private for chatting/changing in a tent or staying up late without the sound insulation of RV walls. Great lake with a soft silt bottom (and lots of rocks to stand on if you hate that), friendly fellow campers. My friends had never camped before and had a fantastic time. I'd stay again-- just bring more water!
GuideThe views!!! Loved it. Lots to do in the area. Recommend Giant City! Grounds were well maintained. There was a giant snake behind our site. And goose poop everywhere. But we are camping in THEIR homes.
GuideGot down here. If you’re on a Harley, don’t do that. Besides that it’s super secluded and right on the water. Not too many bugs.
ScoutDuncan Lake is a small inland Lake located in the Kentucky portion of LBL. The campsite area is located at the end then up around the corner of the first of two access roads to the lake. There is a small boat ramp not far from the site. It is close enough to carry kayaks back and forth. The lake is small and shallow except near the outlet. Great for paddling around and doing some fishing. We have seen bald eagles both times we camped. There is also a beaver community on the lake, they might give you a tail slap on the water if you get to close.
There are enough level spots to accommodate 3 or 4 tents. There is a stone fire ring and that is abut it.
It is a popular bird watching area and both times we camped there were people that used the lake each time. The boat ramp is just far enough away from the camp site that it really didn't affect us at all. If there is a breeze it sounds really nice as it blows through the tall pines.
We generally bring our bikes and do a loop from the camp to the Nature centre and back.
The Lake is closed from Nov. 1 through March 15 to protect wintering waterfowl. no camping or access at all.
There is no cell service but there is a clear view for a starlink setup.
Camping opportunities near Metropolis, Illinois cluster along the Ohio River and extend into the nearby Shawnee National Forest region. The area sits at elevations between 300-400 feet above sea level, with terrain characterized by rolling hills transitioning to the river valley. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
Swimming at natural pools: Lake Glendale Recreation Area features a swimming beach and clear waters perfect for cooling off in summer. "The hiking and swimming area is very interesting... There is a spring/large swimming hole, with a few places to jump off of, but check with the locals to make sure the water is deep enough," notes a visitor to Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs.
Fishing in stocked waters: Multiple ponds and lakes throughout the region offer fishing opportunities. Shawnee Forest Campground provides "a small lake and two ponds for fishing" according to a reviewer, while West Kentucky WMA offers a "field with a small pond" for more secluded fishing.
Hiking forested trails: A network of trails winds through the region, particularly in the Shawnee Forest. A camper at Lake Glendale Recreation Area remarked, "Trail around lake just beautiful... An easy 3 mile hike around the lake," highlighting the accessible nature trails.
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots with natural separation. A camper at Oak Point - Lake Glendale noted, "This campground is an absolute gem... Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many that back right up to Lake Glendale."
Clean bathroom facilities: Newer and well-maintained facilities enhance the camping experience. One reviewer of Fern Lake Campground mentioned, "The bathroom was super clean and the shower had great pressure and instant hot water," highlighting comfortable amenities despite the campground's rustic setting.
Accessible lake views: Sites overlooking water features consistently rank among campers' favorites. A visitor to Dixon Springs State Park observed, "Beautiful campground with plenty of room between sites. Most are shaded with rings or fire pits. Great family friendly place."
Seasonal weather considerations: The region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters with occasional ice or snow. During summer, many campers recommend water activities. "We'd seen signs for Shawnee Forest Campground many times as we headed out and back from our St. Louis home base... The water pressure was good around 50 psi," reported one visitor.
Reservation requirements vary: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate on a first-come basis. For Fort Massac State Park Campground, "There is an on-line reservation system, but you have to make reservations 3 days in advance. We just showed up and the camp host helped us find a site."
Wildlife precautions: Ticks and poison ivy are common in the region, especially during warmer months. A camper at Lake Glendale Recreation Area warned, "LOTS of poison ivy and ticks. Luckily, we expected this and came prepared with tweezers, tick remover, insect repellant, and poison ivy wipes."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. A reviewer at Dixon Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "We have a smaller travel trailer and it fit just fine, but the sites are on the smaller side. There were plenty of trees for hanging out hammocks, and lots of grassy areas for the kids to run around."
Swimming options: Public beaches and swimming holes provide relief from summer heat. According to one camper, "We hiked the trail and it took us about 2 hours total. They were very well maintained. The bathrooms were out toilets, but they were immaculately cleaned!"
Educational opportunities: Historical sites and nature centers offer learning experiences. A camper observed, "There are several historical sites in area. Illinois Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods, and segments of the Trail of Tears," providing context for family activities beyond camping.
Site dimensions and leveling: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. A visitor to Shawnee Forest Campground noted, "The sites are spacious and have picnic tables and fire rings. Full hookups is a plus. Super convenient to 24 but not too close that it is loud. The sites are loose gravel and not level front to back, so you need to unhook."
Hookup availability: Electric service is common, but water and sewer connections vary by campground. One RVer shared, "We chose site 21. The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21. The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice."
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds vary in quality and width. A visitor cautioned, "We'd know where to ask for a site. They have a small lake and two ponds for fishing. There's no formal dog area, but there are paved trails around the large CG area, which made it nice to walk our dogs."
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to camp near Metropolis, Illinois?
Camping costs near Metropolis vary by location and amenities. At Little Grassy Lake Campground, a cozier alternative to Giant City State Park, you'll find reasonable rates for sites with electric and water hookups. For a more rustic experience, Oak Point - Lake Glendale offers sites with water and electric hookups at standard Illinois state park rates. Most public campgrounds in the region (including those in Shawnee National Forest) typically range from $10-20 for primitive sites and $20-35 for sites with hookups. Many facilities charge additional fees for entrance or vehicle passes. Some dispersed camping areas in Shawnee National Forest may offer free or low-cost camping options with fewer amenities.
What activities can you do while camping in Metropolis, Illinois?
The Metropolis area offers diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. At Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, you can explore spectacular rock formations and hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Shawnee National Forest. Rock climbing enthusiasts should visit Jackson Falls, which offers some of southern Illinois' best climbing with about 60 climbing areas along sandstone bluffs. Water activities abound in the region - enjoy swimming at Lake Glendale's beach, boating and fishing at various lakes and rivers, or exploring Land Between the Lakes. Metropolis itself features the Superman Museum and Casino, while nearby Shawnee National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The region's varied terrain makes it perfect for outdoor adventures year-round.
Where are the best campgrounds near Metropolis, Illinois?
Fort Massac State Park Campground is one of the closest options, located in Metropolis itself. This nice little park offers a convenient base for exploring the area. For those willing to venture a bit further, the Shawnee National Forest area provides excellent camping options like Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park, which features shaded sites on limestone bluffs with amenities like electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Other notable options within driving distance include Dixon Springs State Park Campground and several campgrounds in the Land Between the Lakes area just across the Kentucky border.
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