Campgrounds near Modoc, Illinois sit at an elevation between 400-600 feet in the Mississippi River floodplain, with the area experiencing hot, humid summers and mild winters. Several campgrounds offer elevated sites on limestone bluffs with unique perspectives of the river below. Camping facilities range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV locations with concrete pads.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Washington State Park Campground, visitors can explore hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. "The 1000 step trail... should not be any problem for you if you are used to hiking," notes Scott M., who visited with a Cub Scout Pack. The park also offers prehistoric petroglyphs that are "a must see," according to Phil W.
Swimming and beach access: St. Joe State Park provides two swimming areas during warmer months. "Two clean and well kept swimming areas, great trails, good camp sites, and great bathrooms/showers!" reports Olivia S. The park combines water recreation with extensive trail systems for a varied outdoor experience.
Fall foliage viewing: October and November offer exceptional autumn colors at Fort Kaskaskia State Park Campground. "Stayed here last fall and really loved the fall colors and views this park has to offer," writes Gonzo A., who recommends visiting "when the leaves are changing as it was absolutely gorgeous."
What campers like
Privacy at select campgrounds: Hawn State Park Campground offers more seclusion than many regional options. "Small park as far as the amount of campsites, but this makes it peaceful and secluded," reports Jenny H. The park's smaller size contributes to a quieter camping experience, though some sites have limited privacy with Tamsyn K. noting, "We could hear people in the tents nearby when they sneezed at night."
Fishing opportunities: Kaskaskia River Lock and Dam Recreation Area provides productive fishing spots. "This place is really good for fishing. Good catfish and crappie bass sauger etc.," writes Chrissy W. The concrete pads at campsites position anglers near prime fishing locations along the river.
Trailside camping: Several campgrounds feature sites with direct trail access. At St. Joe State Park, "there was a trail located right by our spot at CG#2, it's a good hike!!" according to Olivia S. This convenience allows campers to begin hiking without driving to trailheads.
What you should know
Campsite location considerations: At Randolph County State Recreation Area, site selection matters for comfort and convenience. "The best sites are first come first serve other half are reservable. 50amp water fill available with frost free. And dump station at front. $18 a night. Tight spots and harsh back up angles," advises Matthew H.
Seasonal facility limitations: Many campgrounds reduce services during winter months. Helena and Kyle R. report about Fort Kaskaskia: "Pit toilets could have been cleaner, but fine. Didn't find showers mentioned in another review," indicating varying amenity availability through the seasons.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience periodic noise issues. St. Francois State Park Campground is "loud on the weekends especially if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip," according to Cody S., making weekday camping preferable for those seeking quiet.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Perryville RV Resort offers family-friendly facilities including "a giant trampoline" that "looked like it would be my daughter's favorite thing," according to Jamey W. The resort also features a swimming pool "better than most hotels" for children during hot summer months.
Fishing with kids: Multiple lakes at Randolph County State Recreation Area provide varied fishing environments. "Great Lake to fish and plenty of trails to hike," notes Michael G., with the 65-acre lake offering bank access suitable for young anglers.
Child-friendly campsites: Hawn State Park accommodates families well with "many different camp options with different prices and amenities," according to Shirlee A., who adds it's "really comfortable with kids" and offers a "clean shower and laundry room too."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Hawn State Park Campground requires careful site selection for RVs. Gonzo A. recommends: "I had a site in the 2nd campground in the middle where there's a break in the trees. I was able to use Starlink." This location provides both satellite reception and adequate space.
Access considerations: When visiting Fort Kaskaskia State Park Campground, Barbara P. notes it offers "large level sites with electric. Water available mid campground and at dump station." The campground includes "2 large handicapped sites with concrete pads" providing accessibility for those with mobility needs.
Dump station logistics: At Randolph County State Recreation Area, RVers should plan their arrival carefully. As J K. advises, "Make sure you fill up at the dump station before you get to the campground because there's no easy way to turn around if you miss it," with the dump station located approximately a mile before the campground entrance.
