Camping options near Collinsville, Illinois extend beyond basic campgrounds into specialized experiences with unique amenities. The area features flat terrain with elevations ranging from 400-450 feet above sea level, creating accessible camping conditions year-round. Winter camping opportunities exist at several facilities that remain operational during colder months, with temperatures typically ranging from 25-45°F between November and February.
What to do
Explore historic St. Charles: Located about 35 miles from Collinsville, Sundermeier RV Park offers direct access to the Katy Trail. "You can literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles. Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants," notes Cheryl K.
Water recreation: The 370 Lakeside Park in St. Peters provides multiple water-based activities within 40 miles of Collinsville. A camper shared, "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish."
Family activities: MGM Campground in Granite City (15 miles from Collinsville) features a small lake for recreation. One review mentions, "Nice little lake (catch and release I believe). Surrounded by nature, lots of grass and trees, great for dog owners. Spacious spots."
What campers like
Affordability: Multiple campgrounds near Collinsville offer budget-friendly options. One camper at Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground noted, "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."
Proximity to St. Louis: Cahokia RV Parque provides convenient access to St. Louis attractions. As one camper stated, "This is a centrally located campground in the Metro St. Louis area. It's close to interstates and it's a short drive across the river to Missouri attractions. Getting in after a long drive and seeing the on-site BBQ restaurant was a huge positive."
Security features: Several campgrounds prioritize safety measures. At Casino Queen RV Park, a reviewer explained: "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch. Centrally located and across the bridge from downtown."
What you should know
Urban camping realities: The Casino Queen RV Park in East St. Louis provides city amenities with urban challenges. One reviewer reported, "$70 per night, plus $20 pet fee and $5 reservation fee. Stayed two nights passing through to visit Gateway Arch National Park. Casino is pretty old looking on the outside. Park is not staffed, you get a gate code in your email to access the park. Spots are concrete and gravel, very urban camping."
Transportation noise: Train tracks near several campgrounds create noise disturbances. A camper at Casino Queen RV Park observed, "There are trains every 15-30 minutes all day long. Casino has a metro stop that takes you into St Louis over the river."
Winter availability: While some campgrounds close seasonally, options remain available for winter camping. A visitor to MGM Campground noted they "pay $550 a month including utilities," indicating long-term stays are possible at certain facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers recreational facilities for children. "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," wrote one family camper. The park includes a small playground and seasonal activities.
Budget-friendly activities: Several parks offer low-cost recreation options. A reviewer at 370 Lakeside Park shared, "We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving then they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!"
Weather preparation: The region experiences variable weather conditions. A visitor to 370 Lakeside Park reported, "There was some rough springtime weather expected one day. A park ranger went around to every site and notified every camper of where the shelters were and gave out a flyer about the specific weather forecast!"
Tips from RVers
Utility setup challenges: At Casino Queen RV Park, one RVer noted, "Utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper."
Military options: Scott AFB FamCamp provides dedicated facilities for military personnel about 20 miles from Collinsville. "This campground is clean and convenient to the St Louis area. The Outdoor Recreation unit is very responsive to needs of campers. The nearby lake is scenic and peaceful," shares a military camper.
Leveling considerations: Some sites require additional equipment. A reviewer at Scott AFB FamCamp mentioned, "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun."
