Camping near Monticello, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone.
What to do
- Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at places like Comlara County Park, where you can catch bass, walleye, and more. One reviewer mentioned, “There are simply tons of little nooks and crannies all around the lake to get some decent fishing in.”
- Hiking: Trails abound in the area, especially at Kickapoo State Recreation Area. A visitor noted, “Great hiking trails clean shower and bath houses.”
- Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim at Moraine View State Recreational Area, where the beach is open during the summer. One camper shared, “The swimming beach is apparently only open on the weekends but there are plenty of places to get in the water.”
What campers like
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower houses. A review for Sangchris Lake State Park Campground stated, “There are restrooms and a shower house that are clean.”
- Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots for tents and RVs. A visitor at Coon Creek mentioned, “We had a full hookup site that was pull through. Our area was nice and flat and large, which was great for our kids to run and play.”
- Friendly staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of campground hosts. One camper at Spring Creek Campground said, “Bob showed up as I pulled in and made sure I was all set for the night.”
What you should know
- Privacy concerns: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A review for Comlara County Park noted, “They are spaced a little too close for comfort for my taste.”
- Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Moraine View State Recreational Area mentioned, “Facilities could be a little cleaner but not bad, the water is TERRIBLE and looks like coffee or tea.”
- Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for raccoons and other wildlife. One camper at Weldon Springs State Park had to leave due to raccoons causing trouble, stating, “The couple a few sites down had their tent destroyed.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. A review for Clinton Lake State Recreation Area highlighted, “Our site was adjacent to numerous paths that easily led to the beach, playground, the rocky path for fishing, and a secluded swimming hole.”
- Plan for meals: Bring your own food or check for nearby dining options. One camper at Coon Creek mentioned, “You could buy ice, filtered water, beer, groceries, bait, firewood, and lots of other items!”
- Pack for comfort: Ensure you have all necessary supplies, especially for younger kids. A visitor at Kickapoo State Recreation Area noted, “The sites are pretty close together, but we've had far worse.”
Tips from RVers
- Check site sizes: Some sites may not be as spacious as advertised. A review for Weldon Springs State Park mentioned, “A 40-foot site might only be 20 feet.”
- Bring leveling equipment: Some sites can be uneven. A camper at Spring Creek Campground advised, “Make sure to bring plenty of cribbing if you’ve never stayed here before.”
- Stay connected: Check cell service availability if you need to stay connected. A visitor at Fox Ridge State Park mentioned, “Cell coverage for Verizon was 1 bar consistently, 2 bars occasionally.”
Camping near Monticello, Illinois, has its perks and quirks, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!
