Morton area campgrounds range in size from small 50-site operations to larger facilities with over 300 sites. Located in central Illinois where the elevation averages 650 feet above sea level, the camping season typically extends from early April through October, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 85°F during this period. Water recreation options include both river and lake experiences, with most campsites situated within a 30-minute drive of the town.
What to do
Hiking and nature exploration: Sand Ridge State Forest offers a unique ecosystem with several trail options. "The orange trail (5 mile loop) starts at the campground making it easy to access the trail to check out the sandy forest and prickly pear cactus... Hiking in sand is challenging and you'll get a workout!" notes Amanda C. about Pine Campground.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Kentuckiana Campground maintains fishing areas for guests. "They have two nice ponds stocked with fish. No license required. Catch and keep," reports Cindy H. The campground balances outdoor activities with modern amenities, making it suitable for both casual and serious anglers.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal facilities, some campgrounds remain open year-round. "We spent Christmas 2020 here! We camped in spot B4. One of the park staff stopped by. He was super nice, and offered some great info for future visits. Toilets were open, and he did mention we could still use the water spigot!" shares Austin and Natasha S. about their winter experience at Pine Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting allows for excellent night sky viewing. "The viewing of stars is incredible," reports Joe M. about Jubilee College State Park Campground. This park, located northwest of Morton, offers clear skies away from city light pollution.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers praise the views from riverside camping spots. "Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing a sublime encounter with nature on top of offering direct waterfront sites," explains Stuart K. about Millpoint Park.
Clean, modern facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses receive positive mentions. "The shower houses are new and clean!" notes DJ about Kamp Komfort RV Park and Campground. This campground, located about 20 minutes from Morton, maintains high cleanliness standards.
Spacious sites: Reviewers frequently mention ample camping space at certain locations. "Full hookups each site. On Illinois river. Has cabins for rent, showers," states Mike S. about Millpoint Park, highlighting the good-sized sites for comfortable camping.
Weekend entertainment: Some campgrounds schedule regular events for guests. "Nice campground! Music most Saturday nights. Bocce ball playgrounds and pavilions, activities most weekends," reports Jennifer M. about Kentuckiana Kampground, which offers structured entertainment alongside camping.
What you should know
Water quality variations: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water systems. "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird," notes Melissa C. about Millpoint Park. Similar comments appear for multiple campgrounds, suggesting campers should bring drinking water.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty at certain campgrounds. "We did not have any cell phone service here at all and from talking to some of the other campers they did not either so that eliminates at least Sprint and Verizon cell phone signal," explains Ryan L. about Kentuckiana Kampground and Country Opry.
Reservation timing: Holiday weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds. "We were late reserving a campsite for Memorial Day Weekend. But Don had a spot for us," shares Brett F. This suggests booking well in advance for prime weekends, especially at smaller campgrounds.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to major highways. "Maybe it was the hand-written note taped to the office door that explained how the front office manager / owner was laid up with a bad back, so checking in was on the 'honor system' or the fact that we were just looking for a nice, flat and quiet place to lay up for the night that wouldn't take us too far off course, but for whatever the reason, while we weren't looking to hole up at Kamp Komfort RV Park & Campground, we ended up there and it was a sublime experience," writes Stuart K., noting that Kamp Komfort is "literally RIGHT NEXT to the major highway 74."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Great place for kids. Decent little parks. Huge slide in the holler. Spots are kind of cramped and close together, one of our favorite places though!" shares Nick W. about Kentuckiana Campground.
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer pool access. "The perfect blend of peaceful private camping and amenities! Full hook up, pool, laundry, beautiful bathrooms," notes Jennifer S. about Kamp Komfort, highlighting the swimming option for families.
Educational nature trails: Several campgrounds feature educational walking paths. "We enjoyed the short nature trail that leaves directly from the area. The trail starts off as a boardwalk over an interesting marsh area and then transitions to a primitive trail eventually leading you to the lake shoreline. This was a great walk for our black lab who loves trails and water," shares Nancy W. about Carl Spindler Campground.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular family-oriented events. "This campground is very well kept with very clean showers and restrooms. Golf carts are allowed here which is a plus," reports Adam F. about Carl Spindler Campground, noting an amenity popular with families.
Tips from RVers
Winter camping availability: Limited winter RV options exist near Morton. "They close most of the park in the winter time which only leaves 22 paved sites available," explains Nancy W. about Carl Spindler Campground, one of the few year-round operations.
Site leveling needs: Some campgrounds require more setup work than others. "Our site was huge. Right by jones pond, but the fishing was not the best right by our site," reports Melissa B. about Comlara County Park, noting the spacious but potentially uneven sites.
Electrical connections: Extension cords may be needed at some campgrounds. "In the overflow 'unpaved' section there is 1 station of power for 4 campers. So you definitely need a LONG power cord," advises Kaitlin D. about Carl Spindler Campground, highlighting an important equipment consideration.
Dump station accessibility: Most campgrounds offer dump stations, but not all sites have sewer hookups. "We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling," states Melissa C., emphasizing the convenience of a well-designed RV site with complete utilities.
