Cairo is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Cairo is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cairo, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$22 - $35 / night
"All of this is well manicured with paved paths connecting it all."
"A wonderful campground located next to the Mississippi River on a bluff. Paved camping sites with plenty of space. It is very clean and has a playground, bathhouse and washers and dryers for laundry."
"Lake is more of a swamp with cypress trees, very pretty. Showers dated but clean. They are multiple stalls.
Of note, there is not much around in the way of stores."
"Our only hiccup was we passed it first time driving by so look closely for the entrance. Veterans discount. We would 100% stay again if we needed to."
"This little RV Park is not far off the highway and it was easy to find. Staff was nice and friendly. Each space has full hookups and its own picnic table."
$40 / night
"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."
$45 - $65 / night
"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."
$40 / night
"Road noise from nearby I‑57 noted. Felt $40/night was a bit high.
CatTrailzz (24 Jul 2024)
Quiet despite being near the freeway. Loves the deli (noting salads and pulled pork)."
"There are only two camp site at this location and they are very close to each other. The camp sites are also very narrow."
$20 - $125 / night
"Surrounded by greenery, this is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and reconnect. Book your stay and come back here to leave them some love!"
"Lots to do nearby if you don't like fishing! Ranger came through and was very friendly & helpful."
GuideThere is nothing special about the location. There is a boat ramp nearby. There were only people set up in the park today. They do have a playground.
TravelerOverall we’ve really enjoyed our stay. Came over the Labor Day weekend and staying a week. 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. A little noisy at night with the interstate in the distance but we’d expected that. Only thing we wish we would’ve known about was the paving of the road happening directly outside of the park. They obviously can’t control that but a heads up would’ve been helpful. One day we couldn’t get out for a bit and thankfully we had flexible plans. Overall- it’s a great park with decent proximity to a lot of nature. Anna, Marion and Harrisburg are your best bets for restaurants and grocery etc. Vienna only has a dollar general and a few restaurants- a diner, longhorn cafe, Mexican restaurant and Family Pizza- we tried the last one and it was good! Prepare for a 40 min wait time if picking up and it gets packed if you want to dine in. Would def stay here again to visit Shawnee.
RangerDid a 2 hour pontoon tour offered at the TN State Park Visitor Center (https://tnstateparks.com/parks/reelfoot-lake). Guide was excellent. Neat to see a bald cypress in one of TN's only 2 natural lakes. The history of Reelfoot is interesting, parts of the tour feel like you are in a cypress swamp, not a lake. Saw 10 bald eagles, osprey, egret, blue heron. Worth the price and time!
RangerStayed here for 2 nights at site 25 on the back side of the campground. The back sites have sewer. These sites were paved, but not level, so be prepared to level. TIP: If using those yellow camco "lego" block to level, be sure to put a canvas tarp or rubber mat between the blocks and the pavement, otherwise they will slide when you try to roll on top of them. My daughter used the bathhouse, and she said it was not good. Leaky, standing water. The park was awesome, which made the bathhouse an oddity. The little snack shack over by the chain was a nice evening diversion of ice cream and funnel fries. The camp host couple was wonderful. The park is clean and well maintained.
LegendWe were driving south on I24 towards Nashville and needed a spot to stop for the night. We booked online and were pleasantly surprised when we arrived. The campground is really nice and had a great paved walking trail to stretch our legs and walk the dog. Would definitely recommend if in the area.
GuideCampground was not crowded during the weekdays. Nice shaded sites w electric and water hookups. Campground hosts were very engaged. $19 a night electric w Sr Pass.
There are several historical sites to visit. 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. An easy 3 mile hike around the lake
There are several historical sites in area. Illinois Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods , and segments of the Trail of Tears
GuideConvenient to I -24
GuideLike the lake and outdoor commons area
GuideNice spot on the lake. Nice staff. Lots of Geese. 1 washer washer and dryer, need $4 dollar in quarters to do full cycle.
Camping near Cairo, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Cairo, Illinois, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best camping spots in Cairo?
The Cairo area offers several excellent camping options within driving distance. Horseshoe Lake Alexander County provides quiet RV sites with electric hookups in a shaded setting, featuring a picturesque lake with cypress trees. For those willing to venture a bit further, Airpark North Campground — Reelfoot Lake State Park offers beautiful lakeside sites with water and power hookups. Both locations provide a peaceful retreat with water access, making them ideal for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to escape the bustle of urban areas.
What facilities and amenities are available at Cairo campgrounds?
Campgrounds around Cairo offer varying levels of amenities to suit different camping preferences. Crab Orchard Lake Campground features spacious, grassy sites with electric and water hookups, with some premium spots located right on the lakeshore. The National Conservation Area status means affordable rates for visitors. Meanwhile, Ferne Clyffe State Park provides well-shaded sites with electricity, picnic tables, drinking water, clean showers, flush toilets, and a sanitary dump station for those who prefer some home comforts during their outdoor adventures.
When is the best time of year to go camping in Cairo?
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant camping conditions around Cairo. September and October are particularly ideal as demonstrated by visitors to Little Grassy Lake Campground, where the cooler temperatures and reduced humidity make for comfortable camping and excellent hiking conditions in nearby natural areas. Spring (April-May) also provides pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes. Summer camping is possible at Oak Point - Lake Glendale, where tall pines provide shade and the lake offers cooling swimming opportunities, but be prepared for heat and humidity. Winter camping is less common due to potential weather challenges.
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