Camping spots near Timewell, Illinois range from state parks with hiking trails to smaller municipal sites featuring lake access. The region sits in western Illinois where the terrain transitions from flat prairies to more rolling wooded areas, with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet above sea level. Water recreation forms a central part of the camping experience, with several artificial lakes constructed specifically for fishing and boating activities.
What to do
Hiking trails for all skill levels: At Siloam Springs State Park, visitors can explore marked paths through diverse terrain. "The trails are pretty well marked and are best in mid/late fall or early spring. We've redone them numerous times and still enjoy them. My favorite trails are the Red Oak and Hoot Owl!" notes Olivia S.
Boating and paddling: Rent kayaks or canoes at several locations to enjoy the water. "I love this campground! They have great hikes throughout the area. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and boats and fish in many locations. Great for horse back riders too!" reports Hannah S. about Siloam Springs State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Most lakes in the region are stocked for fishing. At Wakonda Lake Campground, "Our pad was close to the lake so a two minute walk and we're fishing!" shares Kaye R. The campground features six small lakes with steps leading down to the water from many sites.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts several wildlife management areas. Primitive camping areas at Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area provide access to significant natural areas. "Each site is along the tree line with plenty of shade. These are walk in sites ranging from 0.10 miles to 0.50 miles from the parking lot," explains Amanda C.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Most campers appreciate the peaceful settings away from urban areas. Susan C. comments about Siloam Springs, "Very clean. Not crowded." Similarly, at Wakonda State Park, reviewers note it's a "Very quiet state park. The sites are very large and our rv site has a cement pad."
Spacious sites: Unlike more crowded commercial campgrounds, many state parks offer room to spread out. At Argyle Lake State Park's Big Oaks Campground, Katy H. appreciates "the spacious sites and options to hike and bike." The campground features gravel sites with adequate space between neighbors.
Water recreation access: Most campgrounds provide direct lake access, which ranks highly with visitors. Charlie S. writes about Wakonda, "Each parking site has steps down to the lake for bank fishing. There are also John boats and kayaks for rent. Finally, there is a sandy beach for swimming."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards generally receive positive comments. At Driftwood Campground, Art Z. notes, "The showers and restroom were impressively clean. The hosts could not have made me feel more welcome."
What you should know
Seasonal facility limitations: While most campgrounds remain open year-round, services vary by season. At Primitive Campground, Jennifer K. observed in October, "Both loops were full, but there was just enough space for us to squeeze in for 2 nights! (A few spaces seemed to be filled with deer hunters who were up and out quite early.)"
Payment and reservation systems: Many municipal campgrounds only accept cash. For example, at Pittsfield City Lake, one camper reports, "Cash only payment." State parks typically have more payment options but may require advance booking during peak times.
Varying shade coverage: Tree coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. At Schuy-Rush Park, Brian E. describes, "Tent camping, RV and a few cabin rentals, boat docks too where you can bring your boat! There are some hiking trails and pavilions and a softball field."
Utility hookup variations: Electric service ranges from basic to full hookups. At Mark Twain Cave Campground, James and Susan K. noted, "Our site (B14) was not at all level. Used all my blocks to compensate for the forward and passenger site down slope."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Argyle Lake State Park, Katy H. says, "Our kids love argyle for the paved roads they can easily ride bikes on, the 2 playgrounds and the room to run!"
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas during summer. Charlie S. notes about Wakonda State Park, "Finally, there is a sandy beach for swimming. The rates are very cheap as it is a state park."
Organized activities: For structured entertainment, commercial campgrounds offer the most options. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, ELLYN P. advises, "The activities are not all day, so plan on some campside entertainment before 10am and after 6pm. Lake blow ups are included in price, but you must have a life vest. Bring your own to save money."
Trail difficulty considerations: Match hiking trails to your family's abilities. At Siloam Springs, Lindsey P. warns about certain trail sections: "Towards the end, there were stairs built into the earth that were way too difficult to manage when your legs are jelly and your pack is heavy."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring adjustment equipment. At Argyle Lake State Park, Ann C. shared, "All sites are gravel and we didn't have any problems getting level."
Hookup locations: Some campgrounds have inconveniently placed utilities. Ray & Terri F. noted at Pittsfield City Lake, "The electric and water hookups on some sites, at least ours, was at the back and on the wrong side. Our electric cord just reached the post."
Concrete pad availability: For easier setup in wet conditions, some campgrounds offer concrete pads. "Very large and our rv site has a cement pad. It makes for an easy setup," reports Carleen about Wakonda State Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with hookups have dump stations. Check availability before arrival, especially for longer stays.
