Camping sites near New Athens, Illinois offer a mix of primitive tent areas and fully developed RV parks within a 30-mile radius of the Mississippi River floodplain. Situated in the southwestern Illinois region where terrain transitions from relatively flat farmland to more varied elevations approaching the river bluffs, camping options range from $8 per night at primitive sites to $70 for full-service RV spots. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s-30s°F while summer heat often exceeds 90°F with high humidity affecting camping comfort.
What to do
Shooting sports access: World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta hosts major competitive events but remains open to casual campers. "This is the site of the American Trap Shooters Association 'Grand' Event. During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full," notes camper Chip.
Waterfront hiking: Kaskaskia Lock and Dam Recreation Area offers paved accessibility for all visitors. "There is a hiking trail through the woods that ends at the confluence of the Kaskaskia and Mississippi Rivers. This trail is paved for walking, bicycles and wheelchairs," explains Susan D.
Urban exploration: Many campers use the area as a base for city visits. At Casino Queen RV Park, "Casino has a metro stop that takes you into St Louis over the river," according to Josh F., making car-free access to downtown St. Louis attractions possible from select campgrounds.
Stargazing: Washington County State Recreation Area offers exceptional night sky viewing due to its distance from urban light pollution. Joel R. shares, "The campground is pretty far from any big metro area, so the sky was real dark, great for picking out constellations. We listened to Whip-por-will calls around the campfire."
What campers like
Historic sites: Fort Kaskaskia State Park provides both camping and historical exploration. "The views over the Mississippi River are calendar-worthy! Very scenic from up atop the bluffs. A very old and historic cemetery is next to the campground," writes David D.
Fishing access: Anglers appreciate the varied water bodies. "Lake is nice decent camping, needs water hookups," notes Nathan C. about Randolph County State Recreation Area, while Chrissy W. reports Kaskaskia River Lock and Dam Recreation Area is "really good for fishing. Good catfish and crappie bass sauger etc."
Affordable primitive camping: Horseshoe Lake State Park offers basic sites at budget rates. Helge Vandel J. comments, "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just $8." Another camper adds, "The campground is relatively small but has great sites to camp. Very private and clean. 5 ⭐ in my opinion simply because of the overnight price and privacy."
Fall foliage: The region's deciduous forests create seasonal appeal. At Hawn State Park in nearby Missouri, a camper reports, "Stayed here last fall and really loved the fall colors and views this park has to offer. I can't say the facilities were great - there were only vault toilets and no showers that I saw."
What you should know
Seasonal operation changes: Many campground amenities operate on reduced schedules outside summer. At Scott AFB FamCamp, a military camper notes, "You are only kinda close to the golf course which being Illinois the golf course and golf course cafe run seasonally by days and various hours depending on what month of the year."
Site leveling challenges: Randolph County State Recreation Area requires preparation for uneven terrain. Matthew H. observes, "Best sites are first come first serve other half are reservable. 50amp water fill available with frost free. And dump station at front. Tight spots and harsh back up angles. Only 3 paved spots."
Train noise: Properties near East St. Louis frequently experience rail disruptions. Josh F. reports at Casino Queen RV Park, "There are trains every 15-30 minutes all day long," while Richard H. adds, "There is train noise but we couldn't hear it with the air conditioners running."
Cell service variability: Digital connectivity fluctuates across campgrounds. At Washington County State Recreation Area, Sarah S. mentions, "We stayed here one night on our road trip across the country. It wasn't much of a detour off of Highway 64 which made it nice and convenient," but another reviewer notes "Spotty Verizon" service in the same location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Cahokia RV Parque offers dedicated play areas. Kelsey R. shares, "Oh and an awesome playground for the kids!!" making it suitable for families with younger children needing activity options.
Swimming limitations: Most water access points prohibit swimming. At Horseshoe Lake, Chrissy W. notes, "The lake is ok but no swimming, boating and fishing only," requiring families to plan alternative cooling options during hot weather.
Noise considerations: Campground layout affects site privacy. At Hawn State Park, one camper experienced, "Site 46 was a walk-in site, but did not offer the privacy that is typical for walk-in sites. We could hear people in the tents nearby when they sneezed at night, and an RV nearby complained that my baby was chattering early in the morning."
Kid-friendly terrain: Shirlee A. found Randolph County State Recreation Area particularly suitable for families: "Stayed here a week with two toddlers and it was great! Easy walk to the lake with a gorgeous view, 2 different playgrounds walkable distance from campground. The workers were super nice and helpful, the nature is beautiful and cute little forest bunnies running around!"
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup details: Many campgrounds offer limited electrical options. At Fort Kaskaskia, David D. notes, "There is electric hookups 30 and 50 amp. No water/sewer but does have a dump station," requiring RVers to plan water management accordingly.
Urban camping security: Scott AFB FamCamp provides enhanced safety as a military installation. JEANETTE M. shares, "This campground is clean and convenient to the St Louis area. The Outdoor Recreation unit is very responsive to needs of campers."
Utility placement challenges: Casino Queen RV Park has unusual hookup configurations. Josh F. warns, "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."
Shade availability: Chip notes about World Shooting Complex: "Not many trees. Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue." During summer heat, RVers should prepare for limited natural cooling at certain campgrounds.
