Tent camping near New Athens, Illinois offers year-round opportunities in an area characterized by rolling farmland and proximity to the Kaskaskia River. Located in southern Illinois at approximately 420 feet elevation, the region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. The surrounding countryside provides camping options within rural settings where nights can be notably quiet except during special events.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: World Shooting and Recreational Complex offers a lake where campers can fish from the bank or bring boats. According to Christi L., "Huge campground with a lake to boat, kayak or fish from the bank."
Hiking trails: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park features multiple trail systems suitable for day hikes. Scott M. notes, "The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids or folks that are not used to hiking." Some trails include interpretive signage about local ecology.
Shooting sports: The World Shooting and Recreational Complex hosts competitive shooting events throughout the year, particularly trap shooting competitions. This facility serves as the site for the American Trap Shooters Association "Grand" Event during early August, creating a busier atmosphere.
Wildlife viewing: The park areas provide habitat for deer, wild turkey, and various songbirds. Benjamin C. mentions that Babler State Park offers "less than an hour from St. Louis. hiking" with opportunities to observe wildlife in a natural setting.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Outside the peak shooting competition season, the camping areas at World Shooting Complex offer considerable space. Chip explains, "Only one other camper within sight of our spot Friday night and they were gone Saturday morning," indicating the privacy possible during off-peak periods.
Clean facilities: When available, the bathhouses receive positive reviews for maintenance. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, Nancy W. observed, "There is one main bathhouse with free showers that was very clean."
Natural setting: Despite proximity to urban areas, the parks maintain a natural atmosphere. Lahree C. commented about Babler State Park, "Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city. It is clean and feels extremely safe."
Level camping areas: Many tent sites feature level pads or grassy areas. Nancy W. notes that at Babler, "All campsites and patios are paved and level with a comfortable amount of space between sites. Picnic tables and fire pits are located at each site."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense in southern Illinois. One camper at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex noted it "can be dry and hot in the summer," suggesting campers bring additional shade structures during warmer months.
Seasonal facility limitations: Some campgrounds restrict water and bathroom access during colder months. Archie S. reported about Babler State Park: "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip."
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons can be problematic at some campgrounds. April D. warns about Babler State Park: "The only issue is the raccoons. They dont give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips."
Reservation systems: During peak seasons, especially during shooting competitions in August, campgrounds fill completely. Nancy W. advises, "You can reserve sites on-line and the prices are reasonable. A $2 discount is given to seniors."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: Some campground loops offer more privacy than others. At Babler State Park, Nancy W. advises, "Sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them. It seems this is where most of the tent campers like to be."
Trail difficulty: Consider trail difficulty when planning hikes with children. Scott M. cautions that at Babler, "The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids or folks that are not used to hiking."
Campsite spacing: Family groups should note the proximity of sites to each other. Teresa B. mentions about Babler State Park, "I am not a fan of how small and close together these sites are and during the season they fill up quickly."
Entertainment options: Many sites lack water features for swimming. Mel F. notes about Babler, "There is no bodies of water within the park for fishing, but there are tons near by," suggesting families may want to plan day trips to nearby lakes or rivers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: The World Shooting Complex offers numerous sites with full hookups. Chip notes, "Lot's of full hookups. This was our first camp in our new to us travel trailer."
Site dimensions: RVers should verify site lengths before booking. At Babler Memorial State Park, Nancy W. advises, "Not all sites are long enough for large RVs and the roads in some loops prevent you from turning around. The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs."
Road navigation: Some campground loops have limited turning radius. Nancy W. mentions Babler has "roads paved and big rig-friendly (with the exception of one loop that is clearly marked 'short turning radius')," suggesting larger rigs should plan their route carefully.
