Top Tent Camping near Newton, IL

Searching for a tent campsite near Newton? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Newton. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Newton campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Newton, IL (6)

    Camper-submitted photo from Spillway (Il)
    Camper-submitted photo from Spillway (Il)
    Camper-submitted photo from Spillway (Il)

    1. Spillway (Il)

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    4 Saves

    Overview

    Spillway is a day use area on the shore of the Kaskaskia River just below the Lake Shelbyville dam.

    Situated in the heart of central Illinois, the river, lake and surrounding land offer outdoor activities for people of all ages, including fishing, picnicking and simply relaxing by the water.

    Natural Features:

    This facility is mostly open with some wooded areas. Oak and hickory are the dominant tree species.

    Foliage turns a variety of red, orange, purple and yellow each fall, while prairie flowers dot the landscape in spring and summer.

    Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.

    Recreation:

    Spillway is a fun place to relax along the river. It has plenty of open space and a playground for children.

    Lake Shelbyville and the Kaskaskia River also offer a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth and smallmouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. For those without boats, there are also several ponds with farmed fish available around the lake.

    Hunting areas located within a short drive offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock.

    Facilities:

    This facility has a reservable picnic shelter that can accommodate 50 people. Six picnic tables, a playground, volleyball courts, fish cleaning station, flush toilets and spigots for drinking water are provided.

    Nearby Attractions:

    Wolf Creek State Park, Woods Lake Waterfowl Refuge and Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex are popular locations for wildlife watching, birding and hunting near Lake Shelbyville.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • No image available

      2. Sullivan Marina and Campgrounds Resort

      1 Review
      5 Saves

      This recreation area is part of Lake Shelbyville

      • Tents
      • Drinking Water
      • No image available

        3. Shady Grove Campground — Hidden Springs State Forest

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        Shady Grove Campground accommodates groups by reservation only. Ground fires are allowed only in the fire rings provided.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access
        • Tents
        • No image available

          4. Dam East (Day Use)

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          Overview

          Dam East Day Use Area sits above the shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central Illinois.

          The lake and surrounding land offer outdoor activities for people of all ages, including fishing, picnicking and simply relaxing by the water.

          Natural Features:

          This facility sits above the lake with a steep descent to the shoreline. Oak and hickory trees dominate the landscape.

          Foliage turns a variety of red, orange, purple and yellow each fall, while prairie flowers dot the landscape in spring and summer.

          Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.

          Recreation:

          With a playground, volleyball court and horseshoe pit, Dam East Day Use is a fun place for families to relax along the lake.

          Within a short drive, Lake Shelbyville offers a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. For those without a boat, several ponds with farmed fish are available around the lake.

          Nearby hunting areas offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock.

          Facilities:

          This facility offers one reservable group picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 50 people. Six picnic tables, a large grill, flush toilets and electric hookups are provided.

          Nearby Attractions:

          Wolf Creek State Park, Woods Lake Waterfowl Refuge and Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex are popular locations for wildlife watching, birding and hunting near Lake Shelbyville.

          • Pets
          • Electric Hookups
          • Reservable
          • Tents
          • Group
          • No image available

            5. Kaskaskia River Camp

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            1 Save

            Tent camping. Limited electric and water. Canoe and boat rentals, bait and showers. On river bank.

            • Fires
            • Tents
            • Trash
            • Picnic Table
            • Showers
            • Drinking Water
            • No image available

              6. Dam West (Day Use)

              Be the first to review!

              Overview

              Dam West Day Use Area offers reservable group picnic shelters on the shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central Illinois.

              The lake and surrounding land offer outdoor activities for people of all ages, including fishing, swimming, picnicking and simply relaxing. Boaters have year-round access to the lake, even during high lake elevations.

              Natural Features:

              This facility is mostly open with a clear view of the lake. About half of the land around the lake is forested, with oak and hickory as the dominant species. Foliage turns a variety of red, orange, purple and yellow each fall, while prairie flowers dot the landscape in spring and summer.

              Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.

              Recreation:

              Boaters have access to a multi-lane boat ramp and courtesy dock, and hikers can explore the shore using a number of trails. The General Dacey Trail begins at Dam West Recreation Area and makes its way through Shelbyvilles Forrest Park.

              Lake Shelbyville offers a multitude of fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass and bluegill. For those without a boat, several managed ponds with farmed fish are available around the lake.

              Hunting areas, located a short drive away, offer numerous game species, including quail, rabbit, pheasant, deer, dove, turkey, waterfowl and woodcock.

              Facilities:

              Dam West Day Use Area has four group picnic shelters; three can accommodate about 50 people each, while one can host up to 100. The shelters each have six picnic tables, and the facility provides volleyball courts, a large public beach with showers and a playground.

              Nearby Attractions:

              Wolf Creek State Park, Woods Lake Waterfowl Refuge and Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex are popular locations for wildlife watching, birding and hunting near Lake Shelbyville.

              • Pets
              • Electric Hookups
              • Reservable
              • Tents
              • Group

            Recent Tent Reviews In Newton

            261 Reviews of 6 Newton Campgrounds


            • Jeremy K.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache Trails County Park
              Oct. 8, 2024

              Ouabache Trails County Park

              2 night stay

              We stayed here 2 nights. We came to see the George Rogers Clark National Monument. Campground was nice. Several full time campers living here. Staff was friendly. Was a little noisy on the weekend. Shower house was very clean.

            • Sara W.
              Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Creek
              Oct. 4, 2024

              Prairie Creek

              Prairie creek

              Men's and women's shower house playground few trails rv tent and camper electric a few primitive sites 2 sites r 50 Amp I think the rest r 30 Amp water gets wonderfully hot Verizon works can have door dash and amazon delivered

            • SThe Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park
              Sep. 20, 2024

              Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park

              Dog poop in the site and loud neighbors

              I was not a fan. I was tenting and there was not a great spot for the tent and there was dog poop everywhere (tracked some in the tent when setting up so I wasn't pleased). Also a bunch of large Widowmakers in the trees above was nerve-wracking. The people around me were LOUD! One dude listening to a college football game until past 10 and a guy and his kid playing glow Frisbee right in from of my tent past 10 as well. As I was on a road trip and wanted to get to sleep, this was not appreciated.. On th e good side, the bathrooms were very clean. I would NOT stay here again

            • Charles K.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Spring Creek Campground
              Sep. 1, 2024

              Spring Creek Campground

              Great little quiet camp ground

              Far enough away from the interstate you don't hear the traffic. No nearby trains either. The grounds were neat and clean. The fishing pond is great and beautiful. Big rig friendly. Bob showed up as I pulled in and made sure I was all set for the night. This place is going in my saved list for sure.

            • D
              Camper-submitted photo from Coon Creek (IL)
              Aug. 29, 2024

              Coon Creek (IL)

              Unfriendly park attendants

              Check in crabby park attendants. Tried to change to another site that was available, I was told they only check people in and out, that was it! I was told to flag down a Ranger for help. My family will never come here again!

            • Andriy
              Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hollar Campground
              Aug. 29, 2024

              Hickory Hollar Campground

              alexseen

              Scrolling through my phone, I decided to try something different, and that’s when I found lucky star. The site’s design is simple but nice, and it’s easy to find your way around. I played a few games on lucky star, and they were actually pretty fun and not too complicated, even for someone like me who’s new to this. The bonuses make it feel like you’re getting a little something extra each time, which keeps it exciting. I didn’t expect much going in, but it turned out to be a really good time. I’ll definitely be back when I need a break from everything else.

            • R
              Camper-submitted photo from Fairview Park Campground
              Aug. 23, 2024

              Fairview Park Campground

              If you're planning a camping trip

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            • Rach W.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Sam Dale Lake Conservation Area
              Jul. 29, 2024

              Sam Dale Lake Conservation Area

              Enjoyable time

              Campground was quiet and well kept. Foliage was well trimmed. There was a spot from previous campers that needed cleaned up, but that's more of a reflection of the previous campers and less the camp ground, in my opinion, as it was not an overall theme.

            • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Beall Woods State Park
              Jul. 22, 2024

              Beall Woods State Park

              Great park

              We had a great experience with the park itself. The grounds were very well maintained with trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. We were there on a Sunday night and were the only campers in the park.

              The star I knocked off was for the pit toilets. They had not been limed in a while as evidenced by the bugs swarming inside the pits and larva swimming in the bottom. If I didn’t have a portable travel potty of my own, I would have not given even four stars. I may not have camped here.

            • S.celeste
              Camper-submitted photo from Camp Lakewood
              Jun. 20, 2024

              Camp Lakewood

              Very pretty

              Tent campsites are a decent size but still pretty close together, and our site had water and eletric hookup. Cute lake, very family friendly, lots of amenities, amazingly clean.

            • Dawn W.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Okaw Valley Kampground
              Jun. 10, 2024

              Okaw Valley Kampground

              Nice clean and convenient

              Family owned with a nice little fishing area (no license required catch and release) paddle boats and camp store. A nice pool with a big covered pavilion, clean restrooms and showers with hot water. We had a level pull thru gravel site with a picnic table and small fire ring and didn’t have to unhook for our overnight. Walking/hiking wooded trails 2 cabins available- several seasonal folks. We were there on a Sunday evening and didn’t really see anyone. Little bit of road noise but so convenient! Thanks Barb!

            • KingDredd The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Fowler County Park
              Jun. 2, 2024

              Fowler County Park

              Amazing view and fishing

              Got in late after a spurratic decision to camp. Got here and found that point 5 was open and we tried it. Beautiful view, nice people, and great lake access. Mossy but we casted over it no problem and never had any issues.

            • Sandie R.
              Camper-submitted photo from Oblong Park and Lake
              May. 31, 2024

              Oblong Park and Lake

              Beautiful, well maintained

              Beautifully maintained, would like to see a small concession stand for soft drinks and ice cream for the kiddos.

            • Matt M.
              Camper-submitted photo from Stephen A. Forbes State Park
              May. 20, 2024

              Stephen A. Forbes State Park

              Nice State Park Campground

              We stayed here for the eclipse in April. No real issues. Kids had plenty of room to run around, hike and safely ride bikes around the campground. Showers and bathrooms were typical for a state park.

              There were heavy storms the night before the eclipse and everyone in tents were completely soaked. The area around our site had really poor drainage. We had noisy neighbors that were up until at least 2 or 3 with zero regards for anyone else trying to sleep.

            • Brenda W.
              Camper-submitted photo from Camp Lakewood
              Apr. 22, 2024

              Camp Lakewood

              We think this is a nice relaxing place to spend some well deserved time away from home

              Nice friendly clean

            • Brandi M.
              Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Point State Park
              Apr. 14, 2024

              Walnut Point State Park

              Loved our stay!

              This is a lovely campground with large dispersed camp sites. There is an on-site restaurant that has stayed busy, and we are here the second weekend of April. Cafe also sells firewood when in stock and rents out boats and kayaks. John, the host is very sweet! Electric only with a dump station. Bathrooms are clean and well maintained, I like that size of the showers. Fishing is good. A beautiful weekend for our first time here.

            • Andrew D.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hollar Campground
              Apr. 8, 2024

              Hickory Hollar Campground

              Nice short term camp

              Very friendly and helpful owners. Very accommodating. We were here for the eclipse and was fantastic for that. Some of the facilities such as kayaking etc not open yet due to time of year.

            • DThe Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Fox Ridge State Park
              Feb. 4, 2024

              Fox Ridge State Park

              Half way point for the days drive

              Stopped here for lunch and stayed about an hour. Easy to find, multiple shelters with grills. Some light paths and a playground.

            • Anna O.
              Camper-submitted photo from Fowler County Park
              Oct. 19, 2023

              Fowler County Park

              Beautiful lake

              This is our family favorite camp park in Terre Haute! Has great hiking trails, a covered bridge with historical log cabins for festivals. They have 1 cabin you can rent out. Bring your fishing gear, they stock the lake. There's and boat ramp and bank access to kayak. They have some pull through for your big riggs and some sand beds for your tent camping

            • Anna O.
              Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Creek
              Oct. 19, 2023

              Prairie Creek

              Woody with plenty of space

              Lots of trees and wild life with hiking trails. Nice little pond to fish or watch the geese. Spacious camp site at a good price.

            • steve T.
              Camper-submitted photo from Casey KOA
              Sep. 25, 2023

              Casey KOA

              Owner is not good with people

              When asked why I couldn't put up a small fence for my dogs he went to great details to tell me why dogs had a bad rep in his park. When I said it wasn't on the website he got extremely angry, came close to attacking me and thru me out of his park and called the police. Don't stay there if you have pets.

            • Dean G.
              Camper-submitted photo from Fowler County Park
              Sep. 18, 2023

              Fowler County Park

              Flower Park

              Stayed at River Birch 15. Site has a pretty severe grade as the site goes back. If you have a 20+ travel trailer I would be inclined to choose another space. Site mostly level left to right. On the corner next to the road but minimal traffic and close walk to the dumpsters and bath house. Nice shade. River Birch is definitely the more popular loop and was full Thursday night versus barely any campers at the other 2 loops.



            Guide to Newton

            Camping near Newton, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

            What to do

            • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Fowler County Park, provide great access to lakes for fishing and kayaking. One visitor mentioned, "Bring your fishing gear, they stock the lake. There's a boat ramp and bank access to kayak."
            • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Shakamak State Park — Shakamak Prairie Nature Preserve. A camper shared, "Hiked 3 trails all well kept. Trail 3 favorite."
            • Family Activities: Campgrounds like Okaw Valley Kampground offer fun for kids with playgrounds and fishing areas. One family noted, "Lots of free activities for kids. Friendly and helpful staff."

            What campers like

            • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Camp Lakewood stated, "Bathrooms are very clean."
            • Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the welcoming atmosphere. One camper at Spring Creek Campground said, "Bob showed up as I pulled in and made sure I was all set for the night."
            • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Boulder Recreation Area offer stunning lake views. A visitor remarked, "The sites are well spaced and have a beautiful view of the lake and sunsets!"

            What you should know

            • Site Size and Accessibility: Some campgrounds have sites that may not accommodate larger RVs. A review for Terre Haute Campground mentioned, "Most sites are gravel... I would concern if our neighbor had a fire in their fire pit as it was under our bedroom slide."
            • Seasonal Availability: Check the camping season for each site. For example, Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area is open from mid-May to late December.
            • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Coon Creek noted, "There is no water as usual this time of year. No showers or flush toilets either."

            Tips for camping with families

            • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. One camper at Okaw Valley Kampground said, "The place is very well taken care of. If we ever came back this way we would stay again."
            • Safety First: Ensure your campsite is safe for kids. A review for Fowler County Park mentioned, "Beautiful view, nice people, and great lake access."
            • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has a store. A visitor at Camp Lakewood noted, "Firewood bundles were $10!"

            Tips from RVers

            • Check Site Dimensions: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Terre Haute Campground warned, "When we arrived, we were told that we would not be able to get into that site due to the turns."
            • Utilities Availability: Confirm what utilities are available at your site. A camper at Coon Creek mentioned, "Most sites have electric 30amp or 50amp."
            • Wi-Fi Access: If you need internet, check the Wi-Fi situation. A visitor at Shakamak State Park said, "Wi-Fi was ok, was able to download email and get on company site for work."

            Camping around Newton, IL, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

            Frequently Asked Questions

            • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Newton, IL?

              According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Newton, IL is Spillway (Il) with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

            • What is the best site to find tent camping near Newton, IL?

              TheDyrt.com has all 6 tent camping locations near Newton, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.