Glamping options close to Quincy, Illinois range from state park accommodations to private campground facilities. Located in the western part of the state along the Mississippi River, the area offers camping opportunities with access to both forest and water recreation. Several campgrounds in the region provide year-round facilities, though many premium amenities operate seasonally from April through October due to the Midwest's variable climate.
What to do
Water recreation at Mark Twain Lake: Coyote Campground at Mark Twain State Park provides access to the 18,000-acre lake with opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. "Warm, clear, fresh water to swim in. Full of crystals and wildlife," notes Shawna N., who gave the campground five stars.
Hiking trails near campgrounds: Mark Twain State Park offers several hiking options connecting to camping areas. "Super close to hiking trails and the shower house was clean," shares Scott M. about Coyote Campground, adding that it's "not far from the historical stuff or the town of Florida."
Historical exploration: Visit Mark Twain's birthplace near the state park campgrounds. "Be sure to check out Mark Twain's Birthplace!" recommends Kelsie L., though she notes the "Twain Shrine has very limited hours" according to another camper at Coyote Campground.
What campers like
Free camping options: Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Can't beat the price - FREE!" writes Ken about Hunnewell Lake. Another camper notes it has "free paddle boats (do need life preservers) and fish hatchery across the street. Free potable water and dump station behind ranger station."
Quiet off-season visits: Some campgrounds offer better experiences during less busy periods. "We visited twice in the off-season we loved the campground so much. It's quiet and secluded. Very clean and beautiful," shares Bradley R. about Coyote Campground at Mark Twain State Park.
Local lake access: Schuy-Rush Park provides a peaceful lake setting for visitors. "Love this place, it's quiet and peaceful. Not a lot to do but they are trying. Tent camping, RV and a few cabin rentals, boat docks too where you can bring your boat!" comments Brian E. about this campground south of Rushville.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all sites accommodate all camping setups. At Coyote Campground, "Some of the basic sites in the Coyote Loop are more suited to small pop-up trailers than tents—eg, site 45 does not have much room for a tent unless you want to set it up on gravel, while site 43 does," advises Bethany S.
Pest considerations: Be prepared for insects in warmer months. "Apparently ticks and chiggers are bad here. I did not hike because of this," warns a camper at Mark Twain State Park, suggesting appropriate repellents and protective clothing for summer camping.
Limited amenities at some locations: Great River Road Campground offers basic facilities. "No frills camping on the edge of the fairgrounds, there are campsites mostly for RV's (full hook ups- 50 amp and 30 amp, and sites with sewer), and space for tents on the margins," reports Annie C., noting "The bathhouse was locked when I passed through."
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: When glamping close to Quincy, Illinois at premium resorts, plan for downtime. "The activities are not all day, so plan on some campside entertainment before 10am and after 6pm," advises Ellyn P. about Jellystone Park at Pine Lakes, adding "Bring your own [life vest] to save money."
Supervision requirements: Different campgrounds have varying policies on children. A camper at Jellystone Park notes, "This is expensive but has a lot of activities. It is loud and busy on the weekend, which was expected," suggesting families should factor this into their planning.
Off-season benefits: Consider visiting family-oriented campgrounds during slower periods. "Came when all the water activities were closed for the season. Cannot wait to come back! Facilities very clean and family oriented. Very fun for kids," shares Nick W. about his experience at Jellystone Park at Pine Lakes.
Tips from RVers
Levelness challenges: At Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area, "The campground slopes toward the lake, so finding level ground is a challenge," reports Cathy C., adding that weekend stays might have fewer available spots.
Noise considerations: Be prepared for potential noise from other campers. "The rules about quiet time are not enforced and some idjit ran his loud generator until 1 am. We ended up moving away from him at 11:30," notes a camper at Hunnewell Lake, suggesting bringing earplugs or choosing more isolated sites when possible.
Cabin alternatives: For those seeking upscale glamping near Quincy without an RV, Mark Twain Lake Jellystone Park offers cabin options. "We camped in a couple of cabins years ago and weren't too fond of them. These were the older cabins in the back with the RVs. Very thin walled," shares Elisha P., suggesting requesting newer accommodations if available.
