Camping spots near Oakwood, Illinois blend prairie grasslands with forested areas at elevations between 500-700 feet. Central Illinois weather patterns bring humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F from June through August and freezing winter conditions from December through February. Most campgrounds in the region remain open April through October with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Hiking through woodlands and ravines: Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area features hiking trails with scenic views. "This park has very nice hiking trails and a swimming beach. The kids had a great time, and I got to kick back and relax," notes Todd T. The trails range from easy walking paths to more challenging terrain through wooded areas.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Walnut Point State Park Campground provides fishing opportunities in its lake. Todd T. reports, "My family had a great time fishing. The lake was well stocked and maintained." The lake permits fishing but prohibits swimming and motorized boats, creating a quieter environment for anglers.
Canoe or kayak rentals: Available at multiple locations, water recreation is popular during summer months. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning. Saturday we rented a canoe from a canoe place right down the road from the campground," writes Samantha S. about Turkey Run State Park. Water levels change seasonally, with spring typically offering higher water for paddling activities.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate space between sites at D & W Lake RV Park. "Sites level, plenty of space between campers, shade trees, loved the dog run too," reports Ricky L. The campground features grassy areas with mature trees providing natural separation between camping areas.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain modern restrooms and shower facilities. At Prairie Pines Campground, Jennifer B. found "Large very clean bathhouse. Several small playgrounds and swingsets scattered about. The grounds are meticulously maintained." The bathhouses typically include hot water and are cleaned regularly.
Stargazing opportunities: Harry L Swartz Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "It's a dark sky park so you can get some nice views from the campground and surrounding areas," according to Tim F. The campground's location away from major light pollution creates optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. "Reservations were limited in 2020 due to the plandemic (cough cough) so getting a site was a bit of a task but not in previous years," notes Tim F. about Harry L Swartz Campground. Reservation windows typically open 6 months in advance for state parks.
Wildlife encounters: Expect to see local wildlife at campsites. At Kickapoo State Recreation Area, Lucas T. warns, "Nice CG. No booze signs posted, take it serious! Watched a ranger evict and entire group late in the evening for drinking." Local regulations are strictly enforced by rangers who patrol regularly.
Weather preparedness: Central Illinois experiences rapid weather changes, particularly during spring and early summer. "We hiked Trail 3 with our dog, but we cut off early before the ladders using Trail 10. Our dog did pretty well in the section of Trail 3 before the ladders, and be prepared to get wet," suggests Samantha S. about nearby trails. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Harry L Swartz Campground, Art S. mentions, "There is a swimming beach and playground that were also closed for COVID." Most playgrounds include standard equipment like swings and slides within walking distance of camping areas.
Educational opportunities: Forest Glen County Preserve offers nature learning activities. Sally R. shares, "Other things to do...walk in the prairie, hike, climb a tower, play at the playground, picnic, etc... it's a very nice place to visit." The preserve features interpretive signs identifying local flora and fauna along hiking paths.
Family-friendly sites: Choose sites based on proximity to amenities. "We stayed at site #35. It is in a very quiet, off the main road, in a circle, in full shade. It's is very close to the restroom but a distance from the camp store and dumpster," recommends Michelle M. about camping at Turkey Run State Park. Sites numbered 15-27 at Walnut Point are recommended for families due to their lake proximity.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. Michelle M. notes about Turkey Run State Park, "The site was clean and well equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. The site is very uneven. It definitely sloops to the back corner. It's was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end."
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are common but water and sewer connections vary. At Walnut Point, Rachel H. explains, "Each site has a gravel pad, grill/fire pit and picnic table, as well as electric hook up. There is one dump station near the campground entrance, and water fill there or in a few locations in the campground. There is not water and sewer hookup at each pad."
Easy access from highways: Prairie Pines Campground provides convenient locations for travelers. Brandi M. describes it as ideal for those who "want to park and go adventure the area, ride the bike path, check out some of the surrounding towns or local shopping it's all right there but doesn't feel right there." Its location makes it suitable for overnight stops while traveling through the region.
