Tent campsites near Grafton, Illinois offer prime access to where the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers meet. The camping terrain consists mainly of wooded areas on rolling hills with elevations ranging from 450-550 feet. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, campers can access multiple trail systems. "There are miles of hiking and biking trails right outside your doorstep and plenty of woods to explore," noted one visitor. This park is approximately 35 miles from Grafton and features trails of varying difficulty levels.
Wine country exploration: Tent camping in St. Charles County places you near numerous wineries. "This Campground places you in the heart of Missouri Wine Country and there's a perfect base for visiting the wineries and restaurants along highway 94," explains a camper who stayed at St. Charles County Klondike Park.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access. At Waverly Lake City Park, located about 40 miles northeast of Grafton, anglers can enjoy bank fishing on a small lake. The park provides a quiet setting for fishing, though one camper notes "there's not much to do" beyond enjoying the peaceful lake atmosphere.
What campers like
Affordable camping costs: Budget-conscious campers appreciate McCully Heritage Project in Kampsville, where camping remains inexpensive. A reviewer mentioned it's "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood." This campground is just 20 miles from Grafton and offers large sites that can accommodate groups.
Water access for paddling: Several campgrounds provide water access for non-motorized boats. McCully Heritage Project campers noted, "We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks."
Proximity to bicycle routes: For cycling enthusiasts, the Katy Trail connection is valuable. "I have bike-packed along the Katy and this is an excellent spot for an overnight(s) stay," said one visitor about Klondike Park. The trail connection provides options for bicycle camping trips ranging from overnight to multi-day adventures.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and limits: Bathroom facilities often close during winter months. At William R. Logan Conservation Area, a camper found "The only vault toilet was closed and a porta potty was set next to that." Additionally, some parks have strict stay limits, with one camper noting that at Waverly Lake "there's a 4 consecutive day per month limit."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Many tent campsites near Grafton require self-sufficiency. Logan Conservation Area offers "Free primitive campground near a lake... No frills camping at about 8-10 sites near the main entrance off Route RA, with most being in an open circle configuration."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for wildlife interactions, particularly during warmer months. At McCully Heritage Project, campers advised: "Watch for ticks. Don't be alarmed if you see cats or the neighbors dogs roaming around the site. They are friendly." Similarly, at Klondike Park, a visitor warned: "Make sure to store your food securely overnight - the racoons are pretty thick and hungry at night."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Little Lost Creek Conservation Area provides family-friendly hiking trails. While primitive, the site includes "room for a couple tents, some great trees for hammocks, a primitive fire ring, and a picnic table." McCully Heritage Project also has play equipment, with one visitor mentioning, "We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment."
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. When selecting a site, check proximity to roads as "Some sites are closer to the highway and cars flying down the road can make it hard to sleep," according to a Klondike Park visitor.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitoes can be particularly troublesome in summer months. One Waverly Lake camper warned that "the mosquitoes are BRUTAL. Come prepared." Bug spray with DEET and protective clothing are essential, especially for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Babler Memorial State Park, RV campers should note that "Not all sites are long enough for large RVs and the roads in some loops prevent you from turning around." A reviewer recommended consulting with staff: "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."
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Grafton offer minimal or no hookups. Even at more developed locations like Babler Memorial State Park, a camper observed that "If this campground had sewer and water, it would get 5 stars." Most primitive camping areas have no electric, water or sewer connections.
Seasonal water access: Winter camping often means limited water access. One Babler Memorial visitor noted "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."
