Best Campgrounds near Peoria Heights, IL

The Illinois River corridor surrounding Peoria Heights offers diverse camping experiences within a predominantly flat Midwestern landscape. Established campgrounds like Millpoint Park and Carl Spindler Campground provide waterfront sites along the Illinois River, approximately 5-10 miles from Peoria Heights proper. These riverside locations feature full hookup RV sites, primitive tent camping areas, and some cabin options. Woodford State Conservation Area and Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, both within 30 minutes of Peoria Heights, offer more natural settings with fewer amenities but greater seclusion. The region's camping options extend from developed RV parks with 50-amp service to primitive sites nestled among cottonwood, silver maple, and willow trees.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with Jubilee College State Park specifically open May 1 to December 31. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F, along with persistent insects. "If you haven't camped in central Illinois during summer, bring good DEET spray for ticks and scented candles to keep gnats at bay," notes one experienced camper. Water levels along the Illinois River fluctuate seasonally, occasionally causing flooding in low-lying areas like Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area. Cell service remains reliable near established campgrounds, though coverage may diminish in more remote conservation areas.

Waterfront sites receive consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly those at Millpoint Park where campers praise the "big trees, deep shade, and beautiful sunsets over the Illinois River." Fishing opportunities abound throughout the region, with multiple boat launches providing access to the Illinois River and connected lakes. Several campgrounds feature spacious sites that accommodate both tents and RVs, though amenities vary considerably. Visitors note that water quality can be an issue at some locations, with one camper advising: "Don't forget your RV water filter! The water here is very rusty." For travelers seeking overnight convenience rather than natural settings, several retail parking areas in East Peoria and along major highways permit RV parking.

Best Camping Sites Near Peoria Heights, Illinois (63)

    1. Millpoint Park

    16 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 231-6497

    $18 - $100 / night

    "Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing"

    "If you’re looking to stay close to Peoria and enjoy beautiful sunsets and the water this place has it. Big trees, deep shade and it’s right on the Peoria Lake on the Illinois River."

    2. Carl Spindler Campground

    11 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 699-3549

    "This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water that"

    "It was also a short walk to the Illinois River!!!"

    3. Jubilee College State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Brimfield, IL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 446-3758

    "The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."

    "Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies.

    The campsite has three main loops with RV pads and electric goo ups."

    4. Woodford State Conservation Area

    2 Reviews
    Chillicothe, IL
    10 miles
    Website

    $8 - $12 / night

    "They also warned us of an upcoming storm - this location can flood when the river rises. They also said to let them know if others were too loud."

    5. Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area

    6 Reviews
    Chillicothe, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 246-8351

    6. Sankoty Lakes

    2 Reviews
    Mossville, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 570-1111

    $59 - $89 / night

    7. Walmart - Peoria Supercenter

    1 Review
    Peoria, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 694-0513

    8. Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    Chillicothe, IL
    10 miles
    Website

    "This is a beautiful, off-the-beaten path ‘no frills’ campground that comes very close to being called primitive, yet offers water pit privies and a designated sanitary dump station in addition to in-ground"

    9. Comlara County Park

    33 Reviews
    Hudson, IL
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 434-6770

    "Comlara is a beautifully laid out hidden gem in Illinois. Evergreen Lake is the perfect back drop to the campground."

    "Located just northwest of Bloomington, which is located absolutely smack-dab in the middle of the state of Illinois, you’ll discover a nature wonderland over here nearly hidden from plain site."

    10. Timberline Campground

    5 Reviews
    Eureka, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 965-2224
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Showing results 1-10 of 63 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Peoria Heights, IL

376 Reviews of 63 Peoria Heights Campgrounds



Guide to Peoria Heights

Camping near Peoria Heights, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Scenic Beauty: Campers rave about the picturesque landscapes. A visitor at Moraine View State Recreational Area said, "This is a beautiful state park, lovely camping."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful environment. A reviewer at Weldon Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "Even being small and on top of each other, the campground was quiet and still at night."
  • Family-Friendly: Campgrounds like Clinton Lake State Recreation Area are great for families. One family shared, "We couldn’t have asked for a better location for our family and our interests."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds have basic facilities. A camper at Moraine View State Recreational Area noted, "The outhouse was in really rough shape—looked like it hadn't been swept out or hosed down for a while."
  • Crowded During Holidays: Expect busier conditions during peak times. A visitor at Weldon Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground was completely full."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially raccoons. A camper at Weldon Springs State Park Campground reported, "She had to leave in the middle of the night because the raccoons were so bad."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Clinton Lake State Recreation Area that offer playgrounds and swimming areas. A family shared, "The sites were spacious but wasn’t much privacy, which didn’t bother us because it allowed for our kids to play with the other kids easily."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A visitor at Jubilee College State Park Campground suggested, "Not a lot of amenities for families with young kids but bring your own corn hole bags and badminton."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Chief Keokuk Campground mentioned, "There’s a small shop on site with limited stock."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Peoria Heights, Illinois, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for your next outdoor getaway!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Peoria Heights, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Peoria Heights, IL is Millpoint Park with a 4.1-star rating from 16 reviews.