Millpoint Park sits on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, surrounded by the Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve. The campground includes approximately 80 spacious sites for RVs and tent camping, with options for waterfront locations that offer views of Peoria's skyline. Water at the facility contains high iron content, which affects taste but is considered safe for showering according to campers.
What to do
Kayaking access: Launch directly from Carl Spindler Campground's marina where you can also purchase ice and small camping supplies. "There's a fantastic boat launch that will have you fishing, kayaking and experiencing this body of fresh water shortly after you anchor into your spot for the night," notes one Millpoint Park visitor.
Biking trails: Hickory Grove Campground offers direct access to the 80-mile long Hennepin Canal bike trail. "Great bike path right out of campsite along the canal. Nice to get some exercise on a long road trip," reports a Hickory Grove Campground guest.
Nature walking: Carl Spindler features a short nature trail starting as a boardwalk over marsh areas. "The trail starts off as a boardwalk over an interesting marsh area and then transitions to a primitive trail eventually leading you to the lake shoreline. This was a great walk for our black lab who loves trails and water."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campsites at Millpoint Park provide more room than typical commercial campgrounds. "All of which are incredibly spacious, unlike a lot of other RV parks—to choose from at Millpoint, where a slow meandering gravel lane will have you navigating around the campground where you'll take good note of the excellent shade that is provided everywhere."
Waterfront camping: Riverside sites at Carl Spindler Campground provide direct water access. "If you chose to set up your tent over in the primitive camping area, this area is still pretty underdeveloped (for now), so over in these parts, you'll have a greater feeling of solitude, peace & quiet."
Budget-friendly prices: Carl Spindler Campground offers affordable rates compared to similar waterfront locations. "The best part about this lakefront getaway—apart from the incredibly cheap prices for an overnight stay—was hands down, the very friendly staff who offer up everyone a very strong dose of Midwestern hospitality."
What you should know
Iron-rich water: Several campgrounds in the Peoria area have high mineral content water. "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird," notes one Millpoint Park camper. Another adds, "The water here is very rusty. The water here has a lot of iron in it, so don't attempt to drink it, but according to the locals, it's fine to shower in."
Limited shade at some locations: Comlara County Park has open field camping with minimal trees. "Not a lot of trees for privacy but that's the camping style here," reports a visitor. Another camper mentions, "Very open campground. Not a ton of trees although some sites offer nice shade."
Seasonal crowds: Waterfront sites throughout the area fill quickly during summer. "When we were there it was lovely. There is plenty of shade, sites are large enough for our Class A and they are pet friendly," explains a Kentuckiana Campground reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Condits Ranch provides a designated swimming area for children. "They have a little playground, and a small beach area. We enjoyed ourselves," reports a Condits Ranch visitor. Another adds, "The small fishing pond, the swimming hole and the clubhouse were great to mix in to keep the youngsters entertained."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "This place is perfect for kids. Decent little parks. Huge slide in the holler," notes a Kentuckiana Campground reviewer.
Fishing opportunities: At Millpoint Park, children can fish without needing a boat. "You don't even need to get into a boat, by accessing one of 2 small little lakes where you can simply cast a line in from the dock or around the perimeter."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Kentuckiana Campground offers pull-through sites but spacing can be tight. "Spaces are tight. Most are pull-though but there isn't a lot of room between campers so don't expect much privacy. Grounds are very well kept and they have two nice ponds stocked with fish."
Leveling requirements: Most sites at Millpoint require minimal adjustment. "We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling," reports a camper.
Yurt camping options: While traditional RV and tent camping dominate the Peoria area, yurt camping near Peoria, Illinois is limited but available. American Legion Freedom Farm Campground offers yurt accommodations for those seeking this unique camping style. For families looking for yurt camping in Peoria, Illinois, booking well in advance is recommended as these specialty accommodations are limited.
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