Petersburg's natural landscape features a mix of hardwood forests, prairie land, and the Sangamon River valley, with elevations averaging 600 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate conditions in the 50-70°F range. The area's campgrounds provide access to both wooded settings and open spaces typical of central Illinois.
What to do
Historic exploration: Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site is a reconstructed 1830s village where Abraham Lincoln lived as a young adult. "This is a wonderful place to visit. I enjoy learning about some of our family history. We have relation to the Trent, Graham, and Jackson families from the original area. Their cabins are reconstructed for touring as well as the old school house," notes Jamie T. from Lincolns New Salem Historic Site Campground.
Fishing: Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area offers multiple fishing spots. "Bass fishing is good here. Kayaking and canoeing is great here also. Cabins are small, rustic with no AC or water but are all nicely placed on the water," shares Rachel H. about Primitive Campground.
Hiking trails: Several local conservation areas provide trail systems. "A couple cute trails and 1 nice little campground that you can pitch a tent in or drive your RV too. Close to the beautiful historic New Salem Village. My dog and I love it here!" writes Cassidy P. about Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site.
Water recreation: Boating and paddling opportunities abound on local lakes and rivers. "Spots 56-60 overlook the boat docks. Kayaking and canoeing is great here also," mentions Rachel H. about Primitive Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Many campgrounds offer privacy despite their proximity to historical sites. "I have camped in the primitive campground numerous times. It is shaded, private, has a shelter, picnic table, and fire pit that you can cook on," says Chelle L. about Primitive Campground.
Family-friendly environments: Most campgrounds welcome families with children. "I went with a church group. This campground seemed well laid out and was affordable. It also felt like a safe environment for the family," mentions Brandy C. about Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area.
Historical immersion: Camping near historical sites adds educational value. "Love this place and have been visiting here ever since I was little! I love to walk through all the old buildings and learn about Lincoln's way of life. They even had horses and a bull out in the pastures!" shares Leah H. about Lincoln's New Salem Park.
Affordability: Most campgrounds offer reasonable rates for both tent and RV camping. "Nice campground and relatively inexpensive. Hasn't been around that long so few trees in the campground proper," notes Sheryl K. about Primitive Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The open landscape can create challenging camping conditions. "This is a nice, well kept campground but being newer has small trees with little shade. Also has been very windy on the few occasions we have stayed with an open field at entrance," warns Lucas T. about Primitive Campground.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Many reviewers note the lack of mature trees. "We camp at the equestrian loop, unlike some campgrounds we have our own shower house with three showers and three bathroom stalls. Their is also a vault toilet in the middle of camp and the opposite end of the main bathrooms. Most sites have at least partial shade," explains Alicia B.
