Best Campgrounds near Pinckneyville, IL

Camping near Pinckneyville, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to wooded retreats, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Hawn State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "There are several hiking trails and an overlook," making it a great spot for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Gun Creek. A camper shared, "Love this state park! Clean, quiet, water views and lots of bike paths to ride," highlighting the peaceful environment perfect for fishing.
• Wildlife Watching: Visit Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs for a chance to see local wildlife. One reviewer noted, "The grounds and pit toilets were remarkably clean," indicating a well-maintained area for nature lovers.

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the sites. At Shawnee Forest Campground, one visitor said, "The camp was clean and well maintained," which is a common theme across many campgrounds in the area.
• Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Giant City State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is good, and camp hosts very friendly and helpful."
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. One visitor at Trail of Tears State Park Campground remarked, "Unobstructed view of the Mississippi River," making it a picturesque spot for camping.

What you should know

• Crowded on Holidays: If you plan to camp during holiday weekends, be prepared for crowds. A camper at Hawn State Park Campground noted, "The sites are in close proximity to one another so it gets crowded during Holiday weekends."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "Water was not available and no power," so plan accordingly.
• Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Jackson Falls said, "If you’re terrified of wildlife this is not the place for you," indicating that nature is very much alive in these areas.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, one family enjoyed, "Three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months."
• Plan for Activities: Bring bikes for the paved trails. A visitor at South Sandusky Campground mentioned, "There are miles of paved bicycle trails," making it a fun option for families.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A camper at Turkey Ridge Campground noted, "Goreville is a small local town with a grocery store," which is handy for last-minute supplies.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Not all sites are level or spacious. A reviewer at Gun Creek mentioned, "Not all spots are level," so check the campground map before booking.
• Book Early: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Shawnee Forest Campground advised, "We were able to reserve one of the last spots," highlighting the importance of early reservations.
• Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Trail of Tears State Park Campground, have limited electric and water hookups. A visitor noted, "Full hook ups," but also mentioned the need to plan for sites without these amenities.

Camping near Pinckneyville, Illinois, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.