The central Illinois region surrounding Pittsfield sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level with terrain characterized by rolling hills and river valleys. Campgrounds in this area typically offer a mix of wooded sites and open meadows, with many properties situated near the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, making water-based recreation particularly popular.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Waverly Lake City Park provides a quiet fishing experience with minimal crowds. "I've stayed here a couple times now. Each time there has only been one other person. It's quiet and peaceful," notes a visitor to Waverly Lake City Park. The park enforces a "4 consecutive day per month limit" for campers.
Hiking trails: Cuivre River State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks through wooded terrain. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," shares a camper. The park features trails with varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for different hiking abilities.
Water activities: The lakes and rivers near Pittsfield provide numerous options for boating and swimming. A visitor to Pere Marquette State Park Campground notes, "In winter there are a lot of eagles feeding in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers which meet at the park." The campground's proximity to the rivers allows for unique wildlife viewing opportunities during different seasons.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the site layout at Pere Marquette State Park Campground. "The campground is located in an open grove of old trees. There were owls when we were there," one visitor mentions. The campground's layout provides a balance of privacy and accessibility.
Clean facilities: Schuy-Rush Park receives positive feedback for its maintenance standards. A reviewer notes, "Friendly staff, clean restroom & showers. Will definitely stay here again." The park offers a mix of tent sites, RV spaces, and cabin rentals with boat docks available for visitors bringing their own watercraft.
Weekend entertainment: Crazy Horse Campground stands out for its regular activities. "Every weekend has an event. Bluegrass to crafts," reports a camper. The campground operates seasonally from April 1 to October 31, with events scheduled throughout their operating season.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. A camper at Crazy Horse Campground warns, "No Verizon wireless service here or anywhere for about a 45 mile radius," though another visitor notes, "AT&T wireless service" is available. Plan communications accordingly based on your provider.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area have limited seasons. Great River Road Campground operates from April to October, with different amenities available depending on the time of year. A visitor describes it as having "No frills camping on the edge of the fairgrounds" with "space for tents on the margins."
Weather preparedness: The climate presents challenges depending on the season. At Waverly Lake, a camper cautions, "Be mindful of field roaches and raccoons at night, as we had to learn the hard way the morning after our first night. Oh, and the mosquitoes are BRUTAL." Proper gear and repellent are essential during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing: The wooded settings provide opportunities for nature observation. At Cuivre River State Park Campground, a camper shares, "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" These natural encounters add educational value for children.
Water recreation options: Mark Twain Lake Jellystone Park and The Water Zone offers additional water-based amenities. "Being after Labor Day the water park was closed, but looked like fun. Mini golf was booming," notes a visitor. The resort features "a large swimming pool" and "two good sized ponds for fishing."
Yurt camping options: For families seeking yurt camping near Pittsfield, Illinois, Waverly Lake and Cuivre River State Park offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional tent or RV camping. These structured canvas dwellings provide more weather protection while maintaining an outdoor camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Pere Marquette State Park Campground accommodates various RV sizes, but with limitations. "Most of the sites were fairly level, but I didn't see any pull through sites," notes an RVer. The campground does offer electric hookups with 50-amp service available.
Full-service options: RVers appreciate the comprehensive hookups at Crazy Horse Campground. "Level packed gravel sites. We have a 40' class A. Plenty of pull thru sites," shares an experienced camper. The campground's layout accommodates larger rigs while maintaining adequate spacing between sites.
Seasonal planning: RV camping availability varies by season. Schuy-Rush Park provides year-round access, while most other area campgrounds close during winter months. Sites with sewer hookups tend to book further in advance during peak summer weekends.
