The Illinois side of the Mississippi River offers several camping options within 50 miles of Prairie du Rocher, with most located along the river bluffs and forested areas. Winter temperatures in this region typically range from 20-40°F, while summer brings 80-95°F heat with moderate humidity. The region's terrain varies from riverside lowlands to wooded hillsides with elevation changes of 100-300 feet throughout the camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer access to both river and lake fishing. At Randolph County State Recreation Area, campers can enjoy "a nice lake to fish" with "decent catfish and crappie bass" according to visitors who've stayed there. The 65-acre lake is stocked regularly and permits are required.
Hiking trails: The area features multiple trail systems with varying difficulty. The trail at Kaskaskia Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam "is paved for walking, bicycles and wheelchairs" that "leads to a nice overlook of the confluence" where the Kaskaskia and Mississippi Rivers meet. Most trails are under 3 miles in length.
Visit historical sites: Located about 5 miles from Prairie du Rocher, Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site provides context for the region's French colonial past. "The historical sites around Prairie du Rocher provide interesting day trips," according to regular visitors, with tours available most days during summer months from 9am-5pm.
What campers like
Shade coverage: Many campsites in the region feature mature tree canopies providing relief during hot summer days. Visitors to Hawn State Park Campground appreciate that "the car camping area is nestled in the middle of a pine filled valley" with "nothing more refreshing than sitting in the evening and hearing the wind whistle through the pines."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. At Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney, campers note "the property itself is beautiful" and "the bathrooms and camp store were extremely nice." Most shower facilities are open from 6am-10pm.
River views: Camping near the Mississippi offers scenic waterfront vistas. According to campers at Kaskaskia Lock and Dam, sites "back up to river with great view, and boat ramps." These riverside sites typically cost $18-25 per night and fill quickly during summer weekends.
What you should know
Reservation systems: Booking policies vary significantly between campgrounds. At Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, "reservations are online and they email you the gate code and WiFi code" while others operate on a first-come basis. Weekends from May through September typically require reservations 2-3 weeks in advance.
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas experience occasional flooding after heavy rainfall. According to one camper at Randolph County Recreation Area, "after a record rainfall amount and the park already has flooding issues, it was flooding pretty bad" though staff were proactive about offering alternative sites.
Train noise: Several campgrounds are located near active rail lines. At St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA, "close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper." Most train activity occurs between 6am-11pm with occasional overnight freight trains.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several parks offer play equipment for children. Randolph County Recreation Area provides "two different playgrounds walkable distance from campground" and "the workers were super nice and helpful," making it suitable for families with young children.
Swimming options: Limited swimming facilities exist in the area. Cahokia RV Parque offers "a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more" according to visitors. Many families seek swimming alternatives at nearby public pools since river swimming is generally not recommended.
Wildlife viewing: Kids enjoy spotting local animals throughout the campgrounds. One visitor mentioned "cute little forest bunnies running around" at Randolph County, while deer and bird watching opportunities are abundant at dawn and dusk across most parks.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: Space considerations vary widely between parks. At Saline Creek RV Park and Campground, RVers appreciate the "new sites, tables, and a beautiful creek" with sufficient room for larger rigs, while others note some parks have "harsh back up angles" that can challenge bigger motorhomes.
Hookup locations: Utility placement can require planning. At Draft Kings RV Park, "utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper." Most RV sites offer 30-amp service with some 50-amp availability.
Urban vs. rural options: RV campgrounds near Prairie du Rocher range from remote to more developed areas. Some visitors prefer Cahokia RV Parque because "it's a centrally located campground in the Metro St. Louis area. It's close to interstates and it's a short drive across the river to Missouri attractions."
