Tent camping near Prairie du Rocher, Illinois requires preparation for rocky terrain and seasonal weather variations. The area sits along the Mississippi River floodplain with elevations ranging from 380-720 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring camping contends with frequent rainfall averaging 4 inches monthly between April and June.
What to do
Fishing at Apple Creek: Access the creek via a short walk north from the gravel camping area at Apple Creek Conservation Area. "The creek is a good place to fish and you can launch a kayak the boat ramp," notes camper Ralph S., who appreciated the level, graveled camping spot that stays "clean" in damp weather.
Hiking at highest point: The Taum Sauk Mountain trail offers a moderate 2-mile hike to Missouri's highest elevation point. A camper reports, "The hike to Mina Sauk falls and Devil's Toll is always worth it," while another recommends "hiking the small ~4-5 mile loop to catch some of the amazing views and rock formations."
Target shooting: Visit the World Shooting and Recreational Complex during non-event weeks for open range access. "This is the site of the American Trap Shooters Association 'Grand' Event. During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full," explains one camper, while another notes it has a "huge campground with a lake to boat, kayak or fish from the bank."
What campers like
Open camping areas: The spacious group sites at Old Cove accommodate larger gatherings with dedicated amenities. "You get a nice open area with a pavilion, picnic tables, and a fire ring. Each group site is serviced by its own port-a-potty," explains Mara F., adding that operators "drive the bags of ice you buy to your campsite for you."
Wildlife encounters: Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground offers secluded sites with frequent wildlife sightings. One camper mentioned, "We were the only people in the campground that night, which was a little freaky, but also very peaceful," while another reported, "Also had deer at our tent."
Moss-covered ground: Tent campers appreciate the natural cushioning at some sites. "Where we camped, the ground was covered in moss. That made for very soft sleeping, except for the few large rocks spread over the area," notes Scott M., who camped with a large cub scout group.
What you should know
Site reservations: Some campgrounds near Prairie du Rocher operate on different reservation systems. At Taum Sauk, "The campground is based off first-come first-serve." Meanwhile, Old Cove requires reservations and "they are only open on weekends."
Seasonal limitations: Water availability changes seasonally at many campgrounds. According to one camper at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip."
Ground conditions: Rocky terrain presents challenges for tent setup. A camper at Taum Sauk advised, "Very rocky ground so be careful where you put your tent," while another noted that sites have "room for two portable canopies" despite the terrain challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly options: Old Cove specializes in group camping with float trips. "If you are looking for a place for a group to go and have a fun float trip, this is it... You can float the Meramec for 4 or 9 miles and you end back at the campsite."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for animal encounters. A camper at Babler State Park warned, "The only issue is the raccoons. They don't give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!"
Site selection for kids: Some locations offer better family accommodations. "Sites 13-33 are popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them," according to a Babler State Park camper who noted these contrast with the more wooded sites in other sections.
Tips from RVers
Limited facilities: Many tent camping areas near Prairie du Rocher have few RV amenities. At World Shooting Complex, "Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue," but a camper noted, "There is a shower house I believe but could not access a couple of the doors I tried."
Accessibility challenges: Navigation can be difficult without proper guidance. A camper at Babler State Park shared, "We ended up dragging our camper through the whole park before we found the road to the campgrounds," recommending visitors ask camp hosts who "have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs."
Seasonal variations: During off-season, expect fewer neighbors. At World Shooting Complex, a camper reported, "Only one other camper within sight of our spot Friday night and they were gone Saturday morning," making it ideal for those seeking solitude with RV access.
