Best Tent Camping near Ramsey, IL
Tent campsites near Ramsey, Illinois cluster around several established campgrounds that cater specifically to tent campers seeking access to local waterways and natural areas. Spillway Campground, located near the Lake Shelbyville Dam, offers approximately 20 primitive tent sites alongside full-hookup options. Nearby Kaskaskia River Camp provides basic tent camping facilities with river access. Shady Grove Campground in Hidden Springs State Forest, about 15 miles southeast of Ramsey, offers drive-in tent sites in a forested setting. These locations form a triangle of tent camping options within a 30-minute drive of Ramsey.
Most tent-only sites in the region feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Spillway Campground provides drinking water, picnic tables, showers, and toilets for tent campers at approximately $10 per night for primitive sites. Sites are typically set on level ground with minimal improvements. Walk-in tent sites are available at Spillway, offering slightly more seclusion than drive-up locations. Campers should check seasonal availability, as some facilities operate with limited services during winter months. Most campgrounds permit fires in designated rings when no burn bans are in effect, and many provide firewood for purchase on-site.
According to reviews, Spillway Campground offers a peaceful experience even when located relatively close to town. One camper noted that "even in October it was pretty empty" and described the location as peaceful despite proximity to urban areas. The campground's position along the Kaskaskia River after it leaves Lake Shelbyville provides tent campers with excellent fishing opportunities and water access. Tent campers frequently use these sites as bases for fishing, canoeing, and exploring nearby bike trails. Sullivan Marina and Campgrounds Resort maintains stricter hours, requiring campers to call for entry after 10 PM, but offers clean facilities for tent camping. Primitive tent camping in this region generally provides good access to water recreation with moderate privacy between sites.