Sangchris Lake State Park stretches across 3,000 acres of central Illinois countryside with a 2,165-acre reservoir as its centerpiece. Campers can expect hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F from June through August, while spring and fall offer milder conditions suitable for extended outdoor activities. Winter camping remains available at select campgrounds until mid-January with temperatures commonly dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing from private docks: At Hickory Point Campground in Sangchris Lake State Park, several sites provide direct lake access. "All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake. Several fishing docks in campground," notes Greg S., who appreciated the clean bathhouse facilities.
Hiking nearby trails: Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area offers extensive hiking opportunities. "Watch out for the poison ivy and get a map from an employee to hike the trails. They can be hard to find but camping is fantastic!" advises Chelle L. about the primitive camping areas.
Mini golf and family recreation: The Double J Campground and RV Park provides on-site entertainment options. "It's a surprisingly big campground, big rig friendly and a lot of cute amenities," mentions Jessica T., though she notes interstate noise can be heard from sites near the road.
What campers like
Lakeside camping views: Sangchris Lake State Park Campground provides waterfront sites popular with anglers and nature enthusiasts. "I stayed at the tent sites. They are first come, first served, and a short walk from the parking spots," explains Mike G., who gave the campground five stars.
Affordable primitive options: The primitive sites at Deer Run Campground offer seclusion at budget-friendly rates. "The sites were large and the primitive sites at the back were incredibly beautiful! The prices were very low," shares Colin H., highlighting the value for tent campers seeking pet-friendly camping near Rochester.
Proximity to Lincoln historic sites: Illinois State Fair Campground provides convenient access to Springfield's historical attractions. "Short drive 2.5 miles to Lincoln home. 1 mile from Lincoln's Tomb," notes Jeffrey F., making this an ideal base camp for history-minded visitors with pets.
What you should know
Campground maintenance varies seasonally: At Deer Run Campground facilities can sometimes need attention. "Outhouse was passable but a bathhouse would go a long way to upgrading the facility. Playground was great for kiddos," reports J N., suggesting campers should prepare accordingly.
Electrical capacity during peak times: During holiday weekends with high temperatures, some campgrounds experience infrastructure challenges. "Because of the heat over this holiday weekend and a completely full campground, the electricity couldn't meet the demand and a transformer blew," recounts Susan L. at Hickory Point Campground.
Limited shade at newer facilities: Lake Taylorville City Campground offers pet-friendly camping options, but lacks mature trees. "Nice campground and relatively inexpensive. Hasn't been around that long so few trees in the campground proper. With limited shade it would be hot as blazes in mid summer," advises Sheryl K.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campsites with playgrounds: Sangchris Lake State Park offers recreational facilities for children. "Playground was great for kiddos. Hosts were nice and fairly helpful," reports J N. about Deer Run Campground, making it suitable for pet-friendly family camping.
Consider cabins during extreme weather: The Kampground (formerly The Last Resort) provides cabin accommodations as alternatives to tent camping. "The new owner has really done a fantastic job of restoring this property which was formerly a church kids camp. The bathrooms were really clean, property well maintained," notes Jay M.
Reserve ahead for holiday weekends: Prairie Lake Campground fills quickly during peak seasons. "We certainly didn't expect the Prairie Lake Campground to be full in late October! Both loops were full, but there was just enough space for us to squeeze in for 2 nights!" shares Jennifer K., highlighting the importance of planning ahead.
Tips from RVers
Check site drainage after rainfall: Double J Campground's gravel sites can become wet during heavy rains. "It rained a lot while we were here and of course our stairs landed right in a mud puddle but it was mostly well drained and clear water on the gravel. The gravel could be a bit thicker but it was decent," suggests Jana C.
Consider electrical needs during summer: For reliable air conditioning during hot months, verify amperage availability. "Electric only but water available and nice dump station," mentions Greg S. about Hickory Point, noting the campground's utility setup works well for most RV needs.
Locate centralized water sources: At campgrounds without individual water hookups, preparation is key. "Site has electricity with water centrally located in the center of the loop. We needed a 100 ft fresh water hose to fill up," explains Jennifer K. about Prairie Lake Campground, an important consideration for pet-friendly camping near Rochester.
