Camping areas near Alton, Illinois sit along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers at an elevation of approximately 420 feet. The region experiences humid continental climate with hot summers where temperatures frequently exceed 90°F and mild winters. Most campgrounds in the area open between April and October, with several offering year-round access despite occasional flooding concerns along the riverfront areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pere Marquette State Park Campground features multiple fishing spots around its lake. "There are a lot of eagles feeding in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers which meet at the park. The Lewis & Clark expedition started nearby," notes Joel R., who visited the park.
Historic exploration: St. Charles historic district is accessible from Sundermeier RV Park via a connecting trail. "You can literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles. Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River," reports Cheryl K.
Lakeside recreation: The 370 Lakeside Park offers multiple water activities according to visitors. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish," explains Mats who stayed at the park.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: The primitive camping at Walker's Island offers tranquil surroundings. "Peaceful tent camping on Walkers Island at $8 per day," says ML W. who camped at Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground. Another visitor, Travis, added, "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved."
Clean facilities: Many campers note the well-maintained bathhouses at several campgrounds. "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. The staff are kind and helpful. Water and electric worked fine. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Trash and recycling receptacles are huge and convenient," reports Suzie S. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Dining options: On-site food service is available at select locations. Joel R. mentions that Pere Marquette State Park "has one of the best fried chicken dinners around on Sunday." At Cahokia RV Parque, Lee T. recommends, "Do NOT miss the BBQ place in the parking lot... fantastic food and a 10% discount for park customers."
What you should know
Limited shade: Several campgrounds lack mature trees. "This campground is right across the street from the Mississippi. Predominantly RV campers and families, along with some local fisherman," notes Mike M. about Pere Marquette State Park. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, Suzie S. mentions, "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience transportation noise. "When you first pull down the road you'll be worried you're going to end up in the train yard, but the campground is hidden and actually really quiet and secluded," says Jessica N. about St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA. At Sundermeier RV Park, Brian A. notes, "You are on the final approach for the airport, so I'll could be a lil noisy for some."
Weather impacts: Seasonal flooding affects some campgrounds. Annie C. reports about 370 Lakeside Park: "One of the downsides to this location is that it is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded. But the City of St Peters did a great job getting this place back to usable with new sod, a new bathhouse, and some general sprucing up."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. "My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park. Minimal playground but they still enjoyed it," reports Sarah S. who visited St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA with her family. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, Joseph F. shares, "This park is beautiful. Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots. Kids had a blast riding bikes."
Budget-friendly options: For families watching costs, primitive camping offers savings. At Horseshoe Lake State Park, WanderlustDu0 notes, "The campground is relatively small but has great sites to camp. Very private and clean. 5 ⭐ in my opinion simply because of the overnight price and privacy." Travis confirms, "Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast. Camping can be reserved but no need. Just pick your spot go to the office building, and fill out the form, pay and slide in envelope and drop in box."
Dog-friendly areas: For families camping with pets, MGM Campground provides spacious sites. "Nice little lake (catch and release I believe). Surrounded by nature, lots of grass and trees, great for dog owners. Spacious spots," says K, who stayed at this dog friendly campground near Alton. The campground's natural setting provides ample space for exercising pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selections: When making reservations, consider specific site features. At Cahokia RV Parque, Lee T. advises, "The picnic tables and fire rings are nice additions and the lots appear to be level (ours was.) We didn't have any trouble backing our 38 ft travel trailer in either." At St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA, James P. suggests, "Sites are mostly level. Entrance to campground is tight, swing wide."
Hookup placement: Pay attention to utility locations when setting up. Josh F. notes about Casino Queen 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."
Security features: Several pet friendly camping locations near Alton offer added security measures. At Cahokia RV Parque, Kelsey R. mentions, "There was after hours check in! But also a so friendly staff in the office. Beautiful coded bathrooms with showers. They were heated and warm and very well marked." Similarly, Greg S. notes about Casino Queen RV Park, "Reservations are online and they email you the gate code and WiFi code. Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful."
