Salem's inland location in central Illinois creates a temperate camping environment with moderate humidity and temperatures ranging from 50-85°F during prime camping seasons. The area sits at approximately 535 feet above sea level with surrounding terrain characterized by gently rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Campgrounds near Salem offer established amenities within a 40-mile radius, with several locations providing specialized accommodations including canvas safari tents and yurt camping options.
What to do
Hiking on paved trails: The area around South Sandusky Campground offers well-maintained paved trails suitable for both hiking and biking. According to Joel R., "There is a paved bike trail" that connects various sections of the campground, making it easy to explore the surroundings.
Swimming at dedicated beaches: Coles Creek Recreation Area features designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. One camper noted, "This wonderful camping area is beautiful with clean campsites. With picnic areas and a beach close you and the family will have a good time and make new friends" (Jake L.).
Fishing access: Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area provides multiple fishing opportunities with both shore and boat access. As Tracie E. mentioned, "Fishing could've been better but again it was early April," suggesting that fishing success varies seasonally at the lake.
Kayaking and boating: Gun Creek Campground offers direct lake access for various water activities. One camper observed that "The lake is big enough for ski boats but nice for kayaks also" (Jennifer G.), indicating versatility for different water sports.
Year-round yurt camping: Salem, Illinois area offers yurt camping options that extend beyond traditional camping seasons. Several campgrounds provide canvas structures and yurts that allow for comfortable stays even in cooler months, with one camper mentioning how they "would stay again" even during off-peak times.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area offers well-designed camping areas with adequate spacing. StaceeQ Q. described it as having "Nice level sites next to the lake. Reminds me of when I was a kid and there were camp clubs."
Lake views: Many campers appreciate the waterfront locations available at several campgrounds. At South Sandusky, Gina J. mentioned, "many of the site are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous," highlighting the scenic appeal of lakefront camping.
Clean facilities: Coles Creek Recreation Area receives consistent praise for its maintenance standards. Amurican L. stated, "I was thoroughly impressed with the upkeep of this area. The campground is well maintained and has plenty of hiking area, fishing area, and playing/swimming area for children."
Limited cell service: For those seeking a more disconnected experience, Forbes State Recreation Area offers natural isolation. According to Lori W., "there is very little cell service so it is a great place to be unplugged and enjoy time with friends and family!"
Close proximity to amenities: When staying near Salem, campers appreciate having stores within driving distance. Jennifer G. noted, "There's a dollar store in Farina and a grocery store in Kinmundy; both towns are less than 10 miles away."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Salem area require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Eldon Hazlet, one camper observed, "The campground filled up by 11am on Friday, which was a surprise to us" (Brooke C.), suggesting early reservations are essential.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have issues with water supply. One camper at Eldon Hazlet noted, "The potable water supply... was extremely dirty with a lot of copper colored solids. I drained the tank and filled with a spicket next to our site and had the same dirty water."
Site leveling challenges: At Gun Creek, many sites require leveling equipment. One review mentioned, "Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline, which seems ok for Smaller rigs."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate seasonally, with limited winter options. South Sandusky operates from "March 28 to November 2," while others like Stephen Forbes State Recreation Area run "mid May-late Dec," making yurt camping near Salem, Illinois one of the few year-round options.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability vary significantly between locations. At Eldon Hazlet, Chelsea D. cautioned, "Unless you have a restroom in your rig, be prepared to walk up to the showerhouse. The pit toilets that were spread across the campground were in horrendous condition."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet offers multiple play areas for children. Brooke C. noted, "There are three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months. Lots of families with kids, bike rides and plenty of other lake and outdoor activities in the area."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature dedicated swimming areas with varying amenities. At Eldon Hazlet, Aimee T. mentioned, "There's a nice large zero entry pool for a $5 fee on weekends," providing a supervised swimming alternative to lake beaches.
Kid-friendly events: Seasonal activities are offered at several campgrounds. According to one camper, "They have a huge Halloween event every year where people decorate their sites (pretty extensively) and there's a haunted house, then kids trick or treat from site to site."
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy spotting local animals at the campgrounds. Chelsea D. observed, "lots of deer bed down in the grassy areas at night, which was a fun thing to see!" providing natural entertainment for families.
Yurt camping for families: For families new to camping near Salem, Illinois, yurt accommodations offer a comfortable introduction to outdoor experiences. The structured canvas shelters provide protection from weather while still delivering an outdoor experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Okaw Valley Kampground offers various hookup options for different needs. Christie L. explained, "We got a water/electric pull through in the overflow area on the north side," showing the flexibility available for RV travelers.
Pad surfaces: Various campgrounds feature different parking surfaces. At South Sandusky, Roger W. noted, "Pad surface: Blacktop," which is important information for RV leveling and stabilization.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal as options vary. At Coles Creek, Amurican L. cautioned, "The only thing I would change is the ONE dump station for this massive campground," suggesting potential wait times during busy periods.
Electrical amperage: Check specific electrical needs against campground capabilities. Okaw Valley Kampground provides "Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection so if you are using 30 make sure you have a 50/30 adapter" according to James N.
Site privacy considerations: Be prepared for varying levels of privacy between sites. At Okaw Valley, one reviewer noted, "all sites face each other meaning you will be 5-10 feet from your neighbors if you are sitting out front."
