Central Illinois offers diverse camping experiences around Secor, a rural community located in Woodford County. The terrain in this area is predominantly level with an average elevation of 750 feet above sea level, featuring agricultural landscapes interspersed with wooded areas and water features. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons provide milder temperatures with occasional rainfall.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: Within 15 miles of Secor, Comlara County Park offers multiple fishing spots on Evergreen Lake. "I really enjoyed my stay at Evergreen Lake. The rustic tent sites are located on the opposite side of the lake from the RVs in an area called White Oak. These sites are the way to go for privacy," notes camper Scott N. The lake is stocked with various fish species and provides both shoreline access and boat fishing.
**Hiking trails: The network of trails around Moraine View State Recreation Area provides options for different skill levels, about 30 minutes southeast of Secor. "This campground surprised us. We got there in the dark and woke up to Fall colors, Canadian geese, trails, playgrounds," shares Jennifer M. The park features over 5 miles of marked paths through woodlands and around the lake.
**Water recreation: During summer months, campers can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and swimming at several locations. One visitor at Moraine View noted, "Nice lake for fishing and kayaking. Excellent restaurant on site also." Many area lakes have rental facilities operating from May through September, with rates starting around $10-15 per hour.
What campers like
**Affordability: Area campgrounds maintain reasonable rates, particularly at public recreation areas. At Carl Spindler Campground, campers appreciate the value. "Excellent value at $28 for full hookup. A lot of surface streets to get here from the freeway. Not much noise once you arrive," reports Michael C. Most campgrounds offer electric sites starting at $20-25 per night.
**Scenic waterfront camping: Several campgrounds provide direct water access or views. One camper at Millpoint Park shared, "We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling. Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird." The campground offers spacious sites along the Illinois River with sunset views over the water.
**Privacy options: While many campgrounds feature open layouts, certain areas offer more secluded experiences. A visitor to Millpoint Park noted, "This place felt like real camping. The spots were pretty spread out and easy pull through. It was full hookup with electric, water, and sewage." Some tent-specific areas provide greater distance between sites, particularly in primitive camping sections.
What you should know
**Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds near Secor operate from April through October with limited or no winter accessibility. At Hickory Hill Campground in Secor, the season runs April 1 to October 31. "We called in the afternoon and got a full hook up, pull through spot. Lots of nice amenities for families," notes one camper about their experience during the operating season.
**Water quality considerations: Several campgrounds have water with high mineral content. At Millpoint Park, a camper advised, "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird." Consider bringing drinking water supplies if staying at rural campgrounds.
**Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), advance bookings are essential. One camper at Carl Spindler Campground shared, "We had a great spot right on shore of Illinois River. Has marina adjacent, showers, host, and laundry." For holiday weekends, reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance at popular locations.
**Noise factors: Proximity to highways affects some locations. At Love's RV Stop, a reviewer mentioned, "As this RV Park is right off the interstate, you get highway noise." Research site maps when booking to select locations furthest from roads if seeking quiet.
Tips for camping with families
**Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Timberline Campground, "The management here has been amazing and there is plenty to do. Jumping pillow and several playgrounds. Nice campstore," shares Emily R. Some facilities include basketball courts, sports fields, and organized weekend activities.
**Swimming options: During summer months, beach and pool access varies by location. One visitor to Moraine View State Recreation Area noted, "The swimming beach is apparently only open on the weekends but there are plenty of places to get in the water so it wasn't a big deal." Beach facilities typically charge $3-5 per person for day use.
**Kid-friendly sites: Select campgrounds with level terrain and nearby restrooms for easier camping with young children. "Fun campground. Plenty of activities for kids! Campground slightly packed, but would still return back. Great for families with kids," reports a visitor to Timberline Campground.
Tips from RVers
**Hookup availability: Full-service sites are available at multiple locations, though amenities vary. At Kamp Komfort near Bloomington, "This is a nice campground located about 10 miles from Bloomington. It has full hookups at all the sites," shares a camper. "The owner was very nice and they also pick up your trash daily for you."
**Site size considerations: RV sites range from spacious to compact throughout the area. "The sites were very crowded and packed close together, barely room for the picnic table (but it was a holiday). It may be worth checking out on a less busy weekend," advises one Timberline Campground visitor. Research specific site dimensions when making reservations for larger rigs.
**Leveling requirements: Terrain varies across campgrounds, affecting setup time. At Kamp Komfort, campers noted that "Sites are spacious, incredibly level, well-shaded and this feels like a camping oasis in the middle of corn country." Many RV-focused campgrounds have concrete or gravel pads that minimize leveling challenges.
