Cabin camping options near Shipman, Illinois typically include basic shelters with varying amenities across state parks and private campgrounds. Most sites are within a 30-45 minute drive radius of Shipman itself. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F in July and August, making air conditioning an important consideration for summer cabin stays.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sangchris Lake State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access with private docks at some campsites. "I have been coming here for years with my family when I was younger. I took a trip alone with my tent for 4 days in May. The place is as pristine as it was when I was a kid... and wonderful fishing to be had," notes a regular visitor.
Hiking trails: McCully Heritage Project provides well-maintained trails with scenic overlooks. A camper mentioned, "The trails are poorly marked but with basic knowledge of your compass points you can figure them out. The overlook to the marsh is pretty cool."
Water activities: Country Bend Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "Great place to stay and feel part of the community. Pretty scenery to walk around. Plenty of lakes/ponds to fish. We couldn't boat while there due to COVID but look forward to going back and taking our kayaks," reports a visitor.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Beaver Dam State Park Campground features generous camping areas. "All sites are shaded and mostly level with pull-thru or back-in parking. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with a grate over it. Each site has electric, however the water spigots are scattered about," explains one reviewer.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Rustic Acres Jellystone prioritizes activities for children. "The campsites are small and a bit pricey, but it is a great family friendly place. Good pizza and amazing ice cream at the store! Kid fun and themed activities, bounce trampoline pillow, pool, etc," shares a family who stayed there.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathhouses at multiple locations. According to one camper at Sangchris Lake, "We are enjoying our stay at Hickory Point Campground Lot 23 at Sangchris Lake State Park. Sites are spacious and campground is quiet and leisurely during the week. Beautiful shoreline lots."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin facilities in the area operate from April through November, with limited winter availability. "This campground is only 30 minutes from where I live but I love going here. It has nice spacious campsites. Clean bathrooms and shower. Nice big common areas. A nice big lake for fishing," notes a local visitor to Beaver Dam State Park.
Reservation requirements: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park requires advance planning. "We called ahead but didn't need a reservation. It is a city park and had that feel... not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos."
Limited privacy: Some cabins are positioned close together, especially at commercial campgrounds. One camper at Country Bend noted, "Great place to stay and feel part of the community. Pet friendly. Close to town if you've forgotten anything or want to have a restaurant dinner. Close to the highway for easy access."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Country Bend Campground offers numerous recreational options. "This is a really great campground! Huge campground with a lot of different areas. Holiday weekends have so many planned activities, some for all ages. We really loved the bridges with trails to ponds, and the jumping pillow."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for sites with dedicated play areas. A visitor to Cuivre River State Park Campground mentioned, "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak! Close to St. Louis but far enough out to enjoy peace and quiet!"
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F, requiring cooling solutions. At Sangchris Lake, "The sites are a bit close together and not many trees but I've been to worse. The not many trees is due to it still being a fairly new campground. The lake is nice and they have some spots close to it."
Tips from RVers
Location selection: Cahokia RV Parque offers cabin options with proximity to urban attractions. "We had a great experience in the 4 nights we spent here. The grounds, pool, laundry, and bathrooms were all in excellent repair and clean. The park was quiet, but very family friendly."
Seasonal sites: Many local campgrounds offer seasonal cabin options for longer stays. "This beautiful campground has many things to offer and is only a few minutes from the local drive in movie theater in Litchfield Illinois. It has a pool, swing sets, playground, cabins, ponds with stocked fish, beautiful walking trails."
Utilities information: Power capabilities vary by location. One RVer at St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA noted, "Clean and fairly well maintained. Close to St. Louis attractions. Nice enough for staying a night or two."
