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Campgrounds near Smithton, Illinois range from full-service RV parks to state recreation areas with tent camping options. The area includes Cahokia RV Parque with cabin accommodations and the Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, which offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Several campgrounds in the region provide access to Carlyle Lake, the largest lake in Illinois, while others are situated along rivers including the Mississippi and Kaskaskia. Most established campgrounds are within a 30-45 minute drive of Smithton, with many offering electric hookups and basic amenities.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the region, particularly at waterfront locations. "Eldon Hazlet State Park is close to St. Louis and is looking for a great park for a weekend getaway near the water," noted one camper, though they cautioned about metal culverts at campsite entrances that could damage tires. Flooding can impact accessibility at certain times, with some campgrounds closing temporarily during high water events. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Winter camping options are more limited, with several parks operating seasonally from April through October. Temperatures typically range from hot and humid summers to cold winters, with spring and fall offering milder conditions.
Campers consistently rate water access as a primary attraction in the region. Coles Creek Recreation Area receives high marks for its lakefront sites, with one reviewer describing it as "a nice, large campground located on Carlyle Lake in Illinois. It has full hook up, 50 amp sites with many located right on the water!" Fishing opportunities abound at several locations, including Washington County State Recreation Area, which one visitor praised for its "dark sky, great for picking out constellations." Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with campers reporting sightings of deer, bald eagles, and various bird species. While some campgrounds offer modern amenities including showers and laundry facilities, others provide a more rustic experience with basic facilities and greater privacy between sites.
"It's a centrally located campground in the Metro St. Louis area. It's close to interstates and it's a short drive across the river to Missouri attractions."
"I compared the park to two others near St. Louis on the Illinois side and found this one to be the most pleasant. Most of the sites are sunny, but some have shade."
"Very clean and secure overnight park just outside of STL. Phenomenal views of downtown and the arch, and fairly easy access to I-55/64/70."
"Close to the arch, that’s why we chose this place to stay overnight."
from $65 / night
Check Availability"You are on the entire opposite side of the base, away from everything, absolutely everything.."
"GREAT location for camping, especially if you run out of items and need to get something close by. Very natural, and amazing views and the feel is spectacular."
"Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."
"Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved."
"Conveniently located just outside of St Louis. We camped here for a trip to the city for St Louis cardinals game and zoo. My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park."
"It's not in the prettiest location, very industrial and the train tracks run close. First night one came through blowing its horns around 5am."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn’t notice with AC on in the camper. Close to 6 flags."
"This campground is fairly close to downtown and very close to lots of shopping. A great place to stay to stock up on supplies before heading west."
"We visited in October and were able to hike several great trails in the park and surrounding area. The campsites are nothing special."
"Hawn is my favorite campground close to St. Louis."
from $15 - $29 / night
Check Availability"Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city. It is clean and feels extremely safe. There aren't many sites, but the ones they have are quiet and spacious."
"Great for taking long walks or bike rides, although very steep hills. Close to St Louis, so you can do some urban exploring."
from $15 - $35 / night
Check Availability
ScoutThis camp grown is right on the Kathy trail which is over two hundred and twenty miles of a rail to the trail state park. It is also nestled in a small area with lots of wineries and microbreweries , making it a very nice place to stay for a while. Located only about twenty minutes from a major community with all the amenities you need.
GuideThe campground is nicely shaded with large trees but not to the point that there isn't grass. Think of camping in a large manicured city park without the city. The town of Grafton is a bonus. Many restaurants and pubs.
ScoutStaff is very friendly and great at their jobs. Bathroom was clean and nice. Gets a little crowded but it's still fairly small so not too crowded. Can't speak much for RV camping, but tent/car camping was better than some other state park sites.
LegendWe enjoyed the family site with another friend. It was good for a tent and 26 foot rv. Not a good big rig campground. It has tight turning and narrow roads. We took out kayak on the river for a float. Dirty water. Good hiking.
LegendThis is a park not far from St Louis with camping and hiking. Campground is on the small side.
ScoutTicks are soooo bad, def bring bug spray. There's also a DG and a gas station within 5 mins so that's a huge plus
LegendThis is my favorite campground in Missouri. It has the best atmosphere with grand hiking, both day hikes and back country camping. I have stayed all over in this campground. The spring that runs through it is great in the heat of the summer and the huge pine trees provide excellent shade. There is not much cell service down in the valley, but calls will go out if you drive up the hill. The sites book up quickly so make sure to have a reservation before showing up.
LegendWe have stayed at this campground so many times and love it. Cell service is excellent enabling me to work from my rv. It is close to anything you would need, but secluded enough and surrounded by huge trees and hiking trails. I have also rented a pavillion for a party.
ScoutPower / water at sites, single dump site available, at far end of runway, trees around all sites. Has a bathroom / shower / laundry bld. Nice for short visits. Annoying for more than a week.
Camping options near Smithton, Illinois spread across a 45-mile radius that includes both Illinois and Missouri destinations. The area features a mix of private RV parks and state recreation areas within a terrain that transitions from the Mississippi River floodplain to the eastern edge of the Ozark highlands. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F with high humidity, while winter camping requires preparation for occasional temperatures below freezing.
**Fishing opportunities: ** Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers excellent fishing in its namesake lake. "Good fishing, trails and memories waiting to be made" notes camper Travis, who appreciates the "peace is easily achieved" atmosphere. At just $8 per night, it provides affordable access to water recreation.
Wildlife viewing: Hawn State Park Campground in Missouri provides a unique ecosystem unlike other parks in the region. "Nowhere else in the state of Missouri have I been able to camp and feel like I'm in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. The car camping area is nestled in the middle of a pine filled valley," writes Megan M. The park's hiking trails feature "big boulders and beautiful creeks."
Swimming and water play: The Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area includes a swimming pool that families appreciate during hot summer months. "There is a swimming pool and campground store. The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice," notes Allen S. Another visitor, Brooke C., confirms this amenity: "There are three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months."
Private waterfront access: Campers frequently mention the direct lake access at Illini Campground. Julie M. shares, "Our tent site was shaded and our one neighbor was quiet and friendly. We felt secluded yet had easy access to the campground shower house, swimming pool, wooded nature trail, campground hosts and camp store." The proximity to water creates a peaceful atmosphere where campers "woke up to hear the lake lapping at the shoreline."
Urban conveniences: Casino Queen RV Park provides a secure camping option with city amenities. "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch. Centrally located and across the bridge from downtown," writes Greg S. For those seeking urban camping, this park offers full hookups in a protected environment.
Peaceful natural settings: When looking for camping near Smithton that offers seclusion, many visitors recommend the tent sites at Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground. One reviewer 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." Another camper adds, "Very primitive camping. Toilets only, but the campsites are spaced comfortably apart."
Military options: Active duty and retired military personnel have access to Scott AFB FamCamp near Belleville. A reviewer cautions about navigation: "Most important, if you put Scott FamCamp in google maps, it will take you there, BUT google maps will take you to no longer operational entry gates... put in Commissary to get on base." This campground offers a quiet atmosphere where "all RVers and tent campers we met, were very nice."
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds in the region have restricted amenities. At Horseshoe Lake, campers should prepare for basic facilities: "There is no electric or running water. The lake is ok but no swimming, boating and fishing only," advises Chrissy W. Several parks utilize vault toilets rather than flush facilities during certain seasons.
Weather impacts: Area campgrounds can face weather-related challenges. At Scott AFB FamCamp, a camper notes, "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun. Darn the bugs are miserable, miserable, miserable." Seasonal flooding can also affect accessibility and reservations.
Halloween festivities: Illini Campground hosts special seasonal events. "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. The campground also provides pumpkin painting contests and other fun activities," shares Aimee T., who advises arriving "at least a week in advance for the Halloween festivities- it fills up!"
Kid-friendly amenities: When camping with children near Smithton, consider St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA for its recreational options. "There is lots to do at this park. There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more," explains Crystal H. The campground's proximity to attractions is another advantage: "It is basically across the street from Six Flags and so can be very convenient."
Budget-friendly options: For families watching costs, Horseshoe Lake State Park offers exceptional value. As reviewer Travis notes: "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." The $8 per night camping fee makes this location accessible for families on a budget.
City camping considerations: Cahokia RV Parque provides convenient access to St. Louis attractions. "Just minutes across the river from St. Louis. They have a shuttle to the various tourist attractions, just ask the staff at the office for details," shares Tom B. However, some RVers note challenges: "The campsites are so tight; we couldn't back-in and park. Fortunately, management was responsive to our needs and asked the cabin occupants to move."
Utility placement: When setting up at Casino Queen RV Park, be prepared for unusual hookup configurations. Josh F. advises, "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."
Campground noise: Trains affect several campgrounds in the region. At St. Louis West KOA, campers report: "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper." The campground offers compensation through amenities: "Most of the sites are in the shade and are fairly level. The bathrooms were clean and well maintained."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Smithton, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Smithton, IL is Cahokia RV Parque with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
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