Best Campgrounds near Smithton, IL
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.
