Camping options within 45 minutes of Smithton, Illinois range from primitive sites to full-service facilities across the Mississippi River valley region. The area sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level with mild spring and fall seasons that typically offer the most comfortable camping conditions. Summer temperatures can reach into the 90s with high humidity, making water access and shade important considerations when choosing campsites near Smithton.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: Washington State Park Campground offers excellent trail options with varying difficulty levels, including the challenging 1000 Steps Trail. "The hiking in this state park is fantastic. The campground is small but well maintained. The eco-system is something to marvel," notes one visitor to Washington State Park Campground.
Water recreation: The Big River runs through Washington State Park, providing swimming and fishing opportunities. Many campers take advantage of on-site boat rentals: "Rent a canoe/kayak/tube to enjoy the river (on site!)." Horseshoe Lake State Park offers boating and fishing but no swimming, with one visitor noting, "There is no electric or running water. The lake is ok but no swimming, boating and fishing only."
Historical exploration: St. Francois State Park Campground combines outdoor activities with historical sites. "St. Francois is a nice park tucked in the forest off of Hwy 67. It's a quaint park that tends to fill up fast depending on time of year. There are some nice hiking options within the park," reports a camper.
What campers like
Affordable pricing: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground stands out for its budget-friendly rates. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just $8," shares one visitor to Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground.
Privacy options: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offers secluded sites despite being near St. Louis. As one camper reports, "It is clean and feels extremely safe. There aren't many sites, but the ones they have are quiet and spacious. There is one bathroom, centrally located, that was a 2-3 minute walk from our campsite."
Yurt camping and alternative accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Smithton, Illinois, St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA provides yurt options alongside traditional sites. "This was such a nice and serene setting. Close to the city and local attractions, yet surrounded by nature none the less," reports one visitor who enjoyed the glamping amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited services in winter months. At Babler State Park, "No showers, but decent toilets. The nice thing is the campground is staffed by rangers in the day, and at night they sometimes take a security swing through the campground."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience significant noise issues. At the St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA, "There are trains that pass 2 blocks away several times nightly, but after the first night you won't notice. During modified car racing season, Friday nights are roaring loud from the racetrack nearby."
Flooding risk: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers excellent amenities but has experienced closures due to high water. "One of the downsides to this location is that it is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," warns a reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: The St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA provides numerous family activities. "We camped here for a trip to the city for St. Louis Cardinals games and zoo. My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park. Minimal playground but they still enjoyed it," shares a visitor.
Water activities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers varied water recreation options that appeal to families. "This park is beautiful. Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots. Kids had a blast riding bikes."
Safety features: Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area provides a well-monitored environment for families. "The campground hosts are sprinkled throughout the grounds and are always friendly and accommodating. They have a huge Halloween event every year where people decorate their sites and there's a haunted house, then kids trick or treat from site to site."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: When visiting Hawn State Park Campground, note the site limitations. "Not all sites are long enough for large RVs and the roads in some loops prevent you from turning around. The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs."
Hookup details: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers premium RV amenities. "Full service, pull through site. Excellent park, lots of amenities. It is not 'in the woods,' which I usually prefer, but will stay there again next time I am passing through St. Louis," notes one RVer.
Water quality concerns: Check water conditions when filling tanks. At Eldon Hazlet, one RVer experienced issues: "Only complaint that I have was the potable water supply. I filled my trailer's tank at the drinking water supply when you enter the campground. It was extremely dirty with a lot of copper colored solids."
