Matthew H.
Scout
ScoutSangchris Lake State Park Campground
Lakeside View
Campground host is super cool. Best campground in the Springfield area, in my opinion!
Camping near Springfield, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Springfield, Illinois range from full-service RV parks to more primitive tent camping areas within a 30-minute drive of the city. The Double J Campground and RV Park in Chatham provides shaded sites with full hookups, while Sangchris Lake State Park Campground offers a more natural setting with both tent and RV sites as well as cabin accommodations. Springfield KOA in Rochester features family-friendly amenities including a swimming pool and mini-golf, positioned conveniently for visitors exploring Abraham Lincoln historic sites in the capital city.
Most campgrounds in the Springfield area operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. The Illinois State Fair Campground operates specifically from April 1 to October 31, coinciding with fair events and optimal weather conditions. Riverside Park in Springfield maintains similar seasonal dates, closing during winter months when temperatures drop and precipitation can make camping less comfortable. Several campgrounds offer electric hookups and water access, though primitive sites with fewer amenities are also available at locations like Sangchris Lake State Park. According to one visitor, "Springfield KOA is actually in Rochester, but it is only about 25 mins into Springfield and all the wonderful Lincoln historic sites."
Campers frequently mention the convenience of Springfield-area campgrounds for accessing historical attractions. The region's relatively flat terrain makes for easy camping setups, though some visitors note that sites can become muddy after rain. Sangchris Lake State Park receives particularly positive reviews for its lakeside camping options, with one camper describing it as a "beautiful campground near Springfield" with good fishing opportunities. Several reviewers appreciate the balance of natural settings while remaining close to urban amenities. The Double J Campground earns consistent praise for its cleanliness and proximity to Interstate 55, making it popular for travelers passing through the region. Proximity to Lincoln historical sites represents a major draw for many visitors, with multiple campgrounds positioned strategically for day trips into the capital city.
Best Campgrounds near Springfield (45)
1. The Double J Campground and RV Park
"We stayed here in order to visit Springfield, Illinois, and we really enjoyed this spot."
"This park is just south of Springfield, right next to the interstate. We have stayed here for two weeks."
2. Illinois State Fair Campground
"Not too close to your neighbor. Take time to walk around the fairgrounds as they are pretty. The 4H building has a lovely garden out front."
"20 per night for a a pull behind RV on an electric/water site. $30 for a full hookup. Large clean bathrooms, dated but useable."
from $20 / night
Check Availability3. Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
"These walk in sites check all the boxes. At the western part of the RV loop, is a peninsula of primitive tent camping spots to choose from. "
"Best campground in the Springfield area, in my opinion!"
4. Springfield KOA
"Campground is quiet and in a nice wooded area but still only 5-10 minutes from nearby shopping and attractions in Springfield."
"Springfield KOA is actually in Rochester, but it is only about 25 mins into Springfield and all the wonderful Lincoln historic sites."
5. Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
"The primitive sites were perfectly quiet and away from others. Toilet was close and so was parking. I kind of miss tent camping!!!"
"Bathrooms are basic and in the front of the camp loops so you have a walk if you stay in the back like I did. Also, water is in the center of the loop so not very convenient. "
6. Riverside Park
"All RV/ camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses. We had electricity and water hookups and a picnic table available."
"Lots of fun trails with great views! Most trails are accessible from the parking area. Good for pictures at sunrise and sunset!"
from $20 - $50 / night
7. Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
"As mentioned, only well water available on the campgrounds here, however you still have access to amenities available at hickory point just a short drive away."
"The showers are at the Hickory Point campground (just a minute or two drive) and available for use with the Deer Run camp sites as well."
8. Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
"Like the quite agricultural Illinois environment but suggest shopping for your needs prior to leaving larger cities as most of the few small towns are limited to a Bar and Dollar store."
"From our cabin we walked grassy paths to a lovely bridge. Around the pond's perimeter are dispersed sites for tent-camping or possibly day-use."
from $6 / night
Check Availability9. The Kampground
from $20 - $50 / night
Check Availability10. Lincolns New Salem Historic Site Campground
"Not their fault but sites became a lake and couldn’t even step outside. Barely any AT&T service. Couldn’t use phone as hotspot at all."
"I love to walk through all the old buildings and learn about Lincoln's way of life. They even had horses and a bull out in the pastures!"
from $10 - $30 / night
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Drive Time
- 40 min from Decatur, IL
- 1 hr from Bloomington, IL
- 1 hr 6 min from Peoria, IL
- 1 hr 10 min from Champaign, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Springfield, IL
28 Photos of 45 Springfield Campgrounds
Richard R.
Illinois State Fair Campground
Grace D.
Springfield KOA
Jamie C.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Colin H.
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Keith M.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Darren D.
Waverly Lake City Park
Terri W.
Hidden Ridge
Amanda C.
Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
Kate T.
Country Bend Campground
Katie P.
Beaver Dam State Park Campground
Kevin H.
Lazy Days RV Park & Campground
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Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest
Recent Reviews near Springfield, IL
215 Reviews of 45 Springfield Campgrounds
- JJack G.Scout
The Double J Campground and RV Park
Greta stop
Great stop for Route 66 we sorted it all online late at night. Lovely and quiet with amazing facilities that are worth the price
- I
Irene M.
GuideLake Taylorville City Campground
In the middle of long-term campers
Challenge to find the assigned camping site, which turned out to be on a slope with a picnic table in the middle of it, which I was unable to move, so I took another spot that was somewhat flatter. There are only 12 overnight campsites at this campground which do have concrete slabs however they are all very slanted and the electric box is a ways away. In addition, the bathhouse is no where near these sites.
Cha M.ScoutSangchris Lake State Park Campground
Common smaller campground with great views
This is the bigger campground between hickory point and deer run options. The shower house, snack shop, and city water are onsite. There are vault toilets near the primitive camping, as well as another water spigot. Playground, pavillion, and sand volleyball court give options to entertain kids, with plenty of fishing, trails, and lake views to entertain the adults. We primitive camped here at the closest site to the parking. #57 is the closest, with the rest of the primitive sites being more of a trek to the site. However, the privacy, quietness, and views are 100% worth the trek to us. We did camp with a doggo, who does bark at passerby’s that are “too close” in her opinion but otherwise doesn’t. All the campers during our stay except for one very disruptive couple, did not complain at all and many came to give her loves or treats to help prevent further barking when they passed by. And honestly, the couple that did make the comment, clearly need to be at different campgrounds because the host had to come break them up after quiet hours began and they didn’t respect that rule. We also then were woken up by the same couple as they were packing up the next morning due to them yelling at each other. The hosts did try to make sure they slowed down while passing this site though, and I do believe if we had made some sort of complaint to them, they would have handled it immediately. We love this campground, and honestly we feel as if anywhere there are rvs allowed, you will likely have someone make a comment about the dog. It’s never been other tent campers, even the ones on electric sites. The snack shop has ice (currently $3 even a bag, with hosts including tax in the $3 to make it easier for campers), firewood bundles (not sure on price) as well as many smaller campground necessities including snacks and drinks, some fishing tackle, and some other camping things such as bug spray and sunblock. I did not check any prices on those. There is technically a bait shop also nearby, though between two longer stays here and at deer run, we’ve only seen him open once. And according to one of the hosts, he doesn’t seem to have “regular hours” other than he’s for sure closed Sundays and Mondays. The following Tuesday after learning this, he was also closed all day. So I’m not sure about anything there. He does also have an ice machine outside though.
- Cha M.Scout
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Small, quiet, state park camping
Couple camping here, spent multiple nights in a row in primitive camping here. As mentioned, only well water available on the campgrounds here, however you still have access to amenities available at hickory point just a short drive away. Shower house and city water available that way. Playground for kiddos on site. Lots of people bring pets, including equestrian for those campsite. Those do include the post to tie up on at each site. The hosts (bob and dawn were really checking in on us that stay, including being able to help when we accidentally killed our car battery. They also made thorough and consistent rounds which we appreciated. Also had Lynn, one of the idnr guys here, come back at the end of his shift to make sure we had learned about the storms coming in. He even checked in again the next chance he got to make sure we were okay still. We did end up leaving early, to which there is not refunds (I think this is state parks in general) however at $6 a night for primitive, we took that loss especially during an extreme heat warning (for multiple days). If you want a quieter campsite, I would recommend this one over hickory point as hickory point seems to be more RVers instead of the more primitive style of camping tends to be.
- WWilliam M.
TravelerSherwood Forest
Great spot by lake
This place was amazing other than the humidity (mid july). Showed up and the hosts were super nice and helped me to my spot. They have lots of camper spots, most seemed like long term campers. I used a tent and had a great spot near the lake. No other tent campers around. They have a good open spot for tents that you just find a spot and set up. Campers seemed nice and we re quiet.
- IIndia J.Traveler
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Great campground, private and quiet primitive sites!
We've stayed at Hickory Point before, but this was our first time at Deer Run. It has not disappointed! The primitive sites (there are 5 with no electric or water hookups) are off set in the back of the campground, providing privacy and quiet, which is what we were going for this time. The primitive sites without electric or water are $6 a night, and you can for pay up to 14 nights at a time. There are electric and water hook up sites for $8 a night, they just aren't as private but still lovely! The showers are at the Hickory Point campground (just a minute or two drive) and available for use with the Deer Run camp sites as well. There are well water spigots at Dee Run and Hickory Point, but the city water spigot is at Hickory Point only. It rained quite a bit our first two nights here, but there are so many trees covering the primitive sites you couldn't really feel it until it was thunder storming. We stayed nice and dry inside the tent. There are a LOT of sassy raccoons who will still your food - and the containers that never had food in them in fact- as well waking up to crows cawing every morning- may not be everyone's thing, but I sure enjoy that aspect. The hosts are fantastic and make rounds every 2-3 hours each day, anything we've needed they e been able to help with or point us in the direction to go next. Great campground to stay at, whether for a night or a week, no complaints here thus far!
Chris G.ScoutCamp A While
Quiet and small - great for overnight stop
Called last minute and owner was helpful and clear. Price was great and we got water & electric we needed. Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. We had a class C so was easy, but may be more challenging for a larger rig. Owner's dog was older, slow and very friendly. Opposite of our two small puppies :)
If looking for a quick overnight that allows you to rest for the next day this is a good option.
- GGary N.Scout
The Double J Campground and RV Park
Perfect campground, unless…
This campground was highly recommended to us by a few friends who have been there before, which speaks volumes to begin with. It is just off of interstate 55, which means there is constant road noise. However, we found ourselves acclimated to it fairly quickly, most likely BECAUSE it’s constant. Other than that, the campground is very quiet and peaceful, especially considering the number of campers we saw come and go and that were there at any given time. One advantage of being so close to the interstate is that it is very handy for travelers passing through needing a place to crash for a night or two. In fact, we saw a lot of that during our stay. There is a general store on site and it is within easy driving distance from Chatham and Springfield in case you need something. Of course Springfield is also a great place to sight see. The owners and staff are very friendly and accommodating. The grounds and facilities are clean and well maintained. There is a pool, miniature golf, pedal carts and some other games to keep you entertained, especially if you have children. The sites are fairly close to one another. Not sardines close, but close enough. To be very clear, this is a GREAT place if you don’t mind the “closeness” of the community-type environment. However, it just isn’t for us and, for that reason alone, we probably won’t be back unless we’re just passing through.
Guide to Springfield
Camping near Springfield, Illinois offers options within a 30-mile radius of Illinois' capital city. The region has predominantly flat terrain with elevations around 600 feet above sea level and four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, making May through October the primary camping season, though several campgrounds remain open year-round with varying amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sangchris Lake State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access with multiple docks. According to one camper, "Sangchris Lake receives particularly positive reviews for its lakeside camping options with good fishing opportunities."
Historical exploration: Visit Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site Campground for a unique educational experience. "This is a wonderful place to visit. I enjoy learning about some of our family history. We have relation to the Trent, Graham, and Jackson families from the original area. Their cabins are reconstructed for touring as well as the old school house," shares one visitor.
Outdoor recreation: The Kampground (formerly The Last Resort) offers quiet surroundings for relaxation. A camper noted, "The new owner has really done a fantastic job of restoring this property which was formerly a church kids camp. The bathrooms were really clean, property well maintained, staff was extremely nice and hospitable."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The Double J Campground and RV Park consistently receives praise for maintenance. One visitor commented, "Fantastic camp hosts, large pull through spots, pool, mini golf, and more. Very convenient to get too and the check in is very fast."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at campgrounds near Springfield. A review of Springfield KOA states, "Campground is quiet and in a nice wooded area but still only 5-10 minutes from nearby shopping and attractions in Springfield."
Affordability: Primitive Campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers budget-friendly options. "Stayed one night in July. We tent camped in site 1 of the primitive campground. There are 7 sites well spaced with a picnic table, fire ring, trash can and three sided shelter in each site. Just $6 a night," reports a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Springfield area can experience sudden weather changes. One reviewer at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground noted, "Not a 5 star since we had to leave a day early due to weather. Not their fault but sites became a lake and couldn't even step outside."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited winter availability. At the Illinois State Fair Campground, a camper explained, "We came Labor Day weekend to site see Lincoln museum and when we arrived there were motorcycle races going on next to the camp office and shower house and it was packed!"
Site conditions: Gravel sites can become muddy after rain. A Springfield KOA visitor shared, "Nice and quiet campground, we stay there during the Illinois State Fair every August and it is about 20 mins away from the fairgrounds. Only down fall is there needs to be more rock on the sites, the sites get muddy after a rain!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Deer Run Campground offers recreation for children. A visitor mentioned, "Sites were decent. Lack of flushing toilets and bathhouse is why I knocked it down a few. Outhouse was passable but a bathhouse would go a long way to upgrading the facility. Playground was great for kiddos."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer facilities specifically for families. At Primitive Campground, a reviewer said, "I went with a church group. This campground seemed well laid out and was affordable. It also felt like a safe environment for the family."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. A Lincoln's New Salem visitor shared, "Such a great way to show the kids how life was like for pioneers on the homesteads."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Riverside Park provides necessary amenities for RVs. A camper noted, "All RV/camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses. We had electricity and water hookups and a picnic table available."
Level sites: The Illinois State Fair Campground offers options for various RV sizes. According to a visitor, "A large campground with water and electric. Few sites have sewer. You have the option of paved parking lot or on the grass. We chose the grass for the shade trees."
Site accessibility: The Double J Campground makes arrival easy. One RVer said, "We have stayed here twice, and will stay again for sure when in the area. Fantastic camp hosts, large pull through spots, pool, mini golf, and more. Very convenient to get too and the check in is very fast."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Springfield, IL?
Where are the best campgrounds near Springfield, IL?
The Double J Campground and RV Park is highly rated for its proximity to Springfield attractions, with level sites and great amenities. Just minutes from the highway, it makes an ideal base for exploring the city. Another excellent option is Springfield KOA, located in Rochester about 25 minutes from Springfield's historic Lincoln sites. The KOA sits in a peaceful wooded area while still providing convenient access to shopping and attractions.
Is tent camping available year-round near Springfield, Illinois?
Is tent camping available year-round near Springfield, Illinois?
Tent camping availability varies seasonally around Springfield. Sangchris Lake State Park Campground offers primitive tent camping on a peninsula with spacious walk-in sites, though winter availability may be limited. Lincoln's New Salem Park provides camping options with hiking trails, but most campgrounds in the region have reduced services or close completely during winter months due to Illinois' cold weather. Always check with specific campgrounds for current seasonal policies and weather-related closures.
What amenities do Springfield area campgrounds typically offer?
What amenities do Springfield area campgrounds typically offer?
Springfield area campgrounds generally provide excellent amenities for campers. Spitler Woods State Natural Area offers great sites with plenty of recreational activities. Many private campgrounds like Buena Vista Farms Campground feature full hookups, though WiFi strength may vary. Typical amenities across the region include water and electric hookups, clean restrooms and showers, dump stations, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. Higher-end campgrounds often include swimming pools, mini-golf, basketball courts, laundry facilities, and dog parks. Most sites are spacious with a mix of shaded and open options.
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