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Camping near Springfield, IL

45 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    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

      4.6(21)7mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents

      "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

      4.3(12)5mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents

      "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

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      3. Sangchris Lake State Park Campground

      4.8(20)14mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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. "

      "We had never been to Springfield, IL and wanted to see all the historical sites for Abe Lincoln. This campground is clean, quite and sits on the beautiful Sangchris Lake."

      4. Springfield KOA

      4.3(9)7mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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

      3.9(11)12mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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

      4.0(3)7mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "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. Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area

      4.4(21)26mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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

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      8. Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park

      4.0(2)13mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents

      9. The Kampground

      5.0(1)12mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents, Cabins

      from $20 - $50 / night

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      10. Lincolns New Salem Historic Site Campground

      4.8(4)18mi from SpringfieldRVs, Tents

      "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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    Recent Reviews near Springfield, IL

    208 Reviews of 45 Springfield Campgrounds


    • Chris G.
      Jun. 23, 2026

      Camp 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.

    • G
      Jun. 15, 2026

      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.

    • Tobin B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 7, 2026

      Waverly Lake City Park

      Little Cabin Anywhere

      Very quiet, clean, nice place. Easy to get to. Clean porta pots. Can stay up to 4 days. Picnic tables. Place for fire. Free camping. First come first serve.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 4, 2026

      Springfield KOA

      Favorite KOA so far

      This was the first out of two campground of america/KOAs I visited on my roadtrip. It's nice, has all the amenities of a campground of america. I purchased wood, there is a shower and laundry. The tent site is down a little gravel path, and near the woods. It's my favorite campground of america so far, mostly since it's far enough from the highway so you arent disturbed by freeway noise at night. Temp at night in april 2026 felt like high 40Fs

    • HThe Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 21, 2026

      Lake Taylorville City Campground

      Taylorville Illinois

      Very clean park and beautiful lake clean bathrooms awesome people who work here.

    • Garrett and Savannah B.
      Nov. 10, 2025

      Sangchris Lake State Park Campground

      Perfect lakeview spot!

      We spent two nights at the Hickory Point Campground and had a wonderful time. It wasn’t too busy during the time we visited. The snack shack was unfortunately closed for the season. My only issue is the firewood for sale did not a price posted anywhere. The views of the lake were exactly what we hoped for! Definitely would come back.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Nov. 8, 2025

      Riverfront Park Campground

      Decent.

      It’s a small “campground” right on the river with bathrooms, electric, and water. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table as well. The main issue here is that it’s between two busy streets and everyone with a loud truck in this town wants to drive by the river at night. It’s also completely out in the open, so there’s no privacy, which is made worse by the bright street lights that light up this entire place. Other than noise and privacy, it’s a nice place. Price as of Nov. 2025 is $35/night.

    • Jessica T.
      Oct. 3, 2025

      The Double J Campground and RV Park

      Super well maintained gtounds

      Honestly amazed by how clean and well maintained this campground is. River rock driveways (not gravel) and sites- well packed down and regularly grated. Their friendly staff leads you back to your site on a golf cart and is regularly driving around with firewood. It's a surprisingly big campground, big rig friendly and a lot of cute amenities. Only downside is the noise of the interstate but honestly it was fine. We only stayed a couple nights and were really close to the road but there are certainly spots deeper in the grounds that probably aren't as loud.

      Be prepared for stink bugs galore though.


    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?

    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?

    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?

    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.