Camping options near Springfield range from lakeside sites to fairground camping with varying amenities. Sangchris Lake State Park spans 2,165 acres with a 3,000-acre cooling lake formed by the damming of Clear Creek. Seasonal temperature fluctuations affect camping conditions, with summer highs often reaching 90°F while spring and fall provide milder weather for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sangchris Lake State Park Campground, anglers can access multiple fishing spots directly from the campground. "I stayed at the tent sites. They are first come, first served, and a short walk from the parking spots," notes Mike G., adding that the park has "restrooms and a shower house that are clean."
Historic exploration: Visit Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site, located 20 miles northwest of Springfield. "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 Jamie T.
Hiking trails: The Kampground offers quiet trails on its restored former church camp property. "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," notes Jay M., who appreciated the peaceful setting.
Water activities: Boat launches at several parks provide lake access for kayaking and canoeing. Dean E. mentions that Riverside Park is "right next to a boat launch on the Sangamon River so that's a plus. Right next to the boat launch for a car."
What campers like
Affordable options: Primitive Campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers budget-friendly camping with basic amenities. Amanda C. explains, "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. Pit toilets are in the middle. Each site is along the tree line with plenty of shade. These are walk in sites ranging from 0.10 miles to 0.50 miles from the parking lot. Just $6 a night."
Clean facilities: The Double J Campground maintains spotless grounds and amenities. "Honestly amazed by how clean and well maintained this campground is. River rock driveways (not gravel) and sites- well packed down and regularly grated," says Jessica T., who also noted the friendly staff "regularly driving around with firewood."
Quiet atmosphere: The Springfield KOA provides a peaceful setting despite being close to city conveniences. Mary G. describes it as "Secluded. Quite. Not crowded, even when it's full," while also noting that "Campground could use some extra gravel on their roads and in the sites, but, still a nice place to relax and recharge."
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate room to spread out at many Springfield-area campgrounds. Colin H. remarks about Deer Run Campground that "the sites were large and the primitive sites at the back were incredibly beautiful! The prices were very low."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Lincolns New Salem Historic Site Campground typically closes during winter months, while Riverside Park operates from May through October only.
Weather challenges: Illinois State Fair Campground can experience drainage issues during heavy rains. Richard R. advises, "Great level paved pads if you want. Great thick grass carpet spots if you want," suggesting selecting sites based on recent weather conditions.
Reservation requirements: During special events, particularly the State Fair, campgrounds fill quickly. Jeffrey F. notes about the fairgrounds, "Somebody stole our outdoor carpet/rug which we left to mark our site when we went to visit the Lincoln sites," suggesting taking valuables when leaving your site.
Variable utilities: Water access differs significantly between campgrounds. Faith J. points out that at the fairgrounds "The dump station does not have hose hook up for water. There is water but you can't hook a hose to it. That needs to be fixed as you cant wash down your spills or rinse your tank."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Deer Run Campground offers play facilities for children. J N. mentions, "Playground was great for kiddos. Hosts were nice and fairly helpful," though notes the "Lack of flushing toilets and bathhouse" as a drawback.
Educational opportunities: Visit historic sites as day trips from your campground. Leah H. recommends Lincoln's New Salem Park where "everyone is in period clothing for events. It's quite charming like a step back in time. There is also a little diner/ice cream shop for lunch or a snack. And plays in the outdoor amphitheater in the evenings."
Recreational amenities: Several campgrounds offer activities beyond hiking and fishing. Kelsie L. notes that Double J has a "walking trail, swimming pool, playground, outdoor checkers, basketball court, put put golf," providing multiple options for family entertainment.
Dog-friendly areas: Pet owners can find accommodating facilities at multiple campgrounds near Springfield. Steven V. notes about The Double J Campground, "Good dog areas with mowed grass," making it easier to manage pets while camping.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Most campgrounds provide stable parking for larger rigs. Greg S. mentions Sangchris Lake State Park Campground has "Electric only but water available and nice dump station. All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies widely around Springfield camping areas. Kaitlin D. reports about Lincoln's New Salem park: "Barely any AT&T service. Couldn't use phone as hotspot at all," which impacts those needing to stay connected.
Pull-through availability: For easier maneuvering, seek specific sites at dog-friendly campgrounds near Springfield. Diane shares her experience at Double J: "Called last minute on a Saturday, I had to leave a message and was hoping someone would call me back! Within five minutes, I had a call back and a lovely pull through site reserved for a one night stay."
Weather preparation: Seasonal storms can affect camping conditions. Kaitlin D. warns about Lincoln's New Salem: "Not 5 stars 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."
