Tent camping near Springfield, Illinois features several secluded options within an hour's drive. The region's rolling prairie landscape transitions into patches of hardwood forest, creating diverse camping environments. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall offer milder conditions but more variable weather patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area offers numerous fishing spots around its shallow lake. One visitor noted, "There is lots of fishing opportunity here. Spring Lake is long and shallow. They allow pole fishing. We saw people fishing from boats as well as from nicely designed pullouts along the road."
Hiking trails: The Deer Run trail at Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area provides accessible hiking directly from the campground. A camper mentioned, "Deer run hiking trail is right in camp and gets you a bit of a hike."
Relaxation: For campers seeking quiet time, Waverly Lake City Park offers peaceful surroundings with minimal development. A recent visitor mentioned, "My wife and I really enjoy this campsite," while another commented, "Each time there has only been one other person. It's quiet and peaceful."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Waverly Lake sites are well-separated, providing more isolation than typical campgrounds. One camper observed, "Each site is spread out and fairly well. We had a pleasant and fairly private experience."
Uncrowded camping: Even during regular camping seasons, most Springfield-area campgrounds remain relatively empty. A Waverly Lake visitor noted, "I've stayed here a couple times now. Each time there has only been one other person."
Simple amenities: Spitler Woods State Natural Area provides basic camping without excessive development. A camper reported, "Great sites. Plenty to do. Favorite place to camp in Illinois."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds near Springfield lack running water or modern facilities. At Waverly Lake, a camper advised, "There are portable toilets that are kept clean. There's also a 4 consecutive day per month limit."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local wildlife at night, especially at Edward Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area. Waverly Lake campers warn to "Be mindful of field roaches and raccoons at night, as we had to learn the hard way the morning after our first night."
Insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months at several campgrounds. One Waverly visitor warned, "The mosquitoes are BRUTAL. Come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites: For camping with children, sites with more amenities like trash collection and toilets provide easier experiences. A visitor to Spring Lake noted, "Garbage cans are plentiful. Vault toilets are up the hill."
Site selection strategy: At Spring Lake, "It's a quiet place in an open field surrounded by forest. Choose a campsite under some trees if you like," allowing families to select sites with preferred sun/shade balance.
Pack extra water: With limited water sources at most Springfield-area campgrounds, families should bring sufficient water for drinking, cooking and washing. According to a Waverly Lake visitor, "As far as I know there's no running water."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many of the best tent camping near Springfield, Illinois involves navigating narrow or unpaved roads. Spring Lake visitors should "Be ready for a long slow drive in to the campground. Follow signs that direct you to the camp office. That's where the camping is."
Walk-in requirements: Hidden Ridge and some other campgrounds require walking gear from parking areas to campsites. At Spring Lake, "This campground has walk-in only camping but it's right next to where you park."
Limited hookups: Springfield-area campgrounds primarily cater to tent camping, with most lacking electrical, water, or sewer connections for RVs. RVers should plan for boondocking or limited stays due to these restrictions.
