Best Campgrounds near Swansea, IL

Camping near Swansea, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking Trails: Explore the beautiful trails at Hawn State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hiking is some of the best in Missouri," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
• Fishing and Kayaking: At St. Francois State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A reviewer noted, "Close access to the river for fishing and kayaking," perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
• Family Activities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park has a playground and offers bike rentals. One family shared, "The playground was good for the kiddos," making it a hit for families.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. A visitor at Cuivre River State Park Campground said, "Good campground. Be aware some bathrooms might be locked up depending upon the time of year."
• Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff. A reviewer at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground hosts were especially helpful and friendly."
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful scenery. One visitor at Washington State Park Campground said, "Very clean campsites with lots of shade for tent campers & nice level lots."

What you should know:

• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Missouri Hawn State Park Campground advised, "The sites are in close proximity to one another so it gets crowded during holiday weekends."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have limited amenities. A visitor at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA noted, "The site was not level front to back and we had to build a sizable pyramid with our blocks to get the rig leveled out."
• Wildlife Caution: Be aware of ticks in certain areas. A camper at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground warned, "I have never experienced a tick infestation like I did at this park."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for parks with playgrounds and activities. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park has a playground and bike rentals, making it great for kids.
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A family at Cuivre River State Park Campground enjoyed their stay, saying, "Great location for a weekend getaway."
• Pack Outdoor Games: Bring games for downtime. A camper at Hawn State Park Campground mentioned, "The landscape around the park was very nice," perfect for outdoor fun.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Missouri Saint Francois State Park Campground said, "The sites themselves are very clean and well kept."
• Level Your RV: Some sites may not be level. A camper at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA noted, "We had to build a sizable pyramid with our blocks to get the rig leveled out."
• Plan for Power Needs: Check if the campground has the right hookups. A visitor at Washington State Park Campground mentioned, "Easy plug n play electric on a 30 amp box, no issues with blowing fuses."

Camping in Swansea, IL, and the surrounding areas offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!