Best Campgrounds near Thomson, IL

Camping near Thomson, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

• Explore the trails: Many campgrounds, like Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, have well-maintained hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned, "We hiked the Windy Ridge trail and the Prairie Loop trail. Both were well maintained and enjoyable trails."
• Visit the caves: At Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, you can explore unique caves. A visitor said, "The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous."
• Fishing and boating: Many campgrounds are near water bodies. One camper at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River noted, "All sites are paved or cement with electric, some have water. There is a dump station."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. A review for Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms were OK and showers not great, but clean."
• Secluded sites: Many enjoy the privacy offered by certain campgrounds. One visitor at Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are more secluded from each other than you'll find at most parks, which is very nice."
• Natural beauty: Campers love the scenic views. A review for Shady Creek highlighted, "Wonderful campground along the Mississippi River. Well maintained and very courteous camp host."

What you should know:

• Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or train tracks. A camper at New Glarus State Park Campground warned, "These sites are right next to the highway and... subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise."
• Site conditions: Not all sites are level. One camper at White Pines Forest State Park Campground noted, "Many of the campsites are sloped and some are sloped A LOT."
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have stores or markets nearby. A visitor at Chief Keokuk Campground mentioned, "The restaurant and rental building is closed until future notice."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room. One family at Lowden State Park Campground appreciated, "Massive site with lots of space and privacy, flat and level for the tent."
• Engage in activities: Many campgrounds offer fun activities for kids. A reviewer at Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA said, "There is a small putt-putt, a pool, child water area and swing and bounce attraction."
• Plan for quiet hours: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours, which can be great for families. A camper at Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground noted, "Everyone was respectful of quiet hours and very friendly."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River mentioned, "The bathrooms are a little dated, but very clean."
• Look for electric hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. One camper at Shady Creek said, "Good cell reception. We have Verizon. Clean showers and 50 amp sites."
• Be prepared for limited services: Some campgrounds may not have full amenities. A reviewer at Chief Keokuk Campground noted, "There’s lots to do at this park- they rent kayaks, paddleboats, and basic fishing boats."

Camping near Thomson, Illinois, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to check the specific campground details and reviews to find the best fit for your adventure!