The Mississippi River region near Thomson offers low-lying floodplain environments alongside higher elevation bluff areas that frame the river valley. Thomson sits at approximately 590 feet above sea level with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F. Spring flooding can affect campground availability, especially at riverside locations where water levels fluctuate seasonally.
What to do
Paddling the backwaters: Access the Mississippi backwaters from Rock Creek County Marina and Campground, which offers canoe and kayak rentals for exploring the quiet channels. "Nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore. Showers are open until October 14 this year," notes Jeff and Linda L.
Wildlife viewing: The region's wetlands attract diverse bird species and river wildlife. "CG is spread out along bottomland river forest and includes camping cabins, tent and RV sites, RR/showers, playground, dump and water stations, Eco Tourism store/grill, paddling rentals, Blue Heron Cruises, nature center," explains James M. about Rock Creek.
Fishing from piers: Cast for catfish, bass, and panfish along the river. At Blanding Landing, you'll find "boat ramp, dock fishing, tall trees all over. Shady sites, water pump faucets, dump station," according to Ruth M. Many sites include direct water access for shore fishing.
What campers like
River views: Sites overlooking the water are consistently preferred. "Some sites are right on the river w/ views - worth it to try to get those. Our spot was last min and just a short walk from river - still beautiful," writes Sarah C. about Fishermans Corner.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs and exhibits. "The campgrounds are very nice. They have clean bathrooms, a nicely stocked store, and a couple playgrounds. Thay also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed," shares Chris F. about their experience at Rock Creek.
Scenic biking routes: The Great River Trail connects several campgrounds. "From this campground you can go north, as far as Savanna. Going south will take you through Hampton, East Moline, Moline, Rock Island, and you can cross over to Davenport, circle Credit Island, and pick up other paths in Iowa," explains Sebastian G. about the trail access from Fishermans Corner.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "Not the worst but not one of the best COE campgrounds. No nice gravel or concrete pads anywhere. Many sites are not real level. Biggest issue is train tracks with trains running by very often," warns Tony D. about Blanding Landing.
Seasonal bugs: Insect activity increases during warmer months. "Primitive tent site, fire ring/grill, cheap stay. has small camp store and newer nature center, canoe/kayak rentals, shower house, wood for fee. Can be very buggy depending on season, right along backwaters, good fishing, wildlife viewing," notes James M.
Weather considerations: Spring flooding can affect site availability. "Watch river levels for flooding, bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest," cautions a reviewer at Off Shore RV Park, where "Resort has many options: even camp sites,4 villas, resort inn rooms. Sites have hard surfaces, fire rings, water, electric."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several rv campgrounds near Thomson include kid-friendly areas. "The campgrounds are very nice. They have clean bathrooms, a nicely stocked store, and a couple playgrounds," notes Chris F.
Educational centers: Look for campgrounds with nature exhibits. "Great place for the family. This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," explains Ryan about Rock Creek.
Pet policies: Verify rules before bringing dogs. "I'm not sure what the rules are, but there were a lot of dogs not tied up. Most people kept a close eye on them, but we had a couple wander through and do their business in our site," cautions a reviewer at Rock Creek.
Multiple bathhouse options: Geneseo Campground offers "very clean and peaceful. Nice shower rooms and amenities and very reasonably priced," according to Tom N., making it suitable for families needing shower facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: "Our site was pretty flat, although it was a little tricky backing into it. They put the site number posts at the end of the pad near the road and our site had a tree on the other side, so we had to use the grass across the road to maneuver in and out," shares Chris F. about their experience.
Cell service considerations: At many rv campgrounds in Thomson, Illinois, service varies by location and carrier. "While you are north of Geneseo, you shouldn't have too much problem with cell coverage out in these parts– we got 4 bars with Verizon and 3 bars with AT&T," notes Stuart K. at Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground.
Campsite surface types: Various campgrounds offer different pad materials. "Sites are shaded, with services, fire pits, wood available, site volunteer. Access along river for fishing," explains James M. about Fishermans Corner, while others note "Great overnight site. Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas."
