J
Jack G.
Scout
ScoutThe Double J Campground and RV Park
Greta stop
Great stop for Route 66 we sorted it all online late at night. Lovely and quiet with amazing facilities that are worth the price
Camping near Virginia, IL
48 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Several established campgrounds surround Virginia, Illinois, providing options for tent, RV, and cabin campers. Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area offers multiple camping facilities including a Family Campground with electric and full-hookup sites, a Primitive Campground with three-sided shelters, and Questing Hills Equestrian Campground. Crazy Horse Campground near Ashland and Buena Vista Farms in Chapin expand the camping inventory with additional accommodations including cabins and RV sites with hookups. Anderson Lake State Conservation Area and Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site Campground round out the developed camping options within a 30-mile radius.
The region sees significant camping activity from spring through fall, with most campgrounds operating seasonally. "Nicely kept lake campground. Spots 56-60 overlook the boat docks. Bass fishing is good here," notes one visitor to Jim Edgar Panther Creek. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. Campers should prepare for varied weather conditions, as the open terrain can experience significant wind. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities like drinking water, showers, and toilets, though primitive camping areas have more limited facilities. Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the area, with one camper reporting AT&T coverage at "1-2 Bars and speeds between 0.15 to 0.75 MB/s" at Jim Edgar Panther Creek.
Prairie Lake at Jim Edgar Panther Creek emerges as a focal point for recreation, with fishing opportunities and boat docks complementing the camping experience. A visitor mentioned that "the point on the lake was a beautiful setting for a fall wedding." Campground sites vary in shade coverage, with newer facilities typically having smaller trees that provide limited protection from summer heat. Equestrian trails at Questing Hills Campground extend over 26 miles through maintained paths, making the area attractive to horse owners. Wildlife viewing, hiking, and biking are common activities, with the natural setting providing a quiet retreat from urban areas. The region maintains a rural character that appeals to campers seeking a more secluded experience, though this means limited shopping and services in nearby communities.
Best Campgrounds near Virginia (48)
1. Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
"Like the quite agricultural Illinois environment but suggest shopping for your needs prior to leaving larger cities as most of the few small towns are limited to a Bar and Dollar store."
"From our cabin we walked grassy paths to a lovely bridge. Around the pond's perimeter are dispersed sites for tent-camping or possibly day-use."
from $6 / night
Check Availability2. Crazy Horse Campground
"Right outside of Jacksonville, Ashland, Virginia, and close enough to Springfield. We were there last weekend and will be there again at the end of the month. Happy Camping!"
"If you need a place to get away from city life but don't want to travel far away from town, you can't beat this place."
3. Jim Edgar Panther Creek - Family Campground
"Praire Lake Campground has 3 facilities on the lake. FAMILY camp for Rv, Tentand cabins. 1. 84 sites with Electric or 19 have FHU. 2."
4. Buena Vista Farms Campground
"Had a blast, pond was nice, did some fishing, rode bikes, walked trails. Will definitely go back again."
"You can still here some cars because of the highway but it wasn’t like really crazy. The part is a decent size if you don’t want to hear traffic go further in the back."
from $46 - $121 / night
Check Availability5. Questing Hills Equestrian Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
"Trails are well marked and maintained over 26 miles of trails."
from $20 / night
Check Availability6. Lincolns New Salem Historic Site Campground
"Not their fault but sites became a lake and couldn’t even step outside. Barely any AT&T service. Couldn’t use phone as hotspot at all."
"I love to walk through all the old buildings and learn about Lincoln's way of life. They even had horses and a bull out in the pastures!"
from $10 - $30 / night
Check Availability7. Anderson Lake State Conservation Area
"Good Price, nice location for fishing and kayaking. also."
8. Anderson Lake SFWA
"This time no water due to water break.issue. just a nice place on a beautiful lake. Nice for bird watching."
from $8 / night
Check Availability9. Lincoln's New Salem Park IL Historic Preservation Agency
"Nor did we know there were hiking trails! The hiking trails are located on the road up the hill directly across from where you turn off of the highway to drive up to the village."
10. Schuy
"There are some hiking trails and pavilions and a softball field. There’s a stage they sometimes have plays and bands."
Drive Time
- 39 min from Springfield, IL
- 1 hr 15 min from Decatur, IL
- 1 hr 20 min from Peoria, IL
- 1 hr 30 min from Bloomington, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Virginia, IL
27 Photos of 48 Virginia Campgrounds
Hannah S.
Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
Darren D.
Waverly Lake City Park
Richard R.
Illinois State Fair Campground
Joy H.
Horseman's Park — Sand Ridge State Forest
Adam F.
Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest
Nepi W.
Pittsfield City Lake
Grace D.
Springfield KOA
Elisha P.
Siloam Springs State Park Campground
Terri W.
Hidden Ridge
Jamie C.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Colin H.
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
J K.
Sangchris Lake State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Virginia, IL
212 Reviews of 48 Virginia Campgrounds
Cha M.ScoutSangchris Lake State Park Campground
Common smaller campground with great views
This is the bigger campground between hickory point and deer run options. The shower house, snack shop, and city water are onsite. There are vault toilets near the primitive camping, as well as another water spigot. Playground, pavillion, and sand volleyball court give options to entertain kids, with plenty of fishing, trails, and lake views to entertain the adults. We primitive camped here at the closest site to the parking. #57 is the closest, with the rest of the primitive sites being more of a trek to the site. However, the privacy, quietness, and views are 100% worth the trek to us. We did camp with a doggo, who does bark at passerby’s that are “too close” in her opinion but otherwise doesn’t. All the campers during our stay except for one very disruptive couple, did not complain at all and many came to give her loves or treats to help prevent further barking when they passed by. And honestly, the couple that did make the comment, clearly need to be at different campgrounds because the host had to come break them up after quiet hours began and they didn’t respect that rule. We also then were woken up by the same couple as they were packing up the next morning due to them yelling at each other. The hosts did try to make sure they slowed down while passing this site though, and I do believe if we had made some sort of complaint to them, they would have handled it immediately. We love this campground, and honestly we feel as if anywhere there are rvs allowed, you will likely have someone make a comment about the dog. It’s never been other tent campers, even the ones on electric sites. The snack shop has ice (currently $3 even a bag, with hosts including tax in the $3 to make it easier for campers), firewood bundles (not sure on price) as well as many smaller campground necessities including snacks and drinks, some fishing tackle, and some other camping things such as bug spray and sunblock. I did not check any prices on those. There is technically a bait shop also nearby, though between two longer stays here and at deer run, we’ve only seen him open once. And according to one of the hosts, he doesn’t seem to have “regular hours” other than he’s for sure closed Sundays and Mondays. The following Tuesday after learning this, he was also closed all day. So I’m not sure about anything there. He does also have an ice machine outside though.
- Cha M.Scout
Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Small, quiet, state park camping
Couple camping here, spent multiple nights in a row in primitive camping here. As mentioned, only well water available on the campgrounds here, however you still have access to amenities available at hickory point just a short drive away. Shower house and city water available that way. Playground for kiddos on site. Lots of people bring pets, including equestrian for those campsite. Those do include the post to tie up on at each site. The hosts (bob and dawn were really checking in on us that stay, including being able to help when we accidentally killed our car battery. They also made thorough and consistent rounds which we appreciated. Also had Lynn, one of the idnr guys here, come back at the end of his shift to make sure we had learned about the storms coming in. He even checked in again the next chance he got to make sure we were okay still. We did end up leaving early, to which there is not refunds (I think this is state parks in general) however at $6 a night for primitive, we took that loss especially during an extreme heat warning (for multiple days). If you want a quieter campsite, I would recommend this one over hickory point as hickory point seems to be more RVers instead of the more primitive style of camping tends to be.
- IIndia J.
TravelerDeer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park
Great campground, private and quiet primitive sites!
We've stayed at Hickory Point before, but this was our first time at Deer Run. It has not disappointed! The primitive sites (there are 5 with no electric or water hookups) are off set in the back of the campground, providing privacy and quiet, which is what we were going for this time. The primitive sites without electric or water are $6 a night, and you can for pay up to 14 nights at a time. There are electric and water hook up sites for $8 a night, they just aren't as private but still lovely! The showers are at the Hickory Point campground (just a minute or two drive) and available for use with the Deer Run camp sites as well. There are well water spigots at Dee Run and Hickory Point, but the city water spigot is at Hickory Point only. It rained quite a bit our first two nights here, but there are so many trees covering the primitive sites you couldn't really feel it until it was thunder storming. We stayed nice and dry inside the tent. There are a LOT of sassy raccoons who will still your food - and the containers that never had food in them in fact- as well waking up to crows cawing every morning- may not be everyone's thing, but I sure enjoy that aspect. The hosts are fantastic and make rounds every 2-3 hours each day, anything we've needed they e been able to help with or point us in the direction to go next. Great campground to stay at, whether for a night or a week, no complaints here thus far!
Chris G.ScoutCamp A While
Quiet and small - great for overnight stop
Called last minute and owner was helpful and clear. Price was great and we got water & electric we needed. Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. We had a class C so was easy, but may be more challenging for a larger rig. Owner's dog was older, slow and very friendly. Opposite of our two small puppies :)
If looking for a quick overnight that allows you to rest for the next day this is a good option.
- GGary N.Scout
The Double J Campground and RV Park
Perfect campground, unless…
This campground was highly recommended to us by a few friends who have been there before, which speaks volumes to begin with. It is just off of interstate 55, which means there is constant road noise. However, we found ourselves acclimated to it fairly quickly, most likely BECAUSE it’s constant. Other than that, the campground is very quiet and peaceful, especially considering the number of campers we saw come and go and that were there at any given time. One advantage of being so close to the interstate is that it is very handy for travelers passing through needing a place to crash for a night or two. In fact, we saw a lot of that during our stay. There is a general store on site and it is within easy driving distance from Chatham and Springfield in case you need something. Of course Springfield is also a great place to sight see. The owners and staff are very friendly and accommodating. The grounds and facilities are clean and well maintained. There is a pool, miniature golf, pedal carts and some other games to keep you entertained, especially if you have children. The sites are fairly close to one another. Not sardines close, but close enough. To be very clear, this is a GREAT place if you don’t mind the “closeness” of the community-type environment. However, it just isn’t for us and, for that reason alone, we probably won’t be back unless we’re just passing through.
Tobin B.
GuideWaverly Lake City Park
Little Cabin Anywhere
Very quiet, clean, nice place. Easy to get to. Clean porta pots. Can stay up to 4 days. Picnic tables. Place for fire. Free camping. First come first serve.
- SSebastian D.Guide
Springfield KOA
Favorite KOA so far
This was the first out of two campground of america/KOAs I visited on my roadtrip. It's nice, has all the amenities of a campground of america. I purchased wood, there is a shower and laundry. The tent site is down a little gravel path, and near the woods. It's my favorite campground of america so far, mostly since it's far enough from the highway so you arent disturbed by freeway noise at night. Temp at night in april 2026 felt like high 40Fs
- JJonathan G.Traveler
Pittsfield City Lake
Great stay!
Easy to find - nice convenient place to stop on a cross country rt36/72 drive. Good restrooms electric and H2O hook up. Paid $20. A bit buggy but to be expected end of May and it was hot. Peaceful pleasant worth using.
Guide to Virginia
Camping sites near Virginia, Illinois blend rural serenity with accessible outdoor recreation across the open prairie landscape. The region typically experiences hot summers and cold winters, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable camping conditions. Wooded sites provide relief from the flat terrain's wind patterns, with several campgrounds reporting consistent wind challenges during certain seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area, campers can enjoy quality fishing with convenient access. "Lake has boat dock with about 6 slips," notes Jennifer K., adding that many sites are located right along the water.
Historic immersion: Explore Lincoln's past at Lincolns New Salem Historic Site Campground, where history comes alive. "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.
Trail exploration: Horse owners appreciate the extensive trail system at Questing Hills Equestrian Campground. "Trails are well marked and maintained over 26 miles of trails," reports Alicia B. These trails wind through varied terrain and offer scenic views throughout Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area.
Water recreation: Multiple campgrounds offer boat access, paddling, and swimming opportunities. At Buena Vista Farms Campground, "They offer kayaks, canoes, and peddle boats free to campers," according to Sarah S., making it ideal for families wanting water activities without additional costs.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise. At Anderson Lake State Conservation Area, campers appreciate the "clean facilities, electric and water for tent camping," as mentioned by Barry G.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. "My family and I went mid April during quarantine because we needed to get out of house with kids. Campground was a perfect escape from reality for a weekend," writes Manuel R. about Buena Vista Farms.
Weekend activities: Crazy Horse Campground stands out for its regular event schedule. "Every weekend has an event. Bluegrass to crafts," notes Leanne B., adding that the campground is "Really love this Campground! The owners are a young family, with a bunch of kids!"
Quiet settings: Many campers value the peaceful environment. "We love this place, it's quiet and peaceful," writes Brian E. about Schuy-Rush Park, which offers "tent camping, RV and a few cabin rentals, boat docks too where you can bring your boat!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Crazy Horse Campground, one camper reported "No Verizon wireless service here or anywhere for about a 45 mile radius," while others mention limited AT&T coverage at various sites.
Wind exposure: The open terrain creates consistently windy conditions at several campgrounds. "This is a really nice campground but the only downside is that it can be pretty windy," notes J K. about Prairie Lake Campground, while Lucas T. describes it as "Always super windy too!"
Shade availability: Tree coverage varies by campground and site location. At Primitive Campground, "Each site is along the tree line with plenty of shade," according to Amanda C., but the main RV campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek "hasn't been around that long so few trees in the campground proper."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds see highest occupancy from spring through fall. "We certainly didn't expect the Prairie Lake Campground to be full in late October! Both loops were full," reports Jennifer K., suggesting reservations are important even in shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Look for free activities: Buena Vista Farms offers multiple free recreation options beyond camping. "There is an open cabin with games, books, and WiFi. Basketball court, play area, and outdoor games," writes Sarah S., providing budget-friendly entertainment.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "We rented two cabins for the weekend and loved the place. Cabins were modern and clean overlooking the pond," notes Sarah S. about her Buena Vista Farms experience.
Pack for wind protection: Given the consistent wind reports, families should bring appropriate gear. "Being newer has small trees with little shade. Also has been very windy on the few occasions we have stayed with an open field at entrance," cautions Lucas T. about Prairie Lake Campground.
Check weekend event schedules: Family-oriented events happen regularly at several campgrounds. At Lincoln's New Salem Park, "plays in the outdoor amphitheater in the evenings" provide evening entertainment according to Leah H.
Tips from RVers
Utility access varies: Water and electric hookup configurations differ between campgrounds. At Lincoln's New Salem, "Just electric at sites, no water. Water available at just a few sites," reports Jeffrey F., advising campers to fill tanks before parking.
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on shade and proximity to amenities. "Spots 56-60 overlook the boat docks" at Prairie Lake Campground, offering premium locations for those who book early.
Seasonal weather preparation: RVers should prepare for changing conditions. "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," Kaitlin D. reports about Lincoln's New Salem.
Level sites available: Several campgrounds offer suitable terrain for larger RVs. Crazy Horse Campground provides "Level packed gravel sites. We have a 40' class A. Plenty of pull thru sites," according to Leanne B., making it accessible for various RV sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Virginia, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Virginia, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Virginia, IL is Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area with a 4.4-star rating from 21 reviews.
Keep Exploring