Glamping sites near Virginia, Illinois generally operate from April through October, with peak season in the summer months. The area features several lakes surrounded by oak and hickory forests with elevations ranging from 600-750 feet above sea level. Campgrounds in this region sit along the Sangamon River watershed, creating opportunities for water recreation alongside traditional camping experiences.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Waverly Lake City Park offers peaceful fishing opportunities with minimal crowds. "It's quiet and peaceful, however there's not much to do. As far as I know there's no running water. There are portable toilets that are kept clean," notes John H.
Hiking trail exploration: Spring Lake Park - Macomb features extensive hiking options around the water. "Miles of trails. Staff and caretakers keep the trails extremely clean. Excellent views of the large lake the trails go around," shares Nick D. The park maintains well-marked paths suitable for all skill levels.
Water recreation rentals: Visitors can rent various watercraft at Spring Lake Park. "Kayak/Canoe/Pontoon rentals. CHEAP primitive camping," reports Nick D. Another camper confirms: "They have canoes to rent and you're bound to see cranes and ducks along the way. Just be weary of the geese by the reservoir because they can be moody!"
Historical site access: Sangchris Lake State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for historical exploration. "We had never been to Springfield, IL and wanted to see all the historical sites for Abe Lincoln. This campground is clean, quite and sits on the beautiful Sangchris Lake," explains Keith M.
What campers like
Lakeside camping sites: Campers praise the waterfront locations at Sangchris Lake State Park. "All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake. Several fishing docks in campground," says Greg S. Another camper adds, "Beautiful shoreline lots. 30 amp service. Decent AT&T cellular coverage."
Clean facilities: Crazy Horse Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bath house is clean and well maintained. Live music on the weekend," mentions Sarah S. This attention to cleanliness extends to other aspects of the property.
Privacy between sites: Many glamping options near Virginia provide adequate separation between campsites. "Sites are spacious and campground is quiet and leisurely during the week," notes Jason L. about Sangchris Lake. At Waverly Lake, "Each site is spread out and fairly well."
Family-oriented activities: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park at Pine Lakes specializes in kid-friendly options. "Great for a family with kids of all ages. The activities are not all day, so plan on some campside entertainment before 10am and after 6pm," advises Ellyn P.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity. Spring and fall offer milder conditions with average temperatures between 60-75°F. Prepare for occasional thunderstorms throughout the camping season.
Cell service limitations: Network coverage varies significantly by location. "No Verizon wireless service here or anywhere for about a 45 mile radius," reports Sarah S. about Crazy Horse Campground. However, at Sangchris Lake, campers note "Decent AT&T cellular coverage (it varies but able to stream, etc)."
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. Riverside Park operates differently: "We were looking for somewhere last minute on the 4th of July and we were welcomed here," shares Leslie G.
Site surface conditions: Many campgrounds have gravel or dirt sites that can become problematic after rain. "Only down fall is there needs to be more rock on the sites, the sites get muddy after a rain!" warns Keith D. about Springfield KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Structure days around scheduled campground events. At Jellystone Park, "The activities are not all day, so plan on some campside entertainment before 10am and after 6pm," advises Ellyn P.
Bring safety equipment: Required items may not be included with rentals. "Lake blow ups are included in price, but you must have a life vest. Bring your own to save money," recommends Ellyn P. about Jellystone Park.
Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Springfield KOA offers numerous amenities for children. "The campground is very nice, a lot of amenities for families like pool, little bikes, miniature golf and horseshoes," notes Grace D.
Consider cabin options: For families new to glamping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. At Spring Lake Park, "Our furnished cabin faced the lake it was an incredible view. We had fun fishing and sitting by the campfire in the evenings," shares Rayn C.
Tips from RVers
Access road awareness: Some campgrounds have narrow approach routes. "The roads leading to the campground are narrow, luckily we didn't encounter someone coming the other way!" cautions Mary G. about Springfield KOA.
Electric supply limitations: During peak usage, power systems may become strained. "Because of the heat over this holiday weekend and a completely full campground, the electricity couldn't meet the demand and a transformer blew," reports Susan L. about Sangchris Lake.
Site selection strategy: Schuy campers recommend specific planning: "Need reservation with larger campers," advises Jean M. Sites near water are particularly desirable but book fastest.
Utility connections: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Electric only but water available and nice dump station," notes Greg S. about Sangchris Lake State Park, while Springfield KOA provides "power and water hookups... you have to go to dump station on the way out as there aren't individual sewers."
