Best Campgrounds near Waterloo, IL

Camping near Waterloo, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Hawn State Park Campground. Reviewers mention, "There are several hiking trails and an overlook," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
• Fishing: The rivers near Onondaga Cave State Park Campground are perfect for fishing. One camper said, "The river is still fantastic fun, especially for our grandkids."
• Caving: Check out the caves at Onondaga Cave State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "Onondaga Cave is amazing with the new lighting."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Cuivre River State Park Campground. One review states, "Very clean and the site had some covered bench/tables."
• Friendly staff: Many visitors enjoy the helpfulness of the staff at Meramec State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The staff is very friendly and helpful."
• Scenic views: Campers love the breathtaking views at Hawn State Park Campground. One camper said, "The landscape around the park was very nice."

What you should know:

• Limited cell service: If you're planning to stay at Onondaga Cave State Park Campground, be prepared for poor cell reception. A visitor mentioned, "No cell service from Verizon or T-Mobile."
• Close campsites: Many campgrounds, like St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, have sites that are close together. One camper said, "The sites are too close together (very small sites) and the park was too noisy for us."
• Water access: Some campgrounds, such as St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, have great water access but limited shade. A reviewer noted, "Not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty."

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. One parent said, "The playground was good for the kiddos."
• Plan for quiet hours: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours, such as St. Francois State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "Quiet time is at 10pm and fellow campers are certain to enforce that rule."
• Bring outdoor games: Campers at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area enjoy playing games outside. One review noted, "There are three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball, and a pool during summer months."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site at campgrounds like Cuivre River State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The full hookup loop has a lot of room, but can be a challenge backing in."
• Look for amenities: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups, such as Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground. One camper shared, "Hot water showers in bathrooms."
• Plan for reservations: Some campgrounds, like Meramec State Park Campground, recommend making reservations ahead of time. A visitor noted, "Reservations on the website are until 7pm day-of."

Camping near Waterloo, IL, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to check the amenities and plan accordingly!