Cabins provide shelter options for campers near Waterloo, Illinois, a region characterized by its gently rolling terrain approximately 30 miles southeast of St. Louis. Located in the Mississippi River floodplain at around 425 feet elevation, the area experiences humid continental climate with hot summers and moderate winters. Fall temperatures typically range from 45-70°F, creating comfortable overnight conditions for cabin stays.
What to do
Hiking trails: Washington State Park Campground offers prehistoric petroglyphs and diverse hiking options. "We hiked the 1000 step trail. Most of the campers did fine but those who were not use to hiking did struggle a bit. If you are use to hiking, then this trail should not be any problem for you," notes one visitor.
Water recreation: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park features a 4-mile lakeside trail and rentable watercraft. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish," explains a frequent camper.
Local swimming: Camping cabins near Waterloo offer swimming access during summer months. "Lots to do for all ages, including swimming and hikes of any difficulty/length. Famous for petroglyphs and other history too. Green rolling hills that would be ideal to visit in the fall," reports one Washington State Park visitor.
What campers like
Proximity to St. Louis attractions: St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA provides convenient cabin access to urban attractions. "Spent one night on our way through. We had tram tickets for the arch so we needed a shore power hookup for run the AC for our dog. This was a good spot for that," writes one reviewer.
Family-oriented activities: Cabin camping at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags offers numerous children's activities. "We stayed here last minute for Labor Day Weekend and the staff were great with finding us a good tent site available. This is not a rugged style campground as there are many amenities such as a pool, putt putt golf, volleyball, and more. They also host daily kids activities and crafts," states a visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Randolph County State Recreation Area provides lake access for anglers. "This campground is located on a small lake in Southern Illinois and managed by the department of natural resources. Good place for Camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking and boating," notes one camper.
What you should know
Site size considerations: Cahokia RV Parque offers cabin sites with varying space considerations. "The sites are tighter, but that was expected being closer to a city. There is a playground, pool and pond area to walk around. We were pleased with the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers and had no major complaints," writes a visitor.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities restrict operations during winter months. "The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice. During modified car racing season, Friday nights are roaring loud from the racetrack nearby," notes a St. Louis KOA visitor.
Environmental factors: Campgrounds may have variable terrain and exposure. "St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees," explains a recent cabin camper.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area offers summer swimming facilities. "There is a nice large zero entry pool for a $5 fee on weekends. The campground hosts are sprinkled throughout the grounds and are always friendly and accommodating," reports a regular visitor.
Kid-friendly entertainment: Pin Oak RV Park provides multiple activities. "A nice private catch and release pond, an old little mini golf setup, a small (but adequate) swimming pool kept the kids busy. About 45-50 minutes West of downtown STL, it was close enough to do 'city things,' but far enough out that it felt like camping," explains one family.
Cabin alternatives: Several parks offer cabin rentals and tent camping options. "The grounds, pool, laundry, and bathrooms were all in excellent repair and clean. The park was quiet, but very family friendly," notes a Cahokia RV Parque visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup access: Pin Oak RV Park provides full hookup sites with some quirks. "Spaces are tight but the overall camp ground is decent. Nice pool and an arcade area with plenty of room to hangout inside. There is a pond with some decent sized fish in it," shares an RV camper.
Site leveling: Waterloo area campgrounds offer varying pad types. "Sites are gravel but well maintained. Sites are fairly close with most shaded. Getting around is a little tight for bigger rigs but still doable as long as you're careful," notes one Randolph County camper.
Security benefits: Some campgrounds provide round-the-clock staff presence. "Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation. It is a city park and had that feel... not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos," reports a St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park visitor.
