Best Tent Camping near Waterloo, IL

Searching for a tent campsite near Waterloo? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Waterloo, Illinois's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Waterloo, IL (6)

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Recent Tent Reviews in Waterloo

403 Reviews of 6 Waterloo Campgrounds


  • Cody S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hawn State Park Campground
    Jan. 5, 2025

    Hawn State Park Campground

    Fall Favorite

    Hawn is a one of the best fall campgrounds close to the St. Louis area.  There are a number of hiking options around the campground in the park and nearby nature reserve.  

    It is a smaller campground with a good mix of electric and non-electric sites.  The restrooms were clean and they also have some vault toilets in the park for convenience.

  • Cody S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Francois State Park Campground
    Jan. 5, 2025

    St. Francois State Park Campground

    Loud and Crowded Camping

    The campground has oddly shaped campsites causing a crowded feel.  The campground is also loud on the weekends especially if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip.

  • Cody S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dam West Campground
    Jan. 5, 2025

    Dam West Campground

    Lakeside Escape

    We camped right on the lake with a great view.  This site and the site next to it are the best sites in the campground with a pull through layout for a great setup for a lake view from the side of your camper.  There was not any shade on the site, so you will be dependent on an awning.  Keep in mind that strong winds can sweep across the lake and pick things up if not secured.

  • Gonzo A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Kaskaskia State Park Campground
    Jan. 3, 2025

    Fort Kaskaskia State Park Campground

    Beautiful Views

    Stayed here last fall and really loved the fall colors and views this park has to offer.  I can't say the facilities were great - there were only vault toilets and no showers that I saw.  Relatively small loop for RVs.  Sites weren't exactly great.  I ended up landing one of the paved sites, which had lots of space and I believe may have been handicapped.  The park wasn't busy and I was able to stay a few extra days.  Suggest checking it out in the fall when the leaves are changing as it was absolutely gorgeous.

  • Gonzo A.
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Francois State Park Campground
    Jan. 3, 2025

    St. Francois State Park Campground

    Nice But A Little Crowded

    St. Francois is a nice park tucked in the forest off of Hwy 67.  It's a quaint park that tends to fill up fast depending on time of year.  The sites are a bit more snug together than I would prefer.  There are some nice hiking options within the park.  It was exceptionally quiet when I stayed both times.

  • Gonzo A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hawn State Park Campground
    Jan. 3, 2025

    Hawn State Park Campground

    One of MIssouri's Many Gems

    Hawn is a lovely park just south of the city a few clicks.  It's tucked away into the trees with ample shade and options for backpacking, backcountry hiking.  The park is nice and sites are spaced out enough.  Not sure about cell service but had a site in the 2nd campground in the middle where there's a break in the trees.  I was able to use Starlink.  People were friendly and overall lovely park and experience.

  • Tabitha R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Creek
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Johnson Creek

    Nice!

    This campground provides large spots, drinking water, vault toliets, dumpsters, picnic table, lantern hook, fire ring, and contactless check in. I also appreciate the value of these sites. It really is a reasonable rate for forest camping.

  • Ben T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

    Wonderful campground

    Right next to a huge reserve for fishing and boating. Campsites are very spaced out. We had 30 amp electric but no water on the campsite. Wasn't a problem for us we just filled our water tank. Bathrooms and showers were very clean. Look forward to coming back

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dam East - Mcnair Campground
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Dam East - Mcnair Campground

    Location Great for Travel

    McNair ACE: Tate 4 for cleanliness and stopover location for travels on nearby highway. (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: 4 Price 2024: $ 9w interagency pass Security: no Usage during visit: 1/3 Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: no Site Spacing: closer Pad surface: blacktop Reservations: Required Campground Noise: No Outside Road Noise: no Through Traffic in campground: no Electric Hookup: yes Sewer Hookup: no Dump Station: yes Potable Water Available: At site Bathroom: Nice flush Showers: small private Cell Service (AT&T): 2-3 bars Setting: near lake Recent Weather: 80s Insects: no Host: yes Rig Size: large Sites: Outside sites are by far the best. 16,17,18 are favorites .

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dam East Recreation Area
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Dam East Recreation Area

    GREAT LOCATION for STOPOVER

    East Dam ACE, IL: Not an interesting view from here, but well maintained campground . Quiet.
    (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: 4 for cleanliness and location for travels on nearby highway. Spillway is not particularly pretty. Price 2024: $9 w interagency pass Security: No gate Usage during visit: 60% during the week Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: No Site Spacing: Good Pad surface: Blacktop Reservations: Required. Can be made upon arrival through rec.gov Campground Noise: Quiet Outside Road Noise: No Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: At nearby ACE campground Potable Water Available: At site Bathroom: In adjacent day use area Showers: No. Nearby - check w host. Pull Throughs: Some Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars Setting: along Kaskasia River/ spillway Recent Weather: 80s Insects: no Host: yes Rig Size: large Sites: Some sites are along the spillway.

  • Joel R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pin Oak RV Park
    Sep. 27, 2024

    Pin Oak RV Park

    Old and shows wear

    This is an older RV park and campground, and the age shows. We spent several nights here due to engine problems with our tow vehicle. The sites are level, and there is plenty of shade. (One advantage of being an older park.) But everything is just a little run down. The sites are gravel and close together do not much privacy. They come with water, sewer & electric. There is a pool (closed when we were there), playground, mini golf, a lake, game room, laundry and a small store with basics. The bathroom and showers were clean, but dated. Not all facilities were in working order. Two of 6 washers were out of service, one bathroom stall was out of order, pot holes in the road. There are also cabins, and RVs available to rent. There is quite a bit of traffic noise from I-44 and there are a lot of excess lights kept on all night long. The staff was friendly and check in was easy. Many of the sites are occupied be semi-permanent residents. They have internet, but it is weak and spotty. Saturday night they had a band making noise for 3 hours!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Francois State Park Campground
    Sep. 9, 2024

    St. Francois State Park Campground

    Peaceful

    I stayed from 9/4/24-9/8/24. I stayed in the primitive campground. It was very quiet and peaceful. My site was close to the camp host and the shower house. Shower house was nice with 4 separate showers with locking doors. Water pressure was great and they were clean. There is a handicap shower unit as well that had a bench and hooks and a shelf to keep your things dry. The bathrooms were separate from the showers with 4 locking stalls. These too were kept clean and toilet paper was always full. Four sinks and mirrors and one outlet close to the sinks for hairdryer etc. The grounds were clean and grass was nicely cut. My campsite had a picnic table a campfire with grill grate and a light post to hang a lantern. The camp host were very friendly and drove around often on golf carts to make sure ppl were ok or needed anything. There was a place to fill your bottled water containers. The checkin office sold ice, campfire wood and a variety of ice creams, stickers and t shirts and sweatshirts. The park has trailheads to hike and an equestrian area. River access for swimming and fishing. There is a separate area with electrical sites and also handicap sites in the electrical and primitive campgrounds. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and will be returning often.

  • Nathaniel B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Aug. 8, 2024

    St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    Best campsite we've found to explore STL

    Well maintained and well managed park. 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. Five minutes from food and stores. 30 minutes from downtown Saint Louis. I'll

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout

    Lots of fun close to home

    Nice rv park. Lots to do. The golf carts are genius. We used all weekend and had a great time. Played in the waterhole, played on the lake w/paddleboats and kayaks. Nice campsites and showerhouse. The bar and store were beautiful. Arcade, pool,games for kids and adults. Loved it

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee Lakes Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Cherokee Lakes Campground

    Secluded and spacious tent camping sites

    I spent a night here camping while on a road trip. The check-in was quick and easy. The host showed me the tent campsites, which are secluded and private from the RV sites. The sites are outfitted with a picnic table and brick fire rings. Some have water spickets. There's a central covered picnic area. Lots of shade and tall trees. You'll want to check them for dead limbs before setting up your site. I didn't ask if hammock camping is allowed. There are at least two sites that would work nicely for a hammock. A portable toilet is available to keep the area sanitary for urgent needs; the flush toilets, laundry, and fitness center at the main entrance are also available for a longer walk or short drive.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Francois State Park Campground
    Jun. 16, 2024

    St. Francois State Park Campground

    RV campsites

    Awesome place to camp. Bummed the sites didn’t have their own water hookups. Staff is super kind. Quiet time is at 10pm and fellow campers are certain to enforce that rule but that’s unfortunate for those of us who still want to listen to music and sit by the fire. Overall great camping spot!

  • William  Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
    May. 30, 2024

    Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

    Wonderful surprise

    Arrived just after a terrible storm so parts of the park were closed for clean up. The parts that were open were all cleaned up, spacious sites, easy access, with fantastic hosts. An absolutely beautiful evening in gorgeous surroundings…we’ll be back and so glad we stumbled upon this place. Didn’t use the showers so can’t report on the facilities….

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park
    Apr. 19, 2024

    St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    Good now, and will be really nice when the trees get bigger

    Stayed here most of the several weeks we needed to be in St. Louis for family matters. Definitely our favorite place in the area. The 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. The nicest spots are the ones by the lake, with only one neighbor and a better view of the lake. The staff are kind and helpful. Water and electric worked fine. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Trash and recycling receptacles are huge and convenient. My only complaint is the poorly thought out sink situation in the bathrooms which make it impossible to wash in a sanitary way as you must hold the tap to keep the water flowing and there are no paper towels to that with, only hand dryers. There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground.

  • Michelle K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sharp Rock Falls Recreation
    Apr. 4, 2024

    Sharp Rock Falls Recreation

    Longbranch Shooting House And Saloon

    You're welcome to at longbranch! Please make your reservations.
    Only 16 spots left!

    Ava Illinois +1 618-318-6734 Text your name and number of people on your campsite to reserve your spot.

    The Solar Eclipse Event "PARK @ THE MOON"

    Extended or early arrivals welcome. Just simply request more information in the text. We will get ahold of asap with a more information and a confirmation number.

    #ShareThisPost #solareclipse2024

  • Katrin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hawn State Park Campground
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Hawn State Park Campground

    Nice campground in the woods.

    We camped at site 39 over the weekend. The park was very clean and family friendly. There are several hiking trails and an overlook. The restrooms and showers are still closed for the season, but there are primitive vault toilets. The sites are very close together, so there is not much privacy. Also, some have electricity and some not. The firewood was wet und would not burn. The landscape around the park was very nice. We camped here to visit the Gateway National Park and Mastodon Natural Site.


Drive Time


Guide to Waterloo

Waterloo, Illinois, offers a variety of tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With well-reviewed campgrounds nearby, campers can enjoy scenic views and a range of amenities.

Tent campers should check out Sandstone Spring & Camp

  • At Sandstone Spring & Camp, you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with ten tent sites available for reservation.
  • This campground allows pets, making it a great choice for families who want to bring their furry friends along.
  • Campers can take advantage of amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and firewood for a cozy evening around the campfire.

Explore local attractions near St. Charles County Klondike Park

  • St. Charles County Klondike Park is a fantastic spot for those looking to bike along the Katy Trail, with easy access to scenic routes.
  • The park features beautiful trails perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area, especially near the Missouri River.
  • With a well-maintained environment and basic cabins available, this campground is ideal for both tent camping and a family getaway.

Some prices for tent camping range from $10 to $50

  • Camping at Old Cove offers group sites for $50 per night, accommodating up to ten people, making it perfect for gatherings.
  • For a budget-friendly option, St. Charles County Klondike Park charges just $10 a night, providing essential amenities like restrooms and drinking water.
  • At Countryside Escape, prices may vary, but the unique experience of camping in a private setting adds value to your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Waterloo, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Waterloo, IL is St. Charles County Klondike Park with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Waterloo, IL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 6 tent camping locations near Waterloo, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.