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Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park

Description

For those who like the beautiful sights and sounds of the great outdoors, but prefer the amenities of home, both Lincoln Trail State Park Campgrounds offer electricity, showers, tables, fireblocks, playground equipment, water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping station. For those who wish to be attuned to nature without the distractions of modern conveniences, Lakeside Campground also includes a Class C camping area for tents. The shower buildings are closed by November 1 (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen May 1 (may be earlier, weather depending).

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Location

Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park is located in Illinois

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.338277 N
87.710664 W

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Connectivity

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    Some Coverage
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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Water Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 11, 2025

Its ok

Camp sites had some trash from previous campers. Bathrooms were dirty and outdated. Only scolding hot water in the shower. Host and another staff member made me turn my camper to face the other direction so the door wouldn't face another camp site, even though I have a door on both sides after we had camp set up. Sites themselves are nicely spaced apart. Place was pretty empty for our 4 day weekend there.

Site4
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park by Joshua R., August 11, 2025
  • Review photo of Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park by Joshua R., August 11, 2025
  • Review photo of Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park by Joshua R., August 11, 2025
Reviewed Sep. 20, 2024

Dog poop in the site and loud neighbors

I was not a fan. I was tenting and there was not a great spot for the tent and there was dog poop everywhere (tracked some in the tent when setting up so I wasn't pleased). Also a bunch of large Widowmakers in the trees above was nerve-wracking. The people around me were LOUD! One dude listening to a college football game until past 10 and a guy and his kid playing glow Frisbee right in from of my tent past 10 as well. As I was on a road trip and wanted to get to sleep, this was not appreciated.. On th e good side, the bathrooms were very clean. I would NOT stay here again

Site100
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed May. 14, 2020

I recommend staying at Plainview campground

This State Park has two campgrounds to choose from: Plainview and Lakeview. The sites at Plainview are nice, with plenty of room between each of the sites. Most of the campsites at this site also have decent shade. Bathhouses at Plainview were clean. The sites at Lakeview are less desirable as the campground is more cramped than Plainview and only a couple of the sites actually overlook the lake. Overall, I would recommend staying at Plainview.

Boat rentals at the lake are very reasonable and the bait/camp shop is nice. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere, the food was good and it was quick.

Overall a great place to camp and kayak. Nice fishing too but no swimming aloud at this lake.

Reviewed Dec. 17, 2019

Remote, in a good way

Lincoln Trails State Park is located near Marshall, Il just across the Indiana border. It is a quiet little area (at least when we visited) and made for a relaxing visit.

Two campground areas, Lakeside was closed (possibly due to season/standing water) showerhouses are closed November 1st through May 1. Otherwise there is full hookup available at Plainview and the sites are nice and flat. There is a nice fire ring to gather at in the campground and some room around your site for stuff. I like the outer sites, more privacy. Not that that was an issue in November. The on site restaurant was closed when we visited but sits right on the water. Would make for some nice views. We hiked, the trails were sometimes challenging to follow with the leaves on the ground . With no foliage there was a lot more to see of the topography and natural features. Nearby is the town of Marshall which offers some interesting history, artwork and painted lions, definitely worth a walkabout!

  • Review photo of Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park by Shelly S., December 17, 2019
  • Review photo of Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park by Shelly S., December 17, 2019
  • Review photo of Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park by Shelly S., December 17, 2019
  • (27) View All
Reviewed Sep. 18, 2019

Super nice

2 different campgrounds to choose from within the park. Plainview has the shower house. A few low spots that hold water, so one has to pick their site accordingly! Very quiet!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make camping reservations at Lincoln Trail State Park?

Reservations for Lincoln Trail State Park can be made through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources reservation system. The park offers two campgrounds: Plainview and Lakeside (also called Lakeview). When making your reservation, note that availability may vary seasonally, with some facilities like showerhouses closing around November 1st. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred site. Contact the park office directly for the most current reservation information and policies.

What camping facilities are available at Plainview Campground near Lincoln Trail?

Plainview Campground at Lincoln Trail State Park offers spacious campsites with good separation between neighbors and decent shade at most sites. The campground features clean bathhouses with showers (though note these close seasonally after November 1st). Sites have enough room for standard camping setups, though some low spots may hold water after rain, so site selection is important. Plainview is generally preferred over the Lakeside/Lakeview campground area within the park due to its better facilities and site conditions.

What recreational activities can I do while camping at Lincoln Trail State Park?

Lincoln Trail State Park offers numerous recreational opportunities for campers. The park features a lake perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming during warmer months. Hiking trails wind throughout the natural areas, providing opportunities to explore the local ecosystem. Wildlife watching is popular, with various bird species inhabiting the park. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for relaxing activities like reading or photography. Located near Marshall, Illinois, just across the Indiana border, the park provides a quiet retreat with enough activities to keep visitors engaged throughout their stay.

Where can I find a map of Lincoln Trail State Park campground?

Maps of Lincoln Trail State Park campground are available at the park office and entrance station when you arrive. The park features two distinct camping areas - Plainview and Lakeside (Lakeview) - which are helpful to locate on the map before arrival. For planning purposes, you can also find maps on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website. Consider downloading a digital copy before your visit, especially if you're arriving after office hours.