Surrounded by cornfields in southern Illinois, Washington County State Recreation Area spreads across three distinct camping areas around a sizable lake. The park sits just off Highway 64, making it a convenient overnight stop for cross-country travelers while maintaining the quiet atmosphere that comes with its rural location.
Campers choose between three campgrounds with different amenities and atmospheres. Shady Rest offers electric hookups for RVs among well-spaced sites with good tree cover. Lonely Oaks and Little Bears serve tent campers without hookups, providing a more rustic experience. AC found the facilities "very well kept and clean," noting that shower water runs cold initially but warms after a few minutes. Sites include picnic tables and fire pits with attached grills.
The lake dominates recreational opportunities here. Bass fishing draws many visitors, with multiple access points including a large dock for boat launching. A trail circles the entire lake, while shorter paths connect different camping areas. Joel R. appreciated how "the sky was real dark, great for picking out constellations" due to the distance from major cities. Wildlife sounds, including whip-poor-will calls, provide nighttime entertainment.
Practical considerations include cash-only payments—no cards accepted at the park office. The nearest ATM requires a trip back to Nashville for cash. Cell coverage varies by carrier, with some reporting spotty Verizon service. Weekdays typically see lighter crowds, while weekends can fill up. For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore camping spots around Nashville.
The park enforces quiet hours after 10 PM, helping maintain the peaceful rural setting that draws many visitors seeking a break from busier campgrounds.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundWashington County State Recreation Area is located in Illinois
Directions
Located 4 miles south of Nashville, the park is in close proximity to Interstate 64, and Illinois Highways 15 and 127. Going East on I64 use exit 50 at Nashville, go south on Illinois Highway 127, go through Nashville, approximately 8 miles. Turn left onto Conservation Rd., at entrance to Washington County Conservation Area. Going West on I64 use exit 50 at Nashville, go south on Illinois Highway 127, go through Nashville, approximately 8 miles. Turn left onto Conservation Rd., at entrance to Washington County Conservation Area.
Address
18500 Conservation Dr
Nashville, IL 62263
Coordinates
38.28000034 N
89.36300097 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/19/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/19/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/19/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/19/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 55 min from St. Louis, MO
- 1 hr 31 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 48 min from Paducah, KY
- 1 hr 51 min from Evansville, IN





















