The best camping near Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area adventure.

You're almost guaranteed to land a fish at this well-stocked lake.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area

Hamilton County Campground

76 sites · RVs, Tents In Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area

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Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

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Wild Honeysuckle Farm

36 sites · Tents40 acres · Dahlgren, IL

Welcome to our yard, the prime location for observing the 2024 solar eclipse! Situated directly in the path for the 3-4 minute mark of this extraordinary event, our space promises an unparalleled view of nature's majestic spectacle. We offer tent camping accommodations for those bringing their own tents, or you can bring your own blankets for those who prefer to lay out under the vast open sky. Please note that access to our home or buildings is not available, ensuring an authentic outdoor experience. For your convenience, we provide an outdoor faucet for basic needs. However, kindly note that we do not permit RVs or campers on the premises. Not suitable for children under 16 years of age. Only 2 campers per campsite. Must send ID and be pre-approved prior to booking. Prepare to be awestruck as you witness the breathtaking beauty of the solar eclipse from our tranquil yard. Secure your front-row seat to this celestial phenomenon by booking your stay now!

Booked 66 times

Eclipse at The Back 20

121 sites · Tents20 acres · Mount Vernon, IL

Discover the beauty of nature on our 20-acre property, where primitive tent sites await your peaceful retreat. Embrace the simplicity of a camping experience with contained fires and the companionship of your pets, all while enjoying the serene rural setting. For those who enjoy fishing, off-road trails, and the allure of a breathtaking eclipse away from city lights, our location offers the perfect backdrop. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the countryside and make lasting memories surrounded by the beauty of nature. There is no running water at this site but fresh running water and a shower are available at the old ranch house less than a mile away. Water is readily available less than a mile away, ensuring your basic needs are met as you embark on a rustic and adventurous camping journey. We welcome you to join us for an unforgettable stay, and if you have any further questions or inquiries, please feel free to reach out. Your peaceful and scenic escape awaits!

Booked 6 times

Secluded Eclipse Viewing Field

30 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Bluford, IL

Experience the eclipse from almost dead center of its path on our 20-acre hay field, featuring 20 spacious sites. Each party will have a whole acre to themselves, ensuring plenty of room and avoiding overcrowding. This is complete primitive camping; there are no bathrooms on site, but you'll have access to running water at the owner's house. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and we are 420 friendly. Small fires are allowed, provided you prep the fire site and have everything you need to extinguish it if necessary. Remember to pack out what you pack in. Thank you. The address for this property is 537 County Rd 105 E, Bluford, Illinois 62814. Please note that Hipcamp maps may not provide the correct address, and manual entry may be required.

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Sonny Hills

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Eddyville, IL

70 acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with hiking trails and water activities. Close to Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock, Pounds Hollow, Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. Cabin-2BR -1 Q, 1 K/1BA sleeps 4- possible 5, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, no internet. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace and nice views of private lake and hills. Hot tub. Fire pit. $85.00 for two people, each additional $20.00, $65.00 cleaning fee Primitive tent camping sites available . RV pads for self-contained campers . One Electric space available with notice. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Shade or sunny areas. Pets and service dogs welcome with reservations, Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds on property) and must show proof of vaccinations upon registering. Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill, crappie, and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards canoe and boat. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond and no children under 12 around the p All above activities are done at your own risk.ond without parental supervision.

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Red Gate Farm, LLC

2 sites · Lodging, Tents50 acres · Creal Springs, IL

Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp! Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment! If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.

Rock Hole Meadow

6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Stonefort, IL

We are in the process of cleaning up and improving our campsites!!! We will be back and up and running soon!!!! Nestled on an 8-acre rural property, we are in the process of transforming into a permanent primitive campground. New to Hipcamp and hosting, we offer a rural escape for witnessing the 2024 Solar Eclipse without breaking the bank on expensive hotel rooms in town. Committed to environmental stewardship, we prioritize eco-conscious practices such as reusing, recycling, and promoting the growth of native plant species. Each visit to our campground contributes to our mission of preserving this land for future generations. Our property boasts a spacious meadow, ideal for eclipse viewing, along with three wooded campsites equipped with fire pits. Accessible via a short walk from the designated parking area, the wooded campsites are clearly marked for your convenience. For eclipse viewing, we provide three dispersed primitive/car camping spots in the meadow. Please note that the meadow may become muddy during this season, so exercise caution when selecting your camping area. Additionally, a communal fire pit is available for those camping in the meadow. Facilities include a porta-potty with no running water, with plans for future construction of bathrooms and showers. Conveniently located just 5 minutes from Carrier Mills, Illinois, you can easily stock up on any necessities during your stay.

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Places of Sanctuary

7 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Parkers Settlement, IN

Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond that has plenty of shade and sun, or sit around the bonfire site where we have benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, bench swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like: deer, mink, or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens and ducks running around! Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 3 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 36 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually we can!

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15 Acre Wood on Lake

3 sites · Tents15 acres · Mt. Vernon, IN

300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.

Booked 51 times

Tall Tree Lake

62 sites · RVs, Tents220 acres · Buncombe, IL

We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.

Booked 5 times

Eclipse at The Corner Hay Field

11 sites · Tents3 acres · Bluford, IL

Nestled in the tranquil countryside, the corner Hay field offers a rustic retreat with ten primitive tent sites. Surrounded by swaying grasses and gently rolling hills, each site provides a serene escape into nature, ideal for those seeking simplicity and seclusion. With minimal amenities, campers can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance, under the vast expanse of the starlit sky, making it a perfect spot for those yearning for an authentic outdoor experience.

Booked 3 times

Eclipse at The Farm

5 sites · Tents3 acres · Opdyke, IL

Nestled amid tranquil Winter Wheat fields, five private primitive tent sites encircle a picturesque 1-acre private pond, offering a serene haven for nature enthusiasts. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, each tent site provides a secluded retreat, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of nature while enjoying the privacy of their own slice of paradise. These rustic sites offer a back-to-basics camping experience, where guests can reconnect with the simplicity of outdoor living. As the sun sets over the horizon, the gentle rippling of the pond's surface reflects the vibrant hues of twilight, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for campfire tales and stargazing adventures. Whether casting a line into the tranquil waters for a leisurely afternoon of fishing or simply lounging by the shore with a good book, guests can relish in the tranquility of their surroundings. With no distractions except the melodies of chirping birds, these primitive tent sites provide an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of modern life and embrace the serenity of the great outdoors.

The best camping near Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area guide

Overview

About

Cast your line at this 75-acre lake with a maximum depth of 18 feet. Find your sweet fishing spot quickly, because Dolan Lake has 3 miles of shoreline.

Your line might get nibbles from largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish, or bullheads. It's easy to bring your trophies back to your campsite since they're near the lake shore.

Take aim with your shotgun at the first-come, first-served manual clay bird thrower trap area. The trap is open year-round. Please pick up hulls from your clays and keep the area clean. Of course, please use all safety precautions when using shotguns.

Camp near the water at one of 60 standard campsites with electricity. Ten standard tent sites allow for rustic camping. Five cabins have heat and air conditioning along with a full-size bed and two bunk beds.