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Illini Campground

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Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

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100%

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366 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging

When they said Mile after magnificent mile; right here, right now they really weren’t kidding!

Dutifully holding it’s place as the largest campground in the Illinois State Park system, Eldon Hazlet State Park throws down some epic scenery and killer fishing in Carlyle Lake. Perhaps best known for its camping jams, the grounds yield numerous secluded tent sites and cozy cabin rentals all within easy reach of the water.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewage hookups

No electric hookups

First come, first served

RV, Tent, Lodging

Explore 441 campgrounds near Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

Grove On Top Possum Hill

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Worden, IL

The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.

The Quiet Countryside

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Vandalia, IL

Easy access for campers located by a pond. Great for fishing and relaxing! 30 AMP electric hookup, can accommodate water fill up and sewer dump. There is a covered pavilion with picnic table and chairs. There is a grill and a fire pit. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway you will love it here! Located close to the interstate. Plenty of restaurants near by and Vandalia lake is 8 minutes from campsite.

Emerald Acres Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Worden, IL

Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE. It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.

Conant Crossing

2 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Pinckneyville, IL

Discover Conant Crossing, conveniently located across the street from Pyramid State Park. Just 11 minutes from Pinckneyville, IL, and 19 minutes from Sparta, IL, our site offers adjoining lots with 50 amp electric and potable county water hook-ups. Enjoy a common, covered picnic area with two picnic tables, fire pits, and electric access. Please note, we do not have wastewater dump facilities, but there is a Porta-Potty near the sites. A pond with fish is just a few hundred feet away, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. WE HAVE NO WASTEWATER DUMP FACILITIES. Pyramid State Park has a dump station and there is a $5 dump fee(cash through the drop slot).

Middle Eden

2 sites · Tents16 acres · Fairview Heights, IL

We are developing an agroforestry biome that mimics the original pre-Columbian oak/hickory savanna! Learn more about this land: Camp in a beautiful, 16 acre permaculture paradise, surrounded by oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberry, and black/honey locust. We have an established campfire area with free firewood. It's a short 500 foot walk from parking to the campfire area and diverse tenting locations.

I-55 RV Park

20 sites · RVs3 acres · Edwardsville, IL

Welcome to I-55 RV Park We are a brand new, big-rig friendly RV park right off the highway where we will do our utmost to make your stay relaxing and memorable. Please note, we do not have a bathhouse or bathroom at this time. We have a strict leash rule for your pets. We look forward to having you stay with us! Come enjoy a nice and relaxing stay at our brand new RV park. We are big rig friendly with 20 full-hook up sites (water, electric, sewer). We are located right off Highways I-55 and 143 at Exit 23. Edwardsville, Plummer Family Park, World Wide Technology Raceway, Nickel Plate Bike Trail, Downtown St. Louis, and many other tourist destinations are nearby.

Sugarloaf Creek

1 site · RV7 acres · Dupo, IL

A wooded, country oasis located 20 minutes away from downtown St. Louis. Plenty of city adventures to be had or relax on the peaceful deck overlooking a small creek. Some nearby local hiking spots near the Mississippi River flood plains. Fire pit available for use. Water and 30 AMP electric hookup.

Tranquillity

3 sites · Tents6 acres · Belleville, IL

Many years ago, this area was a country get away for St. Louis city folks. Now, the large farms are smaller farm estate residences for people like me who enjoy large trees, open land, wildlife, and some privacy.

The Back 20

129 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, hiking trails, and being 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 is available approximately one mile away. 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!

Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park

41 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · New Athens, IL

Welcome to the Village of New Athens RV Park! We sincerely appreciate your choice to stay with us. As you settle in, we're thrilled to invite you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our campgrounds and the warmth of our community. Our park offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. You'll find convenient water hookups and sewer connections, along with waterfront views that promise a serene and picturesque experience. Embrace the outdoors at our picnic area and explore the surrounding landscapes, as we happily welcome pets, making your stay pet-friendly. For the adventurous souls, we have hike and bike campsites, providing opportunities for thrilling exploration on our gravel roads. Should you require any essentials during your stay, rest assured, we have gasoline available nearby. And as the evening settles in, gather around the fire pit, where cherished memories are created, fostering camaraderie among fellow travelers. While you're here, don't miss out on the various activities we offer. Cast a line and indulge in the art of fishing, or take to the waters for a boating adventure that promises to be both invigorating and unforgettable. Once again, thank you for being our guest. We look forward to making your time with us truly memorable as you embrace the wonders of our Village of New Athens RV Park. Happy exploring!

Happy Trails Farm Resort

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Granite City, IL

Happy Trails farm is a beautiful refreshing place that you can relax, and connect with the family farm life. We were established Oct. 27th, 2007, and it's our "Acres of Diamonds" (Earl Nightengale). There are 20.11 acres of farm life to share with you. We do many things to help keep the farm going, and moving towards being self supporting. Such as pony rides, birthday parties, weddings, camp outs, and so much more. We sell fresh laid farm eggs for $5 cash a dozen. To purchase eggs, call or text Nancy (618)601-4645 Pony rides are $30 cash, and by appointment only. They are hand led, and approximately 20-30 minute. The child will be hand led around the farm. If you would like to schedule a ride please message Maryann @ (618)610-9282. We also house and run Happy Trails Horse Rescue (501c3) non for profit, and accept donations. Some of the things you will experience and see are: volunteers helping out; horses, mules, donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese, turkey, goats, llama, and many others. We are a small and important resource to the overall well being of the community. We look forward to seeing you on the farm! Check-in is between 2pm-9pm. No late night check-ins. Cancellations must be made by 2pm the day before your reservation. Happy Trails Farm Resort is a great place to get lost and find a connection. We are a small homestead family farm with many farm animals. Come pitch a tent under the farm stars. Happy Trails :)

Harmony Hill Acres

35 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Centralia, IL

Ranch lands of a prior Horse Ranch at the edge of town is conveniently located. Most of the property is pasture area but plenty of yard for tent camping and LOTS of space for those who want to pitch a tent in the pastures. We have small goats, chickens, and turkeys on-site (please do not enter barn or animal pens). There are no hookups for water or power, but we can accommodate some use of water from our spigots. We live about 2 miles from our local lake, which has boat access and paddling access. The beautiful view of sunsets and sunrises are spectacular more times than not. We host large herd of deer traveling and sometimes bedding down in our pastures, so be sure to watch early mornings for them to be on the move. We are very close to town, but the 18-acre site brings a serene aspect to the grounds. ***WE ARE BRINGING IN A PORTA-POTTY OR 2 FOR THE TENT CAMPERS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 4/6/24 SOLAR ECLIPSE. WE ALSO HAVE A COTTAGE KITCHEN AND WILL HAVE A FEW BREAKFAST ITEMS, BREADS, AND SWEET BREADS FOR ORDER.

More to explore nearby

100%

1 ratings · 2 reviews

June 2017

This campground has a handful of great primitive tent sites right by the lake. They are beautiful and WAY cheap (win!). When we were there, in the middle of the week, there was only one other tent in our section, so we had most of the place to ourselves. There are true outhouses near the sites that are a little rough, but a real bathroom with showers close to the pool.

Melinda H.

9 years on Hipcamp

November 2016

We always go for the primitive walk-in sites A,B, or C. They are right on the lake and usually a little less crowded than some of the other areas. The racoons are masters of this domain so don't leave anything out. They know how to open coolers too so if your cooler is to heavy to schlep back to the car, wedge it under the picnic table seat. Tie up any garbage too. The outhouses are.... well outhouse-like. The main shower house/bathrooms are ok, but no soap for the sinks so bring your own. Overall this might not be good camping for 'glampers' but the beautiful peaceful lake makes up for what the campground lacks. There's also a 24 hour polar ice and firewood stand next to the Dollar General that's about 2 miles away.

Jennifer A.

10 years on Hipcamp

LocationIllini Campground, Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, Illinois, United States

Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewage hookups

No electric hookups

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