The best campgrounds near Alton, Illinois with fishing

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Alton, Illinois with a focus on fishing, you're in luck. We have over 720 options specifically tailored to your preferences. From lakeside retreats to riverfront campsites, you'll find the perfect spot to cast your line and reel in some fish. And with an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Looking for top campsites? Check out Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), and Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews). And don't worry about amenities, we've got you covered with showers, pet-friendly sites, and toilets. Plus, you can cool off with swimming, paddling, and boating activities. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Alton, Illinois!

99% (495)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Alton, Illinois with a focus on fishing, you're in luck. We have over 720 options specifically tailored to your preferences. From lakeside retreats to riverfront campsites, you'll find the perfect spot to cast your line and reel in some fish. And with an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Looking for top campsites? Check out Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), and Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews). And don't worry about amenities, we've got you covered with showers, pet-friendly sites, and toilets. Plus, you can cool off with swimming, paddling, and boating activities. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Alton, Illinois!

99% (495)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. McCully Heritage Project

98%

(442)

37mi from Alton · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kampsville, IL

The McCully Heritage Project is a 940- acre environmental center located one mile south of Kampsville, Illinois in beautiful and remote Calhoun County. We are a private non-profit left as the legacy of Howard and Eva McCully.

2. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

100%

(68)

41mi from Alton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eureka, MO

Located at the confluence of the Meramec River and Labarque Creek, my place (Matt's Place) is a ridge above a bottomland bowl of sorts. The old iron truss bridge here is likely built in 1910 and it has a survey marker from 1932. The creek has a nice little swimming hole, and a beach that is sometimes sand, sometimes, gravel, and sometimes a mix of both with some silt or even mud after a storm. It's peaceful down there to explore in the creek, wade while looking outward to an opening into the Meramec River. It's also fun to stand just at the mouth of the creek in the Meramec River. It's an awesome view upstream or downstream of tree lined banks, rock bluffs, and every now and then, passing boats, canoes, paddle boards, or kayaks. The old iron truss bridge hovers above the meeting of two waters. The water is cool and clean. Some fifty species of fish have been recorded in this creek, the most in all of Jefferson County and St Louis County. The bottomland has two levels, the lower bottoms down by the creek and the upper bottoms about a hundred feet from the creek. The upper bottoms has a clearing like a meadow with mowed grass. My favorite things to do here include gazing up at a cottonwood tree that must be sixty feet tall. It's leaves in a breeze are like a thousand hands waving hello. The bottomland meadow offers just enough sky to see bats dance in the dusk air between the trees, then fireflies as it gets darker yet. Up top is where I live. Just five miles off HWY 44 and HWY 109, at Eureka, MO, (30 minutes west of downtown St Louis, 18 minutes from Six Flags) this place sits on a ridge with great views above the Meramec River.

3. Happy Trails Farm Resort

94%

(189)

11mi from Alton · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 :)

4. Earth, Wind & Solar Farm

98%

(89)

43mi from Alton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Foristell, MO

Earth, Wind and Solar Farm is 5 acres. You can book multiple sites if you want to stay as a group. We do our best to allow 1 reservation to stay on site at a time. If only 1 site is requested the others are then blocked to allow guests privacy during their stay. If another person requests to stay and it is booked, we will check with the current reservation for approval. We also allow groups to book and camp together if needed (use both rv pads, or tent camp). We do offer 50amp and 30amp power options (2 different RV parking sites). Some people have commented that our driveway entrance seems narrow for larger rigs (Class A's and 5th wheels). We've had 53' long rigs (5th wheels)and 45' (Class A's) pull in and get parked with no issues. You will need to be able to back into a spot for either 50a or 30a service. We do have additional parking available for extra vehicles. If you have a tow vehicle/toad, you will need to detach prior to arrival. There are 2 trucks stops less than 5 miles away (TA and Pilot) or there is a park with a large parking area off of David Hoekel Parkway you can utilize. We do offer 20amp power and extension cord for tent campers (either in our tent or can be used in your own tent. Free cold showers available. A bundle of firewood is now included for use in provided fire pits in needed/requested. Outdoor Hot showers available at a charge of $5/person. This includes the use of propane and a portable hot water heater. Wi-Fi is available during your stay. Will provide network name and password in confirmation email. 3 firepits are available for use (firewood can be purchased). Easy access to our place via Hwy 70 (take the David Hoekel Parkway Exit). We are 5 miles from Wentzville which offers a Walmart, Target, Sams Club, Lowes, Home Depot, multiple grocery stores, Rural King, Charlies and multiple restaurants. We have a stocked pond with catfish, bluegill, sunfish, largemouth bass, black crappie, carp and turtles. There is a Windmill that aerates the pond (do not climb on it). You can fish the pond must practice CPR (catch photo release). Or you can feed the pond fish & feed out chickens. We will provide the fish food and chicken treats. There is plenty of wildlife (deer, fox, raccoons, armadillo's, birds, etc.). Deer will walk by the pond and driveway a couple of times a day. We also have a group of free-range chickens and French guineas (eggs may be available during your stay). There are bike trails in the area, paved roads you can ride on to explore, wineries nearby, a petting zoo and pumpkin patch. Things to do nearby: Horsehoe Hall of Fame, Big Joels Safari, Multiple wineries in Wright City/Augusta/Defiance, Wacky Warriors Paintball, Busch Wildlife, Katy Trail, Pumpkin Patches and so much more.

5. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

100%

(11)

32mi from Alton · 1 site · Tent · Millstadt, IL

We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request. Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.

6. Explorer Valley

100%

(17)

43mi from Alton · 2 sites · RVs · Foristell, MO

Learn more about this land: PLEASE USE THESE COORDINATES **38.86620, -90.94912** NOT THE GOOGLE MAP COORDINATES. Google Maps sends you onto my neighbors property. My concrete pillar mailbox has our address on it, it is lit up at night and very easy to see on the edge of Dietrich Rd. Six level acres in western St. Charles County. Typical evening and night is very quiet. I have approximately 500’ of frontage on Indian Camp Creek with access to a private and secluded gravel bar. Kayaking activities are available without shuttle service. Indian Camp Creek County Park is less than 4 miles away offering mountain biking trails, hiking trails, equestrian trails, picnic pavilions, and Frisbee golf. Incline Village Golf Course is less than 1/2 mile away. Cedar Lake Winery is about a 15 minute drive. I keep a walking path mowed around the perimeter of my property so the weary traveler can stretch their legs after a long day of travel.

7. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

100%

(22)

39mi from Alton · 1 site · Lodging · Palmyra, IL

At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting. You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake. A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available. More than just two of you? There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents. We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp! Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery. To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater. Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you. Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile. Learn more about this land: Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66. Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes

Camper favorites near Alton

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Earth, Wind & Solar Farm

98%

(89)

43mi from Alton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Foristell, MO

Earth, Wind and Solar Farm is 5 acres. You can book multiple sites if you want to stay as a group. We do our best to allow 1 reservation to stay on site at a time. If only 1 site is requested the others are then blocked to allow guests privacy during their stay. If another person requests to stay and it is booked, we will check with the current reservation for approval. We also allow groups to book and camp together if needed (use both rv pads, or tent camp). We do offer 50amp and 30amp power options (2 different RV parking sites). Some people have commented that our driveway entrance seems narrow for larger rigs (Class A's and 5th wheels). We've had 53' long rigs (5th wheels)and 45' (Class A's) pull in and get parked with no issues. You will need to be able to back into a spot for either 50a or 30a service. We do have additional parking available for extra vehicles. If you have a tow vehicle/toad, you will need to detach prior to arrival. There are 2 trucks stops less than 5 miles away (TA and Pilot) or there is a park with a large parking area off of David Hoekel Parkway you can utilize. We do offer 20amp power and extension cord for tent campers (either in our tent or can be used in your own tent. Free cold showers available. A bundle of firewood is now included for use in provided fire pits in needed/requested. Outdoor Hot showers available at a charge of $5/person. This includes the use of propane and a portable hot water heater. Wi-Fi is available during your stay. Will provide network name and password in confirmation email. 3 firepits are available for use (firewood can be purchased). Easy access to our place via Hwy 70 (take the David Hoekel Parkway Exit). We are 5 miles from Wentzville which offers a Walmart, Target, Sams Club, Lowes, Home Depot, multiple grocery stores, Rural King, Charlies and multiple restaurants. We have a stocked pond with catfish, bluegill, sunfish, largemouth bass, black crappie, carp and turtles. There is a Windmill that aerates the pond (do not climb on it). You can fish the pond must practice CPR (catch photo release). Or you can feed the pond fish & feed out chickens. We will provide the fish food and chicken treats. There is plenty of wildlife (deer, fox, raccoons, armadillo's, birds, etc.). Deer will walk by the pond and driveway a couple of times a day. We also have a group of free-range chickens and French guineas (eggs may be available during your stay). There are bike trails in the area, paved roads you can ride on to explore, wineries nearby, a petting zoo and pumpkin patch. Things to do nearby: Horsehoe Hall of Fame, Big Joels Safari, Multiple wineries in Wright City/Augusta/Defiance, Wacky Warriors Paintball, Busch Wildlife, Katy Trail, Pumpkin Patches and so much more.

Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

100%

(11)

32mi from Alton · 1 site · Tent · Millstadt, IL

We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request. Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.

Explorer Valley

100%

(17)

43mi from Alton · 2 sites · RVs · Foristell, MO

Learn more about this land: PLEASE USE THESE COORDINATES **38.86620, -90.94912** NOT THE GOOGLE MAP COORDINATES. Google Maps sends you onto my neighbors property. My concrete pillar mailbox has our address on it, it is lit up at night and very easy to see on the edge of Dietrich Rd. Six level acres in western St. Charles County. Typical evening and night is very quiet. I have approximately 500’ of frontage on Indian Camp Creek with access to a private and secluded gravel bar. Kayaking activities are available without shuttle service. Indian Camp Creek County Park is less than 4 miles away offering mountain biking trails, hiking trails, equestrian trails, picnic pavilions, and Frisbee golf. Incline Village Golf Course is less than 1/2 mile away. Cedar Lake Winery is about a 15 minute drive. I keep a walking path mowed around the perimeter of my property so the weary traveler can stretch their legs after a long day of travel.

Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

100%

(22)

39mi from Alton · 1 site · Lodging · Palmyra, IL

At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting. You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake. A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available. More than just two of you? There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents. We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp! Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery. To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater. Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you. Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile. Learn more about this land: Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66. Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes

Public campgrounds near Alton

100%

(2)

Pere Marquette Campground

22mi from Alton · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pere Marquette State Park

100%

(1)

Beaver Dam Campground

24mi from Alton · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(4)

Cuivre Campground

42mi from Alton · 110 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cuivre River State Park

100%

(1)

Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

47mi from Alton · 109 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

100%

(2)

Illini Campground

47mi from Alton · 366 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

100%

(2)

Roberstville Campground

48mi from Alton · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Robertsville State Park

Stories from the community

R

Rhiannon

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

What an amazing place! We enjoyed camping at one of the walk up sites. And we also enjoyed a beautiful hike on the property. The host was super friendly, inviting and informative. It was a peaceful place and very well maintained- from the campsite to the trails to the bathrooms. I highly recommend and plan on coming back sometime soon!

Karin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

We really love coming here annually to enjoy the fall colors. Beautiful drive up from St Louis too! Firewood available, picnic tables, and cooking grate over fire. Easy to find and quite private. Welcoming of all people too and much appreciated.

Near Site 2. Labarque Creek is one of the cleanest creeks in Missouri, with 50 species of fish. Great place to put in or take out canoes, swim, picnic, and camp. Great picnic site or take-out ramp for a day trip of floaters. Up near the bridge is Site 1.

A

Andrew

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

Great spot for rooftop tents and ground tents. Matt showed me the lay of the land before driving to the site. Great host! Would camp here again

B

Brian

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Happy Trails Farm Resort

It was private and easy. THere was plenty of room to park car and set up my tent.

C

Cindie

October 2025

16 ft campervan

1 night at McCully Heritage Project

Since it was dusk when we arrived, we didn't fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of our camping spot until the next morning. How awesome to wake up to the birds singing and the reflection of the fall tree on the pond as the sun was rising. After breakfast we took a walk about the property. The "Guess what tree" display by the bathrooms was quite challenging and fun! Although we did not use them, we peeked into the bathrooms - well maintained and roomy with a toilet, sink and shower. After checking out all of the campsites (we were the only ones there) and the pavilion area, we hiked around the northern section of the property (since the 800+ acres of land to the south were closed) and enjoyed every minute. If you are looking for a space to camp in the area for a night or several, this should be your choice.

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

Second visit. Great spot even in a thunderstorm. Would return again.

K

Kayelyn

October 2025

Tent

1 night at McCully Heritage Project

This tent site always comes in handy for last minute camping. Very comfortable, secluded spot during the week. Showers are super clean. This is our second time coming here. Very dusty this time as they added sand to probably fill in holes. Bees can be an issue during the day so it is recommended to eat in the car. Potentially a lack of wildflowers causes the bees to be extra hungry. S’mores are probably safe when roasted at night. Despite these small issues, still a five. We believe the people who run this project are very passionate about wildlife, preserving this area, and giving campers a wonderful experience.

T

Tracy

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Earth, Wind & Solar Farm

Fantastic! Highly recommended! We were greeted with cold water bottles and a treat for our dog. Kirk helped us fill our water tank. Wildlife abundant! Would definitely stay again.

D

Dan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

We visited during a weekend when it was unusually busy due to a local festival in Kampsville. And that really wasn't a problem. Our site #2 was roomy and somewhat private. Lovely place and clean good facilities a short walk away. Super dark sky for stargazing if you walk out towards the shelter house.

C

Christina

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

My granddaughters absolutely loved it there! We had such a good time this weekend! They said maw maw do we have to leave can’t we stay lol! Thank u so much for your hospitality as always and we will definitely be back in the spring!

Deena

October 2025

14 ft travel trailer

1 night at Happy Trails Farm Resort

Beautiful setting. Easy to get there and pull up. Nice to see the animals. Quiet.

Eric

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Happy Trails Farm Resort

Beautiful setting and animal watching. Had a peaceful night under the stars.

T

Teresa

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

Matt is a wonderful host. We stayed in his cabin and had a great evening in front of the fire listening to the sounds of the river. Matt can provide extras to enhance your stay - we had coffee and toast and jam in the morning. Everything was perfect- Matt is very responsive, thoughtful and kind. I loved the new outhouse!

D

Devin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

I've been going here for years. I trained for the AT here. I hope to bring my kids here some day!

Donna

September 2025

With pets

6 nights at McCully Heritage Project

We had a great time staying at Watkin's Place. The home and location were exactly what we were looking for. The home is isolated and feels remote even though it is only a short drive to Hardin. Plenty of hot water and full kitchen made our stay comfortable and a step up from tent camping but we still had the "out in nature" experience. Our dogs loved it as well. Hiking took us through open fields and forest sheltered paths. Watkins Place was clean and stocked with the necessities, including linens and basic cooking supplies. If you are looking for a cross between roughing it and glamping, Watkins Place is exactly the right fit.

R

Rob

September 2025

37 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Earth, Wind & Solar Farm

Kirk is very hospitable and goes out of his way to make sure you have everything you need.

H

Holly

September 2025

24 ft Class C

1 night at Explorer Valley

Dennis was there to greet us and assist with backing in and plugging up. It was a great spot for a night or a few nights. We enjoyed the creek/brook right along the property. The wifi worked well. He cuts a path along the property that you can take a walk on and take your dogs. We would stay again when passing through.

M

Marlene

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

Beautiful location. Well maintained Wish more of the trails were more mowed to lessen risk of ticks

Derek

September 2025

30 ft toy hauler

Weekend Trip to Explorer Valley

Prefect quite getaway. Beautiful place and Dennis is a great individual and a wealth of knowledge for newbie campers like us. Five star experience and would highly recommend!!!

P

Peyton

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

Truly such a wonderful experience! Mark and Kim were kind and accommodating. Their land is absolutely beautiful. They got a fire going for me and helped me bring all of my supplies to where I planned to camp. Got to go on the paddleboat, explore the grounds, stargaze. Perfect getaway!