100% (313) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Alton
Timberline Ridge
1. Timberline Ridge
100%
(12)
25mi from Alton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Timberline Ridge-Tiny Living!
We host a tiny cabin and two RV spots.
Located in an open area, the cabin and camper sites create a warm, communal atmosphere.
Enjoy shared amenities like a fire pit and a peaceful pond—with kayaks and a paddle board. A perfect spot to unwind and connect with fellow travelers.
Tiny Piney: Escape to our charming tiny log cabin nestled in the heart of nature. Perfect for couples, families and solo travelers seeking a serene retreat, our cozy cabin offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Relax on the spacious deck and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
With nearby hiking trails and quaint local shops, there’s plenty to explore during your stay. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in our tranquil hideaway.
Please be advised we are in the process of growing our fish population to ensure a thriving ecosystem for everyone to enjoy. The pond currently has hybrid bluegill ready to catch. Our sister property does have a fully stocked pond a short walk away.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
McCully Heritage Project
2. McCully Heritage Project
98%
(445)
37mi from Alton · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$25
/ night
Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
3. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
100%
(22)
39mi from Alton · 1 site
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
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$129
/ night
Horseshoe Lake State Park
4. Horseshoe Lake State Park
100%
(2)
State park 15mi from Alton · 49 sites
Spend a night next to the second-largest natural lake in Illinois.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Pere Marquette State Park
5. Pere Marquette State Park
100%
(2)
State park 20mi from Alton · 30 sites
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
6. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(69)
41mi from Alton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$20
/ night
Lakeside Seclusion on 90+ Acres!
7. Lakeside Seclusion on 90+ Acres!
45mi from Alton · 2 sites
Escape to this cozy one-bedroom cabin, perfectly tucked away in the middle of 90 acres of serene seclusion. With only one other cabin on the entire property, a quiet, relaxing stay is guaranteed.
Through the gated entrance, a hidden pond adds to the tranquil atmosphere. The cabin features a cozy fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. Out on the patio, your private hot tub under the stars awaits.
This is an adults-only getaway. Pets are welcome. Maximum of two guests allowed. No hunting.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$192
/ night
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
40mi from Alton
Discover a unique family getaway at Jellystone Park, where the charm of nature meets the excitement of a theme park! We recognize the importance of family time and aim to create unforgettable memories through wholesome and affordable entertainment for everyone.
Situated just half a mile from Six Flags St. Louis and spread across 35 wooded acres, our award-winning family resort combines the thrill of outdoor adventures with top-notch amenities. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a refreshing pool, mini-golf, a video arcade, train rides, arts and crafts, and a variety of outdoor games. Plus, kids will love the daily character visits from Yogi Bear!
Our welcoming, kid-friendly atmosphere is complemented by a full-time Recreation Director, ensuring that there’s always something fun happening. With exciting themed events and planned activities that change weekly, your family will never experience a dull moment at Jellystone Park. Come and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!
Beaver Dam State Park
9. Beaver Dam State Park
100%
(1)
State park 23mi from Alton · 76 sites
With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
10. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 47mi from Alton · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
100% (313) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Alton
Timberline Ridge
1. Timberline Ridge
100%
(12)
25mi from Alton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Timberline Ridge-Tiny Living!
We host a tiny cabin and two RV spots.
Located in an open area, the cabin and camper sites create a warm, communal atmosphere.
Enjoy shared amenities like a fire pit and a peaceful pond—with kayaks and a paddle board. A perfect spot to unwind and connect with fellow travelers.
Tiny Piney: Escape to our charming tiny log cabin nestled in the heart of nature. Perfect for couples, families and solo travelers seeking a serene retreat, our cozy cabin offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Relax on the spacious deck and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
With nearby hiking trails and quaint local shops, there’s plenty to explore during your stay. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in our tranquil hideaway.
Please be advised we are in the process of growing our fish population to ensure a thriving ecosystem for everyone to enjoy. The pond currently has hybrid bluegill ready to catch. Our sister property does have a fully stocked pond a short walk away.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
McCully Heritage Project
2. McCully Heritage Project
98%
(445)
37mi from Alton · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$25
/ night
Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
3. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
100%
(22)
39mi from Alton · 1 site
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
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$129
/ night
Horseshoe Lake State Park
4. Horseshoe Lake State Park
100%
(2)
State park 15mi from Alton · 49 sites
Spend a night next to the second-largest natural lake in Illinois.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Pere Marquette State Park
5. Pere Marquette State Park
100%
(2)
State park 20mi from Alton · 30 sites
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
6. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(69)
41mi from Alton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$20
/ night
Lakeside Seclusion on 90+ Acres!
7. Lakeside Seclusion on 90+ Acres!
45mi from Alton · 2 sites
Escape to this cozy one-bedroom cabin, perfectly tucked away in the middle of 90 acres of serene seclusion. With only one other cabin on the entire property, a quiet, relaxing stay is guaranteed.
Through the gated entrance, a hidden pond adds to the tranquil atmosphere. The cabin features a cozy fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. Out on the patio, your private hot tub under the stars awaits.
This is an adults-only getaway. Pets are welcome. Maximum of two guests allowed. No hunting.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$192
/ night
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
40mi from Alton
Discover a unique family getaway at Jellystone Park, where the charm of nature meets the excitement of a theme park! We recognize the importance of family time and aim to create unforgettable memories through wholesome and affordable entertainment for everyone.
Situated just half a mile from Six Flags St. Louis and spread across 35 wooded acres, our award-winning family resort combines the thrill of outdoor adventures with top-notch amenities. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a refreshing pool, mini-golf, a video arcade, train rides, arts and crafts, and a variety of outdoor games. Plus, kids will love the daily character visits from Yogi Bear!
Our welcoming, kid-friendly atmosphere is complemented by a full-time Recreation Director, ensuring that there’s always something fun happening. With exciting themed events and planned activities that change weekly, your family will never experience a dull moment at Jellystone Park. Come and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!
Beaver Dam State Park
9. Beaver Dam State Park
100%
(1)
State park 23mi from Alton · 76 sites
With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
10. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 47mi from Alton · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Amy
January 2026
With pets
Matthew was a welcoming and personable host. The setting was amazing, and the rustic cabin was comfortable. I enjoyed my stay thoroughly.
See more
K
Kyle
October 2025
2 nights at Timberline Ridge
This was a wonderful place to unwind. The house had pretty much everything you could need. I was able to show up with just the clothing and food that I needed. I was there during the week so it was extremely quiet and peaceful. My favorite part was kayaking on the pond (kayak and paddle board provided). The host also responded very quickly to any questions I had. I would definitely stay again.
See moreT
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!
See more
Donna
September 2025
With pets
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.
See more
S
Stephanie
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
My husband and I have stayed here twice, and everything has been perfect both times. The property is beautiful and private, and the host provides so many thoughtful elements. It’s a perfect way to get out in nature without having to deal with all of the packing and preparation required for a typical camping trip.
See more
K
Kevin
July 2025
With kids
Had a great time. Excellent communication, spacious tent, plenty of wood and everything we needed. Close to 2 small towns for food and ice cream. Fire pit was ready when we got there, all we had to do was toss in a match and start cooking!
See moreA
Andrew
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
My wife and I made our second trip to Hidden Ridge to celebrate our 10th anniversary. The last time we stayed it was cold and raining the entire time and we still had such a great time that we knew we needed to come back. This place is genuinely a great find! We are normally tent campers so this setup almost feels like cheating and we compare it to renting out a cabin for the weekend. Probably the best part though is the responsiveness of the hosts. We did have a few hiccups with the water system while we were there but were always able to get ahold of the hosts and they got us back up and running quickly. It really does come across that they want you to enjoy your time at this location.
See moreC
Carolyn
May 2025
5 nights at Timberline Ridge
We went for quiet and relaxation and it did not disappoint. Great tiny house. Everything was perfect. The kitchen was well stocked with all the pots and pans you would need. Husband enjoyed the fishing. The screened in porch was used alot. Close to town and good restaurants. Sad to leave. Will definitely be going back. Had a hummingbird visit.
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Brett
May 2025
With pets
We stayed at Hidden Ridge for the weekend and had an amazing experience. The campsite is secluded, yet still very easy to find. You can tell Terri put a lot of thought and care into every detail. The outdoor kitchen station was fully stocked with everything we needed—silverware, plates, cups, cooking utensils, and more.
The bathroom and shower area was clean and super convenient. The glamping tent was spotless, and the bed was comfortable. One of my favorite moments was waking up in the morning and enjoying the peaceful view from the tent’s back porch.
Terri also had plenty of firewood ready to go. It had rained just two hours before we arrived, but the fire pit and logs were all covered and dry—such a thoughtful touch. And to top it all off, the place is pet-friendly! My cattle dog had the time of his life exploring the area.
I truly can’t wait to come back and stay here again. Highly recommend!
See mores
staci
May 2025
With pets
I don't know what I was expecting when I reserved this little camping spot, but it surpassed any and all expectations! This place is ADORABLE ... and cozy and homey and relaxing ... it was just perfect. And Teresa was a great host who checked in to make sure we had everything we needed. We travel to this part of Illinois on a regular basis to visit family/friends, and I have no doubt that we'll be staying here again in the future.
See moreM
Michael
March 2025
With pets
Had a great time. Perfect place to unwind with the family. The cabin was great! The views are great! Even with clouds in the sky and rain for an entire day with high winds, the screened in porch was perfect. Will definitely be returning in the future. Thanks!
See moreN
Nicholas
November 2024
Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
We had a great time staying at Hidden Ridge. Teresa had everything ready to go when we arrived and all we really had to bring was clothes, food, and water. We also brought a cast iron skillet so we could cook over the fire, but there is a charcoal grill there also. There’s no electricity on the property so you’ll also want to bring a headlamp or lantern in the event it’s raining and you can’t use the tiki torches. The property itself is really unique and situated up on a ridge overlooking the lake. We loved sitting out by the fire overlooking the lake. The tent itself is super welcoming and my wife definitely appreciated the actual bed in it. On one of the rainy afternoons we played a board game in the tent and still had a great time. The shower and bathroom were great to have and hot running water was definitely a camping luxury. We would highly recommend staying here and have already told several friends about it!
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