- Beach Camping
The best beach camping near Belleville
99% (243) • 23 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Belleville
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
1. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(69)
36mi from Belleville · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
2. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
97%
(232)
49mi from Belleville · 55 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air.
We have 460 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available.
Ask us about our kayaking options!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Timberline Camping
3. Timberline Camping
47mi from Belleville · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to serenity at our peaceful, wooded campsite at Lake Timberline.
Nestled in a lush, private lot surrounded by towering trees, our site offers:
- Ample electric hookup for added comfort
- A sturdy picnic table perfect for meals outdoors
- A cozy firepit ideal for evening gatherings and s'mores
-Exceptional privacy to help you truly unwind
Best of all, you're just steps away from over 10 stunning water sources throughout the Lake Timberline community — think serene lakes, ponds, and waterfront spots perfect for fishing, kayaking, relaxing by the shore, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat or easy access to water adventures, this spot delivers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$16
/ night
Carlyle Lake
4. Carlyle Lake
100%
(1)
Park 35mi from Belleville · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
5. Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
Park 23mi from Belleville · 15 sites
Discover the scenic confluence of the Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Randolph County State Recreation Area
6. Randolph County State Recreation Area
State park 39mi from Belleville · 38 sites
Gorgeous in winter too, Randolph County SRA horse trails welcome cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Robertsville State Park
7. Robertsville State Park
100%
(2)
State park 45mi from Belleville · 26 sites
Enjoy a classic campout at this rustic state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pere Marquette State Park
8. Pere Marquette State Park
100%
(2)
State park 43mi from Belleville · 30 sites
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pyramid State Recreation Area
9. Pyramid State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 46mi from Belleville · 68 sites
Besides the rad name inherited from an old coal mine, Pyramid State Recreation Area’s 19,701 acres makes it the largest state recreation area in all of Illinois. There are also more than 500 acres of lakes on the property, ranging from a meager 0.1 acres to a substantial 276 acres. That bad boy is known as Super Lake and is held in high regard by anglers seeking largemouth bass and bluegill. Lost Lake (a hike-in lake) and some other small lakes contain a hybrid of green sunfish/bluegill.
Land lovers can take advantage of 16.5 miles of foot, horse and mountain bike trails where you’re bound to encounter a sampling of the wildlife that includes songbirds, deer, squirrels, beavers, rabbits, turkeys, bobcats, raccoons, opossums, coyotes, weasels, minks, woodchucks and waterfowl. Future plans are in place to add even more trails to the park.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
St. Francois State Park
10. St. Francois State Park
57%
(7)
State park 47mi from Belleville · 110 sites
Explore a surprising mountain getaway south of St. Louis.
Beaver Dam State Park
11. Beaver Dam State Park
100%
(1)
State park 48mi from Belleville · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hawn State Park
12. Hawn State Park
100%
(5)
State park 49mi from Belleville · 45 sites
Scenery abounds in this mid-Missouri park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
99% (243) • 23 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Belleville
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
1. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(69)
36mi from Belleville · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
2. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
97%
(232)
49mi from Belleville · 55 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air.
We have 460 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available.
Ask us about our kayaking options!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Timberline Camping
3. Timberline Camping
47mi from Belleville · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to serenity at our peaceful, wooded campsite at Lake Timberline.
Nestled in a lush, private lot surrounded by towering trees, our site offers:
- Ample electric hookup for added comfort
- A sturdy picnic table perfect for meals outdoors
- A cozy firepit ideal for evening gatherings and s'mores
-Exceptional privacy to help you truly unwind
Best of all, you're just steps away from over 10 stunning water sources throughout the Lake Timberline community — think serene lakes, ponds, and waterfront spots perfect for fishing, kayaking, relaxing by the shore, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat or easy access to water adventures, this spot delivers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$16
/ night
Carlyle Lake
4. Carlyle Lake
100%
(1)
Park 35mi from Belleville · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
5. Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
Park 23mi from Belleville · 15 sites
Discover the scenic confluence of the Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Randolph County State Recreation Area
6. Randolph County State Recreation Area
State park 39mi from Belleville · 38 sites
Gorgeous in winter too, Randolph County SRA horse trails welcome cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Robertsville State Park
7. Robertsville State Park
100%
(2)
State park 45mi from Belleville · 26 sites
Enjoy a classic campout at this rustic state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pere Marquette State Park
8. Pere Marquette State Park
100%
(2)
State park 43mi from Belleville · 30 sites
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pyramid State Recreation Area
9. Pyramid State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 46mi from Belleville · 68 sites
Besides the rad name inherited from an old coal mine, Pyramid State Recreation Area’s 19,701 acres makes it the largest state recreation area in all of Illinois. There are also more than 500 acres of lakes on the property, ranging from a meager 0.1 acres to a substantial 276 acres. That bad boy is known as Super Lake and is held in high regard by anglers seeking largemouth bass and bluegill. Lost Lake (a hike-in lake) and some other small lakes contain a hybrid of green sunfish/bluegill.
Land lovers can take advantage of 16.5 miles of foot, horse and mountain bike trails where you’re bound to encounter a sampling of the wildlife that includes songbirds, deer, squirrels, beavers, rabbits, turkeys, bobcats, raccoons, opossums, coyotes, weasels, minks, woodchucks and waterfowl. Future plans are in place to add even more trails to the park.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
St. Francois State Park
10. St. Francois State Park
57%
(7)
State park 47mi from Belleville · 110 sites
Explore a surprising mountain getaway south of St. Louis.
Beaver Dam State Park
11. Beaver Dam State Park
100%
(1)
State park 48mi from Belleville · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hawn State Park
12. Hawn State Park
100%
(5)
State park 49mi from Belleville · 45 sites
Scenery abounds in this mid-Missouri park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
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J
Justin
November 2025
With kids
The farm and staff are absolutely fantastic! We had an issue with charges, which they resolved with some investment of time on their part. They all I’ve and beyond in service. Helping us find our site in the dark, making sure we had enough supplies and even throwing a pair of jeans in the dryer for our teenager 😁
Truly kind people!
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A
Andrew
November 2025
Tent
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
See more
Zoe
November 2025
Tent
Always a great time at hawks bluff! This land is truly a blessing and I am grateful Elizabeth shares it with us ! Much comfortability in knowing I’m safe and if I need anything I can always ask :) also, awesome rocks!!
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A
Andros
November 2025
Tent
The owners are amazing, the property is very cool, and close enough to town to get supplies. Breathtaking views and a welcoming community at this location!
See more
B
Brian
November 2025
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great place! Tons of stuff to do. Owners are very sweet and hospitable. I plan to go back and would recommend everyone to stay. Camping or RV. I pulled a 35’er and had zero issues.
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N
Nathan
November 2025
25 ft Class C
Secluded location. Several options are available for sites depending on services. Rock hunting is fantastic.
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Alan
November 2025
Tent
Stayed here for a second time, so beautiful in the Fall. Highly recommend! Elizabeth is so helpful and accommodating, and answered all my questions very quickly.
See moreH
Hope
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Our host was so kind and generous. The land was well-kept and peaceful. Rock hunting as part of the stay was delightful. It was so fun to be around the farm animals and be greeted by the dogs and cats. Definitely a spot worth visiting!!
See moreT
Taylirre
October 2025
16 ft car
This was the most beautiful camp site I have stayed at. I've been an avid user of Hipcamp for a few years and frequented many camp sites but this one surpasses all others. First, the hospitality of the owners, they are super responsive and the kitchen area has everything needed to make it comfortable stay. Our tent site was private and quiet and very beautiful to observe the meteor shower. It's set on the side of a large hill where there is a scenic view and grounds full of crystals that can be collected. It felt safe and we did not observe any wild animals other than the farm animals they have onsite. The host was welcoming and knowledgeable of the land and we will be returning with our whole family next time.
See moreC
Camiel
October 2025
Tent
With pets
I absolutely love this place!! The property is amazing and the people are great. My site was level and even with heavy rain there was only minimal mud. The farm animals are friendly and if you’re lucky the mule will serenade you while you use the facilities :) I look forward to going back many more times!!
See moreS
Sarah
October 2025
Tent
With kids
Beautiful place to camp. Kids loved all the animals. The rock hunting was so much fun and everyone was so knowledgeable. My husband took the rock cutting class and had good things to say. They had an outdoor kitchen and served meals.
See moreW
Whitney
October 2025
Tent
With kids
What a great place. Everyone we encountered who lived or worked there was so nice and helpful and we never felt like they were bothered by us. (We had a group of 13, 6 adults and 7 kids ages 8 and younger so we were a lot).
We loved getting to visit the farm animals all day. It was nice to just let the kids run around visiting the dogs, cows, goats, the very chatty donkey.
We had 3 large tents and easily found space to accommodate them. Elizabeth was kind enough to set our group up next to the pavilion which helped tremendously in the rain!
My only big note that I wish someone would have told me prior to going is the creek access is hard to get to. Most people go for rocks so not a big deal but my kiddos love to play in water. We had to drive a couple minutes but then we had to hike down a steep hill to get to the creek. And hike back up. My 5 year old had zero problems with it so no issues for bigger kids and adults. But it took me 25 minutes to get back to my car with my 2 year old and it wasn’t fun for either of us. Great creek area to play! Just wish it was easier to get to.
Would definitely recommend to others to stay.
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W
WAYNE
October 2025
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
I’ve been on the road for about 4 months and Elizabeth’s place was a very welcome break from the state parks and private campgrounds I’d been staying at. Nice, quiet (not crowded) farm atmosphere and a great place to rockhound with other places to go rock collecting nearby. Everyone was friendly and helpful. Can’t wait to go through the 50+ pounds of really nice druzy quartz I’m bringing home.
See moreJ
Jaime
October 2025
Tent
With kids
Loved the views and the campsites were spacious and very well kept. Kiddos enjoyed all of the animals and the rock hunting here is amazing. We also enjoyed the creek, it was crystal clear.
The atmosphere was relaxed and the helpers were super friendly. We will definitely be adding this to our list of places for quick weekend family getaway.
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E
Ebony
October 2025
Tent
Do not hesitate to book! This is the most efficient way of camping! She has everything you need from kayaking to an outside kitchen! Yes.. an outside kitchen with stoves refrigerators cups plates bbq grill and bbq sauce! Peaceful with adorable livestock. As a solo female camper I felt safe and I’m returning this weekend!
See moreD
Donna A
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Liked it so much I extended it another week! Great for kids! Especially if their first time.
See moreJ
JESSICA
October 2025
Tent
With kids
This place is very well kept! I liked the way you could pretty much just pick any spot(with respecting other campers, of course). All the animals are very friendly! Be careful with the gray-ish striped cat! I turned over at one point, and my son had gotten the cat in the tent, and it was passed out between us😅 pretty sure it would've let my son kidnap it honestly, haha!
Definitely planning on staying more than just a night when we come back through!
By the way, the shower was amazing, and good shower heads! As far as campgrounds go, probably the best I've seen!
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!
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S
Steve
September 2025
20 ft travel trailer
Keep in mind this is a farm, so you will find equipment and farm stuff about. Beautiful property with access to lots of activities featuring rock hunting. The staff is super friendly and helpful. We will be back when time allows. They offer a variety of festivals and learning opportunities from time to time. Elizabeth has worked to offer all types of camping experiences. The communal outdoor kitchen is an awesome way to meet your fellow campers and enjoy a morning coffee.
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