98% (92) • 45 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carthage
Jensen Woods Camp
1. Jensen Woods Camp
100%
(1)
28mi from Carthage · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to your new favorite camping oasis. Sitting on 550 acres, Jensen Woods Camp is a serene, secluded environment offering RV sites, bunkhouse rooms, treehouses, a rustic A-Frame cabin, and a lodge equipped with a small kitchen, a commercial kitchen, free WiFi, board games, foosball, washer/dryer, and more! We offer swimming and fishing ponds, archery, kayaking, and 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. (Trails are closed during hunting seasons.) Trails are closed until 1:30pm April 14- May 15, 2025.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool
2. Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool
94%
(18)
12mi from Carthage · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Wildcat is a very nice campground operated by the Hamilton Park District in Hamilton IL. The Campground has 12 RV slots of various sizes and electric for tent camping. Water is also available at each camper site. There is also a dump station is on site. On the same property is a very nice public pool and one of the country's premier Disc Golf courses. Very quiet and peaceful surroundings. Just a half mile off of the Mississippi River. There is a single shower/restroom open for campers located on the North end of the pool house.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Railroad creek camp ground
3. Railroad creek camp ground
95%
(67)
12mi from Carthage · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Come enjoy primitive camping while you commune with nature and hunt geodes and fossils in the famous Keokuk Geode region. Property is within close proximity to Nauvoo, Illinois and within a very short distance to the Mississippi River. The camping area is level ground and surrounded by trees. The property has a hillside geode mine on it and there is a creek running through it that has a lot of geodes in it.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$20
/ night
Nauvoo State Park
4. Nauvoo State Park
100%
(2)
30 sites · Nauvoo, Illinois
Situated peacefully on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, historic Nauvoo State Park has nature lovin’ folk jumping for joy at the sight of an expansive lake and sandy, mile-long shoreline. Take in some of the best views the park has to offer on the Locust Lane Trail. A 1.5-mile loop, the path winds around the lake, through the woods, and over prairie flower dotted hillsides. The campsites are many and the accommodations are vast. From spacious, individual sites, to a youth group area, all are centrally located and hook you up with VIP access to all adventurin’ possibilities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Weinberg-King State Fish & Wildlife Area
5. Weinberg-King State Fish & Wildlife Area
100%
(1)
19 sites · Augusta, Illinois
Listen to the chirp of songbirds as you meander along the rolling hillsides at the Weinberg-King Fish & Wildlife Area. Autumn olive trees and honeysuckle dot this 772-acre slice of land, where a wide variety of hunting and fishing would have just about anyone game. We recommend that horse-lovers flock here, for they will find refuge in the 30 miles of bridle trails and a special campground for equestrian campers. Whether you're interested in kicking back at the 4-acre pond or just keeping an eye out for deer and fox squirrels, we have a feeling you'll be restored and rejuvenated after your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Bellinger's Liberty Acres
6. Bellinger's Liberty Acres
100%
(18)
36mi from Carthage · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 5 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA, Macomb,IL and Galesburg,IL.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$15
/ night
Quiet Country Farmland
7. Quiet Country Farmland
100%
(2)
31mi from Carthage · 1 site · Lodging
Escape to 43 acres of rolling pasture and open fields, complete with two peaceful ponds and wide-open skies. Relax in a hammock beneath the trees, roast s’mores over a campfire, fish in the pond, or simply enjoy a quiet walk through nature. You may even see some cows, sheep, or horses grazing nearby.
This secluded retreat is accessed via a one-mile gravel road that leads to a private dirt lane. Across the road lies our 300-acre working farm, where livestock and guardian dogs typically roam and graze.
Toilets
Showers
Cooking equipment
from
$75
/ night
Whitetail Tent Camping
8. Whitetail Tent Camping
100%
(10)
46mi from Carthage · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Camping, (Fishinfg at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey!
Learn more about this land:
Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)
You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.
You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.
If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.
If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$28
/ night
Bell Acres
9. Bell Acres
100%
(2)
34mi from Carthage · 1 site · Tent, RV
Primitive Forest Retreat – 20 Acres of Seclusion Near State Park
Escape to 20 acres of peaceful, private woodland perfect for tent camping or parking your camper (note: no hookups). This primitive site offers a true back-to-nature experience—no electricity, no sewer, no water—just you, the trees, and the quiet.
Enjoy exploring a manicured trail system winding through the forest, ideal for peaceful walks or wildlife watching. A small, serene pond adds to the natural charm (please note: no fish). Pets are welcome—bring your furry friends to roam and relax with you!
Located just 10 minutes from Siloam Springs State Park and 5 minutes from the nearest convenience store Homestyle Foods (closed on Sundays), you’ll have easy access to both adventure and essentials.
Property lines will be marked with purple painted trees and some wooden stakes. Please respect property lines.
Please Note:
• There are trail cameras around the farm used for wildlife monitoring. The cameras are located on posts and trees on the trail system.
There are no trail cameras located at the camp site itself. Per request, the location of all cameras be provided.
• No motorized vehicles allowed beyond the designated parking area
• Primitive camping only – no modern amenities
• Pet friendly
• Perfect for tents or off-grid camper parking
Come unwind, unplug, and reconnect with nature.
Pets
Picnic table
from
$24
/ night
Argyle Lake State Park
10. Argyle Lake State Park
112 sites · Colchester, Illinois
Fall in love with fishing at this lake in western Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Battle of Athens State Historic Site
11. Battle of Athens State Historic Site
29 sites · Missouri
Explore Civil War history and riverfront landscapes at this park in northeastern Missouri.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wakonda State Park
12. Wakonda State Park
100%
(2)
81 sites · La Grange, Missouri
A bounty of lakes provide scenery and recreation at this northeastern Missouri park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Siloam Springs State Park
13. Siloam Springs State Park
102 sites · Mound Station, Illinois
Discover a well-stocked lake and a well-stocked concession stand with row boat and canoe rentals.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Crossroads RV Park
14. Crossroads RV Park
43mi from Carthage · 11 sites
Nestled at the intersection of two major highways in Southeast Iowa, our family-owned RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience and charm that sets it apart from the rest. With easy access to local attractions and natural wonders, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures.
Spanning a generous acreage, our park provides ample space for relaxation and privacy, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all our guests. Enjoy the serene surroundings while taking advantage of our special amenities, which include well-maintained facilities and recreational areas designed for family fun.
Nearby, you'll find a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails to swimming holes, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, allowing you to explore the vibrant community while enjoying your stay. Come experience the warmth of our family-run RV Park, where unforgettable memories await!
98% (92) • 45 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carthage
Jensen Woods Camp
1. Jensen Woods Camp
100%
(1)
28mi from Carthage · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to your new favorite camping oasis. Sitting on 550 acres, Jensen Woods Camp is a serene, secluded environment offering RV sites, bunkhouse rooms, treehouses, a rustic A-Frame cabin, and a lodge equipped with a small kitchen, a commercial kitchen, free WiFi, board games, foosball, washer/dryer, and more! We offer swimming and fishing ponds, archery, kayaking, and 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. (Trails are closed during hunting seasons.) Trails are closed until 1:30pm April 14- May 15, 2025.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool
2. Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool
94%
(18)
12mi from Carthage · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Wildcat is a very nice campground operated by the Hamilton Park District in Hamilton IL. The Campground has 12 RV slots of various sizes and electric for tent camping. Water is also available at each camper site. There is also a dump station is on site. On the same property is a very nice public pool and one of the country's premier Disc Golf courses. Very quiet and peaceful surroundings. Just a half mile off of the Mississippi River. There is a single shower/restroom open for campers located on the North end of the pool house.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Railroad creek camp ground
3. Railroad creek camp ground
95%
(67)
12mi from Carthage · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Come enjoy primitive camping while you commune with nature and hunt geodes and fossils in the famous Keokuk Geode region. Property is within close proximity to Nauvoo, Illinois and within a very short distance to the Mississippi River. The camping area is level ground and surrounded by trees. The property has a hillside geode mine on it and there is a creek running through it that has a lot of geodes in it.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$20
/ night
Nauvoo State Park
4. Nauvoo State Park
100%
(2)
30 sites · Nauvoo, Illinois
Situated peacefully on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, historic Nauvoo State Park has nature lovin’ folk jumping for joy at the sight of an expansive lake and sandy, mile-long shoreline. Take in some of the best views the park has to offer on the Locust Lane Trail. A 1.5-mile loop, the path winds around the lake, through the woods, and over prairie flower dotted hillsides. The campsites are many and the accommodations are vast. From spacious, individual sites, to a youth group area, all are centrally located and hook you up with VIP access to all adventurin’ possibilities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Weinberg-King State Fish & Wildlife Area
5. Weinberg-King State Fish & Wildlife Area
100%
(1)
19 sites · Augusta, Illinois
Listen to the chirp of songbirds as you meander along the rolling hillsides at the Weinberg-King Fish & Wildlife Area. Autumn olive trees and honeysuckle dot this 772-acre slice of land, where a wide variety of hunting and fishing would have just about anyone game. We recommend that horse-lovers flock here, for they will find refuge in the 30 miles of bridle trails and a special campground for equestrian campers. Whether you're interested in kicking back at the 4-acre pond or just keeping an eye out for deer and fox squirrels, we have a feeling you'll be restored and rejuvenated after your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Bellinger's Liberty Acres
6. Bellinger's Liberty Acres
100%
(18)
36mi from Carthage · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 5 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA, Macomb,IL and Galesburg,IL.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$15
/ night
Quiet Country Farmland
7. Quiet Country Farmland
100%
(2)
31mi from Carthage · 1 site · Lodging
Escape to 43 acres of rolling pasture and open fields, complete with two peaceful ponds and wide-open skies. Relax in a hammock beneath the trees, roast s’mores over a campfire, fish in the pond, or simply enjoy a quiet walk through nature. You may even see some cows, sheep, or horses grazing nearby.
This secluded retreat is accessed via a one-mile gravel road that leads to a private dirt lane. Across the road lies our 300-acre working farm, where livestock and guardian dogs typically roam and graze.
Toilets
Showers
Cooking equipment
from
$75
/ night
Whitetail Tent Camping
8. Whitetail Tent Camping
100%
(10)
46mi from Carthage · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Camping, (Fishinfg at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey!
Learn more about this land:
Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)
You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.
You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.
If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.
If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$28
/ night
Bell Acres
9. Bell Acres
100%
(2)
34mi from Carthage · 1 site · Tent, RV
Primitive Forest Retreat – 20 Acres of Seclusion Near State Park
Escape to 20 acres of peaceful, private woodland perfect for tent camping or parking your camper (note: no hookups). This primitive site offers a true back-to-nature experience—no electricity, no sewer, no water—just you, the trees, and the quiet.
Enjoy exploring a manicured trail system winding through the forest, ideal for peaceful walks or wildlife watching. A small, serene pond adds to the natural charm (please note: no fish). Pets are welcome—bring your furry friends to roam and relax with you!
Located just 10 minutes from Siloam Springs State Park and 5 minutes from the nearest convenience store Homestyle Foods (closed on Sundays), you’ll have easy access to both adventure and essentials.
Property lines will be marked with purple painted trees and some wooden stakes. Please respect property lines.
Please Note:
• There are trail cameras around the farm used for wildlife monitoring. The cameras are located on posts and trees on the trail system.
There are no trail cameras located at the camp site itself. Per request, the location of all cameras be provided.
• No motorized vehicles allowed beyond the designated parking area
• Primitive camping only – no modern amenities
• Pet friendly
• Perfect for tents or off-grid camper parking
Come unwind, unplug, and reconnect with nature.
Pets
Picnic table
from
$24
/ night
Argyle Lake State Park
10. Argyle Lake State Park
112 sites · Colchester, Illinois
Fall in love with fishing at this lake in western Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Battle of Athens State Historic Site
11. Battle of Athens State Historic Site
29 sites · Missouri
Explore Civil War history and riverfront landscapes at this park in northeastern Missouri.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wakonda State Park
12. Wakonda State Park
100%
(2)
81 sites · La Grange, Missouri
A bounty of lakes provide scenery and recreation at this northeastern Missouri park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Siloam Springs State Park
13. Siloam Springs State Park
102 sites · Mound Station, Illinois
Discover a well-stocked lake and a well-stocked concession stand with row boat and canoe rentals.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Crossroads RV Park
14. Crossroads RV Park
43mi from Carthage · 11 sites
Nestled at the intersection of two major highways in Southeast Iowa, our family-owned RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience and charm that sets it apart from the rest. With easy access to local attractions and natural wonders, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures.
Spanning a generous acreage, our park provides ample space for relaxation and privacy, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all our guests. Enjoy the serene surroundings while taking advantage of our special amenities, which include well-maintained facilities and recreational areas designed for family fun.
Nearby, you'll find a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails to swimming holes, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, allowing you to explore the vibrant community while enjoying your stay. Come experience the warmth of our family-run RV Park, where unforgettable memories await!
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Alexandria
November 2025
2 nights at Quiet Country Farmland
What a beautiful experience! My husband and I had the perfect getaway at the little red cabin. Betsy and Dan were awesome hosts and made sure we had such a good time. Waking up to views of the sunrise over the pond and sheep in the nearby field was magic.
We cooked all of our meals over the campfire and stargazed at night. I asked about animals and Dan was kind enough to take us on a tour of the farm! What a cool experience. We also made sure to stop in town on our way out to grab some of their meat at the Trading Co. to take home. Can’t beat the price or quality! Don’t miss that awesome shop with all kinds of local treats!
We took advantage of the coffee and popcorn provided and the cozy blankets for the campfire at night. We love camping but also love having heat and a cozy bed to sleep in. This was the perfect middle ground.
Make sure you bring all of your cooking and cleaning items if you plan to make meals there. There were disposable cups, plates, utensils, etc. provided.
The PERFECT place to relax and recharge. We can’t wait to visit again!
See more
R
Robert
November 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Great place, not far off the beaten path. Very convenient and friendly. There are trains.
See more
A
Asher
October 2025
1 night at Quiet Country Farmland
From the second that I arrived Dan and Betsy were the absolute best hosts anyone could ask for. The cabin offered a quiet and cozy experience along with an amazing outdoor experience. Stunning views mixed with a calming atmosphere made an incredible stay. Not only was this experience delightful because of the distance into the country, it was amazing because it is a fully functional farm. Dan was able to give me a complete tour of the farm which included : horses, sheep, pigs and cows. He has a world class facility and the best part is he let me purchase %100 grass fed lamb and beef. Overall the stay was absolutely fantastic and I will continue to come back to learn more about where my food is grown and made and find a calming stay where I know I can connect with nature!
See more
V
Victoria
October 2025
19 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great hosts,the site is perfect for star gazing. The Sky is beautiful at night,trails are nice . Clint is very responsive and commicated well.
See moreV
Victoria
October 2025
19 ft travel trailer
With pets
I stayed here 3 nights just me and my dog. The site is safe, beautiful grounds, great for hikes, exploring, viewing wildlife, nature ,etc... Clint communicated very well, directions are accurate and easy to find. As soon as I pulled in the driveway there were deer in the field & driveway.What a beautiful site ! Also the stars are amazing at night too!
See moreH
Holly
October 2025
15 ft travel trailer
With pets
We stayed in the Santa Fe site and it was perfect. Easy to pull into, nice level lot. Just what we needed to be able to plug in for a night.
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J
James
September 2025
10 ft travel trailer
We had a nice stay at Wesley‘s, he was very welcoming. The property is beautiful. He had he had a lot of knowledge of the area. It was fun hanging out with the goats and with his very friendly cat. If you needed groceries, it was not too far away..
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M
Mel
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Tent camping was great. beautiful creek. We took back two sites so we had plenty of room to spread out. Pit toilet is by the geode mine area so take the site before the bridge if that's important to you.
See moreM
Mel
August 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Got there early and took the back two sites so tents were farthest back from the one other site in the vicinity and we used the fire and picnic table in the other one. The creek is beautiful and all solid rock in the creek bed so you can hunt for all kinds of cool fossils and geodes without getting muddy. The only pit toilet is up by the gate/entrance where the geode mine is so if you're thinking you want to be close than take the first site before the little bridge but be aware people showing up to the geode mine early in the morning might make noise with their pickaxes.
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K
Kyle & Nola
August 2025
15 ft travel trailer
Site 6 was well shaded. The single bathroom/shower was a short walk from our campsite. The door is propped open so no code is needed. Friday night the campground was fairly deserted. It got more lively the next night! The mosquitoes were fairly aggressive until the breeze came up on Saturday. Unfortunately, the pool closed last weekend. I was glad we found that out when we called before we arrived. (We booked our site, #6 but the confirmation recorded it as #1 so we called to check on that and were told that it is a glitch but not to worry.). We appreciated the free firewood since the site is a bit more than we usually spend. There were street lights and cameras nearby. Disc golfers came through every so often. There was fairly regular foot and car traffic below our site. We explored Keokuk and Hamilton. Be sure to check out the view from Rand Park!
See moreC
Cj
July 2025
Tent
We
Loved the place. We were the only people camping... definitely primitive camping!!! But that is what we were looking for. Clean, safe. Talked to some people who were digging on land and they found bucket full of geodes..... definitely going back!!!
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D
David
July 2025
22 ft travel trailer
Great host! Enjoyable evening. Would definitely return when in the area. Loved the cat and farm animals.
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S
Sammy
July 2025
Tent
With kids
This was nice enough, because we were able to use the pool shower and bathroom. Very quiet and beautiful campground. Lots of cars coming and going but not bad enough to not enjoy this spot.👍🏻
See moreT
Teresa
July 2025
35 ft fifth wheel
Great camper spots, nice and clean, and quiet. Enjoy camping here when we can
See moreJ
JODI
July 2025
27 ft fifth wheel
Wildcat City Park Campground is clean and well maintained. Did not have any issues. Other campers were courteous, no loud music/noise even with it being a holiday weekend.
Some tree branches near drive need to be trimmed. Understand why the shorter hose on the dump station, but it could be a bit longer.
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D
Daimon
July 2025
Tent
Small simple camp with pool and nice trails, very clean and lots to do in the surrounding towns
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J
Jessica
June 2025
Tent
With kids
Amazing geodes, peaceful site full of frog and cricket songs.
See moreT
Tara
June 2025
32 ft Class A
With kids
We enjoyed our trip. Loved the walking trails, the park for the kids. Was disappointed that the pool was not accessible except 1 to 6 as we weren't able to utilize it at all. We booked site 3 but on our confirmation it said site 1, which was fine but thee were no other campers there so we were confused to why that occurred. Over a very nice area and we would visit again
See moreS
Susan
June 2025
20 ft campervan
We were in the area visiting family during a heat wave and needed a 30amp outlet to charge our campervan overnight. Wesley was very accommodating, letting me book in the afternoon on the same day of the stay. The site is very level and clean, and the area was recently mowed. I found our stay quite peaceful and did not mind the nighttime rumbling of the train. I would definitely recommend!
See moreD
Diamond
June 2025
Tent
Absolutely amazing views on Wesley’s land! Not only was he extremely kind and helpful but also incredibly knowledgeable and helped me understand where I was going since I was just passing through. His family was great along with the fainting goats and cat bullseye. Incredibly friendly all around and if I’m ever passing through again I’d love to stay here and entirely recommend his place to anyone else. Super peaceful easy in and easy out access. Very easy to find and just overall an amazing experience!
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