The best campgrounds near Charleston, Illinois with fishing

If you're looking for a camping experience near Charleston, Illinois, Hipcamp has got you covered. With over 112 options in the area, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. And with prices as low as $15 per night and an average price of $40 per night, you can find something that fits your budget. For the top-rated campsites, check out Shalamar Farm (53 reviews), The Old Rugged Barn (51 reviews), and Apple acres (46 reviews). These popular campsites offer amenities like showers, trash, and toilets. And if you're into snow sports, off-roading (OHV), or biking, you'll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

98% (126)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking for a camping experience near Charleston, Illinois, Hipcamp has got you covered. With over 112 options in the area, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. And with prices as low as $15 per night and an average price of $40 per night, you can find something that fits your budget. For the top-rated campsites, check out Shalamar Farm (53 reviews), The Old Rugged Barn (51 reviews), and Apple acres (46 reviews). These popular campsites offer amenities like showers, trash, and toilets. And if you're into snow sports, off-roading (OHV), or biking, you'll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

98% (126)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Serenity Fields Farm

95%

(165)

39mi from Charleston · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dalton City, IL

We are originally from Northern California. We are enjoying our expansive farm with all it's fresh air, fresh food, plants, animals, and fun events. We enjoy time relaxing in hammocks and letting the world pass us by. Bring your family out to enjoy all the farm has to offer, or take advantage of the serenity and privacy! We are open to family reunions & parties, large gatherings of friends etc! We are happy to have a group that can party and consume adult beverages without driving or worrying about making noise. Sites 2 & 3 can accommodate big groups and vehicles. If you want the farm to yourself, book all three sites! Message me to discuss possibilities. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent near the creek (site 1) in a completely private site (kids can sleep in the truck bed topper or fort if they'd like) or on the field to the side of the house (site 2) for a semi-private spot nearest to the bathroom and with a wood chip drive entrance for larger vehicles or (site 3) a semi- private spot down by the creek and the hay bales to the left of the house. (Or pick a spot of your choosing). Enjoy the farm animals, walk the property, build a fire, and enjoy the outdoors! There are more animals to pet from April through October (typically we have bunnies, chickens, sheep, cats, dogs, alpacas, miniature horses, horses, pig, goat, etc.). In the winter the horses, alpacas, chickens, dogs, cats and sometimes bunnies are available to visit. Firewood bundles available for $10 The creek at times is swimmable, other times it's walkable, and sometimes in the heat of July it's very shallow. There is a zip line, log or bridge to cross the creek. There is a state park (Ft. Daniel) less than 5 minutes away and others a bit further (Spitler or Sand Creek) Horseback riding may be available upon request - $25.00 per person or $50.00 per family. There is a large shaded playground in the front yard for the kids with a trampoline, small zip line, ninja line, slack line, silks, climbing dome, hammocks, etc. BATHROOM: If you are looking at the house from the street, the bathroom is on the right of the house, attached to the house. It is a small shed looking building and is pictured. It has a toilet and running hot and cold water.

2. Bird Watch at Pine Lake

95%

(11)

2.8mi from Charleston · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Charleston, IL

Our property has a robust migratory bird population. We see Blue Heron, geese, ducks, song birds, birds of prey, including the occasional Bald Eagle visit our property. We have a small wetland area and pond, which attract a lot of wildlife, such as muskrat, deer, fox, frogs, turtles, and other small woodland animals. We have wooded areas as well as meadows, which are perfect for tent camping, and are a short walk from the parking area. Our property makes a great base camp for exploring local areas of interest. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is just a few miles south of Charleston. Lake Charleston is just a few miles away, and boasts several nesting pairs of Bald Eagles. There are also fishing, hiking and bike trails around Lake Charleston. We are very close to Illinois' largest Amish Community in the Arcola/Arthur area, with many Amish shops, bakeries, quilt shops, and more. Aikman's Wildlife Adventures is in nearby Chesterville. There is a very nice bike path just to the west of our property. This bike path takes you through Charleston, past the Coles County Fairgrounds, and into Mattoon.

3. Havenwood Farm

100%

(3)

7.3mi from Charleston · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Charleston, IL

Our little homestead farm sits out on the Illinois Prairie, in the middle of corn and soybean fields. We are a short drive from Illinois' largest Amish community in the Arcola/Arthur area. We are also just a short drive from Walnut Point State Park, which has fishing and allows small watercraft like canoes and kayaks. Lake Charleston is not far from us and allows small fishing boats, fishing, and there are great hiking and bike trails around the lake. Our farm makes a great base camp for those wishing to explores what East Central Illinois has to offer. We are also a great spot if you are simply looking for a quiet getaway from the noise and lights of the city. We have beautiful sunrises and sunsets, with very little to block your view, and on clear nights the stars are incredibly bright. We have 3 older horses who call our farm home, and currently they are our only livestock. They are too old to be ridden, but are fun to hang out with.

4. Fox Ridge State Park

44 sites · Charleston, Illinois

Your lazy Sunday just got a bit more action-packed! At Fox Ridge State Park, turn your lazy into relaxation: stroll through the rolling hills, causally boat around the lake, and picnic under a shady tree. Hike the trails and bring a camera to catch a snapshot of all the creatures and plants you’ll see! Nearby is the awesome Lincoln Log Historic Site, a definite must-see for historians and patriots alike.

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5. Walnut Point State Park

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(1)

55 sites · Oakland, Illinois

Combine water, woods, and wildlife at this state park in east-central Illinois.

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6. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

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(57)

39mi from Charleston · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Universal, IN

This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days. One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.

7. Friends Creek Campground

50mi from Charleston · 31 sites · Cisco, IL

Discover the charm of Friends Creek Conservation Area, a unique campground that offers an affordable escape into nature without compromising on comfort. Here, you can pitch your tent beneath a blanket of stars or connect your camper to one of the convenient electric sites. Friends Creek Campground is the perfect retreat for those looking to unwind, explore the great outdoors, and create lasting memories with family and friends. The campground is open from April 28 to October 28, 2023, making it an ideal destination for seasonal adventures. The campground features a variety of amenities, including both electric and non-electric sites, modern showers, flush toilets, and a dump station for your convenience. Whether you're hiking through scenic trails, enjoying a picnic by the water, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings, Friends Creek Conservation Area promises a peaceful getaway that caters to all your camping needs.

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8. Lake Shelbyville

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(4)

322 sites · Shelbyville, Illinois

Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.

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9. Lincoln Trail State Park

204 sites · Marshall, Illinois

The focus of Lincoln Trail State Park is the lovely Lincoln Trail Lake. It’s thickly-wooded shoreline and myriad of small coves and inlets, makes it a great lake for exploration and wildlife viewing. Around the lake, you’ll discover rare wildflowers, ancient forests, and shady ravines and valleys.Small boats with small motors (or, better yet, no motors) are perfect for serene explorations. Try your skill at hooking largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and channel catfish. Then head over to one of two secluded campgrounds to set up your home away from home and fry up your catch. The pace is slow at Lincoln Trail State Park, and that’s just the way we like it.

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10. Wolf Creek State Park

148 sites · Findlay, Illinois

Reserve the 30-person Lost Shelter picnic area, an isolated, secluded site that overlooks the lake.

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11. Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

106 sites · Findlay, Illinois

Why dip your toes into Eagle Creek Recreation Area when you can cannon ball in full force? Set right on Lake Shelbyville, this area offers prime access to all your favorite outdoor activities: sipping cold drinks on the shoreline, tossing the line the water, and soaking up that all-natural sunshine. Seriously, there is so much to do here—the expansive woodland areas, picturesque shorelines, and the shimmering waters of the lake are all calling your name.Whether you’re down for some hiking or mountain biking exploration or want to test out your windsurfing skills, you’ll find plenty of time to get it all in at Eagle Creek. Carp, bullhead, muskie, bluegill and others call the lake home and herds of deer are known to roam throughout the park—all that wildlife beauty will certainly move the soul (and hopefully the fishing line). Hurry up and get your outdoor escape on at this natural haven!

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12. Hidden Springs State Forest

28 sites · Strasburg, Illinois

Thirsty for adventure? Hidden Springs is guaranteed to quench your craving. The name is an ode to the seven springs that were used for drinking water by early settlers. Terrain varies from flat bottomland areas along Richland Creek to steep hillsides. If you’re a native tree nut (no pun intended), you’ll be in heaven at Hidden Springs, with plenty of species to ID. Timber management practices strive to keep the forest healthy, accessible and productive. Plenty of hiking trails traverse the forest’s rolling hills. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for songbirds, flowers and mushrooms on your jaunt. Hankering for some catfish? There’s five stocked fishing ponds within the forest. Tent campsites are available and equipped with pedestal stoves⸺perfect for cooking up your catch or just toasting your tootsies.

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13. Sam Parr State Fish & Wildlife Area

10 sites · Newton, Illinois

Sam Parr is a scenic park located in the quaint city of Newton. Its central point is unarguably the 183-acre gem of a lake that is surrounded by rolling hills speckled with timber. This shimmering beauty is home to some killer fishing game, including bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Skim out on the glassy waters by canoe or kayak or kick back on the sandy shorelines for some much needed chillaxing.Explorations can easily be had for avid hikers and riders, with miles of foot and equestrian trails stretching throughout the park. Sing songs around the campfire and sip that cold beer in the fading sunlight next to the lake—the camp vibes are truly overflowing at this mellow spot.

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Public campgrounds near Charleston

Fox Ridge Camground

5.8mi from Charleston · 44 sites · Tents, RVs · in Fox Ridge State Park

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Walnut Point Campground

17mi from Charleston · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Walnut Point State Park

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(1)

Forrest W. Bo Wood Campground

24mi from Charleston · 141 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shelbyville

Lakeside Campground

26mi from Charleston · 100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln Trail State Park

Plainview Campground

27mi from Charleston · 104 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln Trail State Park

Wolf Creek Campground

27mi from Charleston · 148 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wolf Creek State Park

Eagle Creek Campground

29mi from Charleston · 106 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

Possum Creek Campground

30mi from Charleston · 28 sites · in Hidden Springs State Forest

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(3)

Coon Creek Campground

31mi from Charleston · 181 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shelbyville

Sam Parr Campground

32mi from Charleston · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sam Parr State Fish & Wildlife Area

Stories from the community

H

Heather

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

What a great place for families! We stayed at the creek-side camp and loved the privacy. It was perfect with our 5 and 7 year old as they were able to head to the playground alone with walkie talkies. For younger kids, the site closer to the playground may be a better fit. Julie was kind and helpful with every question we had! The property is also close to town, should you need anything at all - like we did!

C

Christian

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

For central Illinois this place was amazing! The site itself was unique and secluded with a cool zip line within it. All the animals on the farm were fun to check out and interact with. Most of all Julie and her family were wonderful and thoughtful people to interact with.

P

Patsy

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Literally had such a great time tent camping on Julie's Farm! From the spaced out nature of every site, the zip lines all over, and the activities for the children to do! To the responsiveness of Julie and her family 💖 We had our space but we also could nearly always find someone to ask questions or just chat 💖 The herbs and vegetables and flowers and variety of animals 💖 Julie also allowed us to have an impromptu birthday party for my daughter and she enjoyed the farm so much, she cried as we were leaving. Best private camping we've found so far! 👏👏 thanks again Julie and Serenity Farms

Cecile

August 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Great place to relax and recharge on our road trip. Very nice welcoming and charming property.

Walnut campsite at the edge of the field.

T

Tim

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

The site was very private and on the night we stayed the clear skies allowed for amazing stargazing! Sounds of wildlife like frogs and insects were very relaxing. Restroom wasn't too far either and was well kept. Overall a great place to set up the tent for the evening.

J

Jeff

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Serenity Fields Farm

Julie and her family were very welcoming! Our family, including our 8 year old son, loved our stay at the farm. From a zip line at our site, to kittens to play with and even a horse ride, we had a great day and night. Highly recommended!

Sarah

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

This was an A+ experience. Tracy‘s farm is very unique and wonderful and she herself is a very welcoming, accommodating host. Even though this was my first time solo camping EVER, I felt very safe and comfortable and enjoyed every minute of it. I was on a road trip on the last leg home so didn’t spend much time at her farm, but plan on returning there just to enjoy the space and land and I will be recommending Tracy‘s farm to all people I personally know who enjoy camping near and far.

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Paulina

July 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Serenity Fields Farm

Beautiful site to camp at! It was really the weekend I went, but was able to get through it. It was so nice to be able to camp with the animals. Such a unique experience and I am so grateful that Julie can provide this experience.

M

Mel

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Serenity Fields Farm

if you love animals this is the campsite for you they are everywhere!! and so much fun things for kids to do. Would come again!

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Brian

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Our family loved tent camping on Julie's land. The land was beautiful and the feel was private even though you were close to the home. The directions were easy to follow. The pets were super friendly (especially Daisy)! For our first time using hipcamp it was a great experience.

A

Andrew

June 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bird Watch at Pine Lake

We took our small RV down these country roads to camp. The trees and pond sheltered from the road by farm buildings was so peaceful. Bullfrogs, raccoons, deer, and barn swallows greeted us as we sat around the fire pit. It may be tight for a larger RV and you’ll put your levelers to task. But we’ll definitely be back. Town with Walmart and fast food is close by. Lake Charleston is 10 mins away.

J

John

June 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

We had a wonderful time. We made up our campsite and got settled in. Then shortly after we walked back up to the farm and we were greeted by Tracy with food to feed all the farm animals. My son particularly liked feeding all the goats. After that we went back to camp and were greeted to a symphony of bullfrogs and countless lightning bugs to watch as we settled down. The only thing I would change was I would’ve held off the rain from coming the morning after so we could’ve stayed longer.

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Eric

May 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

We had a great experience at Serenity Farms! Lots of animals to see, gardens to explore and property to walk about. The host was very responsive. We had a very relaxing time.

D

David

May 2025

4 nights at Bird Watch at Pine Lake

Had a great time camping here. The hostess was great and accommodating. Look forward to going back.

J

Janelle

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

We really enjoyed the peaceful evenings listening to the frogs and sitting by the fire. We also loved talking with Tracy about her farm and her animals.

Rainey

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Took my boys camping for their first time here. We all had a very good time. We really enjoyed the doggies that hung out with us, one of them slept with my Autistic son all night he was so excited about it. We plan to be back