95% (166) • 71 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Charleston
Serenity Fields Farm
1. Serenity Fields Farm
95%
(165)
39mi from Charleston · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$24
/ night
Bella Vita Private Resort
2. Bella Vita Private Resort
93%
(40)
4.2mi from Charleston · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Bella Vita Resort and Glamping where we're dedicated to reviving the timeless joy of family bonding and outdoor adventure. In a world where life moves quickly, we invite you to slow down and savor every moment with your loved ones.
Our mission is simple: to provide a wide array of group activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Bella Vita.
For those traveling with RVs, we offer spacious sites with 30/50-amp with partial and full hookups, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. If you prefer luxury tent camping, you will love our glamping tents. Our regular tent sites come equipped with 110 amp electric, allowing you to enjoy a cozy retreat under the stars while still having access to modern amenities.
For true nature enthusiasts, we also offer primitive sites situated along the serene lake or river, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, our primitive sites offer a truly immersive camping experience.
At Bella Vita Resort, we believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. Join us in embracing the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure and family bonding, and rediscovering the joy of living your best life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Camp Lakewood Campground
3. Camp Lakewood Campground
94%
(18)
31mi from Charleston · 58 sites · RVs
Welcome to Camp Lakewood Campground!
We are your premier Campground in Effingham, Illinois. We are proudly family-owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. Kiefer Campgrounds are part of a collection of parks that spare no expense to ensure your stay with us is nothing less than the BEST!
We are ideally located within 1 mile of I-70 and I-57, and we are open year round. We are also golf-cart friendly.
Give us a call at 217-342-1111 for more details.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$51
/ night
Fox Ridge State Park
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Walnut Point State Park
5. Walnut Point State Park
100%
(1)
55 sites · Oakland, Illinois
Combine water, woods, and wildlife at this state park in east-central Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
6. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
100%
(57)
39mi from Charleston · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$32
/ night
Bird Watch at Pine Lake
7. Bird Watch at Pine Lake
95%
(11)
2.8mi from Charleston · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$25
/ night
Lake Shelbyville
8. Lake Shelbyville
100%
(4)
322 sites · Shelbyville, Illinois
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lincoln Trail State Park
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wolf Creek State Park
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eagle Creek State Recreation Area
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
95% (166) • 71 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Charleston
Serenity Fields Farm
1. Serenity Fields Farm
95%
(165)
39mi from Charleston · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$24
/ night
Bella Vita Private Resort
2. Bella Vita Private Resort
93%
(40)
4.2mi from Charleston · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Bella Vita Resort and Glamping where we're dedicated to reviving the timeless joy of family bonding and outdoor adventure. In a world where life moves quickly, we invite you to slow down and savor every moment with your loved ones.
Our mission is simple: to provide a wide array of group activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Bella Vita.
For those traveling with RVs, we offer spacious sites with 30/50-amp with partial and full hookups, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. If you prefer luxury tent camping, you will love our glamping tents. Our regular tent sites come equipped with 110 amp electric, allowing you to enjoy a cozy retreat under the stars while still having access to modern amenities.
For true nature enthusiasts, we also offer primitive sites situated along the serene lake or river, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, our primitive sites offer a truly immersive camping experience.
At Bella Vita Resort, we believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. Join us in embracing the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure and family bonding, and rediscovering the joy of living your best life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Camp Lakewood Campground
3. Camp Lakewood Campground
94%
(18)
31mi from Charleston · 58 sites · RVs
Welcome to Camp Lakewood Campground!
We are your premier Campground in Effingham, Illinois. We are proudly family-owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. Kiefer Campgrounds are part of a collection of parks that spare no expense to ensure your stay with us is nothing less than the BEST!
We are ideally located within 1 mile of I-70 and I-57, and we are open year round. We are also golf-cart friendly.
Give us a call at 217-342-1111 for more details.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$51
/ night
Fox Ridge State Park
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Walnut Point State Park
5. Walnut Point State Park
100%
(1)
55 sites · Oakland, Illinois
Combine water, woods, and wildlife at this state park in east-central Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
6. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
100%
(57)
39mi from Charleston · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$32
/ night
Bird Watch at Pine Lake
7. Bird Watch at Pine Lake
95%
(11)
2.8mi from Charleston · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$25
/ night
Lake Shelbyville
8. Lake Shelbyville
100%
(4)
322 sites · Shelbyville, Illinois
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lincoln Trail State Park
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wolf Creek State Park
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eagle Creek State Recreation Area
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jennifer
November 2025
Tent
With pets
It’s always an amazing stay here! Victor and Cam are great hosts. I was the only camper here, they delivered firewood and checked up on me the next day. I love this place!!
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David
November 2025
23 ft travel trailer
Camp Lakewood was perfect for the few nights I stayed there. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Plus, it was really nice to have Fatso's Pizza just a 30 second walk away. The pizza there was excellent!
See more
H
Heather
September 2025
Tent
With kids
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!
See moreC
Christian
September 2025
Tent
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.
See more
P
Patsy
September 2025
Tent
With kids
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
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W
Waylon
September 2025
32 ft Class A
With pets
Camp Lakewood is a small and quiet campground. Just minutes off I-70. Our site (22) backed right up to the lake. Very friendly staff and Fatso's (on location pizza, wings, ice cream, and more) has some of the best pizza we've ever had! We will definitely visit again!
See more
Cecile
August 2025
13 ft pop-up camper
Great place to relax and recharge on our road trip. Very nice welcoming and charming property.
See more
T
Tim
August 2025
Tent
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.
See moreJ
Jeff
August 2025
Tent
With kids
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!
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Sarah
July 2025
Tent
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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J
Jennifer
July 2025
Tent
The staff are wonderful, the property is well maintained, just a beautiful place to stay! I keep coming back!
See more
K
Kelsey
July 2025
16 ft pop-up camper
With pets
My boyfriend and I really enjoyed staying at Bella Vita Resort! It’s an up and coming spot so it wasn't crowded, At one point we had the entire lake to ourselves which was amazing. If you’re looking to fish, swim and relax then this place is perfect. We’ll definitely be back!
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P
Paulina
July 2025
Tent
With kids
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.
See moreM
Mel
July 2025
Tent
Group trip
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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J
John
June 2025
Tent
I loved cooling off in the lake after a hot day of motorcycle riding.
See moreB
Brian
June 2025
Tent
With kids
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.
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A
Andrew
June 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
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A
Allison
June 2025
16 ft car
This spot was very nice and the staff was wonderful. We really enjoyed our stay.
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J
John
June 2025
Tent
With kids
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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Robert
June 2025
21 ft campervan
Very nice campground, great playground for the kids and very clean facilities!
Would definitely return!
See more
