- Camping with Swimming
The best camping near East St Louis with swimming
99% (348) • 1,012 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near East St Louis
Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
1. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
100%
(11)
12mi from East St Louis · 1 site
We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request.
Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$33
/ night
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
2. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(69)
31mi from East St Louis · 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
Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
3. Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
99%
(162)
44mi from East St Louis · 4 sites
Camp at our beautiful private swimming hole at the edge of Joachim Creek. Our campsite includes a community picnic table, hammocks along the tree line and a huge communal fire pit. We have four individual camp sites in total, each with their own fire ring. Bring your fishing poles, water shoes and camp chairs!
We are a working farm that grows produce, raises dairy goats, pasture raised pigs, peacocks, chickens and more! And while you may hear a rooster crow in the morning, you'll be tucked away from the hustle and bustle of farm life.
NEW THIS YEAR: We have a farm store that is stocked with seasonal produce, meat (frozen), eggs and other value added products as well as camping incidentals in case you forgot anything while you were packing! Farm store is not located at the swimming hole, but is located at the main farm.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from
$35
/ night
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
4. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
100%
(4)
State park 30mi from East St Louis · 73 sites
Enjoy a natural respite outside of St. Louis.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pere Marquette State Park
5. Pere Marquette State Park
100%
(2)
State park 33mi from East St Louis · 30 sites
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Magic Land Homestead
6. The Magic Land Homestead
94%
(16)
45mi from East St Louis · 2 sites
The Magic Land Homestead is our 70 acre wooded private retreat. We are about an hour from St. Louis, Missouri, on a beautiful country drive. We rent our Enchanted Treehouse that sleeps up to 9 guests for those who enjoy a more pampered getaway with a real bathroom and shower, and we also rent out a Rustic A-Frame that's a little more primitive with a composting toilet and a hose shower out back.
Our four free range lovable dogs, colorful chickens, silly geese and goofy turkey Hammerstein, are usually part of the fun of your stay. We have a 3 acre lake with kayak and paddle boat and dock as well as a spring fed wet weather creek.
Our mission is to grow our own organic food and to live as sustainably and mindfully as possible in connection with Mother Nature. So the guests we attract are looking for a sacred more quiet getaway. If you wish to throw a big party another place would be best.
There are some trails and open areas to play, along with fun swings and an opportunity to reconnect with your soul. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$137
/ night
Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
7. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
97%
(239)
49mi from East St Louis · 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
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
31mi from East St Louis
Discover a unique family getaway at Jellystone Park, where the charm of nature meets the excitement of a theme park! We recognize the importance of family time and aim to create unforgettable memories through wholesome and affordable entertainment for everyone.
Situated just half a mile from Six Flags St. Louis and spread across 35 wooded acres, our award-winning family resort combines the thrill of outdoor adventures with top-notch amenities. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a refreshing pool, mini-golf, a video arcade, train rides, arts and crafts, and a variety of outdoor games. Plus, kids will love the daily character visits from Yogi Bear!
Our welcoming, kid-friendly atmosphere is complemented by a full-time Recreation Director, ensuring that there’s always something fun happening. With exciting themed events and planned activities that change weekly, your family will never experience a dull moment at Jellystone Park. Come and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!
Carlyle Lake
9. Carlyle Lake
100%
(1)
Park 42mi from East St Louis · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
10. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 44mi from East St Louis · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Washington State Park
11. Washington State Park
100%
(17)
State park 48mi from East St Louis · 50 sites
Explore rugged landscapes along the Big River in eastern Missouri.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
St. Francois State Park
12. St. Francois State Park
63%
(8)
State park 49mi from East St Louis · 110 sites
Explore a surprising mountain getaway south of St. Louis.
99% (348) • 1,012 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near East St Louis
Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
1. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
100%
(11)
12mi from East St Louis · 1 site
We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request.
Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$33
/ night
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
2. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(69)
31mi from East St Louis · 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
Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
3. Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
99%
(162)
44mi from East St Louis · 4 sites
Camp at our beautiful private swimming hole at the edge of Joachim Creek. Our campsite includes a community picnic table, hammocks along the tree line and a huge communal fire pit. We have four individual camp sites in total, each with their own fire ring. Bring your fishing poles, water shoes and camp chairs!
We are a working farm that grows produce, raises dairy goats, pasture raised pigs, peacocks, chickens and more! And while you may hear a rooster crow in the morning, you'll be tucked away from the hustle and bustle of farm life.
NEW THIS YEAR: We have a farm store that is stocked with seasonal produce, meat (frozen), eggs and other value added products as well as camping incidentals in case you forgot anything while you were packing! Farm store is not located at the swimming hole, but is located at the main farm.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from
$35
/ night
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
4. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
100%
(4)
State park 30mi from East St Louis · 73 sites
Enjoy a natural respite outside of St. Louis.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pere Marquette State Park
5. Pere Marquette State Park
100%
(2)
State park 33mi from East St Louis · 30 sites
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Magic Land Homestead
6. The Magic Land Homestead
94%
(16)
45mi from East St Louis · 2 sites
The Magic Land Homestead is our 70 acre wooded private retreat. We are about an hour from St. Louis, Missouri, on a beautiful country drive. We rent our Enchanted Treehouse that sleeps up to 9 guests for those who enjoy a more pampered getaway with a real bathroom and shower, and we also rent out a Rustic A-Frame that's a little more primitive with a composting toilet and a hose shower out back.
Our four free range lovable dogs, colorful chickens, silly geese and goofy turkey Hammerstein, are usually part of the fun of your stay. We have a 3 acre lake with kayak and paddle boat and dock as well as a spring fed wet weather creek.
Our mission is to grow our own organic food and to live as sustainably and mindfully as possible in connection with Mother Nature. So the guests we attract are looking for a sacred more quiet getaway. If you wish to throw a big party another place would be best.
There are some trails and open areas to play, along with fun swings and an opportunity to reconnect with your soul. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$137
/ night
Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
7. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
97%
(239)
49mi from East St Louis · 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
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka
31mi from East St Louis
Discover a unique family getaway at Jellystone Park, where the charm of nature meets the excitement of a theme park! We recognize the importance of family time and aim to create unforgettable memories through wholesome and affordable entertainment for everyone.
Situated just half a mile from Six Flags St. Louis and spread across 35 wooded acres, our award-winning family resort combines the thrill of outdoor adventures with top-notch amenities. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a refreshing pool, mini-golf, a video arcade, train rides, arts and crafts, and a variety of outdoor games. Plus, kids will love the daily character visits from Yogi Bear!
Our welcoming, kid-friendly atmosphere is complemented by a full-time Recreation Director, ensuring that there’s always something fun happening. With exciting themed events and planned activities that change weekly, your family will never experience a dull moment at Jellystone Park. Come and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!
Carlyle Lake
9. Carlyle Lake
100%
(1)
Park 42mi from East St Louis · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
10. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 44mi from East St Louis · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Washington State Park
11. Washington State Park
100%
(17)
State park 48mi from East St Louis · 50 sites
Explore rugged landscapes along the Big River in eastern Missouri.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
St. Francois State Park
12. St. Francois State Park
63%
(8)
State park 49mi from East St Louis · 110 sites
Explore a surprising mountain getaway south of St. Louis.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
W
William
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
She is very nice and helpful we are homeless her & son Jake is very nice to love being here
See more
P
Patricia
March 2026
16 ft car
With pets
My family loved staying here beautiful place.
We love seeing the animals every day and a couple of the goats had babies when we were there love it
See more
W
William
March 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Love her. She is very nice and helpful.
And love listening to her animals
See more
A
Amy
January 2026
With pets
Matthew was a welcoming and personable host. The setting was amazing, and the rustic cabin was comfortable. I enjoyed my stay thoroughly.
See more
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!
See more
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!!
See moreA
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.
See more
N
Nathan
November 2025
25 ft Class C
Secluded location. Several options are available for sites depending on services. Rock hunting is fantastic.
See more
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.
See moreW
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.
See more
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 more
