The best campgrounds near Highland, Illinois with fishing

Looking to go camping near Highland, Illinois? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 370 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a seasoned surfer, history buff, or just looking to relax on a boat, there's something for everyone. And with campsites like Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors (216 reviews), McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews), and Cinco de Mayo Campground (56 reviews) boasting rave reviews, you can trust that you'll have a great experience. Plus, popular amenities like cooking equipment, pet-friendly options, and potable water are readily available. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

97% (231)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Highland, Illinois? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 370 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a seasoned surfer, history buff, or just looking to relax on a boat, there's something for everyone. And with campsites like Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors (216 reviews), McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews), and Cinco de Mayo Campground (56 reviews) boasting rave reviews, you can trust that you'll have a great experience. Plus, popular amenities like cooking equipment, pet-friendly options, and potable water are readily available. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

97% (231)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Happy Trails Farm Resort

94%

(189)

25mi from Highland · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Granite City, IL

Happy Trails farm is a beautiful refreshing place that you can relax, and connect with the family farm life. We were established Oct. 27th, 2007, and it's our "Acres of Diamonds" (Earl Nightengale). There are 20.11 acres of farm life to share with you. We do many things to help keep the farm going, and moving towards being self supporting. Such as pony rides, birthday parties, weddings, camp outs, and so much more. We sell fresh laid farm eggs for $5 cash a dozen. To purchase eggs, call or text Nancy (618)601-4645 Pony rides are $30 cash, and by appointment only. They are hand led, and approximately 20-30 minute. The child will be hand led around the farm. If you would like to schedule a ride please message Maryann @ (618)610-9282. We also house and run Happy Trails Horse Rescue (501c3) non for profit, and accept donations. Some of the things you will experience and see are: volunteers helping out; horses, mules, donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese, turkey, goats, llama, and many others. We are a small and important resource to the overall well being of the community. We look forward to seeing you on the farm! Check-in is between 2pm-9pm. No late night check-ins. Cancellations must be made by 2pm the day before your reservation. Happy Trails Farm Resort is a great place to get lost and find a connection. We are a small homestead family farm with many farm animals. Come pitch a tent under the farm stars. Happy Trails :)

2. Crystal’s Campground

89%

(28)

33mi from Highland · 15 sites · RVs · Vernon, IL

Crystal’s Campground is located on 15 acres. We have 29 sites with full hookup at each site. We are open year round. Our campground has a nice pond with some nice size fish. We have a pavilion with a laundromat and a shower house. We also have a playground for kids.if you’re looking for a nice secluded getaway, you have found it ❤️

3. The Quiet Countryside

99%

(79)

33mi from Highland · 1 site · Tent, RV · Vandalia, IL

Easy access for campers located by a pond. Great for fishing and relaxing! 30 AMP electric hookup, can accommodate water fill up and sewer dump. There is a covered pavilion with picnic table and chairs. There is a grill and a fire pit. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway you will love it here! Located close to the interstate. Plenty of restaurants near by and Vandalia lake is 8 minutes from campsite.

4. Carlyle Lake

100%

(1)

310 sites · Carlyle, Illinois

This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

100%

(2)

366 sites · Carlyle, Illinois

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

Potable water

Toilets

6. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

100%

(11)

33mi from Highland · 1 site · Tent · Millstadt, IL

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.

7. Harmony Hill Acres

98%

(29)

34mi from Highland · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · Centralia, IL

Ranch lands of a prior Horse Ranch at the edge of town is conveniently located. Most of the property is pasture area but plenty of yard for tent camping and LOTS of space for those who want to pitch a tent in the pastures. We have small goats, chickens, and turkeys on-site (please do not enter barn or animal pens). There are no hookups for water or power, but we can accommodate some use of water from our spigots. We live about 2 miles from our local lake, which has boat access and paddling access. The beautiful view of sunsets and sunrises are spectacular more times than not. We host large herd of deer traveling and sometimes bedding down in our pastures, so be sure to watch early mornings for them to be on the move. We are very close to town, but the 18-acre site brings a serene aspect to the grounds. ***WE ARE BRINGING IN A PORTA-POTTY OR 2 FOR THE TENT CAMPERS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 4/6/24 SOLAR ECLIPSE. WE ALSO HAVE A COTTAGE KITCHEN AND WILL HAVE A FEW BREAKFAST ITEMS, BREADS, AND SWEET BREADS FOR ORDER.

8. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

100%

(22)

48mi from Highland · 1 site · Lodging · Palmyra, IL

At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting. You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake. A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available. More than just two of you? There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents. We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp! Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery. To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater. Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you. Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile. Learn more about this land: Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66. Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes

9. Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(1)

76 sites · Chesterfield, Illinois

With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

10. Washington County State Recreational Area

100%

(1)

39 sites · Nashville, Illinois

Echoed by mourning dove calls that reverberate through the dew-licked pines and dotting the county's sun-kissed hillsides, Washington County State Recreational Area is teeming with fauna. This near-fifteen-hundred-acre ecological oasis is nestled just four miles from Nashville in southern Illinois―a far cry from it’s adjacent concrete jungles, aside from the skyscraper-like pines. And, criss crossed by the area’s two small creeks, Washington County State Recreational Area is inundated with well-populated, stable populations of largemouth bass and other like-sized game fish. Even if you’re not a fan of dancing bobbers, you’ll find situational ecstasy while dining under one of the park’s lake-hugging picnic pavilions, bathed in sunset yellows―and, let's face it, everyone’s a fan of solar acrobatics paired with well-made egg salad.

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Potable water

Toilets

11. Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

135 sites · Ramsey, Illinois

With its rolling hills and timbered shoreline, Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area has become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors enjoy quiet strolls in the forest, secluded picnicking, as well as more energetic activities.Fishing is huge here, so the lake is managed by draw-downs and stocking. Some species found are largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and black crappie. Hit up the concession stand for supplies. Other popular pastimes include hunting (dove, pheasant, quail, deer) and winter sports like fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. There’s even a 13-mile designated snowmobile trail.

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Potable water

Toilets

12. Pere Marquette State Park

100%

(2)

30 sites · Grafton, Illinois

See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

55 sites · Kinmundy, Illinois

Land your limit of largemouth bass, bluegill or crappie at this well-stocked, beautiful lake.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Highland

100%

(1)

Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

20mi from Highland · 109 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

100%

(2)

Illini Campground

20mi from Highland · 366 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground

24mi from Highland · 119 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

Boulder Campground

25mi from Highland · 82 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

100%

(1)

Beaver Dam Campground

34mi from Highland · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(1)

Washington County Campground

38mi from Highland · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Washington County State Recreational Area

White Oak Campground

40mi from Highland · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

Hickory Grove

40mi from Highland · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(2)

Pere Marquette Campground

49mi from Highland · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pere Marquette State Park

Stephen A. Forbes Campground

49mi from Highland · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

B

Brian

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Happy Trails Farm Resort

It was private and easy. THere was plenty of room to park car and set up my tent.

Deena

October 2025

14 ft travel trailer

1 night at Happy Trails Farm Resort

Beautiful setting. Easy to get there and pull up. Nice to see the animals. Quiet.

Eric

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Happy Trails Farm Resort

Beautiful setting and animal watching. Had a peaceful night under the stars.

P

Peyton

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

Truly such a wonderful experience! Mark and Kim were kind and accommodating. Their land is absolutely beautiful. They got a fire going for me and helped me bring all of my supplies to where I planned to camp. Got to go on the paddleboat, explore the grounds, stargaze. Perfect getaway!

Jane

August 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Crystal’s Campground

The site is pretty much what we expected as based on images from the website, but it was also much more. We had an unfortunate event or three prior to arriving, let the host know our pop up was not working properly but we had a tent. She was welcoming and friendly. it is difficult to put into words the calm I felt sitting on the patio feeling the cool breeze off the pond and listening to the music of splashing water. Another "wow" moment was the fact that the host had a family party on the private area across the pond and we really didn't hear much at all. The bathroom/shower was clean and the water was hot. the sites are new gravel, so keep toes and soles in mind. the play area and firepit seemed inviting. This place is highly recommended.

T

Tracy

August 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Happy Trails Farm Resort

We had a great trip to Happy Trails Farm. It was perfect for us. We loved seeing all the animals and the people on the farm were very friendly. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

Renée

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at The Quiet Countryside

Brady’s place was just right for a one-night stopover on my cross-country trip! There is soft grass for pitching a tent, and a graveled area if you have a trailer. Brady provides a small picnic table, a cooking table, and several chairs, all under a spacious canopy for protection from rain (or hot sun!). There are also lights, an electric outlet, and a hose for fresh water. The outdoor shower is wonderful! There’s also a comfy swinging bench for watching the sun set over the small pond. My only caveat is that the area is pretty close to the road, with no barrier. There wasn’t a lot of traffic and little to none at night (so noise wasn’t an issue), but you do have to keep an eye on kids or your dog so they don’t run into the road.

M

Madeline

August 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at The Quiet Countryside

We absolutely loved this spot and wish we could’ve stayed longer to enjoy this calm, quaint HipCamp! The hot shower was a huge bonus!

A

Amy Jo

August 2025

31 ft travel trailer

4 nights at The Quiet Countryside

Beautiful spot, thoughtful owner. Really the best spot we’ve ever been. Caught lots of bass, there’s a little place down the road that serves chicken wings and drinks!

A

Amanda

August 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

1 night at Crystal’s Campground

Place was amazing. It was easy to find and pull into. Crystal was very attentive to made sure we had contact if we needed anything right away. It was very pretty and peaceful. Bonus, all the other campers staying there were super friendly! Would definitely go back if in the area again.

K

Karen

August 2025

16 ft Class B

1 night at The Quiet Countryside

This was a great spot to stay for the night. Peaceful setting and easy access from I-70 while traveling cross country. Brady greeted us and ensured we had everything we needed for a peaceful night.

S

Stephanie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

My husband and I have stayed here twice, and everything has been perfect both times. The property is beautiful and private, and the host provides so many thoughtful elements. It’s a perfect way to get out in nature without having to deal with all of the packing and preparation required for a typical camping trip.

J

John

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Quiet Countryside

This is a great place to stay! Quite and well kept.

Greg

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Quiet Countryside

Brady has a fantastic place on a beautiful pond with all the extras that you could ever ask for. This was the best night. I have spent using Hipp camp. He even had two ply in the Porta John. I mean who does that? This place was awesome. I would go out of my way to come back here and stay longer

J

John

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Quiet Countryside

Great place to stay. Quite and clean. Well set up campsite. Communication with Brady was great. I let him know I was arriving late and he met me to show me the place at 11:00 pm. Very pleasant person. Staying again on my return trip home.

K

Kevin

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

Had a great time. Excellent communication, spacious tent, plenty of wood and everything we needed. Close to 2 small towns for food and ice cream. Fire pit was ready when we got there, all we had to do was toss in a match and start cooking!

Sally

July 2025

25 ft Class C

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Quiet Countryside

What an amazing place!! So idyllic , peaceful , quiet.. and everything we needed & more for our stay . We’ve had 3 long days of travel from Colorado with grandkids & dogs. We sure appreciated this wonderful place . The host was super communicative & extra helpful with any of our questions . The outdoor shower was perfect .. especially because it’s been hot & humid . The grandkids loved hanging out by the pond & exploring. We also think we learned about a new toad ( the Wood houses toad .. it kinda screams at night) fun for kids, adults & dogs for sure!!!❣️

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Bess

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at The Quiet Countryside

It was very nice. The shower was wonderful. Brady was nice. It wasn’t for a light sleeper in a tent. Trains, frogs, and trucks were frequently heard. But the set up is superb!

M

Mike

July 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Trails Farm Resort

Site was great! Lots of room and farm animals to watch and interact with if they are grazing. Mandy was an awesome host, we stayed for 4th of July and she showed us a great spot to watch fireworks from with our family. Would love to stay again for longer! Super close to amenities if you like, but feels like nothing is around for miles.

Caitlin

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Quiet Countryside

An idyllic little spot on a pond, equipped with a nice shower and a lit up table area. It was perfect after a long day’s drive. The sounds of all the pond creatures were nice to fall asleep to. A dreamy peaceful camp :)