Lakeside camping near Highland

Discover boundless aquatic activities from waterfront campgrounds in Highland, Illinois.

99% (191 reviews)

United States
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Illinois
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Highland

99% (191 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Highland

Public campgrounds near Highland

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Stories from the community

March 2025

Tent

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Ron was a great host and the property was really peaceful.

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Always a great get away for me! I was there the last time for the lunar eclipse and it was a stunning site!

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

All in all, Karmen and Ron were very easy going and made it easy to stay.

Nicholas

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

We had a great time staying at Hidden Ridge. Teresa had everything ready to go when we arrived and all we really had to bring was clothes, food, and water. We also brought a cast iron skillet so we could cook over the fire, but there is a charcoal grill there also. There’s no electricity on the property so you’ll also want to bring a headlamp or lantern in the event it’s raining and you can’t use the tiki torches. The property itself is really unique and situated up on a ridge overlooking the lake. We loved sitting out by the fire overlooking the lake. The tent itself is super welcoming and my wife definitely appreciated the actual bed in it. On one of the rainy afternoons we played a board game in the tent and still had a great time. The shower and bathroom were great to have and hot running water was definitely a camping luxury. We would highly recommend staying here and have already told several friends about it!

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

The campsite was very quiet. We loved waking up to the water and trees right outside our car. There weren't any issues with us finding the site either. We would absolutely camp here again!

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Beautiful, quite location off country road, host Karmen was great with instructions getting me in and prompt in response to my inquiries. Would recommend to anyone looking for a quiet weekend camping out in the country

5 top lakeside campgrounds near Highland

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Grove On Top Possum Hill

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Worden, IL

The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.

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Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch

3 sites · Tents30 acres · Millstadt, IL

Camp on our farm! Canoeing, fishing, and farm tour are available while you relax in the great outdoors. Lush greenery, beautiful lakes, and friendly animals will surround you. Secluded primitive campsites also have firepits (wood included) for cooking. Shared flushable porta -potty for your convenience.

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Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

1 site · Tent17 acres · 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.

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Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

1 site · Lodging1 acre · 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. Toss washers or 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

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Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Marissa, IL

Welcome to our rural farm oasis, where two shaded RV/Camper spots await for you to park and enjoy yourself in nature and the fresh country air! Each spot features concrete pads and is shaded by majestic trees, providing a comfortable and serene setting for your stay. Please note that spots are available for parking only; camper/RV is not included. Enjoy convenient access to electric hookups, including 50 amp, 30 amp, and 110v options. Additionally, a sewer drop is located within 15 feet of each spot, along with a water hookup for your convenience. Both spots are situated in close proximity to our farm and two other Airbnb homes (please be aware that one home is currently under construction). When booked, you have access to the lake and a small pond down the lane. Please stay to the right of the Y and head across the dam. **No access permitted after dark.** These spots are great for fishing and/or having a picnic enjoying a private wooded area. Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and rural charm at our shaded RV/Camper spots, where the beauty of nature meets modern comfort.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

Carlyle, Illinois

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Beaver Dam State Park

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Washington County State Recreational Area

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Washington County State Recreational Area

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Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

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Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping near Highland guide

Overview

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!