96% (1K) • 1,755 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near New Athens
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
1. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(14)
9.9mi from New Athens · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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 mature trees, providing a comfortable setting for your stay. Please note that spots are available for parking only; camper/RV is not included. 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.
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. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
2. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
100%
(11)
17mi from New Athens · 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
Sugarloaf Creek
3. Sugarloaf Creek
98%
(23)
22mi from New Athens · 1 site
A wooded, country oasis located 20 minutes away from downtown St. Louis. Plenty of city adventures to be had or relax on the peaceful deck overlooking a small creek. Some nearby local hiking spots near the Mississippi River flood plains. Fire pit available for use. Water and 30 AMP electric hookup.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
4. Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
Park 8.1mi from New Athens · 15 sites
Discover the scenic confluence of the Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Randolph County State Recreation Area
5. Randolph County State Recreation Area
State park 24mi from New Athens · 38 sites
Gorgeous in winter too, Randolph County SRA horse trails welcome cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Middle Eden
6. Middle Eden
94%
(16)
22mi from New Athens · 2 sites
Escape to Our 16-Acre Permaculture Paradise
Nestled among majestic oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberries, and black/honey locusts, our developing agroforestry biome recreates the breathtaking pre-Columbian oak-hickory savanna. We’re passionate about sharing this regenerative haven with fellow nature lovers.
Private Campsites with Thoughtful Amenities: Each site features an established campfire ring and plenty of dead wood near sites —perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Sites are a scenic 300–500 ft walk from parking (depending on your chosen spot).
Secure Parking Note: Parking is on a quiet dead-end road monitored by security cameras. It’s not secluded, so we don’t recommend car camping.
Dogs: due to our multi-animal operation, we cannot host dogs at this time.
Book now and immerse yourself in a living food forest—where camping meets ecological restoration.
We love hosting families. Kids 12 and under are free!
Campfires
Potable water
R & T Farms
7. R & T Farms
98%
(30)
24mi from New Athens · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Your stay will be on our small 5 acres farm where we raise Cows, Pigs, Chickens and Guineas. We also have dogs and cats. You can experience life on a farm with all the sounds and smells but not all the work! Absolutely breath taking sun sets. The one and only RV spot we have is very secluded and private. You will have electric and SEWER HOOK UP and can fill your water tank at our house for full service facilities. We have one tent site available as well. We are only 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Come and stay with us, you will not be disappointed.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Urban Surprise
8. Urban Surprise
98%
(30)
30mi from New Athens · 1 site
Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Urban Surprise is in a secure parking area full hookups 20, 30 and 50 amp, water, and sewer. Close to many popular spots including Busch Stadium 3 miles, Gateway Arch 2.8 miles, Forest Park and Zoo 7.2 miles, St Louis City SC 2 miles, Convention Center 2 miles and Worldwide Technology Raceway 5.3 miles.
Whether you're staying for a long visit or just a quick stop, there is lots to see and do nearby. The large gravel lot (22'x60') where you'll be staying is in a fenced area (6' Chain link) with cameras and good lighting. Gate opens to 15'.
Must be self-contained as there are no bathrooms on site. Potable water is available via spigot. Wifi is included. No fires.
Due to multiple irresponsible pet owners in the past, we insist that you supervise your pet.
The location is urban. It's not in a tranquil country setting. Lots of hustle and bustle, city sights and sounds. Located in the neighborhood of Hyde Park. Lots of interesting architecture and history.
We offer discounts for stays over 7 days. Just message us your proposed dates.
There is also an Airbnb located at this property and can be booked separately.
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/815996783041353041?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=5012e5e0-3425-4ca5-ac41-51d5afd9f2e8
We offer discounts for weekly and monthly stays, just message us.
Pets
Full hookups
Happy Trails Farm Resort
9. Happy Trails Farm Resort
95%
(193)
33mi from New Athens · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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 :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Horseshoe Lake State Park
10. Horseshoe Lake State Park
100%
(2)
State park 28mi from New Athens · 49 sites
Spend a night next to the second-largest natural lake in Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Washington County State Recreational Area
11. Washington County State Recreational Area
100%
(1)
State park 29mi from New Athens · 39 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pyramid State Recreation Area
12. Pyramid State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 32mi from New Athens · 68 sites
Besides the rad name inherited from an old coal mine, Pyramid State Recreation Area’s 19,701 acres makes it the largest state recreation area in all of Illinois. There are also more than 500 acres of lakes on the property, ranging from a meager 0.1 acres to a substantial 276 acres. That bad boy is known as Super Lake and is held in high regard by anglers seeking largemouth bass and bluegill. Lost Lake (a hike-in lake) and some other small lakes contain a hybrid of green sunfish/bluegill.
Land lovers can take advantage of 16.5 miles of foot, horse and mountain bike trails where you’re bound to encounter a sampling of the wildlife that includes songbirds, deer, squirrels, beavers, rabbits, turkeys, bobcats, raccoons, opossums, coyotes, weasels, minks, woodchucks and waterfowl. Future plans are in place to add even more trails to the park.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Carlyle Lake
13. Carlyle Lake
100%
(1)
Park 35mi from New Athens · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Triangle H Farm, LLC
14. Triangle H Farm, LLC
90%
(54)
38mi from New Athens · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Once a large cattle operation, Triangle H Farm has evolved through being a corn, soybean and horseradish farm before its present use as a horse boarding, training, and lesson facility. As a matter of fact, depending upon the season, you can schedule a tour of our horseradish farm. We are top 10 producers of horseradish in the nation! Come see our 100 acres of camping possibilities and enjoy nature at its finest! We look forward to having you with us.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or plug in your RV (30 or 50 amp, or 110 volt) on our 110 acre horse farm. Choose between staying up closer to the barns or out in the timber. We have a nice primitive spot under a 100+ year old cottonwood tree that is near a stream. There is a picnic table there as well. About 1.25 mile down the trail from the main barn is a walnut grove with a picnic table. The same stream runs past the walnut grove. There is a spot for a fire too. If you want more rustic, feel free to cross the creek to the timber and choose a primitive camping spot there. Enjoy mowed trails to hike or bike. Water (from hydrants and hoses) and portopotty are up near main barns. We have 60 horses on the farm as well as goats, cats, and chickens. We do not offer access to horses unless you're in a riding lesson, or have scheduled a pony riding session. We look forward to sharing our little piece of heaven with you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
15. Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
99%
(162)
39mi from New Athens · 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
Grove On Top Possum Hill
16. Grove On Top Possum Hill
96%
(383)
42mi from New Athens · 4 sites
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Monarch Hill Vineyard
17. Monarch Hill Vineyard
99%
(93)
42mi from New Athens · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards.
Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering.
The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites.
We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit!
*** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse ***
We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Emerald Acres Farm
18. Emerald Acres Farm
99%
(70)
42mi from New Athens · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf
goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE.
It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
19. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(70)
43mi from New Athens · 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
Harmony Hill Acres
20. Harmony Hill Acres
98%
(29)
44mi from New Athens · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Johnny
5 days ago
Tent
We loved tent camping at Matt’s place such a Beautiful place.
Matt is an amazing host and very friendly and knowledgeable about the area.
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E
Erin
1 week ago
Tent
Such a nice place, don’t expect to be able to car camp but you can park your car close and take as many trips as you need! The gate made me feel very safe, Jeffery was nice and minded his own business. The roosters woke me up and it was magical, sheep were so cute and the DOG was so sweet too he made me so happy and would also mind his business when I needed him to. I’m a solo female traveler and I felt safe, even with another man on the other campsite. No bathroom, fire pit bring your own wood (I think)
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V
Vaughan
2 weeks ago
13 ft campervan
Wonderful and easy spot, Jeff's directions couldn't be clearer and simpler. Will be staying again.
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K.A.
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful campsite! Hosts very friendly people. Made me feel at home. Definitely would reccommend it.
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Kitty
2 weeks ago
45 ft travel trailer
We loved the peaceful, serene setting, complete with farm animals, a creek and plenty of drusy quartz and crazy lace agate for the rock enthusiasts. Planning already for trip three in 2027💕
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A
Andrea
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Perfect place to camp with kids. There's plenty to see and do. We loved the views of the sky at night and listening to all the animal sounds. It was a joy and definitely a place we plan on staying at again.
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L
Lyn
3 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
This is a super basic camp spot. Great for a quick overnight. What made this an absolute must stop is the owner, the staff, and patrons, of the brewery. The food and drinks are insane! I hope I get a chance to stay again!
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R
Renee
3 weeks ago
Tent
We had a very nice stay! We ordered wood and they delivered it right to the firepit. The pond was gorgeous and there were birds everywhere! We were on our way to the Cahokia Mounds and loved that this happened to be a related historical place to stop before that visit. Thank you for sharing your home.
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Abigail
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We took 4 children and they were busy all day exploring and playing. We had a great experience. The property is beautiful and very private. We will definitely be back.
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J
Josh
April 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
We were only in town for one night as we passed through but we loved it! It was awesome to see the chickens, cat (super friendly), cows and more! Ryan was quick to respond to any questions. The site was private and had electrical and sewer hookups. It's only about 30 mins from downtown but felt a world away!
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T
Ty
April 2026
Tent
I texted my brother: I think I found a hidden gem after arriving. Baby goats. A burro. Friendly hosts. Hiking trails. Rocks. Camping on a ridge. Community kitchen. And the best shower I took on a two week camping trip.
You'll think you're driving into a horror movie as you venture further and further into the wilderness, but stay with it! I'll be back!
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C
Clubjt
April 2026
Tent
Bigger and more spacious than expected, the farm dog made us feel very protected and would check on us every hour. The host communicated clearly and was very nice.
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Patricia
April 2026
Tent
With pets
I love tent camping love the animals and Elizabeth is so sweet
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Allison
April 2026
40 ft Class A
Stopped by while traveling through - great little spot to get some rest.
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K
Kiya
April 2026
16 ft car
I loved my time at Hawks Bluff Campground. I chose to camp further away from the main home and enjoyed ample privacy, firewood, and endless incredible sights. Definitely prepare yourself for ticks. If you stay at the sunset view campsite head down the slope straight from parking and you'll find a magical rock to take in the full valley.
Follow the main trail down to the creek and enjoy the wildlife, fauna, and peace. I didn't use the kitchen facility onsite, but did enjoy a private hot shower that completely revived me after my hike.
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Nate
April 2026
16 ft car
Cool place. Camped in my car overlooking the change in elevation.
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Justin
April 2026
23 ft travel trailer
With kids
Jeff was awesome! Very good with communication and met any needs promptly. Highly recommend!
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C
Cayla
March 2026
Tent
With kids
Loved the property and the safeness we all felt. My children loved it and had a great time. Site 4 is not a drive up site you will have a short walk to it. It is definitely worth it!! You are surrounded by trees on both sides and you get a perfect view of the pond. Karmen and her family are super welcoming and accommodating. We will definitely be back in the summer!! All in all just be respectful and you will receive the same.
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S
Shannon
March 2026
Tent
The hosts were friendly, accommodating and very responsive to messages. The fresh eggs were great!
We stayed at Site 1 which was close to the shared driveway, but was lined by shrubs for privacy. It also had a fire pit.
We were there in mid March, so there weren't a lot of other people around, but the sites seemed spacious.
The best part - the wildlife on the pond was out in full force and it made for some great ambient sleeping noise!!
Easy drive to the Mississippi River and the St. Louis area. If you're driving back to the camp after sunset just know it's going to be DARK and it might be a little tricky to see your turns. Not a down side at all, just something to think about if you're not used to that ;-)
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J
Joseph
March 2026
With kids
Amazing trip! Beautiful property with great hosts. Communication was perfect! Campground was well maintained and plenty to do! We will be back for sure!
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