Lake Camping Near Pocahontas, Illinois, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Looking to go camping near Pocahontas, Illinois? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 368 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has you covered. Looking for a campsite with top-notch amenities? Check out Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors with 216 reviews, McCully Heritage Project with 150 reviews, or Cinco de Mayo Campground with 56 reviews. And with popular activities like paddling, fishing, and snow sports, you'll never be bored during your camping trip. Plus, with an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors near Pocahontas, Illinois!

98% (645)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Pocahontas, Illinois? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 368 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has you covered. Looking for a campsite with top-notch amenities? Check out Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors with 216 reviews, McCully Heritage Project with 150 reviews, or Cinco de Mayo Campground with 56 reviews. And with popular activities like paddling, fishing, and snow sports, you'll never be bored during your camping trip. Plus, with an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors near Pocahontas, Illinois!

98% (645)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

100%

(10)

39mi from Pocahontas · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 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.

2. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%

(844)

48mi from Pocahontas · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Palmer, IL

We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm. In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land. The property has a greenhouse, high tunnel and about a half acre of field that we raise vegetables and fruit on. We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim and boat in. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them. Plenty of wildlife, hiking and mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised and/or made on the farm for folks to purchase. Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm. Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks. Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield is 35 miles from the farm.

3. Grove On Top Possum Hill

96%

(378)

21mi from Pocahontas · 4 sites · Tents · 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.

4. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

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(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.

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5. Carlyle Lake

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310 sites · Carlyle, Illinois

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

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Toilets

6. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

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47mi from Pocahontas · 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

7. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

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(11)

42mi from Pocahontas · 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.

8. Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch

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(14)

40mi from Pocahontas · 3 sites · Tents · 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.

9. 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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10. Beaver Dam State Park

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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!

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11. Washington County State Recreational Area

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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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12. 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.

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Public campgrounds near Pocahontas

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Illini Campground

16mi from Pocahontas · 366 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

100%

(1)

Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

17mi from Pocahontas · 109 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

Boulder Campground

19mi from Pocahontas · 82 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground

19mi from Pocahontas · 119 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

White Oak Campground

32mi from Pocahontas · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

Hickory Grove

32mi from Pocahontas · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

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Beaver Dam Campground

36mi from Pocahontas · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beaver Dam State Park

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(1)

Washington County Campground

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

Stephen A. Forbes Campground

42mi from Pocahontas · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

K

Karina

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

This is our second time visiting Bear Creek Farm and it was once again Amazing! Camp sites are clean and spacious along with fantastic service from Debbie and the fam. Wood was provided for us at our camp site and although it did rain during our stay, we still had an awesome time here. Though we couldn't keep our fire going due to the rain we were greeted with a delicious breakfast that Matt prepared for us. I am so happy to have found Bear Creek Farm and ranch and will definitely be coming back.

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

It was very nice. The hosts were very friendly. Would definitely stay again

S

Scott

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Nice and quiet! Had the place to myself. Would stay again

Peter

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Karmen and Ron are great and I enjoyed staying at their campsite, highly recommend

A

Asher

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Great spot! felt private and secure in the little grove of hickories despite the house being nearby

L

Lilly

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Beautiful property! And just close enough to everything.

L

Lotta

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Cool little spot in the country! Host was available to show us to our site righ away! He was also able to get us firewood for the evening! Hope to be back sometime!

A

Amy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Karmen was very communicative and flexible. The tree line around the pond almost completely obscured the house from our view, and with our backs to the neighbor's property, we could easily forget that we were in someone's yard. Occasional cars drove past but were not disruptive to us. We had several families camping as a large group. There was plenty of room to spread out, but it was easy to come together around the evening campfire.

D

Donna A

October 2025

Tent

With pets

7 nights at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Quiet + peaceful. Watch the squirrels antics and chickens interact with cats during the day. Listen to the crickets, tree frogs and owls at night. Hosts are wonderful and welcoming. Great place to relax or have first camping experience.

N

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Great place to camp with dogs. Sites are huge and secluded! Hosts are very welcoming and kind.

e

edgar

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

It was a peaceful time camping there and site 4 was amazing. In the woods next to the little pond was very cute. I appreciate the last minute approval on our trip back to Wisconsin. Would recommend anyone else who swings by to take site 4 worth it!!.

D

Donna A

September 2025

Tent

7 nights at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Everyone was friendly and welcoming. They opened there home to use bathroom and shower. Watching the chickens and squirrels antics during the day was fun, listening to owls at night was intriguing. So few skeeters I could leave tent open! Great place to introduce kids to camping. Coming back soon.

A

Abby

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

We had a lovely night at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch. Site 2 was peaceful, well-maintained, and felt private. We would definitely stay here again

R

Robert

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Stayed here for two nights with my son. Enjoyed the stay and the owners were friendly. Firewood was available for purchase on site. Sites were far enough away from each other that you couldn’t hear or see each other (obscured by trees). We stayed close to the road. I think the other sites were more favorable but that’s just my opinion dude. Each site had its own fire ring. If I had one complaint it would be the noise from the road. It is a rural road with very minimal traffic. For some reason there were side by sides driving down the road very late into the night. I don’t think it would matter if I were staying in a house, it would still wake me up. Obviously this is out of the control of the site, and I state this only to lead into a recommendation to bring some ear plugs. The second night was far more quiet with almost no one driving down the road. Overall I recommend this site and 100% would stay again. ✌️

M

Matthew

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Stop looking at other places. This farm is amazing, owners are awesome (helped us out with a battery/inverter). You won’t be disappointed, great camping and fishing.

M

Misty

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Great experience! Karmen & her family were wonderful hosts.

B

Blake

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Great folks very friendly bathroom was clean and had great water pressure on top of fresh eggs which was a huge plus and very quite area would recommend this place to anyone!

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!

J

Jadrian

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Amazing location and setting for camping. We will definitely be back!

K

Kevin

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Had a fantastic time Bear Creek Farm and Ranch. Our hosts were very welcoming and offer a variety of Farm fresh foods. Will definitely be coming back for a visit.