94% (1.2K) • 1,916 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Sparta
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
1. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(14)
9.1mi from Sparta · 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)
31mi from Sparta · 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
Big Muddy Brewing
3. Big Muddy Brewing
96%
(47)
33mi from Sparta · 42 sites · Tents, RVs
Big Muddy Brewing is a production craft brewery and taproom offering over 25 beers on tap. Our taproom has beer tastings, pints and growlers as well as wine and craft spirits. We also have plenty of packaged beer to go.
Our kitchen has Bavarian pretzels, Flatbread pizzas and more.
Located in the heart of Southern Illinois, minutes from the Shawnee National Forest, Kinkaid Lake, Murphysboro State Park & Southern Illinois University.
Check our Facebook page for schedule of music and events.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Randolph County State Recreation Area
4. Randolph County State Recreation Area
State park 12mi from Sparta · 38 sites
Gorgeous in winter too, Randolph County SRA horse trails welcome cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
5. Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
Park 7mi from Sparta · 15 sites
Discover the scenic confluence of the Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Pond Ridge Adventure
6. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
34mi from Sparta · 35 sites
We have 50 acres located in Southern Illinois 4 miles south of Murphysboro connected to 100 acres of Shawnee National forest.We set up a small family primitive campground for our family to enjoy every evening we ride our utv over from our house and watch the wildlife there are deer turkeys bobcats and many other small animals.There are several lakes just 15 minutes away kinkade spillway is a popular place to hike and swim and little Grand Canyon is an awesome spot
Learn more about this land:
Mostly suitable for Rv with generators and self contained units
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Sugarloaf Creek
7. Sugarloaf Creek
98%
(23)
36mi from Sparta · 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
R & T Farms
8. R & T Farms
98%
(30)
36mi from Sparta · 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
Monarch Hill Vineyard
9. Monarch Hill Vineyard
99%
(93)
36mi from Sparta · 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
Pyramid State Recreation Area
10. Pyramid State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 19mi from Sparta · 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
Washington County State Recreational Area
11. Washington County State Recreational Area
100%
(1)
State park 23mi from Sparta · 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
Shawnee National Forest
12. Shawnee National Forest
95%
(30)
National forest 83mi from Sparta · 172 sites
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Murphysboro State Park
13. Lake Murphysboro State Park
State park 31mi from Sparta · 61 sites
Camp like a star at this lake and forested wilderness area in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Middle Eden
14. Middle Eden
94%
(16)
37mi from Sparta · 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
Wine Trail Wilderness
15. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(688)
40mi from Sparta · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa".
Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest.
It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy.
Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes.
We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit.
We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
16. Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
99%
(162)
42mi from Sparta · 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
Harmony Hill Acres
17. Harmony Hill Acres
98%
(29)
43mi from Sparta · 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
Urban Surprise
18. Urban Surprise
98%
(30)
44mi from Sparta · 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
Sycamore Springs Campground
19. Sycamore Springs Campground
96%
(110)
47mi from Sparta · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
The campsite sits alongside the Castor River, offering electric hookups at 5 sites as well as 5 primitive tent sites. Enjoy outdoor adventures just minutes away, at the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, a 1,630-acre area located on the upper reaches of the Castor River, located south of Route J, eight miles east of Fredericktown.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Happy Trails Farm Resort
20. Happy Trails Farm Resort
95%
(193)
48mi from Sparta · 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
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Katherine
6 days ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Perfect camping spot! Jon was welcoming to our family and pup. We got in late and Jon set a fire so our small one wasn’t cold. Much appreciated! Instead of a packed campsite, we had room to spread out. We will be back again.
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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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J
Jeremy
1 week ago
Tent
Amazing piece of land. It was really serene! Grateful for Jon and his family for sharing it with me. The little details they put into each site and location is a testament to why they are recognized as a top Hipcamp location!
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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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C
Cailin
2 weeks ago
Tent
We always have the best time at Jon’s place! Practically had the place to ourselves. Jon is great about checking in and getting you anything you need for a good time! We will be back as always!!
See moreZ
Zinnia
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great experience at Jon's place, he went above and beyond to make us comfortable, bathroom was very clean and the bocce court was very fun to have for the kids.
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Adam
2 weeks ago
Tent
Jon was very welcoming and we appreciated the water he left out for us. The surrounding area was beautiful and campsite was perfectly tucked away for quiet and relaxation. Would highly recommend 10/10!
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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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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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D
Donna
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Nice to have electric in the middle of nowhere! Nice location and pretty area.
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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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Allison
April 2026
40 ft Class A
Stopped by while traveling through - great little spot to get some rest.
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Alicia
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
The road coming out was beautiful! Loved the land we camped on and the Grainzebo was awesome!
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Ryan
April 2026
22 ft travel trailer
Wine trail wilderness delivered again and never disappoints. Thanks Jon for another great stay
Ryan and Tanya
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Nathan
April 2026
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
This place is Awesome! If you’re into camping 5 yards from the river then this is the place for you. We camped here on Easter weekend so we had the entire place to ourselves. Harless was a great host and went out of his way to make sure we were safe and comfortable. There was a 3.5” rain in the middle the night and he was right there the next morning to warn us about the river rising and made sure we were safe. We ended up hooking up and leaving for the day to have lunch and antiquing and returned after the river went down to finish out the weekend. He even offered to refund our $ for the inconvenience! That’s one thing we love about booking through Hipcamp; you meet some of the nicest people and the camps are usually superior than any State Park or Forestry campground. We will be returning to this one.
See moreJ
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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Gary
April 2026
22 ft campervan
It was a great experience the first time, so we came back. The hosts are warm and welcoming, and we love hiking through the fields with our dogs. It is a little off the beaten path but worth the drive. Quiet and private. If you are driving between the Southeast and the Midwest or the Northwest, this is a great place to stop.
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J
Jason
March 2026
Tent
With pets
Down stream from Castor River Shut-Ins sits this secluded yet easily accessible campground. It is right on the water which is clean and has good fishing. It's very quiet at night with almost no light pollution for stargazers. The sunshine hits the camp area for essentially the entire day. It's a good place to catch some rays! 10/10 would recommend. The owner is friendly and accommodating as well!
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Tim
March 2026
Tent
Group trip
I can't say enough good things about Wine Trail Wilderness. Jon and Carla are excellent hosts and took excellent care of our group when we were there. The whole vibe of the place is excellent and it's obvious they care about the happiness of their guests. Everything is well thought out, from the layout and privacy of each site down to smallest detail. I highly recommend staying there. I guarantee you won't be disappointed!!!!!
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