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

Springfield’s lake campgrounds offer over 500 ways to wake up with water right outside your tent flap. Expect early morning mist, splashy sunsets, and easy access to fishing, hiking, and horseback riding—all on sites where campfires keep the night going and pets are welcome. Prices average $35 a night, with spots dipping as low as $30 if you book ahead. You’ll find toilets at most campgrounds, so no roughing it past your comfort zone. For a tried-and-true stay, check out Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (396 reviews), 1912 Vintage Barn Experience (100 reviews), or Serenity Fields Farm (65 reviews). Most sites let you cast a line or hit the trails without ever moving your car. Grab your gear and get lakeside—Springfield’s got a spot with your name on it.

98% (658)

Top-rated campgrounds

Springfield’s lake campgrounds offer over 500 ways to wake up with water right outside your tent flap. Expect early morning mist, splashy sunsets, and easy access to fishing, hiking, and horseback riding—all on sites where campfires keep the night going and pets are welcome. Prices average $35 a night, with spots dipping as low as $30 if you book ahead. You’ll find toilets at most campgrounds, so no roughing it past your comfort zone. For a tried-and-true stay, check out Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (396 reviews), 1912 Vintage Barn Experience (100 reviews), or Serenity Fields Farm (65 reviews). Most sites let you cast a line or hit the trails without ever moving your car. Grab your gear and get lakeside—Springfield’s got a spot with your name on it.

98% (658)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%

(844)

24mi from Springfield · 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.

2. 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

99%

(138)

27mi from Springfield · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Niantic, IL

The 1912 Barn is a 114 historic post and beam barn that makes a wonderful backdrop for a night out in the country. Located only 25 minutes from Springfield historic sites and 10 minutes from Decatur, IL this location makes it easy to tour during the day and relax by the camp fire in the evening. Our site is perfect for visiting local communities and the relaxing on our quiet site each evening. Decatur has a mini golf course, splash cove water park, children's zoo and museum, a governor's mansion for tours and 3 museums to visit. Milikin University offers local college level sports. Decatur has a great lake for paddle boarding, boating and fishing with canoe trips down the local Sangamon River. Several local breweries and cute market areas makes Decatur a great place to visit. Take a ride on the trolley and learn out our history. Springfield sites are only a hop and skip away with many things to see and learn. Museums offer great programs and the New Salem Park is a fun day trip with the kids to learn about historic living. Lincoln's sites around in several counties are great to see. You also have the opportunity to hike in some great parks and ride your bike on some outstanding central Illinois paths. If you happen to visit late summer enjoy the Illinois Farm Progress show and maybe catch a concert at the Devon Theatre on the lake.

3. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

100%

(22)

28mi from Springfield · 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

4. Sangchris Lake State Park

128 sites · Tovey, Illinois

Wildflowers and song birds will guide you along the miles of scenic trails.

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Potable water

Toilets

5. Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

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(1)

100 sites · Bath, Illinois

Bring your binoculars to Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area; this place is a birder’s paradise. Swell up with patriotic pride when you spot a bald eagle or two in the winter, and gawk at the huge number of white pelicans that gather here each spring as they head north during migration. If birding’s not your thing and you can’t tell a pelican from a bald eagle, then 1) you might need to get your eyes checked, and 2) no worries—there’s plenty else to do besides ogle at our feathery friends here.Take advantage of the park’s two public boat ramps and tour the lake via your vessel. Cast a line for crappie, bluegill, bass, and more (the fishing’s especially good in early spring). Hunting for deer, rabbit, quail, and duck are also popular pastimes. And if all else fails, simply take in the beauty of a sparkling lake surrounded by silver maple, cottonwood, and lovely willow trees. That’s what the “great outdoors” is all about!

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Potable water

Campfires

6. Buena Vista Farms

95%

(51)

37mi from Springfield · 10 sites · RVs · Chapin, IL

Buena Vista Farms was created first as a wedding venue, thus the Beautiful Views all around developed for great photo ops. After 5 years hosting events on our 130 acre farm, we developed a campground. Tiny Home cabins have been added more recently for groups of up to 21 people. What should the next phase of development be? This summer we are working on the office to add gift shop and camp store in the Old Grain Bin. We welcome weekend RV'ers, and those who want a Glamping experience in the Tiny Home cabins as well as work campers who stay a bit longer. We will keep a few RV spots open all winter. Learn more about this land: Buena Vista Farms means beautiful view! We offer Full Hook up RV sites (60 feet wide) that are up to 90 feet long for Big Rigs. Lots of green space, star filled skies, a pair of swan on the lake, woods for hiking, lakes for fishing with canoes, kayaks and paddle boats. There is a Spa with a Reflexologist on call and common area with Satellite TV and exercise equipment. It is a quiet and peaceful place to stay and just relax. We offer Tiny Home Cabins and Furnished Apartments, for Glamping experiences.

7. Serenity Fields Farm

95%

(165)

44mi from Springfield · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dalton City, IL

We are originally from Northern California. We are enjoying our expansive farm with all it's fresh air, fresh food, plants, animals, and fun events. We enjoy time relaxing in hammocks and letting the world pass us by. Bring your family out to enjoy all the farm has to offer, or take advantage of the serenity and privacy! We are open to family reunions & parties, large gatherings of friends etc! We are happy to have a group that can party and consume adult beverages without driving or worrying about making noise. Sites 2 & 3 can accommodate big groups and vehicles. If you want the farm to yourself, book all three sites! Message me to discuss possibilities. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent near the creek (site 1) in a completely private site (kids can sleep in the truck bed topper or fort if they'd like) or on the field to the side of the house (site 2) for a semi-private spot nearest to the bathroom and with a wood chip drive entrance for larger vehicles or (site 3) a semi- private spot down by the creek and the hay bales to the left of the house. (Or pick a spot of your choosing). Enjoy the farm animals, walk the property, build a fire, and enjoy the outdoors! There are more animals to pet from April through October (typically we have bunnies, chickens, sheep, cats, dogs, alpacas, miniature horses, horses, pig, goat, etc.). In the winter the horses, alpacas, chickens, dogs, cats and sometimes bunnies are available to visit. Firewood bundles available for $10 The creek at times is swimmable, other times it's walkable, and sometimes in the heat of July it's very shallow. There is a zip line, log or bridge to cross the creek. There is a state park (Ft. Daniel) less than 5 minutes away and others a bit further (Spitler or Sand Creek) Horseback riding may be available upon request - $25.00 per person or $50.00 per family. There is a large shaded playground in the front yard for the kids with a trampoline, small zip line, ninja line, slack line, silks, climbing dome, hammocks, etc. BATHROOM: If you are looking at the house from the street, the bathroom is on the right of the house, attached to the house. It is a small shed looking building and is pictured. It has a toilet and running hot and cold water.

8. 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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9. Weldon Springs State Park

95 sites · Clinton, Illinois

Tobogganing, anyone? Weldon Springs State Park is a place for all seasons, though we have to say winter time here sounds pretty sweet. Sled or toboggan down a hill, fish in the freeze, or cross-country ski across the icicle-laced countryside. Once it warms up, all the classic trappings of a park are found in abundance. Hike one of the several trails while you keep an eye out for hawks and warblers, or angle for some bullhead fish from the comfort of your boat. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to a po'boy or panini at Pinky's Restaurant. If you come the right time of year, you may just be lucky enough to catch the Apple and Pork Festival at the nearby C.H. Moore Homestead. Scrumptious!

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10. Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

81 sites · Banner, Illinois

You may catch some crappie, but your time at Spring Lake will be totally rad. Overlooked by a large sandstone bluff, Spring Lake is a long, narrow lake born from a meander of the Illinois River. It’s actually divided into two separate lakes, making it a fishing frenzy. The north has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, muskie, channel catfish, sunfish, bullheads, and carp. The south has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, northern pike, sunfish, and carp. Forgot your boat? Not to worry! Rentals are available near the south boat ramp. And if you’re yearning for the whole livin’ off the land experience, the park houses three campgrounds.

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Public campgrounds near Springfield

Deer Point Campground

14mi from Springfield · 72 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sangchris Lake State Park

Hickory Point Campground

14mi from Springfield · 56 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sangchris Lake State Park

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(1)

Anderson Lake Campground

41mi from Springfield · 100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

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(1)

Beaver Dam Campground

44mi from Springfield · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beaver Dam State Park

Weldon Springs Campground

45mi from Springfield · 95 sites · Tents, RVs · in Weldon Springs State Park

Oak Campground

49mi from Springfield · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

Pine Campground

49mi from Springfield · 70 sites · Tents, RVs · in Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

Stories from the community

t

tess

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

I had a lovely three night stay on Aissa and Hank’s property! When we arrived, they were there to welcome us and give us a tour and let us know about our camping options. We were the only campers staying that weekend so they were happy to let us pick our spot and got a fire pit moved for us so we could stay local to our spot for the most part. Their barn and land is gorgeous, and they were equipped with helpful items for campers far beyond what we expected when booking our stay. Aissa and Hank themselves were both very kind and welcoming and made us feel very safe and comfortable. They were around if we needed anything but did not make us feel hovered over and did not interrupt our privacy whatsoever. We had a very sweet and slow weekend, exactly what we were looking for and needed! We would definitely come back and enjoy another weekend here.

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.

H

Heather

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

What a great place for families! We stayed at the creek-side camp and loved the privacy. It was perfect with our 5 and 7 year old as they were able to head to the playground alone with walkie talkies. For younger kids, the site closer to the playground may be a better fit. Julie was kind and helpful with every question we had! The property is also close to town, should you need anything at all - like we did!

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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.

The night sky is spectacular! Dr. Peyton took this photo

Catherine

September 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Buena Vista Farms

What a lovely place! Quiet nights, plenty of space, beautiful views! Thank you!

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

C

Christian

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

For central Illinois this place was amazing! The site itself was unique and secluded with a cool zip line within it. All the animals on the farm were fun to check out and interact with. Most of all Julie and her family were wonderful and thoughtful people to interact with.

j

jessica

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

We loved this place! The scenery is beautiful and super relaxing after a long day of driving.

P

Patsy

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Literally had such a great time tent camping on Julie's Farm! From the spaced out nature of every site, the zip lines all over, and the activities for the children to do! To the responsiveness of Julie and her family 💖 We had our space but we also could nearly always find someone to ask questions or just chat 💖 The herbs and vegetables and flowers and variety of animals 💖 Julie also allowed us to have an impromptu birthday party for my daughter and she enjoyed the farm so much, she cried as we were leaving. Best private camping we've found so far! 👏👏 thanks again Julie and Serenity Farms

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.

V

Valena

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

Everything was perfect! Aissa and Hank are outstanding, gracious hosts. Starting with a golf cart tour of their property really helps to decide where you want to set up and ask questions. After choosing a convenient spot, both Aissa and Hank are helpful with anything you may need. Bathroom was spotless, very well taken care of property all around. I hope to return to enjoy the friendly atmosphere and peaceful natural surroundings. The barn looks like a great venue for a party or celebration, with plenty of space to park and play in the beautiful backyard. What a terrific find! Thank you so much for your hospitality!

Julie

September 2025

Tent

1 night at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

Lovely people and such a peaceful place! Definitely would love to come back!

Cecile

August 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Great place to relax and recharge on our road trip. Very nice welcoming and charming property.

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.

Erin

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

The land is beautiful and the hosts are incredibly welcoming. We were given a complete tour when we arrived and were able to pick veggies from the greenhouse, bought delicious steaks and were given fresh loaf of bread. We will definitely be back and will recommend this hidden illinois gem to many!

K

Ken

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

The spot was perfect! Absolutely beautiful and quiet. Debbie was so nice and helpful. Fishing was amazing.

K

Karen

August 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

After spending many nights at crowded state parks, it was delightful to relax in peace and quiet. The most noise we heard, was the bull frogs! We were greeted by Matt. He is a kind and gentle soul and truly cared about his home and our comfort. If you get a chance to travel to Palmer, Illinois, do yourself a favor and check out this great property. We are glad we did!

J

Jeff

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Serenity Fields Farm

Julie and her family were very welcoming! Our family, including our 8 year old son, loved our stay at the farm. From a zip line at our site, to kittens to play with and even a horse ride, we had a great day and night. Highly recommended!

a

allison

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Very pretty and secluded. Best part was we didn’t find a single tick on us or our gear :)