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Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

The best camping in Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, IL

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The best camping in Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, IL

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Anderson Lake Campground

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100 sites · Tents, RVs · In Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

Lakeside living is a way of life at this campground

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area adventure.

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Camper favorites near Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

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Stories from the community

Victoria

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Bell Acres

Great hosts,the site is perfect for star gazing. The Sky is beautiful at night,trails are nice . Clint is very responsive and commicated well.

Victoria

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Bell Acres

I stayed here 3 nights just me and my dog. The site is safe, beautiful grounds, great for hikes, exploring, viewing wildlife, nature ,etc... Clint communicated very well, directions are accurate and easy to find. As soon as I pulled in the driveway there were deer in the field & driveway.What a beautiful site ! Also the stars are amazing at night too!

sherry

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Grain Inn

Perfect for photographers, beside beautiful homemade rustic cozy Silo-home, with hot tub, beautiful the wildflowers views😍 Very clean and feel like living in cabin.. So-Quiet and peaceful!!

Emily

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

We had such a wonderful time celebrating our anniversary here with our toddler. You can tell how much love is put into this land and we enjoy it so much here! We had a very rainy night and the cabin stayed cozy and dry. The land is quiet and was perfect for letting our little one run around. We will definitely be back 😘

Eric

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The "Land" - Virginia, Illinois

Amazing location!! Dogs got to run freely! Son caught 2 fish on the same cast/lure! Daughter enjoyed the jumping pad on the lake. Wife and I enjoyed the views and privacy!

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!

Kerri

August 2025

25 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Secluded Springfield Stay

We had a very nice stay. Thank you for accepting our same day request. I wish we had more time to relax around the property but we had to head out early in the morning. Thank you for having us

Sophia

August 2025

30 ft Class C

3 nights at Secluded Springfield Stay

We had a great and seamless time staging on Aiden’s land for the weekend in an RV while attending the Illinois State Fair. He was very relaxed, accommodating, communicative, and kind and his family was so sweet too. Thank you, Aiden!

Jose Rone

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Secluded Springfield Stay

Really nice stay despite the weather. The street lamp was clutch, great addition to help setup after hours. Big open yard with privacy in the back behind trees if needed. Aiden was very helpful and kind as well. Would definitely come back!

Brandon

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

Was amazing .. the flowers the wild animals! It was out of a movie fairy tale! Would recommend this space to everyone.. was amazing with a partner but would be a beautiful solo trip. Very private

Terri

July 2025

3 nights at Black Sheep Flower Farm

The accommodations were perfect for a nice step up to tent camping. We had a snug, cozy cabin, access to a flush toilet(!!!!) and refrigerator to keep a few items in. the property was spacious and unique. Dennis and Ben were great hosts who we enjoyed meeting while they were harvesting their beautiful flowers. Dickson Mound museum directly across the road was a nice bonus with accessible walking trails. Hoping to go back again sometime!

David

June 2025

24 ft Class B

1 night at Secluded Springfield Stay

Great spot. Very large and green and quiet. Absolutely lovely. Aiden met us as we drove up. First rate stop.

Stephen

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

The farm was peaceful and lovely. The cabin was perfectly simple and charming. The fireflies at dusk and hummingbirds throughout the day, kept things magical. Dennis was a wonderful host. We felt welcome.

Eva

June 2025

With pets

1 night at Black Sheep Flower Farm

I stayed twice last year and it was just as nice this year. I sat on the porch where there was a nice breeze, strumming my guitar and watching the hummingbirds at the feeder. In the evening there was a brief coyote serenade. If they howled again later, I didn’t hear it as I was sound asleep.

Danelle

June 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Buena Vista Farms

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING BEAUTIFUL PLACE AND STAY FOR MY 34TH BIRTHDAY THX U

Aiden

June 2025

45 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at Buena Vista Farms

Great place! Wonderful camp hosts, and quiet grounds. All the wildlife was awesome!!

Brian J

June 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

We had a great time enjoying the peace&quiet. The view is pleasant, and it is a comfortable place to sleep and camp. There's a kitchen with running water & a fridge, and enough fallen timber in the woods that you don't need to bring firewood as long as you're prepared to chop some up. Dennis is a wonderful, friendly guy. I hope we can make it back here sometime!

Sabrina

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Secluded Springfield Stay

Very cozy and clean campsite, easy to find and lots of room. Is in a neighborhood but has more than enough privacy. Nice place to stay!

Mark

May 2025

43 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Jensen Woods Camp

Jensen Woods is a camp, not a camp site. It is not just a sleeping spot. The difference in our stay was the access to showers, bathrooms, fishing, nice scenery, a small archery range, and a lot of space. The sites are large, spacious, have electric and water, and there is a dump station close by for black and grey. If you are going to stay in your RV for much of the trip, this is a great summer place to visit. However, during the summer, Illinois is the happy home to ticks. We use a grass covering (9x6) at our steps landing, but we still found it necessary to spray, check, and actually had to pull out one tick that had nestled its way into one of us. We would recommend this camp for nature lovers (during the summer), and everyone else outside of tick season (check google for more info). Finally, your stay at Jensen Woods supports their mission/ministry to provide youth retreats/camps during the summer months. So, your stay does help a good cause. Keep Camping! Mark Cox, PhD

This is a north facing view from the south of the second pond valley. The RV site is behind the cabin you see on the left.

Brandon

May 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at The "Land" - Virginia, Illinois

Second time staying here. Wonderful spot. very secluded and private. Tons of amenities, gorgeous landscape with plenty of room for the dogs and outdoor activities. Angie is very responsive, and accommodating. Would absolutely recommend!

Top-rated campgrounds

Secluded Springfield Stay

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39mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Springfield, IL

On the outskirts of Springfield lay a secluded, peaceful piece of property perfect for a quick night or a weekend getaway. For those that don't wish to go all the way into the woods, our property is a great way to get that camping feel while still being in perfect vicinity to town for any basic needs or food chains. Nearby attractions: Carpenter Park that has beautiful hiking trails and Sangamon River access (5 min drive) Riverside Park - very dog friendly, fishing, Sangamon river access, hiking, horseback riding, etc. (3 minute drive) The Rail Golf Course (5 min drive) Weebles Bar and Grill being only a short walk away Blake and Aiden, the couple who own this land, are LGBTQ+ friendly, in their mid-20's, pet friendly, and also love to camp, hike, rock climb, and travel. They would be happy to answer any questions about nearby hiking, local attractions, restaurants, etc.

Buena Vista Farms

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31mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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.

Jensen Woods Camp

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36mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mound Station, IL

Welcome to your new favorite camping oasis. Sitting on 550 acres, Jensen Woods Camp is a serene, secluded environment offering RV sites, bunkhouse rooms, treehouses, a rustic A-Frame cabin, and a lodge equipped with a small kitchen, a commercial kitchen, free WiFi, board games, foosball, washer/dryer, and more! We offer swimming and fishing ponds, archery, kayaking, and 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. (Trails are closed during hunting seasons.) Trails are closed until 1:30pm April 14- May 15, 2025.

Other options near Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

The Kampground

50mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 4 sites · Mechanicsburg, IL

Discover the charm of The Kampground, a unique family-friendly destination that offers a serene escape just 15 miles east of Springfield on Darnell Road. Nestled on 25 acres of picturesque land, this campground provides a tranquil environment perfect for families looking to unwind and connect with nature. At The Kampground, you'll find a variety of accommodations to suit your needs, including RV and camper sites, cozy tent camping spots, and comfortable cabins. Enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing in our serene pond, exploring scenic hiking trails, or engaging in friendly competition on our basketball and volleyball courts. With an emphasis on family fun, The Kampground is designed to create lasting memories. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, our peaceful setting and diverse amenities make it an ideal choice for your next getaway. Come experience the beauty and tranquility that awaits you at The Kampground!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Evening Star Camping Resort

17mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 42 sites · Topeka, IL

Evening Star Camping Resort stands out as a hidden gem in the charming town of Topeka, Illinois, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for campers of all ages. This picturesque campground features expansive open spaces ideal for exploring, hiking, biking, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets and stargazing. Guests can indulge in a variety of onsite activities, including swimming, horseshoes, fire truck rides, basketball, and pool games. The resort also hosts hay rides and themed weekends packed with fun. Kids will love engaging in activities such as tie dyeing, talent competitions, poker runs, auto races, golf cart games, haunted houses, and harvest potlucks, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment. Beyond the campground, visitors can discover a wealth of local attractions. Explore the Jake Wolf Fish Hatchery, Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, Brown's Oakridge Zoo, New Salem Village, and the Spring Lake Fish and Wildlife Area, all just a short drive away. Evening Star Camping Resort offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay, including full water and electric hookup sites, tent camping options, a snack bar, ice and wood sales, locally sourced produce, camping supplies, gas, laundry facilities, a dump station, and a pavilion. We look forward

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Toilets

Wharf Harbor Marina & Campground

49mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 1 site · Peoria, IL

Wharf Harbor Marina stands out as a premier destination for boating enthusiasts, nestled on a picturesque 22.5-acre property in Peoria, IL. Our marina offers an extensive range of services tailored to meet the needs of boaters, including slip rentals, boat and motor repairs, and secure storage options. As a privately owned and operated facility located on the serene waters of Lake Peoria, we pride ourselves on creating a safe and welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. Our commitment to cleanliness and safety ensures that all our clients can enjoy their time on the water without worry. In addition to our top-notch services, Wharf Harbor Marina is conveniently situated near various outdoor activities, natural attractions, and local dining options. Whether you're looking to explore the scenic beauty of the area, enjoy swimming holes, or indulge in nearby restaurants and shops, our marina serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Come experience the unique charm of Wharf Harbor Marina, where your boating journey begins!

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Toilets

Riverside Park

40mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 1 site · Springfield, IL

Riverside Park, established in 1965, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a hidden gem on the far north side of Springfield. Spanning 470 acres, this expansive park is bordered by the serene Sangamon River to the north and Carpenter Park, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a diverse landscape, including both upland and lowland forests, which create a rich habitat for wildlife and a tranquil environment for visitors. Surrounding Riverside Park are mixed-use areas of commercial, industrial, and residential developments, ensuring that amenities such as restaurants and shops are just a short distance away. Originally managed by the City of Springfield, Riverside Park was transferred to the park district in 2002. As part of this transition, there is potential for wetland mitigation within the park if required by the city. This commitment to preserving the natural environment enhances the park's appeal, making it an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor activities and a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Pets

Crazy Horse Campground, L.L.C.

25mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 1 site · Ashland, IL

Nestled in a picturesque setting north of Jacksonville and west of Springfield, IL, Crazy Horse Campground stands out as a family-friendly destination that offers ample space for outdoor fun and relaxation. This unique campground is designed to cater to families looking for a memorable getaway, providing a variety of activities and amenities that ensure everyone has a great time. At Crazy Horse, you can enjoy fishing in our well-stocked ponds, participate in engaging crafts and activities, or unwind by the fire while listening to live music. Families can also take a refreshing dip in the swimming area, making it the perfect spot for quality time with your kids. Our camp store is fully stocked with snacks, drinks, sundries, and hot food options, including pizza, nachos, burgers, and our signature Crazy Horseshoe. We also offer essential items like firewood and ice, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you prefer a full hookup site, a primitive tent site for a more rustic experience, or a seasonal site for an extended stay, Crazy Horse Campground has the perfect accommodation for you. Don’t forget to check out our newly remodeled lodge, which features family-style bathrooms, a pool table, arcade games, foosball, board games, and a book exchange.

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Toilets

Spring Lake Park Campground

31mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 1 site · Macomb, IL

Welcome to our unique campground, where nature meets community, providing an unforgettable outdoor experience for all campers. Before selecting your camping site, it is essential to check in with the Host Camper and complete your payment. This ensures that your reservation is officially recognized and helps us maintain the quality of our facilities. Please note that any trailer or tent left on-site without prior approval from management will incur daily charges. If a trailer or tent remains uncommunicated with park staff for over seven days, it will be transported to the City of Macomb’s police impound lot, with all transportation fees being the owner's responsibility. Our tent camping and RV sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure fairness, spots cannot be reserved by parking a vehicle or tent to block access to the power pedestal. Campers are required to plug into the nearest available power source. Attempts to manipulate the system to secure a site may result in being asked to relocate or leave the campground. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a welcoming environment for all visitors.

Pets

Fort Crevecoeur Park

44mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 41 sites · Creve Coeur, IL

On January 5, 1680, a significant chapter in history unfolded when French explorers René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, and Henri de Tonti established Fort Creve Coeur. This fort is unique as it served as a pivotal site for early French missionary efforts in North America, where Mass was celebrated and the Gospel was preached by the Récollets, including notable figures such as Gabriel Ribourde, Zenobius Membre, and Louis Hennepin. The construction of Fort Creve Coeur was completed in early March, and it was aptly named "Fort Broken Heart" due to the numerous challenges faced during its building, including desertions and hardships. Despite these tribulations, the fort became a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Visitors to the site can explore the rich history and cultural significance of Fort Creve Coeur, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in early American history. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring nearby natural features, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.

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Toilets

Havana Park District Camping

11mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 23 sites · Havana, IL

Discover the unique charm of the Havana Riverfront Park Campground, where nature meets convenience along the scenic Illinois River. This picturesque campground features twelve well-equipped sites adjacent to the Havana Nature Center, offering essential amenities such as water and electricity, with a nearby dump station for your convenience. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities right on-site, including excellent fishing from the shore or our docks, boating, and hiking. Families will appreciate the playgrounds and the Nature Center, which provide educational opportunities for all ages. During the summer months, the campground comes alive with our Riverfront Concert Series, held on the stage in Riverfront Park, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors. Additionally, the campground is conveniently located just across the street from the Park District Pool and the historic Rockwell Mound, a remarkable site built by Native Americans around 2,000 years ago. For those looking to explore further, the renovated Downtown area is only a few blocks away, offering a delightful selection of shopping and dining options. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at the Havana Riverfront Park Campground.

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Trash

Canton Lake

27mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 71 sites · Canton, IL

Nestled just east of Canton and easily accessible via East Chestnut St./East County Highway 27, Lake Canton stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. This picturesque campground offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages, making it a unique spot for families and friends alike. At Lake Canton, visitors can enjoy fishing and boating on the serene waters, with convenient boat slips and kayak launches available for easy access. The seasonal campground features cozy cabin rentals and well-maintained picnic areas, perfect for a day of fun in the sun. For those who love to explore, the hiking trails provide stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Additionally, the lake view observation deck offers a breathtaking vantage point to take in the surrounding beauty. Throughout the recreation area, cameras are strategically placed to capture memorable moments. During the camping season, weekend food vendors often set up at the pavilion, providing delicious meals to enhance your outdoor experience. Whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat, Lake Canton has something for everyone.

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Showers

Webb's Valley View Campground

15mi from Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 17 sites · Lewistown, IL

Discover the unique charm of Webb's Valley View Campground, where the perfect blend of comfort and convenience awaits you. Nestled in a picturesque setting, our campground offers a range of amenities designed to enhance your experience and ensure your stay is truly unforgettable. At Webb's Valley View, you can enjoy spacious sites that provide ample privacy, allowing you to unwind in a serene environment. Our facilities include clean restrooms, hot showers, and picnic areas, making it easy to relax and enjoy your time outdoors. Explore the surrounding natural beauty, with nearby swimming holes and hiking trails that cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. After a day of adventure, you can indulge in local dining options and visit charming shops that showcase the area's unique offerings. We invite you to explore our website for more information about our campground and the exciting activities available nearby. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us. We look forward to welcoming you to Webb's Valley View Campground!

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The best camping in Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, IL guide

Overview

About

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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