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The best camping in Lincoln Trail State Park, IL
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lincoln Trail State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Lincoln Trail State Park
Lakeside Campground
1. Lakeside Campground
Though we can't give Lakeside Campground points for naming with creativity, we can give it cred for accuracy
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Plainview Campground
2. Plainview Campground
The more accommodating of two campground loops at Lincoln Trail State Park, Plainview offers up spacious sites with modern amenities in a neat loop that ensures privacy and breathing room for all visitors
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Lincoln Trail State Park
Coop Dreams Farm
1. Coop Dreams Farm
100%
(24)
3.9mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Currently the Coop Dreams farm from the Coop Dreams TV show.
Hiking trails, creeks and woods surround the chicken and goat yard.
5 minutes to quaint little town - 15 minutes to a cool winery - 25 minutes to Terre Haute with restaurants and activities.
Indianapolis is about an hour and 15 minutes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
2. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
100%
(62)
23mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on
the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days.
One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Willenborg Woods
3. Willenborg Woods
100%
(16)
24mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Willenborg Woods is comprised of 149 acres of privately owned pristine woods with over eight miles of grass and single track trails for guests to explore. The beautiful Embarrass River runs the entire back of the property for guests to set up lawn chairs, an umbrella, and grill to enjoy the day on their own private sandbar, or canoe or kayak from Charleston Lake to a take out point on Willenborg Woods. Guests can clean up by taking a wonderful hot shower in the out door shower. Each morning, guests enjoy a basket delivered with fresh eggs from the friendly and individually named free range hens on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bella Vita Private Resort
4. Bella Vita Private Resort
93%
(45)
24mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Bella Vita Resort and Glamping where we're dedicated to reviving the timeless joy of family bonding and outdoor adventure. In a world where life moves quickly, we invite you to slow down and savor every moment with your loved ones.
Our mission is simple: to provide a wide array of group activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Bella Vita.
For those traveling with RVs, we offer spacious sites with 30/50-amp with partial and full hookups, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. If you prefer luxury tent camping, you will love our glamping tents. Our regular tent sites come equipped with 110 amp electric, allowing you to enjoy a cozy retreat under the stars while still having access to modern amenities.
For true nature enthusiasts, we also offer primitive sites situated along the serene lake or river, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, our primitive sites offer a truly immersive camping experience.
At Bella Vita Resort, we believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. Join us in embracing the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure and family bonding, and rediscovering the joy of living your best life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Bird Watch at Pine Lake
5. Bird Watch at Pine Lake
96%
(12)
25mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property has a robust migratory bird population. We see Blue Heron, geese, ducks, song birds, birds of prey, including the occasional Bald Eagle visit our property.
We have a small wetland area and pond, which attract a lot of wildlife, such as muskrat, deer, fox, frogs, turtles, and other small woodland animals.
We have wooded areas as well as meadows, which are perfect for tent camping, and are a short walk from the parking area.
Our property makes a great base camp for exploring local areas of interest.
Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is just a few miles south of Charleston.
Lake Charleston is just a few miles away, and boasts several nesting pairs of Bald Eagles. There are also fishing, hiking and bike trails around Lake Charleston.
We are very close to Illinois' largest Amish Community in the Arcola/Arthur area, with many Amish shops, bakeries, quilt shops, and more.
Aikman's Wildlife Adventures is in nearby Chesterville.
There is a very nice bike path just to the west of our property. This bike path takes you through Charleston, past the Coles County Fairgrounds, and into Mattoon.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Happy Campers Campground
6. Happy Campers Campground
99%
(213)
39mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We look forward to hosting you at Happy Campers Campground! We have
5 full hook up RV sites 50 and 30 amp, free wifi, fishing, swimming and an
1.5 acre pond. Our property also has fire rings and picnic tables available for our campers. We have a dry cabin also available. We have trash bens available.
Seasonal shower house and porta pottys. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! Open now. Class A motorhomes over 40 feet may encounter dragging entering the driveway, beware!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Overland Camping at The 1938 Barn
7. Overland Camping at The 1938 Barn
95%
(73)
41mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Large secluded cove near our barn and garden. Watch the sun come up from the orchard. There is 1 electrical plug so not all 3 spaces have electric but you can run a cord. There is also a single water spigot to share as well. There are 2 houses somewhat visible through the trees but no direct line of sight and otherwise private. We have 2 dogs, Whiskey and Barb, Whiskey will usually keep her space but bark, if you ignore her she will be friendly, acts mean but never bites. Barbara is a Jack Russell. She will jump in the truck if you don't tell her not to and will happily run off with snacks. We ask you please don't feed them as it will teach them to come for food and some people don't appreciate the dogs.. This is a farm so you may see and smell animals. Depending on when you book you may even be somewhat near animals. Be aware of this and be ready to keep dogs contained. We typically run pigs in the woods around the cove but we move them regularly and keep the smell to a minimum by doing so.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Martin H.’s Land
8. Martin H.’s Land
99%
(61)
45mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Pets
Campfires
Farmersburg Theater
9. Farmersburg Theater
19mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 1 site
This is an old church we are renovating into a theater.
We have two sites they both have water and can have access to the electricity for an extra charge. We currently only have a 30 amp plug-in.
Even though the states on Main Street, it’s a very quiet town and you have lots of space to yourself.
Each site has a table and chairs, and there is a communal space with a fire pit and a veggie garden.
Long visitors can exchange their site for volunteer work.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Fort Harrison River Property
10. Fort Harrison River Property
100%
(3)
20mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 2 sites
(3) RV spots located right on the Wabash River. $70/day, $250/weekly and $650/monthly. RV sites will accommodate a 30-foot RV, two sites will accommodate any length RV. Both are equipped with water and sewer hookups, 30/50-amp electrical power, and both have their own picnic table and campfire area.
Pets
Full hookups
Secluded Peaceful Lot Creek &Ravine
11. Secluded Peaceful Lot Creek &Ravine
26mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Park your RV or camp for the night and stay in a quiet peaceful piece of land surrounded by large trees. Pick your own berries during the summer months. Wakeup to the joyful sound of various singing birds. Experience the presence of the resident deer and woodpeckers. Take a light walk ad enter a 2 acre secluded ravine with a small creek and experience the magic of un-touched Nature.
Pets
Life Sanctuaries
12. Life Sanctuaries
89%
(42)
28mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
The farm is one settled by the early pioneers who stopped going west in the early 1800s after they crossed the Eel river in what was then Owen County, Indiana. Later, it became part of Clay County with the addition of Cass Township. This working farm is comprised of 200 acres of rolling pastures and woodlands in the heart of Hoosier Hospitality - Indiana. Learn more about this land:Tent, car, and RV camping with a place for your horse too!You get your choice of where to hookup or pitch your tent and also enjoy all of the nearby attractions. There are state parks with swimming, and the Exotic Feline Rescue Center which is a little like going on a Safari!Nearby attractions include the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival and the Croy's Creek Traders Fair. We are within a mile of the Eel River and Cataract Lake is also very close for boating and fishing. Other attractions include the Owen/Putnam State Forest and McCormicks Creek State Park. An abundance of wildlife can also be seen at the campsite.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Secluded Red Pine Lake
13. Secluded Red Pine Lake
29mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
There’s a lake that has fish in it. And a nice open area for your RV. Also a fishing dock and a small boat as well! Guest are welcome to fish if they want too!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Stone of Hope Campground
14. Stone of Hope Campground
100%
(1)
33mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 2 sites
A private lake nestled in the woods with trails throughout
Peaceful, wild life - a real opportunity to experience nature at its best
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Squatch Hills
15. Squatch Hills
100%
(7)
39mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 3 sites
Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent ,build yourself a lil fire and enjoy the sounds of nature. You will feel like you're in an extremely secluded place but just minutes from a few small towns. Location is close to both the Eel and White rivers. Plenty of fishing opportunities nearby. Blooomington,Terre Haute and Vincennes all within an hours drive.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Howling Moon Homestead
16. Howling Moon Homestead
100%
(5)
44mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a small farm using regenerative practices and permaculture ethics. We are still early on in our journey of working with the land. Our land has been part of our family's homestead for close to one hundred years.
Enjoy walks around the farm where you'll find many places to relax, meditate or simply enjoy the views. Guided tours can be arranged and you can explore the gardens, orchard, different methods of raising chickens.
We're always building and trying new things to optimize our property and care for the land.
There are many great restaurants only 20 minutes away including Mexican, Thai, a brew pub, a winery and a great coffee shop.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Events And Stays At Cataract Falls
17. Events And Stays At Cataract Falls
46mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 1 site
Located in the Town of Cataract alongside the most spectacular waterfalls in the Midwest is the Cataract Falls Lodge. The lodge itself sleeps up to 16 with 5 beds and 3 sofa beds. Three individual units all connecting to one another allow privacy when needed and gatherings when wanted. Across from the lodge is the Cataract Falls Wedding Veranda; an indoor-outdoor space for hosting weddings, family reunions wellness retreats, and business functions for up to 60 people.
The space
For weddings, family gatherings, or business retreats; welcome to the Cataract Falls Lodge. Accommodations for up to 16 overnight guests with an indoor-outdoor event space to host up to 60 people. The lodge and surrounding property are set up for entire families or groups that love the outdoors and enjoy the amenities offered indoors. The lodge and Event Veranda are located at the entrance to the Cataract State Recreation Area. A short walk from the front door you are standing at one of the most magnificent waterfall features in the Midwest. Picture-taking opportunities both at the Falls and on the property are abundant. The lodge has three individual suites for privacy but with adjoining doors that adjoin one another for a family connection.
Guest access
When renting the entire Lodge you and your guests will have access to the entire property with the opportunity to rent the Cataract Falls Veranda for your special event.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Green Meadow Amish Farm
18. Green Meadow Amish Farm
100%
(2)
46mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience a day in the life on an Amish farm. We are an Amish farm family who enjoy the simple things life has to offer. Come bring your tent and sleep under the night sky. For those not ready to take on such a rustic sleeping arrangement, we have a camper available for rent that sleeps up to 5 people. Or you can bring your own. Come have a meal cooked over the open fire. Bake bread or cookies, you can even mill your own wheat! Our wheat has been in the family for generations, and we've been told is the softest and tastiest bread around (try it with our homemade apple butter!) Take a ride on our customized wagon. Where we pop open a table for you to enjoy a picnic with sunset views. Bring your bicycles along and take a trip into town. There are wonderful shops with homemade goodies. Looking for handcrafted furniture, antiques, or just an enjoyable walk around town as buggies go by - it's all just a ride away.
Our Amish farm is nestled in the heart of Amish Country, Douglas County Illinois. We're located just 45 min. from Champaign & Decatur,
5 minutes from the Aikman Wildlife Adventure & 35 min. from the fishing spots & walking trails at Walnut Point State Park. Relax in our quiet lodging right here on the farm where you'll see horses, goats & chickens. For an additional fee, we're happy to offer Amish buggy rides & wagon rides for our guests.
The camper is 28 feet with a 12 foot tip-out. It has one bedroom with a king size bed, and another with a double bed. In the common area there's a sleeper sofa. There's a bathroom with shower in the camper and another bathroom with shower about a 1 min. walk in a separate building.
Our farm is just a 5 min. drive from the Great Pumpkin Patch, Yoder's Country Kitchen and various Amish owned shops. Lake Shelbyville is a 35 minute drive. We are about a 45 min. drive from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and 35 min. from Eastern Illinois University.
This Amish owned camper doesn't have Wifi (TV only plays DVD's). Depending on your phone carrier and plan, you shouldn't have any problem getting cell phone service and internet on your phone. It may be possible to funnel the internet from your phone to your phone to your laptop using a "personal hotspot".
No pets and no alcohol allowed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp Friend Park
19. Camp Friend Park
100%
(2)
46mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 6 sites
Camp Friend was founded in 1951 when 83-year-old John George Friend donated 51.5 acres of wooded land—most of his property—“for the benefit of the youth of Putnam County.” To manage and preserve this gift, the Putnam Friend of Youth Foundation was established, ensuring that young people continue to enjoy the natural beauty of the land for generations to come.
John and his son worked as gardeners for several Greencastle families, including the Barnabys, who owned a lumber yard and sawmill and contributed generously to the community. John likely felt encouraged to donate the wooded acreage due to his association with the Barnabys and his love for spending time in nature with his grandchildren.
His gift allows all guests to appreciate and explore the great outdoors.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Swanky Acres
20. Swanky Acres
100%
(9)
47mi from Lincoln Trail State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is located north of Rockville, Indiana, in beautiful Parke County, right off Highway 41. Nestled in a quiet ravine, it offers a peaceful getaway close to local attractions.
Turkey Run State Park and Shades State Park are just a few miles away, and kayaking or canoeing is available down the road. The area is famous for its 30+ beautiful covered bridges, as well as local Amish shops and food stands. Rockville itself has several charming coffee shops and unique shopping spots.
On-site, our property features walking trails, a his-and-hers bathhouse with toilets and showers, and a covered picnic area for you to enjoy. We are also within 30 minutes of Bridgeton and Mansfield—perfect if you’re visiting for the amazing Bridge Festival.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jeremy
1 week ago
15 ft pop-up camper
Extremely peaceful and secluded area. Beautiful day and night stays. Would absolutely recommend.
See more
Zanny
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Brad was responsive and kind. He met us and led us to the site, and gave us the run down of the place. Kids played in the shady stream which was perfect to cool us off after a hot day on the road. The camp spot was beautiful (though very sunny in the afternoon). Would definitely go again!
See more
M
Mary
2 weeks ago
38 ft travel trailer
With pets
This location was about 15min off I-70 but the peaceful setting was worth the drive. It was very clean & the owner was friendly and helpful.
See moreD
Donald
2 weeks ago
Tent
I loved camping on Dwight's land. Very clean place, and quiet for our whole 4 night stay. Dwight was very helpful when you needed help or questions answered. Went fishing at night. Didn't catch anything but with the moon, stars, frogs and everything nature had to offer, it was still enjoyable. Very delighted with the place as a whole, especially with it being our first time out in a camper. Would camp there again.
See moreA
Amy
2 weeks ago
20 ft truck camper
Very secluded, great wildlife viewing. Host met us to guide us to location
See more
b
brandon
2 weeks ago
18 ft truck camper
The place is nice and quite. Me and my dog got some quality sleep
See more
R
Ryan
3 weeks ago
Tent
This place was great!! Very friendly staff that was very accommodating! Very well kept up sites too!
See moreS
Sydney
3 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
We loved our stay at Dwight’s campground! So peaceful and beautiful! Such a great convenience having a full hook up at the site as well. Dwight was a fabulous host and we will definitely be back!
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c
chris
3 weeks ago
29 ft travel trailer
With kids
We had a great overnight stay. The campground was nice and quiet, which made for a relaxing stop. We really enjoyed walking around the pond, and waking up to the crowing of a rooster was a fun touch that added to the charm of the place. We’d definitely stay here again.
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C
Charity
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We loved tent camping in the alpaca pasture and hanging with the animals. Tracy was a fantastic host. We look forward to coming back again.
See moreJ
Jerry
3 weeks ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
The camp is small but very clean. Off the beaten path. Great host. I look forward to staying there again.
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A
Ashley
3 weeks ago
2 nights at Happy Campers Campground
We loved staying in the cabin! It sits on a beautiful pond. The property is quiet and full of wildlife. We will definitely go again!
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J
Jesse
June 2026
Tent
Sherri’s property is amazing! We reached out to her @ 5:30 on a Saturday looking for a camping spot as we weren’t satisfied with the privacy at shades. Her family welcomed us to her property and we had an amazing stay. Cool creek on the property with plenty to do and enjoy being outside. 10/10 recommend. Amazing privacy.
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D
Didier
June 2026
16 ft car
Nice peaceful location, friendly owner and staff. Nice place for a relaxing evening by the campfire and a bit of fishing with our two dogs. Access to a 110v plug helped our Tesla camp mode running without problems
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A
Anne
June 2026
Weekend Trip to Happy Campers Campground
I was looking for a location close to Terre Haute where we could decompress after an outdoor workshop with my dog that ran a full weekend. I had previously stayed in the local hotels, but wanted something with space, quiet, and most of the standard comforts.
I was pleasantly surprised when we walked into the cabin on the first night that there was a/c. I must have not read carefully because I was ready for a humid evening, but the a/c was on and the cabin felt great! The fridge was big enough for my meals, the microwave was full size and heated up morning coffee in a jiffy. Everything was clean and organized. Bed was comfy, but honestly I’m not too picky — especially after working outdoors for 10 hours. I also don’t mind an outhouse, even when it rained for a brief period. The short distance had a nice big tree that provided cover most of the way.
The owner met me as we were unpacking and went over the form. And we had a quick chat about my weekend, and he made sure we had everything we needed.
Highly recommend!
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K
Kathryn
June 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Great instructions and peaceful property! We loved the piggies :)
See moreT
Tom
June 2026
Tent
Very quiet except for a tiny bit of road noise. Nice big shower facility. Could have used a picnic table, but I have a small camp table so it was fine. Good signage and easy to find.
See moreR
Rachell
June 2026
35 ft fifth wheel
With pets
The area is so nice!!! Nice pond for swimming or fishing. Big yard for kids to play. And Dwight was so nice and friendly!! We all enjoyed ourselves!! Will definitely be back!!
See moreR
Rachell
June 2026
36 ft travel trailer
With pets
The area was very nice! The pond was perfect for swimming and fishing. Dwight was so nice and friendly!! We all had a nice time and will definitely be back!!!!
See more
Reda
June 2026
Tent
Had a wonderful overnight camping experience at Martin’s land. The property is peaceful, well-maintained, and surrounded by beautiful nature, making it the perfect place to relax and disconnect from the noise of everyday life. Martin was welcoming and accommodating, and the entire experience felt safe and enjoyable. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet camping getaway and look forward to returning in the future.
See moreLincoln Trail State Park camping guide
Overview
About
The focus of Lincoln Trail State Park is the lovely Lincoln Trail Lake. It’s thickly-wooded shoreline and myriad of small coves and inlets, makes it a great lake for exploration and wildlife viewing. Around the lake, you’ll discover rare wildflowers, ancient forests, and shady ravines and valleys.
Small boats with small motors (or, better yet, no motors) are perfect for serene explorations. Try your skill at hooking largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and channel catfish. Then head over to one of two secluded campgrounds to set up your home away from home and fry up your catch. The pace is slow at Lincoln Trail State Park, and that’s just the way we like it.
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