The best camping in Nauvoo State Park, IL

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The best camping in Nauvoo State Park, IL

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
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4. Whitetail Tent Camping

100%
(10)
30mi from Nauvoo State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Keosauqua, IA
Camping, (Fishinfg at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey! Learn more about this land: Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)  You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.  You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.  If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.  If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Bell Acres

8. Bell Acres

100%
(2)
47mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mound Station, IL
Primitive Forest Retreat – 20 Acres of Seclusion Near State Park Escape to 20 acres of peaceful, private woodland perfect for tent camping or parking your camper (note: no hookups). This primitive site offers a true back-to-nature experience—no electricity, no sewer, no water—just you, the trees, and the quiet. Enjoy exploring a manicured trail system winding through the forest, ideal for peaceful walks or wildlife watching. A small, serene pond adds to the natural charm (please note: no fish). Pets are welcome—bring your furry friends to roam and relax with you! Located just 10 minutes from Siloam Springs State Park and 5 minutes from the nearest convenience store Homestyle Foods (closed on Sundays), you’ll have easy access to both adventure and essentials. Property lines will be marked with purple painted trees and some wooden stakes. Please respect property lines. Please Note: • There are trail cameras around the farm used for wildlife monitoring. The cameras are located on posts and trees on the trail system. There are no trail cameras located at the camp site itself. Per request, the location of all cameras be provided. • No motorized vehicles allowed beyond the designated parking area • Primitive camping only – no modern amenities • Pet friendly • Perfect for tents or off-grid camper parking Come unwind, unplug, and reconnect with nature.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Hickory Haven Campground

12. Hickory Haven Campground

10mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Keokuk, IA
Discover the charm of Hickory Haven RV Park and Campground, a unique family-friendly destination nestled on 27 acres of lush, heavily shaded grounds just north of historic Keokuk, Iowa. This serene retreat is conveniently located only ½ mile off state highway 61/218, making it an ideal spot for families seeking adventure and relaxation in nature. Our campground features 53 spacious, level sites that accommodate both drive-thru and back-in parking, complete with full hookups for water, electric, and sewer services. Guests can choose between 30 and 50 amp metered electrical options, ensuring a comfortable stay. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, we also offer numerous tent camping sites equipped with fire pits and 20 amp electric service. At Hickory Haven, we pride ourselves on providing a variety of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Enjoy clean showers and restrooms, a convenient laundry room, and a playground designed for young children. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate our hiking trails and fishing pond, while our lighted pavilion, complete with a grill and refrigerator, is perfect for gatherings and cookouts. With its blend of comfort and natural beauty, Hickory Haven RV Park and Campground is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area's outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops
Pets
Wilson Lake Park Campground

13. Wilson Lake Park Campground

12mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Donnellson, IA
Wilson Lake Park stands out as a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its expansive 116 acres that offer a variety of recreational activities. At the center of the park lies an 8-acre spring-fed lake, which is stocked with trout every other year, making it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts looking to reel in their next catch. The park features a well-equipped campground with full hookups, as well as primitive camping sites for those who prefer a more rustic experience. This variety caters to both RV campers and tent enthusiasts, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect spot. Winding trails traverse the park's stunning landscapes, which include beautiful prairies and lush woods, making it an ideal location for hiking and nature walks. Families will appreciate the large shelter house, perfect for gatherings, picnics, and special events. Additionally, a newly installed playground provides a safe and enjoyable space for children to play and explore. Whether you’re fishing, camping, hiking, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, Wilson Lake Park offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers.
Pets
Indian Lake Park

15. Indian Lake Park

20mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Farmington, IA
Indian Lake Park stands out as a unique 177-acre city-owned retreat, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and serene relaxation. This picturesque park is not only a haven for anglers but also an ideal spot for picnicking and camping enthusiasts. The centerpiece of the park is its expansive 44-acre no-wake lake, surrounded by numerous tree-shaded areas that cater to those who prefer to enjoy nature without fishing. For those looking to explore, a lovely two-mile nature interpretive trail encircles the lake, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing during the winter months. The lake features a designated swimming area (swim at your own risk, as there is no lifeguard on duty), and visitors can rent kayaks and canoes to further enjoy the water. Overnight guests can choose from a variety of accommodations. There are two cozy wood-framed cabins (Cabins 1 and 2) that can accommodate up to four people, featuring one full-sized bed and a pull-out couch, available for $75 a night plus tax. Additionally, four renovated rail-car cabins, which also sleep four, are available for $50 a night plus tax. Three of these cabins include one full-sized bed and a set of twin
Pets
Oak Hollow Campground

16. Oak Hollow Campground

23mi from Nauvoo State Park · 15 sites · Canton, MO
Welcome to Oak Hollow Campground, a unique destination that offers a serene escape surrounded by nature's beauty. Nestled in the heart of Missouri, this campground provides a perfect blend of privacy and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal spot for both new and returning campers. To reach us from St. Patrick, Missouri, simply head south on Highway 81. After passing the church, continue for a quarter of a mile until you find a gravel road on your left, marked with a sign for “Lake of the Oaks.” Follow this road for approximately 1.3 miles, and you will arrive at the brand new Oak Hollow Campground. Our campground features spacious sites that allow for a peaceful retreat, while still being close to various attractions. Enjoy nearby natural wonders, swimming holes, and a range of outdoor activities that cater to all ages. After a day of exploration, you can unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the charm of the area. We look forward to welcoming you to Oak Hollow Campground, where unforgettable memories await!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Welter Recreation Park

17. Welter Recreation Park

24mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Wever, IA
Welter Recreation Area stands out as a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring three distinct loops—Sycamore, Maple, and Cottonwood—each easily accessible from Skunk River Road. This expansive area spans 63 acres between the Sycamore and Maple loops, extending from Skunk River Road to the scenic Skunk River, making it an ideal spot for camping and outdoor activities. The loops cover a 2.5-mile stretch along the river, attracting float groups, canoes, and kayaks, which often use Welter Recreation Area as a convenient launching and unloading point. The Cottonwood Loop, situated above Augusta, adds an additional 16 acres of natural beauty, nestled between Skunk River Road and the river. While the campgrounds occupy only a small portion of this vast area, visitors can enjoy the tranquility and privacy that the surrounding landscape offers. Additionally, both the Sycamore and Maple loops are open to public hunting outside of the camping season, providing further recreational opportunities. Whether you're looking to paddle down the river or explore the natural surroundings, Welter Recreation Area is a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Pets
100% (2)

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Whitetail Tent Camping

100%
(10)
30mi from Nauvoo State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Keosauqua, IA
Camping, (Fishinfg at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey! Learn more about this land: Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)  You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.  You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.  If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.  If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

Bell Acres

100%
(2)
47mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mound Station, IL
Primitive Forest Retreat – 20 Acres of Seclusion Near State Park Escape to 20 acres of peaceful, private woodland perfect for tent camping or parking your camper (note: no hookups). This primitive site offers a true back-to-nature experience—no electricity, no sewer, no water—just you, the trees, and the quiet. Enjoy exploring a manicured trail system winding through the forest, ideal for peaceful walks or wildlife watching. A small, serene pond adds to the natural charm (please note: no fish). Pets are welcome—bring your furry friends to roam and relax with you! Located just 10 minutes from Siloam Springs State Park and 5 minutes from the nearest convenience store Homestyle Foods (closed on Sundays), you’ll have easy access to both adventure and essentials. Property lines will be marked with purple painted trees and some wooden stakes. Please respect property lines. Please Note: • There are trail cameras around the farm used for wildlife monitoring. The cameras are located on posts and trees on the trail system. There are no trail cameras located at the camp site itself. Per request, the location of all cameras be provided. • No motorized vehicles allowed beyond the designated parking area • Primitive camping only – no modern amenities • Pet friendly • Perfect for tents or off-grid camper parking Come unwind, unplug, and reconnect with nature.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night

Hickory Haven Campground

10mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Keokuk, IA
Discover the charm of Hickory Haven RV Park and Campground, a unique family-friendly destination nestled on 27 acres of lush, heavily shaded grounds just north of historic Keokuk, Iowa. This serene retreat is conveniently located only ½ mile off state highway 61/218, making it an ideal spot for families seeking adventure and relaxation in nature. Our campground features 53 spacious, level sites that accommodate both drive-thru and back-in parking, complete with full hookups for water, electric, and sewer services. Guests can choose between 30 and 50 amp metered electrical options, ensuring a comfortable stay. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, we also offer numerous tent camping sites equipped with fire pits and 20 amp electric service. At Hickory Haven, we pride ourselves on providing a variety of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Enjoy clean showers and restrooms, a convenient laundry room, and a playground designed for young children. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate our hiking trails and fishing pond, while our lighted pavilion, complete with a grill and refrigerator, is perfect for gatherings and cookouts. With its blend of comfort and natural beauty, Hickory Haven RV Park and Campground is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area's outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops
Pets

Wilson Lake Park Campground

12mi from Nauvoo State Park · 1 site · Donnellson, IA
Wilson Lake Park stands out as a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its expansive 116 acres that offer a variety of recreational activities. At the center of the park lies an 8-acre spring-fed lake, which is stocked with trout every other year, making it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts looking to reel in their next catch. The park features a well-equipped campground with full hookups, as well as primitive camping sites for those who prefer a more rustic experience. This variety caters to both RV campers and tent enthusiasts, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect spot. Winding trails traverse the park's stunning landscapes, which include beautiful prairies and lush woods, making it an ideal location for hiking and nature walks. Families will appreciate the large shelter house, perfect for gatherings, picnics, and special events. Additionally, a newly installed playground provides a safe and enjoyable space for children to play and explore. Whether you’re fishing, camping, hiking, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, Wilson Lake Park offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers.
Pets

Other options near Nauvoo State Park

The best camping in Nauvoo State Park, IL guide

Overview

About

Situated peacefully on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, historic Nauvoo State Park has nature lovin’ folk jumping for joy at the sight of an expansive lake and sandy, mile-long shoreline. Take in some of the best views the park has to offer on the Locust Lane Trail. A 1.5-mile loop, the path winds around the lake, through the woods, and over prairie flower dotted hillsides. The campsites are many and the accommodations are vast. From spacious, individual sites, to a youth group area, all are centrally located and hook you up with VIP access to all adventurin’ possibilities.

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