Your Guide to the Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in Illinois
Illinois is widely recognized as the Land of Lincoln and also as the home of The Second City. With bustling urban landscapes like Chicago and easy access to The Great Lakes, Illinois offers an extensive range of attractions. This state is packed with activities and sights, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. To help you explore the diverse environments from large cities to rolling fields, we have identified the top five RV parks and campgrounds that promise enjoyable experiences throughout The Prairie State.
Casino Queen RV Park: East St. Louis
Casino Queen RV Park stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a blend of leisure and fun. The park features full utility hookups along with cable and wireless internet access, shower facilities, laundry amenities, and even a convenience store for your needs. With a 24-hour shuttle service connecting you to the Casino Queen and the MetroLink station, convenience is paramount.
For those not inclined to gamble, the nearby St. Louis, Missouri, offers numerous attractions, such as catching a ballgame at Busch Stadium, exploring the St. Louis Zoo, or savoring delicious meals at Laclede’s Landing. Consequently, the options for entertainment during your stay are abundant.
Leisure Lake Resort: Shorewood
Leisure Lake Resort provides a serene environment that is perfect for unwinding before heading into Chicago. Aptly named, this resort boasts 180 full utility hookup sites situated on spacious, level pads. Essential amenities include showers, laundry facilities, a dump station, and propane refills.
While enjoying your time at the resort, you can engage in activities such as horseshoes, volleyball, and mini-golf, or even rent a canoe or paddleboat. Moreover, the vibrant city of Chicago is less than an hour away, or you could take in a NASCAR race in Joliet at Chicagoland Speedway, providing ample options for adventure.
Illinois Beach State Park: Zion
It would be remiss not to mention a park located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Illinois Beach State Park is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts keen to explore the Illinois coastline. With 241 campsites featuring electrical and water hookups, alongside on-site shower facilities and dump stations, visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay.
Days can be spent relaxing by the water or partaking in recreational activities like biking and fishing. The park is notable for its diverse flora—hosting over 650 species of plants—making it a treasure for nature lovers. However, families should be aware that the park is frequented by nudists.
Starved Rock State Park: Oglesby
Starved Rock State Park features extensive amenities with 129 full-service campsites equipped with water and electric hookups. Each site boasts a fire ring and grilling area, along with showers, a dump station, a playground, and a camping store.
This park is rich in activities, offering over 13 miles of hiking trails, kayaking, and fishing opportunities. Additionally, there are various programs available, including guided hikes for families and wine tours for adults, ensuring a diverse selection of experiences.
Mississippi Palisades State Park: Savanna
No visit to Illinois would be complete without experiencing something along the majestic waters of the Mississippi River. At Mississippi Palisades State Park, visitors can witness the river’s stunning power and beauty. Campsites provide electric hookups, and the park is equipped with dump stations and water facilities. Showers and restrooms are also readily available.
The park offers breathtaking views and bluffs that overlook the Mississippi River, adorned with a myriad of wildflowers from spring through summer, enhancing its natural beauty. Visitors can engage in swimming, kayaking, fishing, or simply hiking around the park. Additionally, the area is abundant with wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. Don’t miss the iconic Indian Head rock formation, and for those interested in local history, the Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center is a nearby attraction worth exploring.