Best Camping Near Salem, IL

Discover the best campgrounds near Salem, IL for an unforgettable outdoor adventure and family fun.

7

Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

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Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Salem, Illinois

7 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Salem, Illinois

  • Carlyle Lake - Located about 30 miles from Salem, IL, this is the largest man-made lake in Illinois. It offers a variety of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.

  • Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area - Approximately 15 miles from Salem, this state park features a beautiful lake for fishing and boating, as well as trails for hiking and horseback riding.

  • Centralia Carillon - Situated around 20 miles from Salem in Centralia, IL. This impressive bell tower offers concerts and tours that provide a unique cultural experience.

  • Rend Lake - About 45 miles south of Salem, Rend Lake is perfect for water sports enthusiasts with opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming as well as camping and golfing nearby.

  • Cedarhurst Center for the Arts - Located roughly 50 miles away in Mt. Vernon, IL. This center includes an art museum with rotating exhibits and an outdoor sculpture park set on beautiful grounds.

  • St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway - Around 60 miles west of Salem in Jackson County near St. Louis area; enjoy scenic train rides through picturesque landscapes aboard vintage railcars.

  • Shawnee National Forest - Approximately 70 miles southeast of Salem; this expansive forest offers numerous trails for hiking and horseback riding along with stunning natural landmarks like Garden of the Gods.

Ways to camp near Salem, Illinois

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Popular outdoor activities near Salem, Illinois include exploring the Shawnee National Forest and visiting the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

Families can enjoy a fun day trip to The Magic House St. Louis Children's Museum or Aikman Wildlife Adventure near Salem, Illinois.

Yes, notable wildlife attractions close to Salem include Aikman Wildlife Adventure and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

A unique shopping experience around Salem includes visiting The Butcher Shop and the Moonshine Store.

Museums that can be visited on a trip from Salem include The Museums of Exit 71 and Missouri Botanical Garden.

The Fair St. Louis is a family-friendly event that takes place near Salem, offering various activities for all ages.

Plan a trip to Salem, Illinois

Plan a trip to Salem, Illinois

Planning a camping trip to Salem, IL, promises an adventure filled with natural beauty, local charm, and plenty of outdoor activities. Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Salem is surrounded by several KOA campgrounds that offer a perfect base for your explorations.

Best Time to Visit

Salem is a year-round destination with each season offering its unique appeal. Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring. Summer is perfect for water activities and enjoying long daylight hours. Fall offers stunning foliage and cooler weather that's great for cozy campfires. Winter can be chilly but provides a serene landscape perfect for those who enjoy solitude.

Weather Expectations

  • Spring: Mild temperatures with occasional rain showers.
  • Summer: Warm days ideal for swimming and outdoor sports.
  • Fall: Cool mornings and evenings with beautiful fall colors.
  • Winter: Cold weather; pack warm clothing if visiting during this time.

What to Pack

Packing smartly ensures you have everything you need:

  • Clothing: Layered outfits are key due to variable weather conditions. Include waterproof gear in spring, lightweight clothing in summer, warm layers in fall, and heavy-duty winter wear if visiting during colder months.
  • Camping Gear: Essentials like tents or RV supplies (if not renting), sleeping bags suitable for the season’s temperature range, cooking equipment (consider an electric skillet or firepit tools), bug spray especially in warmer months.
  • Extras: A camera to capture memories, hiking boots for exploring trails, swimwear if planning water activities.

Planning Tips

  1. Book Early: Popular seasons fill up quickly at KOA campgrounds like Benton KOA Journey or Grayville / I-64 KOA Holiday.
  2. Check Amenities: Each campground offers different amenities such as pools or fishing spots—plan according to your interests.
  3. Local Attractions: Don’t miss out on nearby attractions like historical sites or local markets which add flavor to your trip.

Whether you're looking forward to roasting marshmallows under the stars at St. Louis N.E./I-270/Granite City KOA Journey or exploring scenic trails near Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday, Salem has something special waiting just around every corner!

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Unwind at a campground near Salem, Illinois, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.

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