This article features campsites in each state below, get packing and get camping!
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Find Out About The Top Midwest Campgrounds In These States:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- South Dakota
- Wisconsin
The Midwest is a camper’s paradise, offering stunning lakeside state parks perfect for tent camping, RV adventures, and outdoor escapes.
Below, we’ve curated the top three camping spots in each Midwest state, focusing on state parks near lakes or bodies of water. Each campground allows tents, campers, or both, with details on electric hookups, proximity to downtown areas, and reservation links. Pack your gear and explore these scenic destinations!
Illinois
Illinois: Lakeside Camping Near Chicago and Beyond
1. Starved Rock State Park Campground
- Location: Utica, IL
- Body of Water: Illinois River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping allowed; 133 sites with electric hookups. Features fire pits, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers.
- Proximity to Downtown: About 5 miles from downtown Utica, a small town with dining and shops. Not near a major urban center.
- Why Visit: Known for canyons, waterfalls, and 13 miles of hiking trails, this park offers scenic river views and fishing. Sites are spacious but busy in summer, so book early.
- Reservation Link: Illinois DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $25-$35 per night.
2. Illinois Beach State Park Campground
- Location: Zion, IL
- Body of Water: Lake Michigan
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 241 sites, most with electric hookups. Includes restrooms, showers, and dump stations.
- Proximity to Downtown: Roughly 10 miles from Waukegan’s downtown with restaurants and stores; 40 miles from Chicago.
- Why Visit: Offers 6 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline for swimming and fishing. Trails wind through dunes and wetlands. Ideal for families seeking beachside camping.
- Reservation Link: Illinois DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$35 per night. Busy in summer; book early.
3. Kankakee River State Park Campground
- Location: Bourbonnais, IL
- Body of Water: Kankakee River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 110 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms and showers available.
- Proximity to Downtown: About 5 miles from Kankakee’s downtown with shops and eateries.
- Why Visit: Perfect for kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the river. Trails offer views of limestone cliffs. Family-friendly with playgrounds.
- Reservation Link: Illinois DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Quiet setting but fills up on weekends.
Indiana
Indiana: Dunes and Lakes for Outdoor Lovers
1. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
- Location: Chesterton, IN
- Body of Water: Lake Michigan
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 140 sites with electric hookups. Modern restrooms, showers, and dump stations.
- Proximity to Downtown: 3 miles from Chesterton’s small downtown with cafes; 50 miles from Chicago.
- Why Visit: Features 3 miles of sandy beaches and towering dunes. Hiking trails and birdwatching are highlights. Great for families and water activities.
- Reservation Link: Indiana DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $23-$33 per night. Book early for summer.
2. Pokagon State Park Campground
- Location: Angola, IN
- Body of Water: Lake James
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 273 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store available.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Angola’s downtown with dining and shops.
- Why Visit: Offers swimming, boating, and fishing on Lake James. Winter brings toboggan runs. Family-friendly with nature programs.
- Reservation Link: Indiana DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Popular year-round.
3. Tippecanoe River State Park Campground
- Location: Winamac, IN
- Body of Water: Tippecanoe River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 112 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms and showers available.
- Proximity to Downtown: 7 miles from Winamac’s small downtown with basic amenities.
- Why Visit: Ideal for canoeing and fishing along the river. Trails explore wetlands and forests. Quiet, nature-focused escape.
- Reservation Link: Indiana DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Less crowded than larger parks.
Iowa
Iowa: Rivers and Lakes for Quiet Retreats
1. Backbone State Park Campground
- Location: Dundee, IA
- Body of Water: Maquoketa River and Backbone Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 125 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and dump stations available.
- Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles from Manchester’s small downtown; not near a major urban area.
- Why Visit: Iowa’s oldest state park offers fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake and river provide serene views, and trails lead to caves and cliffs.
- Reservation Link: Iowa DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $16-$19 per night. Book early for summer weekends.
2. Lake Macbride State Park Campground
- Location: Solon, IA
- Body of Water: Lake Macbride
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 110 sites, most with electric hookups. Modern restrooms, showers, and boat rentals.
- Proximity to Downtown: 15 miles from Iowa City’s vibrant downtown with restaurants and cultural attractions.
- Why Visit: Great for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Trails connect to Coralville Lake. Family-friendly with playgrounds.
- Reservation Link: Iowa DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $16-$19 per night. Popular with locals.
3. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
- Location: Maquoketa, IA
- Body of Water: Raccoon Creek
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 29 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms and showers available.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Maquoketa’s downtown with shops and dining.
- Why Visit: Famous for its caves and hiking trails. The creek offers a peaceful setting for fishing. Ideal for adventurers and families.
- Reservation Link: Iowa DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $11-$16 per night. Small campground, so book early.
Kansas
Kansas: Lakeside Camping in the Heartland
1. Clinton State Park Campground
- Location: Lawrence, KS
- Body of Water: Clinton Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 200 sites, most with electric and water hookups. Restrooms, showers, and dump stations.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Lawrence’s lively downtown with restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Why Visit: Offers boating, fishing, and swimming on Clinton Lake. Trails and a beach make it family-friendly. Close to the University of Kansas.
- Reservation Link: Kansas State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $10-$20 per night plus daily vehicle fee. Busy in summer.
2. El Dorado State Park Campground
- Location: El Dorado, KS
- Body of Water: El Dorado Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 1,100 sites, many with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles from El Dorado’s small downtown with basic amenities.
- Why Visit: One of Kansas’ largest lakes, ideal for boating, fishing, and water sports. Extensive trails for hiking and biking.
- Reservation Link: Kansas State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $10-$20 per night. Large campground but fills up fast.
3. Kanopolis State Park Campground
- Location: Marquette, KS
- Body of Water: Kanopolis Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 150 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and boat ramps.
- Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles from Salina’s downtown with dining and shops.
- Why Visit: Offers fishing, boating, and horseback riding trails. The lake’s sandstone cliffs create a scenic backdrop.
- Reservation Link: Kansas State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $10-$20 per night. Quieter than larger parks.
Michigan
Michigan: Great Lakes and Traverse City Gems
1. Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park Campground
- Location: Traverse City, MI
- Body of Water: Grand Traverse Bay (Lake Michigan)
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 300+ sites with electric hookups. Modern restrooms, showers, and dump stations.
- Proximity to Downtown: Just 2 miles from Traverse City’s great downtown with restaurants, shops, and festivals. Don’t forget to check out The Cherry Festival if visiting in July!
- Why Visit: Offers beach access to Grand Traverse Bay for swimming and kayaking. The TART Trail connects to downtown for biking. Close to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Clean facilities and family-friendly vibe.
- Reservation Link: Michigan DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $31-$39 per night plus $9 daily park fee. Busy during summer and Cherry Festival; book 6 months in advance.
2. Ludington State Park Campground
- Location: Ludington, MI
- Body of Water: Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 355 sites, many with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 7 miles from Ludington’s downtown with shops and dining.
- Why Visit: Features dunes, beaches, and a lighthouse. Great for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Popular, so book early.
- Reservation Link: Michigan DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $29-$37 per night. Open year-round.
3. Warren Dunes State Park Campground
- Location: Sawyer, MI
- Body of Water: Lake Michigan
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 220 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and beach access.
- Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles from Bridgman’s small downtown; 30 miles from South Bend, IN.
- Why Visit: Known for its massive dunes and 3 miles of shoreline. Great for swimming, hiking, and sandboarding. Family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Michigan DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $25-$33 per night. It’s super busy in the summer!
Minissota
Minnesota: Lakes and Wilderness Retreats
1. Itasca State Park Campground
- Location: Park Rapids, MN
- Body of Water: Lake Itasca (headwaters of the Mississippi River)
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 223 sites, some with electric hookcyclops://localhost:1313/post/creating-a-blog-with-hugo-and-github-pages/ups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles from Park Rapids’ small downtown with dining.
- Why Visit: Home to the Mississippi’s source, offering fishing, boating, and biking. Historic sites and trails make it family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Minnesota DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $25-$35 per night. Book early for summer.
2. Sibley State Park Campground
- Location: New London, MN
- Body of Water: Lake Andrew
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 132 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and canoe rentals.
- Proximity to Downtown: 15 miles from Willmar’s downtown with shops and restaurants.
- Why Visit: Offers swimming, fishing, and hiking. Mount Tom provides panoramic views. Great for families.
- Reservation Link: Minnesota DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Popular in summer.
3. Tettegouche State Park Campground
- Location: Silver Bay, MN
- Body of Water: Lake Superior
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 28 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms and showers available.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Silver Bay’s small downtown with basic amenities.
- Why Visit: Features waterfalls, cliffs, and Lake Superior shoreline. Great for hiking and kayaking. Scenic and serene.
- Reservation Link: Minnesota DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Smaller campground, so book early.
Missouri
Missouri: Ozark Lakes and Rivers
1. Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground
- Location: Osage Beach, MO
- Body of Water: Lake of the Ozarks
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 230 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Osage Beach’s downtown with dining and shops.
- Why Visit: Missouri’s largest state park offers boating, fishing, and swimming. Trails and beaches are family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Missouri State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $14-$23 per night. Busy in summer.
2. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park Campground
- Location: Middle Brook, MO
- Body of Water: Black River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 70 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and an amphitheater.
- Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles from Ironton’s small downtown; not near a major urban area.
- Why Visit: Famous for its natural water slides and swimming holes. Hiking trails explore the Ozarks. Great for adventurers.
- Reservation Link: Missouri State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $14-$23 per night. Book early for summer.
3. Table Rock State Park Campground
- Location: Branson, MO
- Body of Water: Table Rock Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 165 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and boat rentals.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Branson’s bustling downtown with shows and attractions.
- Why Visit: Offers boating, fishing, and swimming. Close to Silver Dollar City amusement park. Family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Missouri State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $14-$23 per night. Popular year-round.
Nebraska
Nebraska: Lakes and Scenic Plains
1. Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area
- Location: Ogallala, NE
- Body of Water: Lake McConaughy
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 300+ sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and dump stations.
- Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles from Ogallala’s downtown with dining and shops.
- Why Visit: Nebraska’s largest lake offers fishing, boating, and swimming. Sandy beaches are great for families.
- Reservation Link: Nebraska Game and Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $15-$35 per night. Busy in summer.
2. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
- Location: Ashland, NE
- Body of Water: Platte River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 149 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a water park.
- Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles from Omaha’s downtown with restaurants and attractions.
- Why Visit: Family-friendly with a water park, trails, and fishing. Offers arts programs and theater.
- Reservation Link: Nebraska Game and Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$35 per night. Year-round camping.
3. Branched Oak State Recreation Area
- Location: Raymond, NE
- Body of Water: Branched Oak Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 200 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and boat ramps.
- Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles from Lincoln’s downtown with dining and cultural sites.
- Why Visit: Great for boating, fishing, and swimming. Trails and open spaces for families and groups.
- Reservation Link: Nebraska Game and Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $15-$30 per night. Popular with locals.
North Dakota
North Dakota: Lakes and Historic Sites
1. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground
- Location: Mandan, ND
- Body of Water: Missouri River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 57 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Mandan’s downtown; 10 miles from Bismarck.
- Why Visit: Offers historic tours, fishing, and hiking along the river. Family-friendly with scenic views.
- Reservation Link: North Dakota Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $17-$25 per night. Open year-round.
2. Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground
- Location: Pick City, ND
- Body of Water: Lake Sakakawea
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 150 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and boat ramps.
- Proximity to Downtown: 15 miles from Garrison’s small downtown; remote setting.
- Why Visit: Ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. Marina and beaches make it family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: North Dakota Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $17-$25 per night. Busy in summer.
3. Turtle River State Park Campground
- Location: Arvilla, ND
- Body of Water: Turtle River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 70 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and trails.
- Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles from Grand Forks’ downtown with dining and shops.
- Why Visit: Offers fishing, hiking, and biking in a quiet setting. Great for families and nature lovers.
- Reservation Link: North Dakota Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $17-$25 per night. Year-round camping.
Ohio
Ohio: Lake Erie and Scenic Rivers
1. East Harbor State Park Campground
- Location: Lakeside Marblehead, OH
- Body of Water: Lake Erie
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 365 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Marblehead’s small downtown; 10 miles from Sandusky.
- Why Visit: Offers beaches, fishing, and boating on Lake Erie. Close to Cedar Point amusement park. Family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Ohio State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $26-$36 per night. Busy in summer.
2. Hueston Woods State Park Campground
- Location: College Corner, OH
- Body of Water: Acton Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 250 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and boat rentals.
- Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles from Oxford’s downtown with dining and shops.
- Why Visit: Great for boating, fishing, and hiking. Features a covered bridge and fossil hunting.
- Reservation Link: Ohio State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $24-$34 per night. Popular with families.
3. Findley State Park Campground
- Location: Wellington, OH
- Body of Water: Findley Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 270 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a beach.
- Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles from Wellington’s small downtown; 30 miles from Cleveland.
- Why Visit: Offers fishing, boating, and disc golf. Trails and a beach make it family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Ohio State Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $24-$34 per night. Quiet setting.
South Dakota
South Dakota: Lakes and Badlands
1. Custer State Park – Blue Bell Campground
- Location: Custer, SD
- Body of Water: French Creek
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 30 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a general store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 15 miles from Custer’s downtown with dining and shops.
- Why Visit: Offers fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing (bison, deer). Close to Mount Rushmore. Family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Book early for summer.
2. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area Campground
- Location: Yankton, SD
- Body of Water: Lewis and Clark Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 400 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and boat ramps.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Yankton’s downtown with restaurants and shops.
- Why Visit: Great for boating, fishing, and swimming. Extensive trails and beaches. Family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Busy in summer.
3. Angostura Recreation Area Campground
- Location: Hot Springs, SD
- Body of Water: Angostura Reservoir
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 170 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a marina.
- Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles from Hot Springs’ downtown with dining and attractions.
- Why Visit: Offers boating, fishing, and swimming. Scenic reservoir views and trails.
- Reservation Link: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$30 per night. Popular for water sports.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin: Lakes and Dunes Galore
1. Devil’s Lake State Park Campground
- Location: Baraboo, WI
- Body of Water: Devil’s Lake
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 423 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Baraboo’s downtown with shops and dining.
- Why Visit: Wisconsin’s most popular park offers swimming, hiking, and rock climbing. Stunning lake views. Family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Wisconsin DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$35 per night. Book 11 months in advance for summer.
2. Kohler-Andrae State Park Campground
- Location: Sheboygan, WI
- Body of Water: Lake Michigan
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 137 sites, most with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a beach.
- Proximity to Downtown: 5 miles from Sheboygan’s downtown with restaurants and shops.
- Why Visit: Features dunes and 2 miles of sandy shoreline. Great for swimming and hiking. Family-friendly.
- Reservation Link: Wisconsin DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$35 per night. Busy in summer.
3. Wyalusing State Park Campground
- Location: Bagley, WI
- Body of Water: Mississippi River
- Camping Details: Tent and RV camping; 109 sites, some with electric hookups. Restrooms, showers, and trails.
- Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles from Prairie du Chien’s downtown with dining and historic sites.
- Why Visit: Offers stunning bluff views over the Mississippi. Great for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
- Reservation Link: Wisconsin DNR Reservations
- Additional Info: Pets allowed; $20-$35 per night. Quieter than larger parks.
Why Choose Midwest Lakeside Camping?
Midwest state parks offer affordable, scenic camping with access to lakes and rivers, perfect for families, adventurers, and nature lovers. Most campgrounds provide electric hookups, modern amenities, and pet-friendly policies, ensuring comfort.
Have you visited any of these campgrounds? Comment below.
I’ve visited Traverse City State Park from this list, and it’s a great campground, the sites are nice, and it’s across the street from Lake Michigan! Also, it’s a quick drive to beautiful Traverse City Downtown!
Proximity to downtown areas varies, with spots like Traverse City State Park offering urban access, while others, like Tettegouche, prioritize wilderness. Always book early, especially for summer, as these popular sites fill up fast. Check park websites for closures or restrictions before planning.
For more camping inspiration, explore state park websites or platforms like ReserveAmerica and The Dyrt. Happy camping!
Note: Prices and availability may vary; check reservation links for current rates and policies. All information is based on available data from state park websites and trusted sources.
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