Hidden Gem: The Best Campground in Illinois Costs Just $10 a Night

I'm not exactly a "dig a latrine with a stick and sleep with the raccoons" kind of camper. I prefer my campfire with a side of cell service and a mattress that didn't come in a sack. But even I can appreciate a spot that's peaceful, beautiful, and doesn't require a second mortgage to stay there.

READ MORE: 5 Of The Best Camping Lakes In Illinois

This Campground in Illinois Was Named Best in the Midwest

Oak Point Campground in southern Illinois, Vienna, to be exact, just landed a spot on The Dyrt's list of Best Places to Camp in the Midwest for 2025. It's nestled inside Shawnee National Forest's Lake Glendale Recreation Area and offers up 93 sites for tents and RVs. Fires are allowed. Nature is everywhere. It's a legit outdoorsy paradise.

Sites range from $10 to $20 a night, and it's all first-come, first-served. Translation: no app alerts or waitlists. Just show up and hope the early bird didn't take your spot.

READ MORE: Most Dangerous Hikes in Illinois: Godwin Trail, Shawnee National Forest

Things to Do at Oak Point Campground

HIking? There's a scenic three-mile trail. Fishing? Grab a pole. Kayaking? Float your boat. There's even a swimming beach nearby in case you need to rinse off the scent of mosquito spray. See more on Facebook.

For more ideas (closer to home), check out 5 Best Camping Spots in Illinois This Summer and start planning your escape, whether it involves marshmallows or mattress pads.

READ MORE: Rent This Luxurious Glamping Dome Near Illinois’ Shawnee Forest