Campgrounds and RV parks near Kirkwood, IL

River recreation dominates the area. At Delabar State Park, a boat ramp on the south end provides access to the Mississippi, and anglers can catch channel cat, bass, bluegill and crappie. Fishing is also possible at the small lake in nearby Henderson County Conservation Area. Big River State Forest adds a 60-mile network of firebreaks used by hikers, backpackers, birders and horseback riders, plus the 1.5-mile Lincoln Hiking Trail commemorating Abraham Lincoln's 1832 march through the area. Three boat launches along the Mississippi round out water access. Twisted Oaks - Argyle Lake State Park offers 5 miles of foot trails, most classified as difficult to very difficult, along with a 93-acre lake for fishing and boating and a playground near the shelters. The park hosts the annual Argyle Antique Gas Engine Show over Labor Day weekend, featuring wheat threshing, sawmilling and hundreds of antique tractors, cars and gas engines.

Western Illinois has a humid continental climate with a very large seasonal temperature contrast. Summers are warm and fairly wet, with June through August drawing the heaviest camping demand and the most reliable weather for river recreation. Precipitation is spread relatively evenly through the year, though summer is the wettest season and thunderstorms are common. Spring and fall are shoulder seasons. Sites are easier to secure, but rainfall in April and May can leave lower Mississippi River sites and equestrian trails muddy. Fall brings comfortable temperatures and fewer bugs, and it is a popular hunting season across Big River State Forest, which supports a diverse mix of wildlife including deer, upland game and small game. Winters are cold and bring regular snowfall, with winter being the driest season. Argyle Lake State Park is suited for ice skating, ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and sledding when conditions allow. Ice fishing is also popular along Spring Slough at Big River State Forest, north of Putney's Landing.

Facilities are basic to mid-range at the public parks. Delabar offers roughly 50 tent and trailer sites with 30-amp electric hookups, plus drinking water, restrooms, a dump station and a jet pump; sites are not large enough for the biggest rigs, so smaller trailers fare best. Big River State Forest is closer to boondocking: a central water hydrant and dump station are provided, but there is no water or electric at individual sites, and cell service is weak. Twisted Oaks at Argyle Lake has the most amenities, with 86 Class A sites offering electricity and a shower house. Water hookups are not provided at sites, and some pads may need leveling blocks. Expect quiet weekdays and busier weekends in summer, especially around the Labor Day antique engine show at Argyle Lake.