by Lisa Putnam

Created on: June 30, 2010

Back when Route 66 was bustling with truckers, farmers, and families trying to get from Illinois to California and everywhere in between; many travelers decided to camp.  Camping is still a very popular option while on a Route 66 road trip and the many excellent campsites that are available may be a reason why.  The following camping areas offer excellent grounds with amenities, nearby attractions, and reasonable rates.

Beaver Dam State Park, near Carlinville, Illinois

Although Beaver Dam no longer has very many beavers, it does offer many different recreational activities on its 750 acres of woods, farmland, fields, marsh, and lake.  Hikers may find white squirrels, deer, wild turkey, raccoons, snakes, and frogs on the nearly 8 miles of trails.  Bird watchers will be able to spot many different birds such as the pileated woodpeckers, chickadees, peewees, cuckoos, and cardinals.  Anglers can fish in the 58 acre lake that is stocked with large-mouth bass, sunfish, bluegill, and catfish.  Archery, hunting, ice fishing (seasonal), ice skating (seasonal), a playground, and concessions are also available.  The campground has electricity, showers, bathrooms, water, fire pads, and a sanitary dump station.  Local attractions include the Macoupin County Historical Museum, Macoupin County Jail, Standard Addition/Sears and Roebuck mail Order Houses, Loomis House Hotel, Carlinville Square, Deerfield Drive Historic Bridge, and the Macoupin County “Million Dollar” Courthouse.   For more information go to their website at http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/PARKS/R4/beaver .htm#Camping .

Meramec State Park in Sullivan, MO

This popular state park offers 6,896 acres of nature and campsites.  Campers can spend a relaxing weekend canoeing on the Meramec River, hiking through the forest, fishing on the river, taking a cave tour of one of the forty caves that are in the park, and walking through the park’s visitor center complete with educational exhibits and aquariums.  Those that are looking for peace and quiet are sure to find it during the week while those who are looking to meet others will find it easy on the weekends as it is a very popular spot.  For more information go to http://www.mostateparks.com/meramec.htm

Elk City / Clinton KOA Oklahoma

This KOA is located directly on Route 66 and was given the Presidents Award and the Founder’s Award in 2009.  Along with quality campgrounds

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