MGM Lakeside Campground

Hello, Illinois adventurers! If you’re a local camper, particularly an RVer, looking for a convenient and no-frills base camp near the vibrant St. Louis metropolitan area and the unique attractions of Granite City, then MGM Lakeside Campground in Granite City, IL, might be a spot to consider. While it has a history that suggests a more rustic and lived-in atmosphere, recent indications of new ownership offer a promising outlook for this established location. It’s a place that caters to those who prioritize convenience, affordability, and the potential for long-term stays, especially if you have your own self-contained camper.

MGM Lakeside Campground is situated strategically for easy access to regional highlights, including the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge and the multitude of offerings in nearby St. Louis. While some past perceptions may have been mixed, the presence of dedicated long-term residents and the prospect of fresh management suggest an evolving environment. This article will provide you with a factual overview of MGM Lakeside Campground, covering its location, the services it offers for RVers, key features, and why it might be a suitable, practical choice for Illinois locals seeking a convenient and evolving camping solution in the Metro East area.

MGM Lakeside Campground is located at 3133 W Chain of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL 62040, USA. This address places it just off the historic Chain of Rocks Road, a scenic route that offers glimpses into the area's past and provides direct access to the famous Chain of Rocks Bridge, a popular spot for walking, biking, and scenic views of the Mississippi River. The campground's location in Granite City is advantageous for Illinois locals, as it's a short drive from the major hub of St. Louis, Missouri, allowing easy access to museums, dining, entertainment, and sporting events.

The campground is primarily designed for RVs, with a maximum RV length of 70 feet, indicating that it can accommodate a wide range of recreational vehicles. It features 30 sites in total, with 26 offering full hookups and 4 providing electric and water hookups. This setup caters to self-contained units. Access to the campground from major roadways should be relatively straightforward due to its location on a main road. However, as noted in some older reviews, visual aesthetics upon entry might vary. Despite this, for campers with their own facilities, the accessibility and hookup options provide a functional base. The presence of a nearby lake with fishing opportunities adds to the local appeal.

• RV Only Sites: The campground is designated for RVs only, with no tent camping allowed, ensuring a consistent environment for RVers.
• Full Hookups: A majority of the 30 sites offer full hookups, including water, sewer, and both 30 and 50 Amp electrical connections, providing comprehensive utility services for RVs.
• Electric and Water Hookups: Four sites are equipped with electric and water hookups for those who do not require sewer connections at their site.
• Maximum RV Length: Can accommodate RVs up to 70 feet in length, allowing for very large rigs.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, though specific restrictions or fees should be confirmed by calling ahead.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are available, a valuable amenity for longer stays.
• Showers and Restrooms: While some reviews suggest these facilities "need a little work," they are reportedly available for camper use.
• Dump Station: A trailer dump station is provided for waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables: Sites include picnic tables for outdoor dining.

• Focus on RV Campers: With 30 RV-only sites, MGM Lakeside Campground is specifically tailored to the needs of recreational vehicle owners, offering dedicated space and full hookup options.
• Potential Under New Ownership: Recent reviews hint at a change in ownership, with one camper mentioning, "the new owner is a pretty nice guy and will work with you any way he can." This indicates a potential for improvements and a commitment to guest satisfaction.
• Affordability for Long-Term Stays: The presence of campers with long-term arrangements ("I have my camper in a spot," "we pulled back out," implying others stayed) suggests that the campground may offer competitive rates for extended periods, making it a practical choice for locals seeking consistent housing or a long-term base.
• Convenient Location for St. Louis Area: Its proximity to Granite City and the wider St. Louis metropolitan area provides easy access to urban amenities, attractions, and job opportunities, while still offering a camping environment.
• Access to Chain of Rocks Bridge: Being on Chain of Rocks Road means direct access to this historic and unique landmark, offering scenic walks, bike rides, and photo opportunities.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground's pet-friendly policy is a significant plus for Illinois locals who wish to travel with their animal companions.

Address: 3133 W Chain of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL 62040, USA

Phone: (618) 797-2820

Given the varied nature of the reviews and the mention of new ownership, it is highly recommended that prospective campers contact MGM Lakeside Campground directly by phone for the most current information. This will allow you to inquire about specific site availability, rates, current condition of facilities, and any recent or planned improvements under the new management.

MGM Lakeside Campground, while presenting a mixed bag of past perceptions, holds significant potential and practical suitability for Illinois locals, particularly those in the Metro East region or RV owners seeking a long-term, accessible solution. Its primary suitability lies in its dedicated RV-only focus and the availability of full hookup sites, which cater directly to the needs of modern recreational vehicle users. For Iowans with their own campers, the reliance on external facilities (like personal bathrooms) negates some of the concerns raised in older reviews about on-site restrooms, making it a functional and cost-effective base.

The most compelling aspect for locals is the clear indication of responsive and friendly new ownership. The sentiment that the "new owner is a pretty nice guy and will work with you any way he can" suggests a willingness to accommodate and improve, which is invaluable. For long-term or seasonal campers, having an owner who is approachable and flexible can make a significant difference in the quality of their stay. This creates a more inviting atmosphere compared to larger, more impersonal parks.

Furthermore, the campground's strategic location near the Chain of Rocks Bridge and its short distance to St. Louis provides a dual advantage. Locals can enjoy the quiet convenience of a camping spot while still having easy access to urban amenities, entertainment, and historical sites across the river. This balance makes it ideal for those who might be working in the area, or simply wish to enjoy the cultural offerings of St. Louis on a frequent basis. While it may not be a luxury resort, MGM Lakeside Campground offers Illinois locals a practical, evolving, and potentially very accommodating option for their RV camping needs, especially if they are seeking an affordable long-term solution or a convenient jumping-off point for exploring the region.

MGM Lakeside Campground

3133 W Chain of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL 62040, USA