US Army Engineer District

Welcome to the camping and recreational facilities managed by the US Army Engineer District, prominently featuring the highly-regarded Thomson Causeway Recreation Area in Thomson, Illinois. Often lauded as offering "Best Army Corp camping in Illinois," this site is a true testament to accessible outdoor recreation. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub where the mighty Mississippi River provides a stunning backdrop for diverse activities and memorable experiences. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat to enjoy nature, an active adventure on bike trails, or an educational journey into the local ecosystem, this managed campground offers a robust and engaging environment for Illinois locals and visitors alike. Embrace the opportunity to explore a well-maintained federal recreation area that consistently receives high praise for its offerings and picturesque setting.

The US Army Engineer District's Thomson Causeway Recreation Area is conveniently located at 823 W Main St, Thomson, IL 61285, USA. This strategic position on an island in the backwaters of the Mississippi River, near the widest spot on the Upper Mississippi River Basin, offers unparalleled views and direct access to this iconic waterway. For residents across Illinois, particularly those in the northern and western regions, its accessibility makes it a premier choice for outdoor adventures without demanding excessive travel. The campground is easily reachable via IL State Route 84, turning west onto Main Street, then south onto Lewis Avenue. This straightforward access ensures that you can quickly transition from the everyday to a serene natural environment. Furthermore, its location is ideal for exploring nearby attractions, including the Mississippi Palisades State Park, Ayers Sand Prairie State Nature Preserve, and even the Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center, enriching your visit with educational and exploratory opportunities that are just a stone's throw away.

The Thomson Causeway, managed by the US Army Engineer District, is committed to providing a comprehensive and comfortable camping experience. It offers a wide array of services designed to cater to various camping styles and preferences, ensuring that every visitor has a convenient and enjoyable stay. Their commitment to maintaining high standards and offering essential amenities makes it a reliable choice for your next outdoor excursion.

• Campsites with Hookups: Offers 131 campsites, with 120 featuring concrete camp pads and 50 amp electrical service. Some sites also have water available at individual campsites in specific loops (Hickory, Potters South, and Potters North).
• Tent-Only Sites: Five campsites are designated for tents only, without electric hookups, catering to a more traditional camping experience.
• Drinking Water: Available throughout the campground, ensuring access to potable water.
• Restroom Facilities: Includes accessible flush toilets and shower houses, providing modern comforts. Pit toilets are also available in some areas.
• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp provides convenient access to the main channel and backwaters of the Mississippi River for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
• Picnic Shelters: Three picnic shelters are available for day use, with two being reservable for gatherings.
• Playgrounds: Three playgrounds are situated within the campground, offering recreation for children.
• Horse Shoe Pits: Available for recreational enjoyment.
• Dump Station: A convenient trailer dump station is provided for RV and trailer campers.
• Reservations: Reservations are highly encouraged and can be made via recreation.gov, by phone at 1-877-444-6777, or through the Recreation.gov mobile app.
• Senior Pass Discount: A 50% discount on camping fees is available for America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior and Access pass holders.
• Fee Booth: Staffed fee booth with specific hours for check-ins and inquiries.

Thomson Causeway, managed by the US Army Engineer District, stands out due to its exceptional features and highlights, which consistently earn it accolades as a top camping destination in Illinois. These attributes combine to offer a rich and varied outdoor experience, blending natural beauty with engaging activities and educational opportunities.

• Panoramic River Views: Campers can enjoy "memorable views of the river and the valley," including an "unobstructed view of the widest spot on the Upper Mississippi River Basin (3.5 miles shore-to-shore)" from the western edge of the recreation area. This scenic grandeur is a major draw.
• Abundant Wildlife: The campground's location on an island in the backwaters of the Mississippi creates a "rich environment in which wildlife and fish abound," offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Educational Opportunities: Described as a "cool place educational" by reviewers, the proximity to the Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center and the inherent natural environment provide avenues for learning about local ecosystems and history.
• Extensive Biking Trails: The "Central Trail section of the famous Mississippi River Trail passes beside the campground," offering visitors "miles of walking and biking trails along the river bank," with paths extending to nearby towns like Savanna and Clinton.
• Excellent Fishing: Popular fish species such as channel catfish, bluegill, walleye, largemouth bass, and northern pike make it a prime location for fishing enthusiasts.
• Hiking Trails: The ¾ mile Hidden Slough Nature Trail offers a scenic hike through bottomland forest, allowing for immersive nature walks.
• Year-Round Activities: While camping facilities with full amenities are open from May 1 through the fourth Sunday in October, the recreation area remains accessible with limited facilities during the remainder of the year, supporting various activities.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With multiple playgrounds and a focus on diverse activities, it’s an excellent choice for families.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite the large scale, the "modern campgrounds provide the tent and trailer spaces, electrical and water hookups, showers, boat launching ramps, parking areas, fish cleaning stations, and many other amenities," ensuring a comfortable stay.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about the US Army Engineer District's facilities at Thomson Causeway, please use the following contact details:

Address: 823 W Main St, Thomson, IL 61285, USA

Thomson Ranger Office Phone: (815) 259-3628

Fee Booth Phone: (563) 362-8839

Reservations (Recreation.gov): 1-877-444-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov

The Thomson Causeway Recreation Area, managed by the US Army Engineer District, is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals across Illinois seeking a comprehensive and enriching outdoor experience. Its prime location on the Mississippi River offers not just "best Army Corp camping," but an accessible, diverse, and affordable natural retreat. For Illinois residents, this means having a world-class outdoor recreation area within convenient reach, allowing for easy weekend trips or extended vacations without significant travel burdens.

The campground’s robust offerings, from spacious campsites with essential hookups to extensive biking and hiking trails, cater to a wide array of interests. Families will appreciate the multiple playgrounds and the safe, engaging environment. Anglers will find abundant fishing opportunities, and nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the rich wildlife and educational aspects. The reasonable pricing and discounts for seniors further enhance its appeal, making quality outdoor adventures accessible to many. Thomson Causeway is more than just a place to stay; it's a community where you can connect with nature, enjoy active pursuits, and create lasting memories, truly embodying the best of Illinois's natural heritage under the reliable management of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

US Army Engineer District

823 W Main St, Thomson, IL 61285, USA