Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area RV & Campground Guide
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Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area in Illinois is also known as Dolan Lake, and it is located about 8 miles from Route 14. The 75-acre lake features plenty of fishing opportunities for largemouth bass in the waters. Hamilton State Park is an exceptional place to cast your line near the border of Illinois and Iowa. This Illinois state park is not too far from the cities of Hamilton and Keokuk, IA. At Hamilton State Park, the temperatures can vary throughout the year.
Spring 43-65 F
Summer 63-87 F
Fall 46-64 F
Winter 21-32 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
If you want to relax in the middle of nature, you might want to choose an RV rental from RVshare. You don't have to worry about lodging as you can find a few campgrounds throughout the area.
You will find an extensive selection of RV rentals from RVshare in the Hamilton area. RVshare continues to protect you with nationwide insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Hickory Haven Campground
Hickory Haven Campground is located across the river in Keokuk. This campground has been serving the local area since 1993. Hickory Haven offers clean restrooms, laundry facilities, and picnic areas. Wireless internet, disposal stations, and complimentary firewood are some of the other amenities at this park.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Lakeside access, walking trails, covered pavilion
Nauvoo RV Park and Campground
Nauvoo RV Park and Campground is a park located in the historic town of Nauvoo, IL. This town is one of the most famous pioneer towns in the state. You can find everything from fifth wheel parking to primitive camping sites. Nauvoo RV Park is only open seasonally from May to September. There are 28 pull-through RV sites and tent camping locations. In addition to the camping amenities, the RV park has its own restaurant. At Peter's Place, you can order everything from burgers to summer salads.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Shower and laundry facilities
Wildcat Springs Park
If you are looking for a spot closer to Hamilton, then you should check out Wildcat Springs Park. Located on the north side of town, this campground has sites for primitive camping and RVs. However, this spot only offers five RV campsites. In the park, there are paid dump facilities available for your rig. You can also visit the public pool for an additional fee. For those who want to park their RVs, it costs $25 per night.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Easy access to Hamilton State Park
What to Do at
Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
Inside Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
If you love to fish, you will want to head out on the lake. This location is also known for its 1,300 acres that are open for deer and pheasant hunters. The hunting areas consist of small grass fields. Visitors also travel to Hamilton State Park for its remote camping, hiking, and bird-watching opportunities.
Outside Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
Hamilton State Park is near the western edge of Illinois. If you are heading out to this location, you can stay in Hamilton's sleepy town or travel over the Mississippi River to Keokuk in Iowa. There are many shopping and eating options near these cities. In addition to that, you can find other fun activities to enjoy with the entire family.
Restaurants
Angelini's Ristorante Italiano
If you are in the mood for some authentic Italian food, then you will want to visit Angelini's Ristorante Italiano. This place started out as a pizza shop, but it quickly expanded into a full-service restaurant. You can enjoy Italian favorites such as bruschetta or lasagna.
Type: Italian
Location: 1006 Main St, Keokuk, IA 52632
Dr. Getwell’s Bar & Grill
For those who want to enjoy some comfort foods in the Keokuk area, stop by Dr. Getwell’s Bar & Grill. This restaurant is located in a historic building, and it serves up some of the best "pub grub" in the city. From a chicken buffet to catfish dinners, there are specials throughout the week. If you want to try some of the house specialties, you should order the Gourmet Grilled Cheese Burger.
Type: American
Location: 1100 Main St, Keokuk, IA 52632
Java River Café and Bakery
When traveling around town, you might want a little caffeine boost. Java River Café and Bakery is a great coffee shop in Keokuk. This little shop sells everything from hot coffee to ice slushies. If you want to take home some coffee, they even offer pre-packaged bags of beans for purchase. Java River Café also sells sandwiches for those who want an extra bite for the day.
Type: Café, Coffee Shop
Location: 1000 Main St, Suite B, Keokuk, IA 52632
Shopping
Hy-Vee
If your rig needs a few supplies for your camping trip, you can visit the local Hy-Vee in Keokuk. This supermarket chain offers a wide selection of fresh meats, produce, and dairy. You can even grab some specialty foods at the salad bar or deli stations.
Location: 3111 Main St, Keokuk, IA 52632
Sav-A-Lot
For another grocery store choice in Keokuk, there is the discount chain known as Sav-A-Lot. At this location, you can purchase your favorite national brands or try their private-label products. Throughout the week, the store offers specials on their grocery and household items.
Location: 2122 Main St, Keokuk, IA 52632
Walmart
Walmart in Keokuk carries a large selection of items. You can purchase your grocery products and household items all under one roof. While you are there, you should visit the bakery or deli to pick up goods for your trip.
Location: 300 N Park Dr, Keokuk, IA 52632
Sightseeing
Cyrus Felt House
This historic house is located along the Mississippi. Cyrus Felt was a prominent figure in the area. Today, you can visit his home and marvel at its French-inspired design. In 1980, the Cyrus Felt House was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Location: Hamilton, IL 62341
Justice Samuel Freeman Miller House
Another historic home is located in Keokuk. The Lee County Historical Society now operates the Justice Samuel Freeman Miller House. Samuel Freeman Miller was appointed to the United States Supreme Court by Abraham Lincoln. Today, the house is used as a museum for the city. There are three floors containing portraits, artifacts, and other memorabilia related to the area's history.
Location: 318 North 5th Street, Keokuk, IA 52632
Keokuk Union Depot
The Keokuk Union Depot was built between 1890 to 1891. The city purchased this historic station, and it is used for community events and historic preservation. The depot was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.
Location: 100 S Water St Drive, Keokuk, IA 52632
How to Get to
Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
Hamilton State Park is a three-hour drive from Chicago. You will want to take I-80 W to I-74/Peoria. Continue on I-74 until exit 46A. This exit will merge onto U.S. 34 W/Chicago - Kansas City Expy toward Monmouth. You should stay on this road as it will turn into U.S. 67 S/Chicago (Kansas City Expressway). Make sure to take the U.S. 136 ramp and follow the signs for Carthage/Hamilton/Keokuk. You will need to merge onto U.S. 136 W/U.S. Hwy 136 W. You should turn right on N. 7th Street and drive for a half-mile. Make sure to follow the signs to the main entrance of Hamilton State Park.
Entering Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
The park is open throughout the day. However, day guests must leave one hour after sunset. While there are no fees to enter the park, you will need to purchase a fishing permit or hunting permit. If you plan to camp overnight, you must pay a camping fee at the park.
Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area Per vehicle : $0.0
For those outdoor enthusiasts, Hamilton State Park is a great place to visit with an RV. These vehicles allow you to hit the open road without worrying about hotel reservations. You can park under the stars as you reconnect with nature at this Illinois state park. When it is time to find a vehicle, there is a large selection of RV rental options at RVshare. Tell the team at RVshare about your adventures. You can tag the site on social media or send your trip reports to [email protected] Make sure to visit the blog! RVshare might feature your story and pictures on its website.