Henry Cochran Campground

For residents across Illinois looking to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of our state, Henry Cochran Campground in Elkville offers a peaceful and inviting retreat. Nestled in the scenic landscape of Southern Illinois, this campground provides a perfect setting for both seasoned campers and those new to the joys of outdoor living. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with the family, a fishing trip with friends, or a tranquil solo adventure, Henry Cochran Campground serves as an excellent base to explore the charm and recreational opportunities that abound in this part of Illinois.

Southern Illinois is renowned for its diverse natural attractions, from lush forests and rolling hills to picturesque lakes and winding rivers. Henry Cochran Campground is strategically positioned to allow visitors to experience this rich environment firsthand. It’s a place where the fresh air and starry nights replace city lights, offering a genuine connection with the Illinois outdoors. The campground aims to provide a comfortable and convenient experience, ensuring that your focus remains on relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Henry Cochran Campground is conveniently located at 2189 Royalton Rd, Elkville, IL 62932, USA. This address places it in Jackson County, in the heart of Southern Illinois. For residents across the state, this means an accessible drive, allowing for relatively easy travel for weekend trips or longer vacations without excessive time spent on the road. Elkville itself is a small, quiet community, contributing to the peaceful atmosphere of the campground.

The campground’s location offers excellent accessibility to several key regional attractions. It's often associated with Lake Murphysboro State Park, a popular destination known for its fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. This proximity means campers at Henry Cochran have immediate access to a wide array of outdoor activities just a short drive away. Major state routes and interstate highways in Southern Illinois provide straightforward access to Elkville, making the journey to the campground simple whether you’re coming from Chicago, Springfield, or other parts of the state.

The local road, Royalton Road, leads directly to the campground, ensuring easy navigation upon arrival. This balance of a secluded natural setting with convenient road access makes Henry Cochran Campground an ideal choice for Illinoisans seeking both tranquility and the ability to explore the rich recreational landscape of the region.

Henry Cochran Campground strives to provide essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its guests. While specific details can sometimes vary, typical services you can expect at a well-regarded campground in Southern Illinois include:

• RV Sites: Many campgrounds offer designated sites for recreational vehicles, often equipped with electric hookups (typically 30 and 50 amp service) for power. Water hookups may also be available at some sites.
• Tent Camping Areas: Dedicated areas are usually available for traditional tent camping, offering a more rustic experience for those who prefer it.
• Restroom Facilities: Clean and maintained restrooms are a standard offering, ensuring basic comfort and hygiene for all campers.
• Potable Water Access: Accessible sources of fresh drinking water are generally available throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is typically on-site or nearby for RVs to dispose of wastewater.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Most campsites, whether for RVs or tents, are equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and campfires.
• Pet-Friendly: Many campgrounds in Illinois welcome well-behaved pets, allowing furry family members to join in on the adventure (specific rules or leash requirements may apply).

It is always recommended to contact the campground directly or check their official website for the most up-to-date information on specific services and amenities available, as offerings can sometimes be subject to change or seasonal availability.

Henry Cochran Campground offers several features and highlights that make it an appealing choice for Illinois locals seeking an outdoor escape:

• Proximity to Lake Murphysboro State Park: This is a significant highlight, offering campers immediate access to a wealth of activities. Lake Murphysboro is known for excellent fishing (largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish), boating (electric motors only), and scenic hiking trails. This makes the campground an ideal base for water-based recreation and lakeside relaxation.
• Peaceful, Natural Setting: The campground is often characterized by its quiet and serene atmosphere, providing a true escape from urban noise and light pollution. It's nestled amidst natural landscapes, offering a chance to reconnect with nature.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With opportunities for fishing, hiking, and general outdoor play, the campground is well-suited for families looking to create lasting memories in a natural setting.
• Accessibility for Various Camping Styles: Whether you prefer the comfort of an RV with electric hookups or the simplicity of tent camping, Henry Cochran Campground typically accommodates both, offering flexibility for different camping preferences.
• Opportunities for Wildlife Viewing: The natural surroundings often provide chances to observe local wildlife, adding another layer of enjoyment to your camping experience.
• Convenient for Local Exploration: Beyond the immediate vicinity of Lake Murphysboro, the campground's location in Southern Illinois provides easy access to other regional attractions, including various state parks, forests, and small charming towns.

Information regarding specific, ongoing promotions or special offers for Henry Cochran Campground is typically managed directly by the park or through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), as state park campgrounds often fall under their purview. While detailed, publicly advertised promotions are not always readily available online, it is highly advisable for interested Illinois residents to inquire directly about any current or upcoming discounts.

Potential promotions or offers at state park campgrounds might include:

• Off-Season Rates: During less popular times of the year (e.g., late fall or early spring), rates might be reduced to encourage visitation.
• Senior Discounts: Many state-run facilities offer discounted rates for senior citizens.
• Military/Veteran Discounts: Active military personnel and veterans may be eligible for special pricing.
• Multi-Night Stay Discounts: Occasionally, booking multiple nights might come with a slight reduction in the per-night rate.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any available promotions or special offers, or to inquire about seasonal passes or loyalty programs, please contact the campground directly or visit the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources website which often manages state park camping reservations and information.

To inquire about reservations, availability, or general information regarding Henry Cochran Campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 2189 Royalton Rd, Elkville, IL 62932, USA
• Phone: For state park campgrounds, the primary contact is typically through the managing state park office. For Henry Cochran Campground, which is often associated with Lake Murphysboro State Park, you would generally contact the Lake Murphysboro State Park office. Their phone number can usually be found on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website for Lake Murphysboro State Park. Searching for "Lake Murphysboro State Park contact" or "IDNR Lake Murphysboro phone number" is recommended to find the most current official contact.

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak camping seasons, to confirm availability and make reservations, as popular sites can fill up quickly.

For Illinois residents, Henry Cochran Campground in Elkville presents an ideal opportunity to experience the natural beauty and recreational richness of Southern Illinois without extensive travel. Its location provides convenient access for many across the state, making it perfect for both spontaneous weekend escapes and longer, planned vacations.

What makes this campground particularly suitable for locals is its direct connection to Lake Murphysboro State Park. This immediate access to fishing, boating, and hiking trails means that Illinoisans have a readily available outdoor playground right at their fingertips. Families can easily enjoy a day on the lake, a peaceful hike through the woods, or simply relax by a campfire, creating cherished memories close to home. The serene and natural setting offers a much-needed respite from daily routines, allowing for genuine relaxation and a reconnection with nature.

Furthermore, as part of the state park system, Henry Cochran Campground typically offers a reliable and well-maintained environment at an accessible price point, embodying the spirit of affordable outdoor recreation that many Illinois families value. It’s a chance to explore a beautiful region of our state, engage in beloved outdoor activities, and truly appreciate the diverse landscapes that Illinois has to offer, all within a convenient and welcoming setting.