MGM Lakeside Campground

For Illinois residents seeking an RV-specific camping option with a focus on convenience and potentially longer stays, MGM Lakeside Campground in Granite City, Illinois, presents itself as a notable choice. Located near the scenic Chain of Rocks Road and close to a local lake, this campground caters primarily to recreational vehicles, providing essential hookups for a comfortable stay. While public perceptions can vary, it's important for prospective campers to gather factual information to determine if MGM Lakeside Campground aligns with their specific needs for an outdoor getaway or a temporary residence.

MGM Lakeside Campground offers a straightforward approach to RV camping. It's designed to provide a functional and accessible base for exploring the Southern Illinois region, including its proximity to the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. With its RV-only sites, it appeals to those who prioritize the amenities and ease of setup that come with modern recreational vehicles. The presence of a nearby lake, though details on its recreational use may vary, adds a touch of natural appeal to the setting.

Like any local business, especially campgrounds that serve a diverse clientele, MGM Lakeside Campground may elicit different experiences from visitors. Understanding its offerings based on available data, including location, services, and stated features, is key to forming an informed decision. This article aims to provide a factual overview for Illinois locals considering MGM Lakeside Campground for their next outdoor adventure or extended stay.

MGM Lakeside Campground is situated at 3133 W Chain of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL 62040, USA. This location is particularly significant for Illinois residents, as Granite City is part of the Metro East region, offering a blend of suburban convenience and proximity to major attractions. The campground's position on West Chain of Rocks Road places it in an area with a unique local character.

Accessibility to MGM Lakeside Campground is generally good, especially for RV travelers. It is conveniently located near major interstates, including I-270 and I-255, which provide easy access from various parts of Illinois and from neighboring Missouri, including St. Louis. For instance, coming from the north on SR-255 S, campers can take the ramp for I-270 West towards Kansas City, then exit at 4 for SR-203 towards Granite City, followed by turns onto Old Alton Rd and W Chain of Rocks Rd. Similarly, from the south on I-255 N, one can exit at 30 for I-270 West, then follow the same route. This ensures a relatively straightforward drive for those towing RVs.

The proximity to Granite City means campers have access to local amenities such as grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options within a short drive. Furthermore, its location near the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge, a famous segment of Route 66, adds a unique historical dimension to the area. For Illinois locals, this campground offers a practical base for exploring not only Granite City but also the broader St. Louis metropolitan area and the natural spaces surrounding the Mississippi River.

MGM Lakeside Campground is an RV-only campground that aims to provide essential services for recreational vehicle owners. Based on available public data, the campground offers:

• RV Sites: The campground features 30 RV sites.
• Full Hookups: 26 of the sites offer full hookups, including 50-amp electricity, water, and sewer connections. This is a significant convenience for RVers.
• Electric and Water Hookups: 4 sites provide electric and water hookups.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions. (It is advisable to inquire about any specific pet restrictions or fees.)
• Laundry Facilities: Available on-site for guest convenience.
• Dump Station: A facility for RV waste disposal.
• Hot Showers: Provided in the bathhouse/restroom facilities.
• WiFi: Available for connectivity.
• LP Bottle Exchange: A service for propane refills.
• Sanitary Dump: A general sanitary dump facility.
• Big Rig Friendly: Can accommodate large RVs, with a reported maximum RV length of 70 ft and width of 25 ft.

It is important to note that while there are reviews mentioning the condition of the campground and its facilities, the services listed above are generally what MGM Lakeside Campground aims to provide for its RV guests. Prospective visitors should consider reaching out directly to confirm current conditions and available amenities.

MGM Lakeside Campground, while drawing mixed reviews, possesses several features that might appeal to certain types of campers, particularly those with RVs and specific needs:

• RV-Only Focus: With 30 dedicated RV sites and options for full hookups (electric, water, sewer), it is well-suited for recreational vehicle owners looking for convenient facilities.
• Lakeside Proximity: The campground is located near a lake, offering potential for fishing (often catch and release, as suggested by reviews) and a natural, watery backdrop.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Welcoming to dog owners, providing a place for pets amidst grass and trees, which is a significant highlight for those traveling with animals.
• Spacious Spots: Reviews indicate that the sites are spacious, allowing for comfortable parking and outdoor living.
• Long-Term Stay Potential: The campground accommodates long-term setups, with some residents reportedly paying monthly rates, indicating suitability for extended stays or even temporary housing for some individuals.
• Proximity to St. Louis Attractions: Being in Granite City, Illinois, positions the campground within a relatively short drive (approximately 19 minutes) from St. Louis, Missouri, allowing access to major attractions like the Gateway Arch, museums, and other city amenities.
• Access to Natural Areas: Near Horseshoe Lake State Park, which offers additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploring Illinois' natural beauty.
• Laundry Facilities: A convenient amenity, especially for longer stays.
• WiFi Availability: Offers connectivity, which is a valuable feature for modern campers.

It is important for prospective visitors to be aware that some public reviews describe the campground's appearance as "scary" or "like a homeless camp" and mention that it is "not kept up as well now as before." While these are subjective observations, they suggest that the campground's aesthetic and maintenance might not meet everyone's expectations. However, other feedback indicates friendly interactions with staff and long-term residents.

Specific, advertised promotions for MGM Lakeside Campground are not widely available in public data. However, campgrounds that cater to longer stays, like MGM Lakeside, often have structured pricing that offers better value for extended visits. Publicly available information indicates:

• Daily Rates: Reported daily rates range from $12.00 to $24.00, which can be quite competitive for a full-hookup RV site.
• Monthly Rates: Some reviews mention monthly rates, for example, "$550 a month including utilities," suggesting that the campground offers pricing for longer-term residents, which can be a significant cost-saving for extended stays compared to daily rates.

Given the variations in public reviews regarding the campground's overall condition, it is highly recommended that interested individuals contact MGM Lakeside Campground directly to inquire about their most current rates, any available specials for new or long-term campers, and to understand what is included in the stated prices (e.g., specific utilities or amenities). Direct communication will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on any potential value or offers.

For inquiries about site availability, current rates, or to gather more specific details about MGM Lakeside Campground, you can reach them using the following contact information:

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

Phone: (618) 797-2820

It is advisable to call during standard business hours for the best chance of connecting with park management. Additionally, checking their Facebook page (if active, as suggested by some listings) might provide further updates or direct messaging options.

MGM Lakeside Campground offers a unique option for Illinois locals, particularly those in the Granite City and broader Metro East area, who are looking for an RV-specific camping solution. Its primary suitability lies in its focus on providing full hookups for recreational vehicles, making it a convenient choice for RV owners seeking an accessible base. For locals who own RVs and value amenities like electricity, water, sewer connections, and on-site laundry, MGM Lakeside provides the practical infrastructure needed for comfortable travel or even extended stays.

The campground's location near a lake and its pet-friendly policy are significant advantages for those who enjoy being near water and want to bring their furry companions along. Moreover, its close proximity to major interstates and the city of St. Louis means that campers can easily access a wide array of urban attractions, dining, and shopping, balancing outdoor leisure with city exploration. For Illinois residents, this blend of local accessibility to urban centers and the specific provision for RV amenities makes it a functional choice.

While it's important to acknowledge that public reviews regarding the campground's overall appearance can be mixed, its stated services and features cater to a particular niche within the camping community. For locals seeking a budget-friendly or long-term RV parking solution near Granite City and St. Louis, and who prioritize essential hookups over extensive recreational facilities or pristine aesthetics, MGM Lakeside Campground could be a suitable and practical option for their Illinois adventures. Prospective visitors are encouraged to contact the campground directly to confirm current conditions and ensure it meets their individual camping preferences.