Most importantly, people welcome campers of all ages to participate in fun activities. Horseback riders will have free reign to camp at one of the most beautiful spots in the stateMathiessen Park. The wood swing can be enjoyed by guests as they relax and enjoy the view. Say hello to Wildlife Prairie Park: An 1,800-acre recreational oasis, the trails of which are home to 60 different species of animals. Recent campers say: Children had a blast. Enjoyed our time at the park., White Pines Forest State Park Facility. The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. From $12 per night, 847-587-5512, 8916 Wilmot Rd., Spring Grove, IL, 60081; www2.illinois.gov. Image Source: Some of these include a beanbag toss tournament, kids crafts, family bingo, a camper flea market, and country hoedown night. Youll have the option to experience Ferne Clyffe just about any way that you choose, with class C campsites available for backpackers who just want to be one with nature and class A facilities with proper showers and flushing toilets (aah) for those who like to stay more connected to the modern world. For winter campers, Rock CutState Park is a hotspot for cross-country skiing. Recent campers say: The campground is very well maintained. We really love this park., Kankakee River State Park Nothing says summer in Illinois likelakefront camping in Illinois. It isnt a perfect campground, but its pretty close. With lake activities, volleyball, basketball, tennis, and wireless internet connections, youll never run out of things to do! Phone: 6184353401Address: 14297 IL-37, Whittington, IL 62897Activities: Not only is this campground surrounded by nature, but there are also lots of opportunities to get out of the sun nearby. This modest campground, which is at the same time a kayak school, is set on the sandy shores of the Illinois River and offers a truly outdoor experience. 2668 East 873 Road Pets allowed: Yes. The surrounding area hosts softball, golf, basketball tournaments, marathons, farm shows, and wine tasting. Primitive tent camping is allowed in this park and each site is equipped with a grill, fire ring and picnic table. For reservations, please visit the website. There are also three cabins available for rent. This campground is not for the people who like amenities. ), but its also got some unique features, such as a designated rock climbing wall where experienced climbers can scale the parks natural limestone formations. $22 to $143, 312-636-9785, 9600 Wolf Rd., Willow Springs, IL, 60480, fpdcc.com. Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort is open year-round, too. Elders from a Wisconsin tribe came in the 1960s to trek the land and perform a ceremony to honor their ancestors. Recent campers say:One of my favorite places to camp. Clean restrooms with showers., Lowden State Park Each of those has its own fire ring and a picnic table. Along with all the campsites, a newly added wing of the Lodge, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, offers 72 hotel rooms. Just an hour and 30 minutes from Chicago in southwest Michigan, Fullers Resort and Campground is inviting to all. It offers both sunny and shaded campsites for tents and full-service 30-amp and 50-amp hookups for RVs. . $22 to $143, 312-636-9785, 9600 Wolf Rd., Willow Springs, IL, 60480, fpdcc.com. Campers can choose from water and electricity or full hook-up RV and tent sites. So, dont put Illinois in a box. Come pitch your tent, bring your rv or camper. You'll want to spend the whole spring and summer at these fabulous campsites. If youre up for the challenge, however, youre in for a treat, with 6 miles of trails to explore. Guests can enjoy relaxing in the saltwater swimming pool, walking their furry friends in the freshly mowed wooded area, or picnicking and bbq-ing at the pavilion. The American Indians told stories of how the little creek running through our land was a small river flowing towards the Apple River which flows into the Mississippi River. Discover the best campgrounds in Illinois with swimming Camping in Illinois with swimming United States Illinois Camping in Illinois with swimming From Lake Michigan beaches to Shawnee National Forest trailscampers have options in Illinois. 3100 IL-23 If you really love the campground, you have the choice to rent by the month. Unfortunately, tent camping isnt available anymore. Nice people and clean park., Friendly owners, reasoble prices. Possible atv use great mountain bike or horse or hiking location please be aware of wildlife including rattlesnakes chiggers and snakes. The area is also known for scenic drives for those who prefer to stay in the car. We purchased the property in 1987, cut in the road and brought power to the property. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort can accommodate any camper's style. The Pretty Potty is available but must be kept inside the tent; it is made of wood and has a metal pot for liquid waste. Morris, IL 60450 Sure, its got all the standard activities (biking, boating, fishing, ect. And thats OK! Chebanse, IL 60922 Recent campers say:Gorgeous campground. Easy access to the beach. Fantastic state park., Van Buren State Park Campsites are wooded, but there are wide open spaces to explore and feel at peace in; the quiet wilderness is everywhere. Whether youre staying short term or long term, this RV parks amenities are sure to give you an enjoyable stay in beautiful Illinois. *Not all campgrounds offer the same amenities. Plenty of hiking and biking trails offer scenic nature viewing and execise. Keep scrolling for more information. Matthiessen offers very rustic sites for less while Starved Rock offers gravel parking pads and an RV hook-up at every campsite. Camp Lakewood Campground & RV ParkEffingham, IL. Will definitely stay here again! Check with each particular park for a specific list of campground attractions and amenities. 23960 Ruggles Rd. Each site has electric hookups, a picnic table and a fire ring for your camp cooking. The ultimate water playground and camping destination, Yogi Bears Jellystone Park RV Resort at Pine Lakes, 1405 Lakeview Heights, Pittsfield, IL 62363, USA. Recent campers say: A beautiful beach. Loved the lake but the bathrooms could be cleaner. The spaces were a little under-cared for., Illinois Beach State Park Take your pick of some of the states most rewarding hikes, including the River to River Trail and the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, and dont miss the extraordinary rock formations of the Garden of the Gods. Will come back and stay longer next time. Harry, Google reviews, Image Source: is right on the lake but also has pools for guests to enjoy. From tent sites near the lake to full hookup RV sites to rentable park models, this campground has it all. The campground also recently added a mini golf course for a little . Your email address will not be published. Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. Hop between towns like Peoria, Moline, and Galena along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers; spot bald eagles in Grafton, or rent a cabin at nearby Pere Marquette State Park. Sites provide shade, and there are waterfalls and unique plant communities that grow along the hiking trails. This state park has 129 Class-A Premium campsites and is popular for its hikeable bluffs and canyons. You'll find this large and well-equipped campground around 10 miles to the northeast of the city of Rockford, Illinois. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. also has cabins to rent. It isactually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy provided by an array of 18 solar panels. The Indian Creek was dammed during the 1970s to form Shabbona Lake, a beautiful man-made water body. There are non-electric sites for both tents and RVs at Thomas Woods campground, as well as RV-only sites with electric hookups. Travel Around the Region 22 Best Midwest Campgrounds By The editors of MidwestLiving.com Updated September 15, 2021 After a full season of visiting Midwest campgrounds, we picked these as the best for scenery and amenities. This small 30-acre park is one of Illinois most popular state parks. http://marioncampground.weebl Conveniently located off of Interstate 95, this RV park is a great camping spot to help you get the most out of a trip to Illinois. Volleyball And much more! $450 to $550 per night, 815-224-7333, 818 N. 229 Rd. Okaw Valley Kampground, 1341 E 1650 Ave, Brownstown, IL 62418, USA. We know how crucial it is not to waste time doing unnecessary research when you only have one free weekend in who knows how long. Very spacious and beautiful outdoor campground surrounded by trees and sunshine! Gebhard Woods State Park is a little over an hour from downtown Chicago and the definition of picturesque. Classified as D for dry camping or boondocking. We had a great time at the family reunion of 2 main families., Nice friendly campground. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you havent heard of these awesome sites for epic waterfront camping in the Land of Lincoln, youre truly missing out. $30 to $360, 309-676-0998, 3826 N. Taylor Rd., Hanna City, IL, 61536, wildlifeprairiepark.org. And if thats not enough, the 13 miles of trails for hiking and biking at nearby Starved Rock State Park will keep you busy all afternoon. This property is located inside the Shawnee wilderness area away from any rod or private property. Kids will like the kiddie pool and themed activities organized on a weekend basis. Sunset Lakes Resort 3333 290th St N Hillsdale, Illinois 61257 (309) 658-2131 Hours Learn more on the location's website! No matter how you choose to explore it, however, its 18 canyons with vertical walls of moss will have you marveling at your surroundings. Peru Mall isnt far either and offers excellent shopping and dining options. Camp Sullivan has an indoor rock climbing wall for those who are up for a challenge. Many arrow heads were found in the fields of the land. Our family found the property years ago while wilderness camping which has been a tradition of ours for over 50 years. Most campsites have a lake view and have full hookups with 30-amp and 50-amp service. Twelve miles of trails run through the park that make it more expansive than others on this list, too, offering campers views of picturesque bluffs, color-changing forests and glimpses of wildlife. Tonica, IL, 61370; camparamoni.com. Phone: 8156674726Address: 2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348Activities: Although very similar scenery to Matthiessen State Park, there are a few key differences. $45-$70 per night. Minnesota: Tettegouche State Park. The pond is a great place to swim and fish. The worldor shall we say, Lake Shelbyvillewill be your oyster during your stay at Wolf Creek State Park, since you can boat, swim and more to your hearts content. Starved Rock State Park is less rustic. Check out our top campground recommendations. Will stay here again. Robert, Google reviews . THE 10 BEST Illinois State Parks State Parks in Illinois Enter dates Filters 2 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Sights & Landmarks Nature & Parks Parks 2. 32223 N US Highway 12 For reservations, please visit the website. It's like owning our own wild park. Sullivan Marina & Campground, 925 IL-32, Sullivan, IL 61951, USA. Maybe its the surprise appearances (and photo opps) you'll get from the camps mascots, Yogi, Cindy Bear and Boo Boo, or maybe it was my young, impressionable age, but 30-some odd years later, I still remember this place fondly. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. Recent campers say: Love this campground. Each campground has its own unique experience. Well-maintained state park., Chain OLakes State Park Illinois is home to many rivers, lakes; it even borders Lake Michigan! But if youre really longing to be one with nature, this park, named for its horseshoe-shaped lake (the second largest in all of Illinois), will likely be right up your alley. This is one of the nicest campgrounds weve stayed at. http://www.kamperkompanion.com/. Its home to the Black Hawk Statue, a 50-foot wonder thats considered the second tallest monolithic statue in the world. 815-745-3302, 8763 E. Canyon Rd., Apple River, IL, 61001; www2.illinois.gov. Wonderful service! Many visitors enjoy the peace of the land and the amazing landmarks. The moss-covered walls of the 18 canyons in the park formed naturally by glacial meltwater into the sandstone, and waterfalls can be seen at 14 of the 18 canyons. There are 140 sites scattered across the grounds, varying from primitive tent sites to full RV hookup sites. Supposedly the house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm. 3.5 Acers of Bliss, where we invite up to four tent campers and one RV camper at a time. (Read: Theyre busy AF). A perfect way to escape the city chaos without even leaving town. Cool off at Illinois Beach State Park along the shores of Lake Michigan, hike to waterfalls and camp in the woods at Starved Rock State Park, or admire the fall foliage in Matthiessen State Park. Phone: 2178862089Address: 2113 Crazy Horse Rd, Ashland, IL 62612Activities: There is plenty of nature surrounding this campground, including a lake, but most campgrounds have a lake. It features a campground store with live bait for fishing, a laundry facility and restrooms with showers. Plenty of wildlife, hiking & mountain biking areas. Laundry, showers, wi-fi, Pagoda, good water supply. In October 2023, 7 Best Hostels in Palma de Mallorca for Solo, Party or Budget Travelers in 2023, Privacy Policy & Terms of Use & Editorial Policies. 1. Fires allowed: Yes. Very nice and clean. Illinois Beach is 4,160 acres of ridge shoreline. Dont feel like youre limited to hiking and camping, because this park has SCUBA diving, swimming, geocaching, the Zion Bike Trail and more. For reservations, please visit the website. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Theres no electricity, so youll need to bring a generator if you want to use it, but youll have full access to restrooms, water hydrants and a mounting station. Recent campers say:Rental was extremely clean. Seasonal [camp]ground. Lots of rules., Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort Phone: 6189952411Address: 90 Goreville Rd, Goreville, IL 62939Activities: Here is another pristine campground with a beautiful surrounding area. If youre up for one of the worlds most famous road trips, drive your RV on down to Springfield, the birthplace of Route 66, or if woodland views and lake fishing are more your jam, head to Walnut Point State Park, Wolf Creek State Park, or Sangchris Lake State Park. A great place to enjoy a quiet, relaxing camping experience, Sycamore RV Resort is only an hour and a half from downtown Chicago. I love writing and publishing content for digital nomads, remote workers, and passionate travelers like me. Phone: 2173463385Address: 14349 N Co Rd 2350 E, Oakland, IL 61943Activities: Hebron Hills sits right next to the gorgeous sites of Brush Creek. $50 per night. Love Illinois? There are two different campgrounds with a total of over 200 sites, some with electricity or electricity and showers, and others with neither for a primitive camping experience. The southern shores of Lake Michigan, where the corners of Wisconsin, Illinois and Michigan converge, offer many opportunities to get outside and enjoy this unique area of the Midwest. There is also a leash-free dog park. When you get back to the campground, youll be able to enjoy hot showers, laundry facilities, and full hookups at your RV site. Beautiful tall trees. Jan, Google reviews. Very friendly staff. This campground is situated inside the Blackwell Forest Preserve, which includes the beautiful Spring Brook, many nearby hiking trails and an expansive lake. Whittington Woods Campground offers both cabins to rent and spaces for tents and RVs. For reservations, please visit the website, Your email address will not be published. Sort:Recommended. We are an RV Park & Campground ideally located on the north shores of Lake Pauline in scenic Southern/Central IL. Evenings can be spent at the well-lit camping area, chatting and enjoying the ambiance. Boating and fishing are popular river activities, however swimming is not permitted. Park model rentals are available too. Visitors can set up their own tents or rent a cabin for their stay at Fish Lake, one of the best spots for waterfront camping in Illinois! Lovely hosts! contains a 26,000-acre lake that is one of the absolute best in the country for sailing. https://sycamorervresort.com/. Featuring excellent views and community atmospheres, these campgrounds are truly the best of the best for lakeside camping in Illinois: Thank you! We bought the farmette with much work outside and home interior remodel to complete. Sycamore, IL 60178 Your email address will not be published. Birds frequent the property and you may be visited by our ginger male cat as he surveys his territory. Sure, it may not be bedecked with stunning cliffs or waterfalls, but if youre looking for a place to make lasting memories around the campfire with your family (shoutout to grandma Joan and grandma Jennie) and your friendly RV neighbors, this is your spot. Book your spot in the campground of your choice today, and enjoy the vacation of a lifetime in beautiful and scenic Illinois. They have a wide range of options, so it doesnt matter if you like rustic or glamping, there is an option for you. What they dont have are the historical monuments that Crazy Horse has. Swimming Pool. D & W Lake Camping and RV Park has everything you need. Visitors of Sycamore RV Resort enjoy the quiet, peaceful surroundings and lake views. If youre thinking, That looks different, youd be entirely correctthis is no ordinary campground. Has all we needed for night stay. Guests can enjoy spending the day relaxing at the swimming beach, practicing their fishing skills while waiting to hook a bite, or heading out on a boat rental. The campsites can only be reached by kayak or canoe. Cross country skiing and snowmobiling are allowed if you venture here in the winter. The cabins are all available on Airbnb, and range from house-sized spaces to prairie stables and renovated train cabooses. So pretty and quiet. The beach features swings, picnic areas, playgrounds, and grills. The land was purchased from the railroad in 1865 through 1869. The park accommodates equestrian enthusiasts as well with many trails for riding. Animal lovers will be in awe of the wildlife sightings here. Kankakee River State Park is just down the road and offers hiking, biking, fishing and canoeing for those that want to spend their time in the scenic wilderness. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Head out in a kayak or canoe, soak up some rays on the beach or marvel at the wildlife around youmany a bald and golden eagle have been known to fly over these parts. Once youve marveled at the skyscrapers and filled up on hot dogs in Chicago, youll find several of Illinois most impressive state parks within day-trip distance of the Windy City. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a great place to hang out with friends and family. 1. The daily grind of life can be taxing on your mind, body and soul. 30 & 50 amp service, water & sewer at each site John, Google reviews. Youll see hills. There are so many sites to see and things to do in Illinois that dont center around the big city. $5 to $600, 309-344-1534, 1351 S. Lake Storey Rd., Galesburg, IL, 61401, ci.galesburg.il.us. Our RV and van life experts picked the best campgrounds in Illinois, USA. It even briefly used as a training camp in the Civil War. Milikin University offers local college level sports. Anglers love Channahon State Park and often catch a variety of bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish and bullheads. There are also seven sites for people with disabilities. Buchanan, MI 49107 Canyons, waterfalls and hiking trails spot the land around the campground and offer many opportunities for visitors to explore and become one with nature. Just perfect! Visitors love the nature found around this campground. In 2001, the land hosted a small budget film crew for the scenes and setting of the 2002 film Stray dogs with Genevieve Turner.Learn more about this land:Hiking and camping under the stars surrounded by trees with the sounds of nature. Sports lovers can engage in softball, volleyball, basketball, or mini-golf. While the reviews often mentioned the kind hosts and clean campground, the most boasted thing was the chickens. 3. It is located in Tinley Creek Woods, 612 acres of beauty. Lots of shade. It may be close to Chicago, but there are no signs of the city for miles. Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. The canyon is the main park attraction and was formed by water erosion with the minerals carried in the water contributing to the unique coloring of the canyon rocks. This one isnt for the faint of heart. It borders three natural lakes (the Grass, Marie and Nippersink) plus the Fox River, so it also just so happens to be a popular destination for grassland birds, if nature photography is your bag. This 25 acre parcel was once owned by a sand mining company. There is wifi, full hookup, and hot showers available. Made us feel at home., Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $43.12/none/none, Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $35/$220/none # of RV Sites: 89 Full Hookups: Yes 30/50 Amp: Both Back-In/Pull-Through Sites: Back-In Pool/Hot tub: No Showers: Yes Pets Allowed: Yes Cell Reception: Yes Wi-Fi: Yes, Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $27/$162/none, Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $25/$165/none # of RV Sites: 40 Full Hookups: Yes 30/50 Amp: Both Back-In/Pull-Through Sites: Both Pool/Hot tub: No Showers: Yes Pets Allowed: Yes Cell Reception: Yes Wi-Fi: Yes Discounts: N/A, Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $30/none/noneof RV Sites: 58Full Hookups: Yes30/50 Amp: BothBack-In/Pull-Through Sites: BothPool/Hot tub: NoShowers: YesPets Allowed: YesCell Reception: YesWi-Fi: NoDiscounts: N/A, Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $36/$216/none, Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $30/$180/$420 # of RV Sites: 35 Full Hookups: Yes 30/50 Amp: Both Back-In/Pull-Through Sites: Both Pool/Hot tub: Pool Showers: Yes Pets Allowed: Yes Cell Reception: Yes Wi-Fi: Yes Discounts: Good Sam Club, Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $18/$250/none # of RV Sites: 28 Full Hookups: Yes 30/50 Amp: Both Back-In/Pull-Through Sites: Both Pool/Hot tub: No Showers: Yes Pets Allowed: Yes Cell Reception: Yes Wi-Fi: Yes Discounts: Good Sam Club. About Perched on the shores of Lake Michigan and less than an hour's drive from Milwaukee and Chicago, Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park makes the perfect city retreat.