Buffalo Rock State Park Campground, near Ottawa, Illinois, is a peaceful spot that offers a nice escape from the hustle and bustle. With a focus on nature, this campground provides a chance to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

The sites here are perfect for tent camping and glamping, with fire rings for cozy evenings under the stars. Visitors have mentioned the charm of the area, noting that it’s a great place to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenic views of the Illinois River. One camper described the experience as “magical,” especially when walking to Ottawa.

While the campground doesn’t have restrooms or running water, there’s a water source available for filtering. Some campers appreciate the privacy of the sites, which are located across the street at the I&M Canal, making it a hidden gem for those seeking solitude. As one reviewer put it, “If you’re looking for privacy, this is it.”

For those who enjoy hiking, there are trails nearby that lead to beautiful overlooks and effigy mounds. Plus, being just a stone's throw from Starved Rock State Park means you can easily explore more trails and attractions in the area. Whether you're here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Buffalo Rock State Park Campground has a lot to offer for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Buffalo Rock State Park Campground

Looking for the best campgrounds near Ottawa, IL? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Ottawa

The Best Camping Near Ottawa, Illinois

Just down the street from Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park is the much smaller(and less crowded) Buffalo Rock State Park. It has some trails, camping, a playground and other facilities, and is right next to the I&amp; M Canal Tow Path.

  

At a leisurely pace, it only took me a couple of hours to walk all the trails. They are nice well-kept trails. Most of the surface is gravel but some parts are just dirt. The trail is wide and mowed at least two feet on either side. I’m not sure if bikes are allowed; I did see bike tracks and did not see any sign that indicated they were not allowed. Very little elevation changes and none that were steep. There are a couple of overlooks that offer beautiful views of Illinois River.

  

The campsites are directly off of the towpath. The furthest site(the group site) is three miles from the ranger station. There are four sites total. One of the sites is kinda small but big enough for a single tent and two campers. The largest site is the group site which is the only site with a picnic table and shelter. The shelter needed some work but overall was in decent condition. It as a fireplace that was pretty neat. Each site has a fire ring with grill. I did feel a little exposed being right off the trail. I was nervous leaving all my gear behind when I went for a hike. Nobody messed with my stuff though and everyone I saw was very friendly. I did have a visitor around two in the morning my second night. He was looking for a place to rest for a few hours and left at daybreak. The sites are only accessible by walking or biking.

  

 The park has a playground, restroom(with running water), and drinking fountains with spouts. The water tasted funny but it was nice having a source to refill my bottles. Also, there are buffalo and that’s pretty cool.

Great for bike camping but a little exposed

Camp sites aren’t actually in buffalo rock, they’re across the street at I&amp;M canal. You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you’re looking for privacy this is it. There aren’t toilets tho or running water..

Hidden 

This little gem is across the river from Starved Rock State Park. So, you can appreciate the bluff overlooks of the river without dealing with the crowds.  Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers.  A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk.

A great place to avoid the crowds!

Its nice and quiet.  When you park at the lot head towards Utica.  The first spot was about a half mile in.  If you head further down there is a nice spot with a shelter and fire place.  They are working on the bridge before Utica so you can not walk into town.  No restrooms but there is a water source you can filter.  Saw lots of wild life.  Walk to Ottawa is very magical.  Wouldn't change a thing. 

Photos of Buffalo Rock State Park Campground

Real photos from real campers