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$8 - $20 / night

$8 - $20 / night

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Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground is located near the Hennepin Canal in Illinois. The area features flat terrain with the canal providing a focal point for outdoor activities. Temperatures range from lows in the 20s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s in summer. Nearby attractions include the Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, offering trails and fishing opportunities.

Fee Info

First come first served and be prepared to pay, but there is no drop box for money. Someone is to visit the sites each eve to collect the funds from campers.

There are no set check-in or check-out times. The Canal’s site security officer makes rounds to each campsite to collect camping fees, in-person. Campers can pay by cash or check.

The canal offers class "C" (primitive camping without showers or electricity) for $8.00 per family/per night, regardless of mode of camping, i.e. tent, camper, pop-up.

Youth groups = $20.00 daily minimum. When the minimum has been met, each additional person is $2.00 per night. Each group of up to 15 youths must be supervised by at least one adult. Youths are considered persons under the age of 18.

IL Senior citizens camp for free from Monday-Thursday; Friday-Sunday = $8.00.

IL Disabled persons with a Class 2 or Class 2A card camp for free Sunday-Saturday.

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Location

Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground is located in Illinois

Detail location of campground

Directions

It is not easy to find, but the map WILL take you there. It's twisty-turney and will look like you are in the wrong spot (there are no signs) . The last "turn" is onto a gravel road BEFORE you get to the cement railroad bridge (immediately before). If you go under the bridge, you will hit a dead end.

Coordinates

41.3032231 N
89.448659 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 6/5/25

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
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Frakers Grove Farm

47 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 6/5/25

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

1 Review

Amy G.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Nov. 29, 2021

Hard to find, but worth it if you don't like crowds

This was a great little find in the middle of nowhere.  We were traveling home after Thanksgiving and we don't like crowded campgrounds.  We were in a tent (didn't need electric) and this was perfect.

I have to be honest, coming into this one "in the dark" was a bit creepy.  No lights, no signs and some graffiti on the railroad bridge.  But we looked around with a flashlight and it seemed good!  So we built a fire and stayed the night.

Word of warning: there is a railroad bridge RIGHT NEXT TO the campsite (about 50 yards) and it is functional.  We found this out in the middle of the night when we were jolted from sleep by headlights and loud noise!  Scary until we realized what was going on...lol.  But if you don't mind that now and then (and you know that it might happen) it wasn't bad.  Only happened twice.

There is noise here from the canal (this campground is at a lock so the water falls over the lock since there are no gates that work). But we found it to sound like a rushing stream and it was nice background noise.

There is a vault toilet that was well taken care of right next to the site.  These are "walk in" sites since you have to park in lot, but the sites are within 20 to 50 yards of the lot.  Easy access (not a trail, just grassy area).

About 4 sites here, but only one had a picnic table. One had a "sort of" fire ring.  But as quiet as this is likely to be, you shouldn't have issues.

The lock is really cool to look at during the day and there is a tow path it's entire length that can be biked/hiked/ skied/etc.  Around 100 miles I think!  Other campsites along it's path as well.  There is an interactive Google map on their website.

The only other minor issue was that this was far enough off the path that it seemed like it "might" be a place for folks to visit at night for purposes other than camping.  We did have one car approach before we were in bed, make a prompt u-turn and leave.  However that was the only incident we encountered beyond the train.

Overall...great place for off the beaten path camping that was clean and cheap! Would visit again!

Month of VisitNovember
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping locations near Princeton, IL?

Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground offers a peaceful camping option near Princeton, IL. This secluded spot is perfect for those looking to escape crowded campgrounds and enjoy a quiet outdoor experience. While it's described as being 'in the middle of nowhere,' this tranquil location provides a great opportunity for tent camping in a natural setting. For campers seeking alternatives, check with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for additional public camping areas along the Hennepin Canal corridor or explore nearby state parks that may offer different amenities and camping experiences.

Is camping allowed along the Hennepin Canal, and what are the regulations?

Camping is permitted at designated areas along the Hennepin Canal, including Lock 6 Campground. This area accommodates tent camping, though specific regulations should be verified with the managing authority. The campground appears to have minimal supervision, so campers should practice leave-no-trace principles. For those planning to arrive after dark, be aware there's limited lighting and signage. To ensure compliance with current regulations, contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before your trip for the most up-to-date information about permits, length of stay restrictions, and seasonal availability.

What amenities are available at campgrounds near the Hennepin Canal?

Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground offers a primitive camping experience with minimal amenities. The site appears to be primarily suited for tent camping without electrical hookups. There's limited infrastructure, and the campground lacks substantial lighting and signage, particularly challenging when arriving after dark. The appeal of this location is its secluded nature and peaceful environment rather than modern facilities. For campers requiring more amenities, it would be advisable to check with other established campgrounds in the region that might offer water, restrooms, or shower facilities. The rustic nature of this site makes it ideal for self-sufficient campers.

What outdoor activities can you do while camping near Princeton, IL?

While camping near Princeton, IL at Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground, visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities in this secluded natural area. The Hennepin Canal itself offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing along its historic waterway. The surrounding area is suitable for hiking and wildlife observation along the canal paths. Bird watching can be rewarding in this quiet environment. Cyclists appreciate the canal towpath for biking excursions. The campground's peaceful setting makes it ideal for stargazing on clear nights, away from city lights. Photography enthusiasts will find interesting subjects in the canal locks and surrounding landscape.

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