Rock Cut State Park Campground, near Loves Park, Illinois, is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. With a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, it caters to a variety of camping styles, making it easy to find a spot that suits your needs.

The campground boasts spacious sites, many equipped with electric hookups, which campers appreciate for convenience. Visitors have highlighted the scenic trails and fishing opportunities at Pierce Lake, perfect for a day of exploration or relaxation. As one camper noted, “There are tons of trails, fishing, and even a swimming pond.”

While the facilities are generally decent, some campers have mentioned that the cleanliness of the shower houses could use a little attention. However, the overall vibe is friendly, and many enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the area, especially during the fall when the scenery is particularly stunning.

Just a short drive from Loves Park, you’ll find plenty of dining options and local attractions to explore. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a longer adventure, Rock Cut State Park Campground offers a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to connect with nature.

Located 10 miles northeast of Rockford, Rock Cut State Park is a 3,100-acre recreation area that encompasses two natural grasslands, a natural creek area, a nature preserve and 162-acre Pierce Lake. The area was designated a state park in 1957 as a way of preserving a local polititian’s favorite fishing hole. Prior to this, the park and wider area has a long history of Native American residence, including the Mascouten, the Winnegabo, and the Chippewa. With abundant water and preserved natural areas, the park now supports a thriving habitat for local birds, fish and wildlife. And with year-round camping and outdoor activities, you can experience the many seasonal sides the park has to offer.  

The campground at Rock Cut provides 270 sites that can accommodate tent campers, as well as RV and trailer campers up to 40 feet. Back-in sites are mostly grassy and equipped with picnic tables, cooking grills and electrical hookups. The campground provides water faucets, restrooms, showers, and a dump station; the water and dump station are not available November through April. One of the park’s multiuse trails runs right through the campground, and provides access to the larger trail network. Most of the campground’s facilities are ADA accessible. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed; alcohol is not permitted.

For recreating in temperate seasons, more than 40 miles of hiking, cycling and equestrian trails allow you to explore the park’s woodlands and prairies. These are ideal ways to observe some of the local birds, animals, and wildflowers. For fun on the water, paddle around in a canoe or kayak, take a dip at Olsen Beach, or go fishing for some of the lake’s largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, pike and walleye. Several picnic areas throughout the park are ideal for group or family gatherings. In the snowy season, many of the park’s trails are open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with gear rentals available. For more family fun in the area, check out the nearby Volcano Falls Adventure Park.

For those who want to include an overnight stay in their visit to Rock Cut, the campgrounds provide electricity at the site, water hydrants at the beginning of each camping loop, sanitary dump stations, showers, toilets, a boat launch and playground equipment. There are 210 Class A Premium sites and 60 Class B/S Premium sites. There is also a primitive cabin (it has electricity, but does not have water or plumbing facilities).

From November - April, only electricity is available; there is no access to water or dump station.

Equestrian camping is restricted to a site on Hart Road, is only available on a first-come, first-served basis and the Ranger will collect the fee at your site in the evening.

Rock Cut is an alcohol-free park and campground, and this rule is strictly enforced.

Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

Join the fun near Machesney Park. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Machesney Park campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Machesney Park

The Best Camping Near Machesney Park, Illinois

site: not very private.  largely open area.
amenities: decently clean.
attractions: canoes/kayaks for rent. lake. 
I might go camping here again. Not a favorite, but not bad either.


mediocre

I did not camp here but went kayaking instead.  This place is real great and is a place for water sports. You can also fish here. There is a hiking trail around the huge lake which was a highlight, There is a lot of campsites so its o.k if you come late. They do let you rent boats

rock cut

My husband and I with my 3 kids stayed at rock cut on June 9th and 10th. Our first day it was raining pretty consistent as we set up. We had a site close to the boat launch so that the kids could fish. Evem though we were near the launchn our site still felt private. By 6 the rain stopped and we enjoyed the beauty all around. This camp ground was very well groomed, the roads and paths were wonderful. Across the lake from us there was a café and store/rental . They had everything from hot coffee and burgers to fantastic fishing gear. We rented a paddle boat for $15 an hour. The lake was so beautiful! They didn't allow swimming in the lake we were on but there was another lake that had a beach with the park.

Rock cut camp trip with 3 kids

Great areas for camping and many sites to choose from. They have many kid and dog friendly activities to participate in. Offer water activities; paddle boating is a blast. Beautiful park overall.

Love this state park!

Many options to do around the state park. Many different camping options too!!

Great state park!

This state park is close to Rockford, Il. There are opportunities to camp, hike, kayak and bike. I rode in on my bicycle and was able to set up before the rain. The ride was 2 - 3 miles long through some beautiful wooded areas of the state park before you get to the campground. The trails were a bit confusing but the camp area was understandable. There are showers and covered pavilions which were nice features. This is a nice place to go to get a break for a few days. 

Rock Cut State Park

Of all of the campgrounds that I have visited in Illinois, I would say that Rock Cut State Park is the best that I have seen.  It boasts as being the largest State Park in Northern Illinois.  It has a large lake with almost 40 miles of hiking trails, including equestrian trails and an equestrian campground.  There is boating and fishing as well as swimming in the lake.

The campground staff is very helpful and do a good job at keeping it clean and well maintained even with the large number of visitors.  Don't miss my interview with Marsha, one of the friendly staff members at Rock Cut State Park.

Rock Cut State Park campground is huge!

This park and campsite are pretty popular. This is a great place for canoeing and kayaking! We also went fishing. Long hikes throughout the park are also enjoyable. The camping was decent. As were the facilities. Fairly close to home so I'll probably be back but only for the kayaking. My overall feelings on everything else were just kinda meh. Nothing compared to some of the MO and AK kayaking that I've done. Like seriously the okayest park ever.

One of the Best Illinois has to Offer! ...which in not that good.

Three times the staff sent me to sites that were already occupied (with park issued tags on them).  This involves driving back and forth for miles at 10mph.  Then, the bath house was filthy, so I waited until after cleaning...the same men's underwear was still in the shower stall!  The Olson Beach swimming area was nice (it is a pond, not a swimming pool), and the attendant was helpful.  However, they have just announced that it is now closed.  That negates the only reason to return with my grandchildren.  Sorry, but this once great jewel is now underwhelming.

Issues

Very nice campground. Would definitely come again.

Beautuful

Great boating. Beautiful nature. Not something you would expect near Rockford.

Fun on the water! 

The park is nice. Close to town, has a nice beach large lake and pleasant vibe. They do lock the gates at 10pm so don’t expect to hangout in town past 10\. Fun stuff to do is fishing, biking, seeing the town and visiting the racetrack.

It’s one of our favorites 

Normal Illinois state park. Not a lot of services but good size sites and peaceful. Lake with canoe rentals and fishing. Nice walking trails.

Nice park and campground 

We always make our first trip of the year to Rock Cut State Park. For us it's close to home, shopping and an RV dealership so it's pefect to "shake out" the camper and we can easily get anything we forgot or get stuff to repair anything that's not working. 
The park is very good sized with nice camping sites, pet friendly, loads of trails to hike and bike and a lake for quiet water sports, no motor boats allowed. 

Great spot close to home

This past weekend was our first visit to Rock Cut State Park and overall we enjoyed our stay and do plan Togo back! Our site (330) was a little more private ham most of the sites we say, so we advice you to pay attention when booking the site because some are in open fields with little to no privacy. The Park is just off I-90 interstate so while hiking we could hear freeway traffic! Overall it was a nice park with 2 lakes (1 is non motorized, the other is a no wake) that were great for fishing and kayaking!

Nice campground in one of Illinois’ largest state parks 

The grounds were clean as well as the bathrooms. Well spaced campsites with bushes and trees in between to provide privacy. Although in the spring, the greenery was fairly thin. Quite a few large groups partying in the evening but quieted down around 10pm. Trail around the lake is well maintained.

Beautiful campground, but crowded on the weekends

This is a nice state park. There are some decent hiking trails that are bike friendly. Nothing outrageous, really good to get out and put some miles on and great for kids learning to ride off pavement. The campground has some nice spacious sites in several different areas. There are pull-through sites for bigger rigs and grassy sites for tents. It's a good place to spend a couple nights. There is a decent fishing lake with canoe/kayak/paddle boat rentals. There is a separate lake with a beach, though you have to pay to use the beach.

The restaurant by the fishing lake has standard fare, but the ice cream is quite good.

Close to nature but close to everything else.

This campground is very good. Water and Facilities are everywhere. Only one shower house.

Nice place to disconnect 

The campground was very pretty, clean, and friendly staff. The bath houses were clean, the outhouses were not bad. Nice walking paths. Grills on the fire pits. I recommend not camping on the downside of the tent Hills. If there is rain you will be washed out.

Beautiful 

State park offers some good hiking and all season activities. Camp ground was quiet and clean.

Tent and camper camp ground next to good state park 

Nice quiet place to get away. Large lake for boating and fishing.  Sights are good sized for campers and pop-ups.  Tent sites are a little sloped.  Easy trails around the lake.  

Easy get away 

I want to point out from the start that is has been an unusually wet spring in northern IL. 
The camp sites are very rustic and all the rain didn’t do many of them any favors. Several are completely unusable this weekend. We had to use 4 wheel drive to back the trailer in our spot. It is very soggy and the ground is pretty saturated. 
It a big campground near a big lake with fishing and a store. The loops have old pit toilets as well as central shower houses. the spaces range from small and private to small and wide open. 
It’s Saturday night and the local racetrack is running heats. About a mile away, and it’s loud. If I was in tent it would be awful. 

Might be nice

Some sites are more secluded than others. Down by the boat ramp is more privacy than the other tent area. There have been issues with poison ivy overrunning the paths in the past but I don’t think it’s been an issue lately. Rentals for water activities and supplies at the concessions or camping store if needed. Lots of hiking trails to explore. 

Have camped here multiple times. 

We’ve stayed at Rock Cut several times, always in the Stag Horn loop, and had great sites. This last time, the grass was so high, we couldn’t use our fire pit or picnic table. My husband came later and he brought our weed wacker so we could clear it out enough to set up our screened canopy. I like stag horn since they are level, close to the bathroom and camp store, as well as a mixture of wooded and not wooded sites. Some sites are a bit tight.

Lawnmower Needed

I stayed at a primitive site right on the lake and was able to keep my canoe at my site in the water. Easy booking and check-in/out. Large camping spots and nice trails

Love this campground

The camp ground itself was decent. It was very small but was enough for a two night stay. I was disappointed in the lack of activities there were there. They have two lakes for fishing and a bike trail. Not much for hiking. 

Decent campground, minimal activities 

We booked a couple of days ahead of our stay, and ended up with one of the last 2 sites in the primitive tent area. The site was on the end of an inlet, and the water was full of algae– not a great view, but the lot was a decent size. Not as big as some state campgrounds that we’ve been to, but big enough for our single tent and it had a small fire ring with grate and a picnic table.  (NOTE: There appears to be a shortage of picnic tables in this area, and we ended up snatching one from the neighboring site as the residents hadn’t arrived yet. It was an east/west facing lot, and had a couple of trees of the east side, so no afternoon shade. Tough luck on a weekend with temps hanging around 90 degrees! Luckily, I had taken a large tarp and managed to rig some shade with the help of the trees. The toilets in the primitive area are pit– there are 2 sets so no one has to walk far. The toilets closest to our lot were better than I had expected from a pit– no smell in the women’s, although I was told that the men’s was pretty foul. There were, as usual, plenty of flies and spiders, but the TP was always stocked. There were flush toilets and showers near the RV camp areas. I first, used the showers in the Plum Grove section– there were 3 showers with very old with rusty, crusty shower curtains. The way that they were laid out, the changing area for the first two showers were a walkway for the other showers. However, I later used the shower close to the Staghorn area, and it was a bit newer and nicer. No walkthrough problems, and there was a door between the changing area and the main section. Overall, the entire campground was nice and well kept. The general store was small, but carried quite a bit for its size. There was also another store at Pierce Lake where they rented kayaks and paddle boats, sold fishing gear, ice cream, etc. At this same location there’s a small concession area– the hot dogs were pretty good.“Quiet time” isn’t exactly enforced(unfortunately). We were lucky enough camp on a weekend when a group(maybe 10 tents) of wannabe musicians were camping. They played bongos and guitars and sang until 11:30 p.m. Add that to the families with kids and scooters that started tooling around the tents at 7:00 a.m.(yes, technically the end of quiet time, but really?), and it could have been quieter.

NOTE:  I forgot to mention that the sites along the water's edge were covered in goose poo.  We spent around 20 minutes clearing the site.  Nature, whatcha gonna do?

Hickory Hills Primitive

Tent sites are in hickory hills area. Easy walk to showers/toilets over across from site 100. Tent sites are much more shaded and private than electric sites. We were traveling with another family so had two sites. If you have two parties I'd recommend sites 27 and 31 which have a little private path and potentially 53 and 5 which also appeared to have a path between them. Our sites 47 and 53 were big and shaded but not very flat for sleeping. Boat launch very close if you bring your own kayaks or canoes. There are also some for rent at the other end of the park. Park and ice at concessions.

Tent camping near lake

The campground was very busy, booked basically full for the weekend. On Sunday afternoon the lake was full of boaters and people fishing. Sunday night a lot of people cleared out leaving us as one of 10 campers in our part of the campground for Monday. The lake is definitely warm enough to swim in during the summer but has a lot of lake weed floating around the edge making it pretty murky. 

Busy but nice

Rock cut is only about a 50 minute drive from the far burbs of Chicago. It’s situated a few miles outside of Rockford so if you’re into exploring old industrial river towns, this is a nice one.

The spots are average size. The bathrooms are pretty busted but for what it lacks in amenities it gains in acres to a cool giant stocked lake, bike paths, and being just far away to make a weekend gateway worth it.

Great spot for Chicagoland campers

It’s relatively easy to get to as it is close to the interstate. The site for our 30 ft travel trailer was very roomy. (We’re very new to camping with a trailer and we backed it in on the first try) We came here with a friend and booked sites next to each other. There are trees in between! With small paths! My kids loved that part. The fire wood sold at the camp store was very green and had a hard time catching. Electric hookups only. No water except at taps around the grounds. There IS a dump station contrary to what the official site says. All in all, we had a good time. Plenty of hiking, biking, and a swimming area. 

Not bad for newbies 

I would probably never stay here again. We stayed in the plum grove electric site because  it was close to the lake. We brought our kayaks and were looking forward to this trip. This is a very busy campground and popular on the weekends. But we didn’t think we would have had so many issues. The site was overgrown and hadn’t been mowed in awhile. The fire pit had a huge hole in it and the hot coals kept dropping through to the ground. The bathhouse was dirty and it over flowed so the campground personal had to come out and fix the plumbing. Disgusting. The lake had a lot of green algae and smelled a bit but it’s a lake. There were a lot of boaters and the boat launch was very crowded. The campsite behind us partied all night drinking, smoking weed and playing music until 5am. The campground is in need of some TLC. The only positive remark I can say is that the lake is great for kayaking. 

Terrible campground 

We stayed in the hickory loop, site 40. On the map there are interior sites which are fairly open and level, not much separating the sites. But the sites on the edge, on the water often have some foliage separating the sites for some added privacy. There are sites near a small inlet, it’s water was a bit more swampy, not as aesthetically pleasing as some of the other shire sites, if that’s a concern. Site 20 is the best and it is almost always reserved, one of these years we’re gonna bag that one. The lake offers some nice fishing, there is a fishing platform near this loop, we got some bites, but the rain moved in and we didn’t land anything. Lots of folks brought kayaks, seemed like a great place for water activities. Hiking trails are nice, not tremendously long or rigorous. Water taste is pretty good, bathrooms are pit, decently clean. There are showers but we did not partake. There is a shopping center about a half mile outside of the entrance in case you forgot something or run out of smore supplies. Cell reception was fair/decent. They have a pay beach with a snack shop with fantastic local ice cream. I think as of the third week in July (2020) it was back open. They have a FB page and it has all the breaking news. 

Some great tent sites!

We tent camped in the staghorn section, less packed that the other options. Nice place, bathroom and showers were decent. Lot of trails, rentals of kayak, great for dogs and kids. Meijer is also close by in case you forget anything. 

Weekend getaway

We arrived during a downpour, but our site was on a hill and didn’t get too waterlogged. The camp host in the store was an incredibly friendly and welcoming woman. They have lots of gear and products you may need—firewood, ponchos, bug spray, etc, etc...even camping chairs! To escape the rain, we went to Pig Minds Brewing Co, about 5-10 minutes away. The site itself wasn’t too exposed, and the back had tall bushes insulating us completely from the other side. The shower house was a nice 10-min walk from site 24. Not dirty, though there were lots of tube-shaped creepy crawlers in the shower grout lines. Kinda cute. The hiking was decent, you can hike around the large lake. 

Nice spot near the water (site 24)

We took our new to us pop up camper to Rock Cut for a quick 2 night mid-week getaway. Loved the shaded, wooded sites of Staghorn loop and would only book that loop going forward as the others for small RVs are in a huge grassy open area with few trees. The loop was not even half occupied when we were there, and perhaps because of that, the bathrooms and pit toilets near us were great. We had electric only at the site, but water wasn't a far walk. Camping during a pandemic, we were frustrated that most campers didn't feel the need to wear a mask in the camp store/boat rental concessions area despite posted signs. We rented a paddleboat and a SUP board to go out on the lake, which is kind of murky and stinky. Beach was closed at the time due to Covid-19 restrictions, but I am not sure we would have wanted to get in the lake, despite the hot June temps!

Staghorn Loop is the way to go

We stayed in Hickory Loop at site 19. Almost none of the campsites have much privacy or distance from others. 

  

On Saturday night, the local speedway had races so there was a solid two hours of droning car sounds. 

  

The toilets were very dirty and lacking maintainance. 

  

The rest of the park is lovely, I would highly recommend for day trips, but definitely not for camping.

Not sure why this campground is so well liked

UPDATE: Came back in June 2021, better weather and so much more to see.  The hiking/biking trails are many miles long.  The fishing near t he dam is great and you can always find a spot near the edge of the lake.  Bring bug spray.

Great park with a beautiful lake, snack shop, boat rentals, fishing piers and hiking trails.  Several loops for spots some close to camp store and lake.  Paved walking and bike riding trails.  Great for bird watching.

Beautiful Lake with Many Trails

We visited this spot last summer as a place to stay for 1 night on our way farther north. 

We really enjoy tent camping and prefer walk-in/hike in sites so we can have some privacy away from other campers. The campsites were decently dispersed and the ground was nice and grassy so it was pretty comfortable. 

We always want more space between campsites, but I think the privacy level was fine. The tent sites are right off the parking lot where the boat ramp is so maybe on a busy weekend it would be a little loud, but overall a nice night for us! 

We left in the morning to continue our drive so we didn’t spend much time checking out the hiking trails. 

We did however go checkout the beach which wasn’t much to write home about. If I remember correctly, we had to pay a fee to enter. Always happy to support a state park. We just figured since we were already paying to camp there, it wouldn’t cost extra. I’m pretty sure we paid an admission fee and didn’t stay for long. It was across the way and requires a drive instead of a hike to get there. 

Good Tent Sites

Take a leisurely stroll, or fish in their stocked lake. Rock cut is a sweet park just outside Rockford. The sites are not private in the least, but I've met some really nice people!

Fun little casual spot

We stayed on tent-only site 009 which gave us a small view of the lake through the trees, a direct trail to the lake to sit with our morning coffee, and plenty of space between sites so we couldn't see or hear any neighbors. It's a short walk in to the site from the parking area in that section (maybe 50 ft total) and parking is easy and plentiful in the lot. We brought our own potty so I can't speak on the cleanliness of the facilities, but I can say they store their firewood indoors which was excellent for nice dry wood that was easy to start and burned hot.

Close proximity to Chicago, beautiful lake, nice trails

Great state park for hiking. Decent campground. Canoes and paddle boats available in the summer for rent. 

Biggest state park in northern Illinois 

I love this place it’s minutes from my home. Plenty of trails and fishing. Two places to buy forgot things and less than a mile from Shopping if needed. 

Northern Illinois Jem

Love going here. It’s a beautiful campground that is kept up. Very clean.

Beautiful

Just outside of the sprawling metropolitan area of Rockford, Illinois, the recreational oasis of Rock Cut State Park awaits. With miles of walking, hiking, biking, and even some intermediate mountain biking single track around a damned lake, there is plenty for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. 

  

The campsites offer a spacious escape from the city, with the usual amenities of fire ring and picnic table, but most had long paved driveways and electrical hook-ups to boot.  But our site had plenty of sun, so we were able to run on solar and not worry about the hookups.

  

The bathrooms appeared to have full-flush facilities with hot showers, however these were not open in November when we arrived.  Instead, pit toilets (fairly clean) were available for use. The park and one loop of the campground remains open year-round, however the water and facilities with plumbing shut down at the end of October. 

  

All of the trails double as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing areas as well, so don’t think of this as just a summer time getaway. We experienced one of the best late fall summers ever in November, 70 degrees during the day and cool at night. It was perfect, and while the place was full over the weekend, it never felt too crowded. 

  

Just outside of the park boundary the suburban sprawl encroaches, so gas, ice, and groceries couldn’t be any more convenient. The winding park roads help slow things down and make it feel like you’ve wandered into a little slice of the wild on the edge of the prairie.

An Easy Respite from City Life

I spent most of 2020 here. Close to everything you’ll ever need while camping. Only negative are the same everywhere you bag go. Other campers not respecting the earth or other people. Love this place. 

Perfect State Park

We live less than five minutes from Rock Cut and wanted to test out our pop up camper. It's off season so the showers were not open yet but there were open toilets. Wasn't too many other campers so it was nice and quiet. Hiking trail is right next to the campground which was nice. You can hear the highway at night which kinda takes away from the nature vibes but overall I was very happy with our one night stay. 

One night test run

This was our first time to Rock Cut State Park and it was amazing. The park itself is quite large with really nice hiking trails. We took our new tent out for the 1st time and had a great site. The only negative is that the sites are very close so not a lot of room between them. We took a walk on the trail down by the lake and just overall had a great time. We look forward to returning to explore more of what this park has to offer!

Great Shakedown Trip

Had a great time last weekend at Rock Cut.  The camp grounds and roads were well maintained, and the larger park as a whole was very clean and spacious.  Toilet facilities are about the average for a state park, but hopefully you will spend most of your time outside of them enjoying nature.  We spotted turtles along the lakeshore, very healthy (well fed) chipmunks, and a large variety of birds which made beautiful background sounds.  Plenty of mixed use trails for hikers, joggers, and cyclists.  The lakes were gorgeous and it looked like fishing folks were having a good time.  The sheer variety of sites and styles make this a campground worth returning to again and again.  Tent, RV, Cabin, all looked enjoyable. Looking forward to going back in warmer months!

Options for a weekend away

Rock Cut St. Park is in the middle of an urban area, but you would not know it.  The park is very large and has multiple campgrounds.  I stayed in the Plum Grove campground.  Trees were not really leafed out and some sites would have shade later in the year.  Site along the edge of the campground had ample shade.  There is a central bathhouse with flush toilets and 3 showers. There is also a pit toilet.  Sites have an electrical hookup, but water is from a hydrant.  There is a dump station and water supply near the park entrance.  There are bike trails, hiking, and equestrian trails.  I also believe that you can swim and boat here.

Big park with lots of options for camping and recreation

Rock Cut St. Park is in the middle of an urban area, but you would not know it. The park is very large(the largest in northern Illinois) and has multiple campgrounds. I stayed in the Prairie View campground. Trees all around, plenty of shade. There is a central bathhouse with flush toilets and 3 showers. There is also a pit toilets throughout the park. Sites have electrical hookup, but water is from a hydrant or there is a dump station and water supply near the campground entrance. There are bike trails, hiking, and equestrian trails. You can swim in the lake at the east end of the park. Paddle boats, canoes and kayaks for rent as well as two boat ramps on the big lake in the middle of the park. The Plum Grove campground is more open between sites and sites are closer. Staghorn, White Oak, and Prairie View are father apart and have more under growth between sites. Hickory hills campgrounds is all tent sites and most are on the lake. Also there are AOA sites.

Very nice campground

The staff was friendly and helpful allowed me to drive in and look around to pick a site. The grounds were clean and you would  never know you were in the city

Great  experience 

Overall a lovely park with a variety to go do. We rented a kayak and canoe for reasonable rates. Our dog was able to enjoy the canoe ride. White Oak has wooded campsites that are semi-private with some more open than others. There are decent pit toilets scattered throughout the campground. There is one shower house with mediocre showers and flush toilets. All employees we interacted with were exceptionally kind and helpful.

White Oak Campground

The volunteer who was there to sign us in was wonderful. She was very helpful and very friendly.  They had 2 shower houses and I have to say they were not in the greatest shape. One was newer but both of them were pretty dirty and not that appealing.  There were lots of camp sites and most of them seemed spaced out, but some were pretty open with not to much shade. Others had lots of shade and were hidden from others to give you privacy.  We only stayed one night but it was still and enjoyable time.

Relaxation at its best

We arrived 9/13/21. We had site 17 reserved but Betsy at the camp check-in told us there were some other sites available and a bit more secluded, although it was not busy at all. We opted for the sites close to the boat launch, but regretted it as it was very dusty and dry. Campsite offered a fire pit and table. Bathroom/shower room was nothing glamorous but got the job done. It could definitely use a remodel. Hot water took about 3-4 minutes to get there. The concession store on the other side offers a few amenities/snacks. You can rent paddle boards or a boat, although we didn’t. We saw a huge wild turkey group and 3-4 deer. 

Fun for a night.

Big state park up in the north end of the state. Campground is fun but if you're looking for privacy you won't find it here. This place is packed with campsites on top of each other. It's like a mini city of tent camping. The RV sites were on top of each other too. Facilities were gross. Lot of litter.
The hiking trails were nice. Not labeled too well but they were decent. Has a camp store. 


Overnighter in tent

Close by so I can still take care of my client yet still have camping time and this year I get  my Serior discount!  Close by stores, medical clinics,  Local Racetrack, within one mile of camp ! Big hardware store in case you forgot something. 
Check out the concession on the lake  they have most things, and great food too,  water big wheels , canoes and kayaks and paddle boards available for rental come and have a great time.


Time to camp !

I walked around the campsite a few weeks before my visit, and I sort of got a sense that it would be just that area. And I was a bit disappointed at how close the sites were to one another without any divider or anything for privacy. But during my visit I got to do some hiking and fishing and I tell you the water, plants and animals, were so beautiful! I didn't even care that my tent was close to other people, because I was out on the trails all day and I didn't even get through a third of what there is to see at this huge park. I will definitely be goi
ng back. Next time I'm bringing my bike and swimwear, and hopefully the beach will be done with construction.

Better than expected 

We LOVE site 20 as does everyone else who books this one up quick. Literally the only downside is that you have no flat spots anywhere on the site, which killed our backs sleeping in tents.

Pros - lake view, but a safe distance down the hill so no worries about the kids at the campsite. 

On the end with tons of privacy, full row of trees and a ton of space until the next site. It’s like your own mini oasis.

Lake is also fabulous. We decided to rent instead of hauling our own kayak and they were clean, affordable and quick process.

Cons - lol that hill is no joke. Pit toilets I wouldn’t touch with a 10ft pole, but that’s pretty typical.

Beautiful View (site 20), serious slope

We stayed here overnight on our way to Michigan, with our site in the White Oak loop. Most sites here were secluded and level. Beware of the Plum Grove loops - most sites there looked small and close together, and many were not very level. Shower buildings were clean enough, but very old with bad shower heads. Lots of good hiking trails and a pretty lake. The beach area is closed, so no swimming is available. Also our cell service (AT&amp;T) was very spotty throughout the park. 

Nice enough state park with easy access from the freeway.  

Will likely not be back to camp here again. Very crowded with loud and obnoxious campers, dogs off leash, music and lights on late at night, etc. No privacy between sites down in Hickory Hills and no personal space. Did i mention basically every tent site down here is on an incline?? Just not my kind of scene.

Did have decent TMobile service and the showers and pit toilets were clean and useable. Albeit rundown.

Not a repeat for me

Sites were nearly unusable, covered in poison ivy, mud, and gravel. People walking through constantly due to some unmarked bike path. No privacy from your neighbors. Will not be back. 

Disappointing 

I may have had high expectations here and so was let down.  The site was great, private and for being so heavily wooded the mosquitoes were not bad at all.  But you can hear I90 as well as the Rockford Speedway which was a bummer.  The small camp store was nice, good selection but the restaurant at Pierce lake was not run well.  We waited almost 40m for a bagel.  
Boat rentals were great, the husband and youngest took out a pedal boat and enjoyed a cruise around the water.  
Trails were overgrown with the exception of the one paved trail just off the water but that one was very busy.  

It’s close to home so that’s a perk but it’s not a favorite for me 

Stag horn campsite 

I have camped in the tent section and also used the 30 amp service with our Class B van.  Plenty of sites to choose from during the week but tends to get crowded on weekends.  There are some sites out in the open and some that are totally private and secluded.  It pays to drive through the camp ground and note a couple sites that you are interested in and then book your site at the entrance during walk in days.  Once you have a couple favorites you can then book in advance online.

  

It does get congested and noisy on the weekends and holidays but can be a very peaceful and relaxing campground during the non-busy days.  There is obviously the lake, hiking and biking paths throughout the park, 2 camp stores, showers and plenty of restrooms scattered around the park.

  

Pet friendly.

Camped Here Several Times

The campsite were secluded from each other. It was cosy and surrounded by trees. The staff was friendly and attentive. Since we came in late and left early we unfortanly didn’t get to explore the surroundings. 

A good campsite 

Awesome place for camping!!No highway noise, nice trail for walking…We will be back!

Awesome 

The sites were separated pretty well.

  

Our site was not very level, the gravel area (pad) was washed away and needed some repairs.

  

Decent bathrooms, about 100yds from site.

Ok for an overnight stay

First time camping at Rock Cut State Park. Sites are spaced out well enough to provide privacy. Close to biking and hiking trails. Add bonus for EV owners, electricity is included in most sites so bring the travel charger. 

Great site

This is a great state park not too far from Chicago. Has a lot of rv sites and dedicated tent site close to the lake.

State park close to Chicago 

Our first trip out with our pop up was to the local state park. We were pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was. Bathrooms were meh. Some sites had good shade, but many had very little. Our site was okay, but friends across the road had no shade. 

Overnighter

Campsite 201- spot was nice with plenty of space behind us along the woods. Camp store just 100 ft away.  Park was very nice. Lake was great. Rented kayak for $20/hr.  Has a dump station and water hookup just inside the entrance past the office. Area construction didn’t affect experience for camping, but did not allow you to hike around the entire lake. Overall, nice campground for a relaxing weekend. 

Trip #1 (Camper life begins)

June 8, 2018 @ Rock Cut State Park Campground

For whatever reason you find yourself up here in northern Illinois, whether just entering the Land of Lincoln or fleeing to the 'nation of cheese curds' to the north (a.k.a. Wisconsin) – only 10 minutes from this natural outcrop by the way – be sure to stop by this multi-campus nature preserve camping outpost. With more than 3,000 acres of wetlands, tall grasses and protected forest preserves, Rock Cut SP packs a punch from a camping perspective as it offers up so much in such a concise area of land that has Pierce Lake perfectly placed in its center. 

  

The biggest problem you are likely to encounter here is exactly which of the 7 (yes, I just said 7!) campgrounds to stay at: Staghorn, Prairie View, Plum Grove, Hickory Hills, White Oak, Equestrian or Youth Group. And if 7 campgrounds aren’t enough, there’s also a single rustic cabin with electricity (mind you, no running water or even a bathroom) you can rent as well as 3 other smaller, really intimate primitive camping spots (that are actually my favorite) with the following names: Hawk, Crow and Owl, which sit along the same lane opposite the Youth Group campground on this eastern stretch just due north of the lake.  Over here, you'll also see the boat launch area.

  

For this particular review, I will focus my efforts on detailing Staghorn, which is the second campground (with the first campground you pass by being Prairie View) you will come across after entering Rock Cut SP from its northernmost entrance, with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east. Once you enter the park, you will follow the long winding nicely paved roadway until you begin seeing the signs highlighting where to go for the various campgrounds. Once you access this road, you’ll come across a small building with a smiling SP ranger inside where you will register, after which, you will pass by a designated dump station before coming around a small bend where you will take your second right (careful: taking that first right will have you driving into Staghorn the wrong way!). 

  

The sites begin with #300 and as you circumnavigate the simple circular loop, you will pass by about 2 dozen or so slots that are nice flat paved slots perfect for just about any RV or 5th Wheel. You will note that the odd numbered sites are on the exterior while the even numbered sites are located on the interior of the loop. There are two his / her restrooms located at Staghorn with the first being placed behind the campground host sites (#302 and#304) at the beginning of the loop, while the second is strategically placed towards the end of the loop behinds sites #324 and #326. At the end of the loop there is also a designated trash area just past site #331. To access the shower, you will need to go back to the main road and hike it down the road with your towel and toiletries, which makes the latter sites (#318+) more attractive for their convenient location to the bathhouse (if that’s important to you). 

  

As far as amenities go, Rock Cut SP offers up an awful lot (if the 7 campgrounds weren’t enough to help you arrive at that conclusion). In addition to all of the camping options, of course, one of the greatest assets here is the very massive Pierce Lake, which is great for fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming. In the Staghorn campground specifically, in addition to restroom and waste disposal, you’ll also have access to running water spigots at each site along with running electric. A single amphitheater is located centrally just past the camp store and before reaching the Hickory Hills campground. While I'm at it, this camp store in the middle of Rock Cut SP is just decent (not amazing) and offers up ice, firewood, ice cream, snacks, games, limited groceries and a number of other sundries you might need while camping. In all, there are 5 shelters that have electricity, water and restrooms nearby, with each shelter available by reserving them well in advance. Two of the shelters (Red Oak and Puri Crest) also have children’s playgrounds nearby. To launch your watercraft, you’ll have to head south to Hickory Hills campground where on the eastern side of this area you’ll be able to find the boat launch. To make a reservation either to camp or rent out a shelter, you’ll have to visit the ExporeMoreIL site to make a reservation. 

  

Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) IMHO the best sites here in Staghorn are those that are positioned on the exterior of the loop and located furthest from the main road, for the obvious reasons being less traffic, less noise and more privacy. As such, odd-numbered sites from #301 to #319 are the best spots as they deliver peace &amp; quiet, privacy and thus an intimate nature experience; (2) Once you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your onboard RV fridge, fret not, and just head out of the park where you will find a handful of dining options, including: Tom&amp; Jerry’s, Fresh Start Café, Waffle Shop, Golden Chopsticks Buffet, Sunrise Family Restaurant, Beef-A-Roo (in fact, there’s like 4 of these that the park is surrounded by, so apparently they are very popular), but one of my absolute favorites is Pig Minds Brewery Company, which is, surprisingly, a Vegan joint, but one nonetheless that you can grab a number of seriously astonishingly awesome brews; (3) If you are on the prowl to see some of the most amazing animals that call northern Illinois their home, then you’ve hit the wild animal jackpot with easy viewing of white-tailed deer, red foxes, raccoons, squirrels, opossums, woodchucks and beavers; (4) But because there are so many wild animals out here, be sure to keep your domesticated pets on a leash (as its a requirement here at Rock Cut SP); and (5) If you would like to experience a bit of Illinois history, you could go for a nice long drive to the northwest corner of Illinois where you can experience Galena or if you don’t have enough time for that, then just head south of Rock Cut SP to check out Midway Village Museum. 

  

Happy Camping!

Campground Jackpot in Northern Illinois

A perfect spot for a weekend trip. We stayed in the White Oak area and used our tent. This location was close to the shower house (which could have been a little bit cleaner but still usable). There are plenty of scenic photo opportunities especially during the fall season. 

Fall Getaway

We camp here at least 5 times a year. It’s only 8 miles from our home. Many trails and not to expensive. They have sites with electric and sites just for tents. The only negative is no drinkable water. Tons of trails, fishing and even a swimming pond. 

So close to home

We have a 30 amp trailer. When we got there, the electricity wasn't working. It was 93° on a Saturday. We called the Rangers and asked them to look at our site breaker since it kept tripping. They came, told us the park was old and not updated but then ultimately told us it was our trailer. We had to rent a motel for the night because we couldn't even pull out the slide or anything. This was after spending about 6 hours pulling apart all the electrical in the trailer. Went to camping world the next day just for us to use their plugs and it was fine. We thought maybe it was our cord so we bought a new one and still nothing. We called the Rangers again who came to look at it. Told us that the park was just so old that it probably couldn't keep up and moved us to a 50 amp sight. The 30 amp plug there would work for about 2 mins and then would keep tripping again. So we ended up having to go back to camping world to get an adapter to use the 50 amp. Wasted about 30 hours of our trip over their electrical not being updated and they knew that. Tried to reach out to get the first night reimbursed since we literally couldn't even stay there or use our trailer. Was told we had to come back the next day to speak to the head ranger, came back and he wasn't there again. Was told he would call us two different times and never got a call. Will never stay here again. 

Not well maintained 

If you’ve been up and down the I90 corridor in Illinois and haven’t had the chance to swing by Rock Cut SP, whether just entering the Land of Lincoln or fleeing to the Cheesehead state to the north, which is less than 10 minutes from this nature outcrop, you’ll want to ensure you stop by this multi-campus campground gem. Whether while driving your RV, pulling that 5th Wheeler behind you or looking to strike up your tent in a primitive camping area, Rock Cut SP has so many options that you’ll be excited by all of the options that exist here in this wetland prairie.

  

But before just arriving to this perfectly squared natural outcrop encompassing more than 3,000 acres of woodlands encasing a pristine Pierce Lake, you’ll have to navigate which of the 7 campgrounds to book: Staghorn, White Oak, Prairie View, Plum Grove, Hickory Hills, Equestrian or Youth Group. And if 7 campgrounds aren’t enough, there’s also a solo cabin you can rent as well as 3 other smaller, really intimate primitive camping spots (that are actually my favorite) with the following names: Hawk, Crow and Owl, which sit along the same lane opposite the Youth Group campground.

  

For this particular review, I will be zeroing in on detailing Prairie View, which is the very first campground you will come across after entering Rock Cut SP from its northernmost entrance, with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east. Once you enter the park, you will follow the long winding nicely paved two-lane circuit until you begin seeing the signs highlighting where to go for the various campgrounds. Once you access this road, you’ll come across a small building with a ranger where you will check in, after which, you will pass by a designated dump station before coming around a small bend where you will take your first left.

  

The sites begin with #500 and as you circumnavigate the simple circular loop, you will pass by about 2 dozen or so slots that are nice flat paved slots perfect sized for just about any RV or 5th Wheel. There is a single his / her restroom along with trash area at the beginning of the loop just past sites #503 and #504. To access the shower, you will need to go back to the main road and hike it down the road with your towel and toiletries, which I have to admit, is the biggest bummer about this particular campground. If having close access to shower facilities is important to you, then you may want to contemplate staying at other campgrounds here like Staghorn and White Oak, which offer closer proximity.

  

On the amenities front, Rock Cut SP offers up a swath of them, if the 7 campgrounds weren’t enough of a nod that this place is jam packed with just about everything you could think of, and then some. In addition to all of the camping options, of course, one of the greatest assets here is the very massive Pierce Lake, which is great for fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming. To launch your watercraft, you’ll head south to Hickory Hills campground where on the eastern side of this area you’ll be able to find the boat launch. In the Prairie View campground, in addition to restroom and waste disposal, you’ll also have access to running water spigots at each site along with running electric. The small community amphitheather is located centrally just past the campstore and before reaching the Hickory Hills campground. There is a camp store in the middle of Rock Cut SP that offers up ice, firewood, ice cream, snacks, games, limited groceries and a number of other sundries you might need while camping. Additionally, there are 5 shelters that have electricity, with water and restrooms nearby and each shelter available through a reservation system. Two of the shelters (Red Oak and Puri Crest) also have children’s playgrounds nearby.

  

Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Once you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your onboard RV fridge, fret not, and just head out of the park where you will find a handful of dining options: Tom &amp; Jerry’s, Fresh Start Café, Waffle Shop, Golden Chopsticks Buffet, Sunrise Family Restaurant, Beef-A-Roo (in fact, there’s like 4 of these that the park is surrounded by), but one of my absolute favorites is Green Fire, which is a really nice farm-to-table joint; (2) IMHO the best sites here in Prairie View are those that are located furthest from the main road, for the obvious reasons being less traffic, less noise and more privacy. As such, look at sites #512, #514, #516 and #518, which are all located on the exterior of the circle, thus providing the greatest amount of intimate nature experience; (3) Got bird watching on your mind? Well, you’re in luck, because here at Rock Cut SP you can spot an amazing array of foul including bald eagles, American robins, northern cardinals, barn owls, mourning doves, indigo buntings, eastern bluebirds, Canadian geese, red-bellied woodpeckers, brown thrashers and many others; (4) Tired of nature and just want to get some really cool culture in you? Then head just due south of Rock Cut SP to explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s Laurent House, which is simply amazing; and (5) If you come bearing watercraft like canoe or kayak, while Lake Pierce is wonderful and great for fishing, if you want something a bit more challenging, then head due west to the Rock River, where you can drop in from a number of launch sites, however I strongly recommend Atwood Homestead Forest Preserve.

  

Happy Camping!

Photos of Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

Real photos from real campers