Tent camping near Beaverville, Illinois centers around waterways in the Kankakee River basin. Located in east-central Illinois at approximately 650 feet elevation, this region features prairie lands interspersed with river corridors. The camping season generally runs April through October with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Walk-in tent sites throughout the region require campers to transport gear distances ranging from 50-350 feet from parking areas.
What to do
Kayaking the convergence points: At Mac Finn's Landing, campers can access excellent no-wake zones where the Kankakee and Iroquois Rivers meet. According to one visitor, "Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers. Kayak launch friendly!"
Cycling the I&M Canal Trail: The historic Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail connects multiple campgrounds and offers packed gravel surfaces ideal for biking. A camper at Channahon State Park Campground notes, "This is a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride."
Wildlife observation: Morning hours provide prime wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region's river corridors. Nighttime brings owl calls across most campgrounds, with early risers sometimes spotting deer, waterfowl, and other woodland creatures before motorboat traffic begins.
What campers like
Direct river access: Many sites allow launching directly from camp. At Kayak Morris, one camper shared, "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap if you don't have your own."
Well-spaced campsites: Despite being near urban areas, many campgrounds offer good site separation. At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, one reviewer mentioned, "the sites are far apart, #1 is the shadiest and most secluded but uneven. #2 is wide open and in the sun, #3 & #4 are shady and paved."
Special events: Some campgrounds host unique activities like nighttime paddling events. A Kayak Morris visitor noted, "had my first experience of a lit up kayak tour for fireworks," while another mentioned "glampouts" organized by staff with "morning breakfast after the glampout night provided by the staff."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Many sites near rivers experience seasonal flooding. A McKinley Woods camper warned, "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up."
Gate closure times: Security gates at several parks close early. At Camp Shabbona Woods, a camper noted, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok." Plan arrivals accordingly to avoid being locked out.
Water clarity concerns: When available, pump water often appears cloudy though it remains potable. Bring containers to let water settle or consider bringing your own supply for drinking and cooking.
Urban proximity impacts: Despite natural settings, many sites have nearby urban influences. A Shabbona Woods visitor mentioned, "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for ADA accessibility: Some campgrounds offer specifically designed accessible sites. At McKinley Woods, "two of the four sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility" and "all sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs."
First-timer friendly options: Davis Creek Campground — Kankakee River State Park offers amenities suitable for new campers. One visitor described it as "open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept, and there is good access to water."
Morning noise considerations: Early-rising boaters can disrupt sleep at riverfront sites. A McKinley Woods camper noted, "At night, you can hear owls and distant trains, but motorboats and jet-skis begin around 6:AM."
Wood collection policies: Policies vary by campground. At Kayak Morris, they "sell firewood but also let you pick up sticks in the area that are small" allowing campers to gather kindling rather than purchasing all wood.
Tips from RVers
Limited parking access: Most tent-focused campgrounds restrict vehicle proximity to sites. At Camp Shabbona Woods, one camper mentioned "can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite," requiring gear to be carried in.
Site selection for size restrictions: RV sites are limited and primitive throughout the region. Small trailers require advance planning, as one McKinley Woods camper explained: "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem."
