Best Tent Camping near Big Rock, IL

Several tent campgrounds dot the landscape surrounding Big Rock, Illinois, offering a range of primitive camping experiences. MacQueen Forest Preserve provides secluded hike-in tent sites with fire pits and picnic tables at just $4 per night. Kayak Morris and Kayak Starved Rock Campground offer riverfront tent camping with direct water access for paddlers. Other options include Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area, Buffalo Rock State Park Campground, and Castle Rock State Park Campground, which is accessible only by boat.

Most tent sites in the region require some walking from parking areas, with MacQueen Forest Preserve featuring gravel paths leading to wooded sites. Campers should bring their own drinking water, as many locations like Buffalo Rock and MacQueen have non-potable water pumps or no water access at all. Vault toilets are common, though some primitive sites have no facilities. Fire rings are standard at most locations, with firewood available for purchase at Kayak Morris and Kayak Starved Rock. The camping season typically runs April through October, with some sites like Channahon State Park open year-round.

The tent-only sites at MacQueen Forest Preserve provide exceptional privacy, with campsites spaced at least 50 yards apart. Castle Rock State Park's boat-in tent sites offer waterfront camping with picnic tables and fire pits in a secluded setting. Many locations provide access to hiking trails, with Buffalo Rock connecting to the I&M Canal Tow Path. Tent campers at Kayak Starved Rock enjoy views of the Illinois River and Starved Rock State Park from their sites. According to one visitor, "MacQueen Forest Preserve is one of those places that's so awesome, you really don't want to tell people about it. There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart."

Best Tent Sites Near Big Rock, Illinois (16)

    1. Kayak Morris

    11 Reviews
    Morris, IL
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 567-4653

    $29 / night

    "We stayed when there were not many people there so we had plenty of space but could see it getting crowded when it’s full."

    "It was quiet, relaxing, and very well maintained. 1 trash area, 4 porta Potties for use for the campground. You can rent kayaks for the day, fish, wade in the river (no swimming)."

    3. MacQueen Forest Preserve

    6 Reviews
    Kirkland, IL
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 522-6254

    "This is where to go if you don't like pitching a tent in a field of RVs. There is one wheelchair accessible tent site on a blacktop path in the forest canopy."

    "You can't see the campsite next to you, and they all have a picnic table and a fire ring. You do have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in."

    4. Kayak Starved Rock Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 567-4653

    $29 / night

    "Before we begin, let me share 3 things with you: (1) I love camping, preferably primitive camping where I get to pitch my tent, leaving the comforts of modern civilization behind in the hopes of returning"

    "One such place, an oasis of tranquility and beauty nestled in the Illinois wilderness, is the Kayak Starved Rock Campground."

    5. McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove

    3 Reviews
    Channahon, IL
    30 miles
    Website

    $15 - $30 / night

    6. Channahon State Park Campground

    1 Review
    Channahon, IL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 467-4271

    "It is a bit away from businesses. However if you arrive by car you drive through the quaint town. 

    Arriving by bicycle is even better. The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp."

    7. Buffalo Rock State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ottawa, IL
    36 miles
    Website

    $6 / night

    "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.."

    "A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."

    8. Hammel Woods

    Be the first to review!
    Joliet, IL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 727-8700

    $20 - $40 / night

    9. Castle Rock State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Oregon, IL
    46 miles
    Website

    $6 / night

    "Located about 100 miles West of Chicago, Castle Rock State Park features one of the ONLY campgrounds that I've visited this close to the city in which I was completely alone."

    "Site selection is first come, first serve and the registration and payment is done on the honor system, and they do have rangers that monitor."

    10. Illinois and Michigan Canal

    Be the first to review!
    Joliet, IL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 942-0796

    $6 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Big Rock, IL

689 Reviews of 16 Big Rock Campgrounds



Guide to Big Rock

Tent camping near Big Rock, Illinois offers a variety of scenic locations for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With options ranging from private to public sites, campers can find the perfect spot to set up their tents and enjoy the great outdoors.

Some prices for tent camping range from $4 to $5

  • MacQueen Forest Preserve offers primitive camping at just $5 per night, making it an affordable choice for families and solo adventurers alike.
  • Kayak Morris provides a well-maintained campground with a fee structure that allows for a great camping experience without breaking the bank.
  • Buffalo Rock State Park Campground features tent sites that are accessible for a low fee, perfect for those looking to explore the area without spending too much.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Campground features that enhance your stay

  • Kayak Starved Rock Campground offers spacious, well-maintained sites right on the river, providing stunning views and easy access to water activities.
  • McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove features picnic tables and fire pits, ensuring a comfortable camping experience for families and groups.
  • Camp Tuckabatchee provides various amenities, including electric hookups and drinking water, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer a few more comforts while camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Big Rock, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Big Rock, IL is Kayak Morris with a 4.9-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Big Rock, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 16 tent camping locations near Big Rock, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.