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Greg F.
Traveler
TravelerVel Terra
Great little campground in rural setting. The owner was great. We stayed in Oct 25 while doing a fall color/wine tasting/Galena trip. It was a perfect central location for us.
Camping near Savanna, IL
3 campgrounds with availability next weekend
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Camping opportunities near Savanna, Illinois center on the Mississippi River, with developed campgrounds situated along its scenic corridor. Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground offers 241 sites for both tent and RV camping, with electric hookups available at 110 locations. Seven Eagles RV Resort & Campground provides a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, while Spring Lake Campground sits directly on the waterfront, making it popular for fishing and paddling activities. These mixed-use facilities typically operate from April through October, though some remain open year-round.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the region. Mississippi Palisades State Park remains open all year, while nearby Thomson Causeway operates from mid-April through late October. Most campgrounds require reservations, particularly for electric hookups and weekend stays during summer months. Water access points are abundant, with boat launches available at several locations. The proximity to the Mississippi River creates both recreational opportunities and seasonal challenges, as flooding can impact site conditions in spring. Cell service varies by location, with stronger coverage near Savanna and diminished reception in more remote campgrounds. A camper noted: "The mosquitos are abundant and aggressive. Bring the best bug repellant you have and apply generously!"
The riverside setting defines the camping experience in this area. Spring Lake Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its waterfront access and peaceful atmosphere. According to one review, "Sunsets and stargazing, fishing and kayaking, biking and relaxing! This campground is the perfect sanctuary for your family and friends." The Great River Bike Trail runs through multiple campgrounds, connecting recreational areas and providing additional activities. Mississippi Palisades State Park features hiking trails with elevated river views from its bluffs, though reviews mention these can be more challenging than advertised. Proximity to railroad tracks affects some campgrounds, with occasional train noise mentioned in reviews. Most developed campgrounds provide amenities like showers, flush toilets, and sanitary dump stations, with varying levels of electric hookup availability for RVs.
Best Campgrounds near Savanna (123)
1. Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
"Hidden gem near the iowa/illinois border. Secluded and beautiful."
"It's a great stop on your way to Savanna or Galena."
2. Thomson Causeway
"This is a beautiful spot on the outskirts of a small town. The train museum is open for a few hours on weekends. Other towns are nearby with more things to do."
"This is a really pretty area fairly close to home so it is a good option."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $14 - $26 / night
3. Spring Lake Campground
"It's like a step back in time in the best way possible."
"The bike trail is within steps of your site. Hookups for electric and water available. Well maintained portapotties at various points throughout the grounds."
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $35 / night
4. Bellevue State Park Campground — Dyas Unit
"CG site atop river bluff with pads, fire rings, tables, RR, recycling, trails, shelters nearby. Sites are close to each other but plenty to do."
"The site our friends had next to us was uninhabitable due to mud and sloping but the rangers let them switch sites no problem."
45 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $12 - $20 / night
5. South Sabula Lakes County Park
6. Seven Eagles RV Resort & Campground
"We took several walks and bike rides around it. There is also a pool and a club house on property, however we did not visit them. There is ATT service, but not strong."
8. Morrison-Rockwood State Park
"We saw an article about "Dutch Days" in nearby Fulton on www.OnlyInYourState.com, (first weekend in May) and thought it looked like fun."
"We enjoyed the beautiful lake and cute restaurant/gift shop. We liked the different loops of campsites with pit toilets every where and a nice modern bathroom/shower house also."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 / night
9. Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area — Mississippi River Pools 11 22
"Usually a pretty quiet area although its next to a train track so expect a train or two to wake you up. Tucked away next to the Mississippi. There is a boat ramp and parking."
from $14 / night
10. Stropes Campground
Drive Time
- 59 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 3 min from Davenport, IA
- 1 hr 10 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 40 min from Janesville, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Savanna, IL
167 Photos of 123 Savanna Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Spring Lake Campground
Mississippi Palisades State Park CampgroundJ
Thomson Causeway
Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area — Mississippi River Pools 11 22
Gary McDermott RV Park
Vel Terra
Blanding Landing
Morrison-Rockwood State Park
Rockwood State Park Campground
Lena KOAC
Walnut Grove Campground - Apple River Canyon
Canyon Ridge Campground — Apple River Canyon State Park
Recent Reviews near Savanna, IL
649 Reviews of 123 Savanna Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendHansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground
Rustic Ranch Retreat Beneath Big Prairie Skies
Set deep in the farmland west of Oregon, Hansen’s Hideaway blends working-ranch authenticity with simple, countryside camping across more than 100 acres of pasture, red barns and wide-open Midwestern sky. Founded in 1962 and reached by a winding bend off S Harmony Road, this quiet hideout welcomes guests beneath an old-fashion tall wooden ranch gate right out of the Wild West and into a spread of RV loops, tent spaces and shade-scattered meadows where horses graze freely. Sites range from the busier cluster near the main office, which is also where you'll be to the swimming pond, game room, arcade, pavilions and clean restrooms to two quieter, more spread-out loops farther in the property that offers privacy and stillness for those seeking a true escape. Amenities include water and electric hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, a dump station, playground and a small market inside the office. While remote, the campground offers easy access to great hiking at George B. Fell Nature Preserve and Lowden-Miller Forest with excellent kayaking on the Rock River at nearby Castle Rock State Park. Expect big skies, big peace and that unmistakable 'far from everything' feeling.
UPSIDES: (1) Authentic working ranch setting with roaming horses and wide prairie views; (2) Exceptional peace & quiet thanks to the secluded location; (3) Shaded and spacious RV sites plus open tenting areas; (4) Fun family amenities including a swimming pond, arcade, game room and playground; (5) Clean, well-maintained restrooms and showers; (6) Friendly, welcoming staff; (7) Close to great hiking and kayaking destinations; and (8) If you'd like to get the scoop on what's happening at this CG, swing by the main office for a cup of joe and hang out around the wood-burning stove to chat it up with the owners, fellow campers and working ranchhands.
DOWNSIDES: (1) Very remote with no nearby services, so campers should arrive fully stocked as it's a decent haul back to civilization; (2) No sewer hookups and limited on-site provisions; (3) The RV area near the office can feel crowded during peak weekends;(4) Amenities show their age in places; and (5) Cell signal varies significantly by carrier.
Happy Camping!
Cyndi R.
ScoutBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Clean, quiet and nice facilities but the placement of the fire rings borders on the absurd. These are obviously RV sites so there's already little expectation of privacy but they're good size and leave ample space behind your camper. The site we were on was tree-lined in the back. Perfect for a fire ring, right? Nah. Instead they're out front 5 ft from the road. I've never seen anything like it. 🥴
- Stuart K.Legend
Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
Quad Cities Sweet Camping Retreat
Just minutes west of Davenport, Park Terrace Campground is a delightful county-operated camping destination nestled within the sprawling 620-acre West Lake Park. With four picturesque lakes, rolling green lawns, mature shade trees and an impressive assortment of recreational activities, this is much more than your average roadside CG. Whether you're passing through the Quad Cities or settling in for a relaxing weekend, there's plenty to keep you entertained, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, disc golf and a seasonal swimming beach. It's an especially appealing destination for families who appreciate having a little adventure right outside their camper door.
The campground itself features approximately 77 campsites, including spacious RV sites with 50-amp electrical service, water and sewer hookups, plus 13 primitive tent sites tucked toward the wooded perimeter in the rear - so for those tent campers that like to be somewhat removed from the RV crowd, this is an excellent option. Most RV sites are reasonably level, with gravel parking pads, picnic tables and fire rings, although spacing can be a little cozy (er, tight) in places. Mature trees provide welcome shade throughout portions of the campground, while the modern bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Additional conveniences include a dump station, playground, seasonal campground host and firewood availability. Best of all, the CG delivers an impressive collection of amenities without the hefty price tag of a commercial RV resort.
A few things worth knowing before arriving: the CG is accessed through Gate 5 off 110th Avenue, and water hookups are generally seasonal despite the CG's year-round designation. Some sites are more exposed than others, and the relatively close spacing means privacy isn't necessarily its strongest selling point. Nevertheless, for RV travelers, tent campers and families seeking affordable accommodations with outstanding recreational opportunities, Park Terrace is a terrific little discovery.
Insider's Tip: Tent campers should head toward the designated wooded camping area toward the back of the CG for a more traditional outdoor experience. RV travelers should bring an extra-long drinking-water hose, as some sites share water connections positioned several campsites apart. Also, the park gates close overnight, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Happy Camping!
Nicole R.
GuideMiller Riverview City Park
Right on the river
We came towards the end of season so we were one of the few people staying there. The spaces are close together but we had no one near us so we didn’t mind. We had a great experience with the host, very friendly. However, it is a bit noisy since the highway is right there and you do constantly hear the trains. Also, there are some questionable people roaming through the campground.
Amy B.ScoutCrow Valley Campground
Avoid this Campground at all cost
Seasonal Stay Review Overall Rating:⭐☆☆☆☆ Our experience as seasonal campers at this campground was deeply disappointing due to unprofessional management, inconsistent rule enforcement, premature lease violations, and a toxic atmosphere. Management& Atmosphere The campground owner frequently engaged in inappropriate behaviors, including spreading gossip, making disrespectful comments, and actively bullying campers both in person and on social media platforms. Rather than fostering a welcoming community, the leadership promoted a divisive culture marked by clear favoritism. Inconsistent Rule Enforcement Rules were applied arbitrarily. Certain seasonal campers were permitted to disregard campground policies without consequence, while others were singled out, micromanaged, and targeted for minor or non-existent issues. Unprofessional Conduct Regarding Minors Most concerning was management’s unacceptable conduct toward children. The owner actively made a ten-year-old child feel unwelcome by making inappropriate insinuations regarding his friendship with a nearly thirteen-year-old girl, claiming a platonic friendship between a boy and a girl of those ages was somehow improper. Targeting young children and policing harmless childhood friendships crosses a line that no family should have to deal with while on vacation. Breach of Contract& Property Damage To make matters worse, management prematurely cut off electricity to our campsite prior to the end of our contractual agreement. This lack of power led to a total loss of all refrigerated food items and caused significant interior damage to our camper when the freezer thawed and the ice inside it melted and leaked onto the flooring. Additionally, management unlawfully removed personal property from our campsite before our lease term had expired and failed to return it. Conclusion While a seasonal site should offer a relaxing environment for families, the current ownership creates an uncomfortable, hostile, and unethical environment. Between the emotional hostility and the direct financial loss caused by management's actions, I strongly advise others to avoid this campground.
- James M.Legend
Cabin 4, Rock Creek Marina & Campground
The camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people and include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags;All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent-- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, boat ramp, paddling rentals, store with grill, Eco Tourism Center pontoon rides, and nature center with displays and programs.
- James M.Legend
Cabin 1, Rock Creek Marina & Campground
The camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people that include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags; All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, store and grill, paddle rentals, nature center too.
- James M.Legend
Pintail Cabin- Rock Creek Marina
Neat County park in Mississippi River backwaters
Park has multiple cabins. Pintail Cabin is an ADA compliant, fully accessible cabin that sleeps up to 6 people. The cabin includes a queen-size adjustable bed that raises and lowers for easy access, twin size bunk bed, a full-size sofa sleeper, table/chairs. Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, electric cook top, sink. Central Heat/AC. Bathroom has accessible roll-in shower. There is also has a large deck and an accessible picnic table and fire ring outside. Bedding, towels, and kitchen cookware and utensils are not provided. The cabin has an ADA compliant access ramp. Tents are not permitted on this site. There is a playground, boat ramp, paddle rentals, Eco Tourism Center with small store and grill, and a nature center offering programs! The Blue Heron pontoon boat offers tours on the water too!
Guide to Savanna
The Mississippi River corridor defines camping experiences near Savanna, Illinois with most sites situated within 5-10 miles of town. Spring flooding can impact site availability in April and May when water levels rise up to 6 feet above normal. Terrain around Savanna features limestone bluffs with elevations up to 800 feet and wooded valleys that create distinct microclimates for campers.
What to do
Paddling and fishing access: Spring Lake Campground provides direct water access with rental options. "This was such an inviting clean and beautiful camping area. Right on the water, you can rent boats/kayaks/paddleboard, fishing, so much to do," notes Sarah J. The campground's position makes it especially suitable for water activities even during low water periods.
Bicycle trails: The Great River Bike Trail connects multiple campgrounds in the area, allowing for extended rides. At Thomson Causeway, "It was great to ride around on the great trail although we didn't make it the whole way. It was very easy to navigate around the campground on bikes," according to Melissa B. Trail access points exist at several campgrounds with connections to larger regional routes.
Wildlife viewing: Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area offers secluded nature observation opportunities. Ryan notes it's "Tucked away next to the Mississippi. There is a boat ramp and parking. Also a playground and shaded picnic area on the other side of the park." The location's quiet setting makes it ideal for spotting river wildlife, particularly waterfowl during migration seasons.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Morrison-Rockwood State Park receives praise for site layout. "Most of the camp sites are fairly secluded from one another by distance and from surrounding foliage," writes Stacie H. The natural barriers between sites allow for a more isolated camping experience despite being at a developed campground.
Exceptionally clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out at several locations. At Morrison-Rockwood, a camper emphasized: "The (and I cannot emphasize this enough) CLEANEST campground bathrooms I've ever seen! I'm not squeamish and have been camping for years so my expectations for campground bathroom cleanliness is well calibrated but these bathrooms (even the vault toilets!) were amazingly clean!"
Flat, stable tent sites: Finding level ground for tents isn't challenging at many area campgrounds. Amy R. from Morrison-Rockwood State Park noted: "Our site was huge, flat and private - no trouble finding flat ground to pitch the tent." This makes setup easier for tent campers, particularly during rainy periods when drainage becomes important.
What you should know
Insect conditions: Bug populations surge seasonally throughout the area. At Bellevue State Park Campground, Lee D. warns: "I think if we were here when it is less buggy, we would have enjoyed it much more but at the end of May, we saw a guy wearing a head net he said he wouldn't sell to us for a $100 (and we probably would have paid it!)" Spring flooding often triggers significant insect hatches.
Train noise proximity: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds along the river corridor. At Bulger's Hollow, Ryan mentions you should "expect a train or two to wake you up." The frequency varies by location, with some campgrounds experiencing hourly trains while others only occasional nighttime disturbances.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly depending on carrier and specific location. At Spring Lake Campground, one camper notes that "AT&T and Verizon cell service worked fine," though reception weakens in low-lying areas and those further from town centers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access sites: Some campgrounds feature dedicated loops with playground proximity. At Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground, Amy W. observed: "One section of sites is like an open field? No trees and full view of others. But these surround a playground- also very nice. Glamping with young kids? These sites would be perfect."
Swimming considerations: River access points aren't always suitable for swimming due to currents and boat traffic. At South Sabula Lakes County Park, a camper noted it "has ramp. Great for paddling and lake side swimming." The backwater locations provide safer swimming alternatives than the main river channel.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons reduces crowds significantly. At Mississippi Palisades, Big R. shared: "Terrific access to electric site near the bathroom! All to ourselves." Spring and fall weekends typically see 30-50% lower occupancy rates than summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At South Sabula Lakes County Park, Jeff G. warns: "The dump station is useless for black tank clean out connections. The water hose threads had been purposely removed." Always check recent reviews about dump station conditions before arriving.
Electric hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer limited electrical sites that book quickly. At Thomson Causeway, Matt P. notes: "The sites are all level concrete and just about every one have a great view of the Mississippi. Quiet at night. The only improvement I would like to see is water hookups, but there are plenty of spigots scattered around the park."
When planning trips to the best places to camp near Savanna, Illinois, be aware that most campgrounds operate seasonally, with the prime camping period running May through September. Reservations are essential for summer weekends, with some locations booking 3-6 months in advance during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in Savanna, Illinois?
What campgrounds are available in Savanna, Illinois?
Savanna, Illinois offers several excellent camping options. Seven Eagles RV Resort & Campground is located near Savanna with full amenities for RVs. Just outside town, Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground provides a more natural setting with beautiful hiking trails and views overlooking the Mississippi River. The area also offers Thomson Causeway, a popular Army Corps of Engineers site nearby with waterfront views. For those willing to travel a short distance, Fisherman's Corner and South Sabula Lakes County Park are additional options within driving distance of Savanna.
Are RV rentals available in Savanna, Illinois for camping?
Are RV rentals available in Savanna, Illinois for camping?
While Savanna itself doesn't have dedicated RV rental facilities, there are options in the surrounding region. Prophetstown State Park Campground near Prophetstown, Illinois (about 45 minutes away) is RV-friendly with gravel pads and facilities that accommodate rental RVs. For overnight parking with your RV, options like Walmart — Dixon Supercenter in nearby Dixon can be convenient. To rent an RV, you'll likely need to check with rental companies in larger nearby cities like Rockford or the Quad Cities area, then bring your rented RV to Savanna's campgrounds.
How close is Mississippi Palisades State Park camping to Savanna, IL?
How close is Mississippi Palisades State Park camping to Savanna, IL?
Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground is located approximately 5 miles north of Savanna, Illinois, making it extremely convenient for visitors. The park sits along the Mississippi River, featuring tall trees, sandstone bluffs, and hiking trails through hardwood forests. Many campers appreciate its proximity to town while still offering natural beauty and river views. The campground provides spacious sites with standard amenities nestled among the trees. It serves as an excellent base for exploring both the park's natural features and the nearby town of Savanna.
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