Best Campgrounds near Harvard, IL

Harvard, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Harvard, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Discover great camping spots near Harvard, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Harvard, Illinois (88)

    1. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

    79 Reviews
    Machesney Park, IL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 885-3311

    $12 - $50 / night

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

    ", with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east."

    2. Thomas Woods Campground

    17 Reviews
    Marengo, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 338-6223

    $20 - $35 / night

    "While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here."

    "Most of the sites were right on the road and you’d need to position your car right for privacy. The tent sites are clumped pretty tight together with a couple exceptions."

    3. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Lake Geneva, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 248-2528

    "Conveniently located next to Lake Geneva with a tiny roadside beach area. I recommend camping sites on the west side of the camping loop to cut down on sun. Not enough electric sites for campers."

    "Popular destination for locals and people from Illinois. 4 stars because it's not the camping in nature experience I am looking for. Lots of noise. Lots of kids. Lots of dogs."

    4. Chicago Northwest KOA

    15 Reviews
    Union, IL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 923-4206

    "We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"

    "Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground.

    We'll be back for sure!"

    5. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    14 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    22 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"

    "Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"

    6. Northwoods RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Marengo, IL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 317-3775

    $65 - $85 / night

    "Things started to slowly open up around the 4th of July. Now, it’s our favorite place to go! The most impressive aspect in our opinion are the people."

    7. Holiday Acres Camping Resort

    5 Reviews
    Belvidere, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 547-7846

    $49 - $99 / night

    "Lots of people leaving bad reviews for silly little things. let me say first off this place is HUGE. plenty of room for the kids and the dogs and just a short walk from the kish. good fishing and friendly"

    8. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    12 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "We can both drive to work and then come back to relax. Close to some great places for antiquing if you don't want to hike the trails or fish."

    "It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "

    9. Thousand Trails Pine Country

    4 Reviews
    Belvidere, IL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It is close to home and we start and finish the camping season here."

    "We did not end up signing up as we prefer to visit many more locations than they had listed."

    10. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    12 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    21 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."

    "You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly.

    But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 88 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Harvard, IL

792 Reviews of 88 Harvard Campgrounds



Guide to Harvard

Camping near Harvard, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic trails to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails available at Rock Cut State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Tons of trails, fishing, and even a swimming pond," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: Head to Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area for some fishing. A visitor shared, "We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting," highlighting the lake's beauty.
  • Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off, Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park has a swimming area. One camper noted, "Staff were very friendly and helpful. Would stay again!"

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Kettle Moraine State Forest - Ottawa Lake stated, "Bathrooms and showers were clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers enjoy the spacious sites at Camp Bullfrog Lake. One visitor mentioned, "The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Blackwell Family Campground is noted for its family-friendly vibe. A reviewer said, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos," making it a great choice for families.

What you should know

  • No Alcohol Policy: Some campgrounds, like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, enforce a strict no-alcohol policy. A camper mentioned, "This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots like Big Foot Beach State Park Campground can get crowded. One visitor noted, "Always full on weekends," so plan accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have limited amenities. A review for Camp Bullfrog Lake pointed out, "The reason for the review is due to the bathrooms being horrible."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Blackwell Family Campground that offer activities for kids. A parent shared, "Great spot close by to us just to get out."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Rock Cut State Park Campground said, "Many trails and not too expensive," which is perfect for family outings.
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A reviewer at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park mentioned, "Great environment for undisturbed relaxation," which can be enhanced with family games.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A visitor at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Ottawa Lake noted, "Electricity on site and water nearby."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: If you’re camping on weekends, expect crowds. A camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake said, "Good if you want to be close to the city but otherwise it’s not very worth it."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A reviewer at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "The store is very nice and well stocked," but it’s always good to have your own supplies.

Camping near Harvard, Illinois, offers a mix of fun activities and beautiful scenery. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there’s plenty to explore!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Harvard, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Harvard, IL is Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground with a 4-star rating from 79 reviews.

What parks are near Harvard, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Harvard, IL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.