Northern Illinois contains several camping spots near Cherry Valley, Illinois that provide access to the Kishwaukee River watershed. The area sits at approximately 840 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Seasonal flooding can occur along river access points during spring thaw and after heavy rains, while late summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F with moderate humidity.
What to Do
River recreation: MacQueen Forest Preserve offers kayaking and fishing opportunities along the Kishwaukee River. One camper noted, "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4."
Historical exploration: Visit Lowden State Park Campground to see the Chief Black Hawk statue overlooking the Rock River. A visitor mentioned, "The steps to the river were steep and plentiful. A few people used them to exercise. Once down at the river, follow it along the outskirts of the state park and you find yourself walking in through the walk-in sites."
Antique shopping: The rural towns surrounding camping areas offer vintage shopping opportunities. As one camper at Hononegah Forest Preserve suggested, "If you get tired of living on the reservation or want to experience some of the local environ, I highly recommend checking out Poison Ivy Pub... If you like antiques or fun local places, head to The Milk House in Pingree and hit up the antique shops on your way."
Biking trails: Several preserves connect to regional bike paths. A Thomas Woods visitor shared: "We biked to this campground from the Woodstock Metra station. While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here."
What Campers Like
Secluded tent sites: Thomas Woods Campground offers more private camping experiences. A camper explained, "This was a well laid out campground, with some sites right on the roads and some buried back in the woods away from everyone (we chose the latter and felt like we had the place to ourselves)."
Affordability: Many county-operated campgrounds offer excellent value. One MacQueen Forest Preserve camper stated, "It would be beautiful for stargazing! There's also a giant fire pit with benches. The perfect area for a small group camp (as long as each party paid for the campsite that's back there)."
Easy river access: Blackhawk Valley Campground provides convenient water entry points. A visitor commented, "A campground close into the city but in the middle of corn and soy bean fields right done in the river... Pretty sleepy place mid week but a nice spot to stay for a night, longer if you're in the area for a reason."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers make for comfortable stays. At Blackhawk Valley Campground, one camper noted, "Very clean, quiet, well maintained campground. We just needed a quick overnight and it was perfect. Not far off the interstate, and very quiet."
What You Should Know
Train noise: Some campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks. A visitor at Northwoods RV Resort advised, "You will want to take note that yes, you actually cross train tracks to get to this campground, so if you're sharp, you're going to want to ensure you haven't booked a site right next to where trains will shoot through every few hours."
Variable water access: Water systems at many campgrounds operate seasonally. One Thomas Woods camper reported, "Hand pumps for water and well-kept pit toilets. Hiking galore!"
Site positioning: For privacy, consider site location carefully. A MacQueen Forest Preserve visitor noted, "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing!"
Seasonal restrictions: Many public preserves have limited operating seasons. A Hononegah camper mentioned, "Prices are quite affordable for camping at $8-$13, but you'll have to tack on a cool $10 more if you're not a resident. They have firewood for sale and you have to pay extra to dump garbage (major bummer!)."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground considerations: Age-appropriate play areas vary significantly. A Chicago Northwest KOA visitor shared, "Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. 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."
Activity planning: Many family-friendly events occur on weekends. One visitor at Thomas Woods noted, "We did our first (family of 5) camping trip at Thomas Woods. We were at site 4 which is electric hookup and it was a huge area! The kids had so much space to run around and explore. They loved the well pump."
Swimming options: Check water status before promising swimming to kids. A Northwoods RV Resort camper reported, "We came here because they showed a water obstacle course on their website. When we got here, we were informed that their beach hasn't passed health tests for the past few years. So no obstacle course or beach area. The pool is very clean and the staff helped us pick a better site upon arrival."
Local treats: Plan visits to nearby ice cream shops as rewards. A Hononegah Forest Preserve camper suggested, "Celebrate your outdoor adventure by heading to locally renowned Dairyhäus for homemade, German-inspired ice cream."
Tips from RVers
Electrical reliability: Older campgrounds may have power limitations. One visitor at Rock Cut State Park explained, "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... Told us that the park was just so old that it probably couldn't keep up."
Site leveling: Many sites require adjustment. A Blackhawk Valley camper mentioned, "Most sites a walk from the office. Only spent one night here. The showers were in a bathroom by itself meaning no others in the same room as you. A little rundown but clean. The site we stayed on was not level and no parking pad."
Dump stations: Limited facilities require planning. A visitor at Thousand Trails Pine Country explained, "It is close to home and we start and finish the camping season here."
Proximity to supplies: Some campgrounds are far from stores. A Northwoods RV Resort camper advised, "There is no store. The only thing available is firewood. If you need anything at all, there is a Walmart about ten minutes down the road."
