RV campgrounds near Cherry Valley, Illinois offer diverse camping options in the northern Illinois landscape. Located in Winnebago County approximately 80 miles northwest of Chicago, this area features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 720-850 feet. Most local campgrounds remain open April through October, though several RV parks operate year-round with winter hookups and services.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At Sycamore RV Resort, campers can fish in two lakes and enjoy well-maintained grounds. "Beautiful spot, very peaceful. We've been here for 3 months. There are two lakes, catch and release fishing," reports one visitor who appreciated the natural water features.
Swimming beach: Blackhawk Camping Resort offers a completely remodeled pool area. "They have a brand new, in-ground heated pool, along with small kiddy pool and adjoining pool house complete with restroom and showers," notes a camper who visited after recent renovations.
Mini golf and recreation: Several Cherry Valley area RV parks feature structured activities for all ages. "Nice park, fair amount of stuff for the kids, game room, mini golf, pool. Bathrooms are nice and clean," according to a visitor at Sugar Shores RV Resort who enjoyed the family-friendly amenities.
What Campers Like
Tent camping options: While most Cherry Valley area campgrounds cater to RVs, tent campers can find dedicated sites at Pine Country RV and Camping Resort. "Tent camped here one night. Very nice, private sites. Not many campers, lots of RVs. Folks in the office were very helpful," mentions one tent camper who found comfort among the predominantly RV-oriented facilities.
Lake access: Many campers value waterfront locations for recreation. At Lake Louise RV Resort, visitors enjoy "Nice lake very clean and fishing is good. Nice size sandy beach," though the campground doesn't offer a dump station, requiring alternative arrangements for waste disposal.
Seasonal camping community: For regular visitors, campgrounds like Fox Bluff Cottages & RV foster social connections. "We've developed quite a lovely community of really nice people. Personally, I love the view of the river. There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails," shares a five-year seasonal camper.
What You Should Know
GPS navigation challenges: Finding some Cherry Valley area campgrounds requires attention to directions. At Northwoods RV Resort, "This place isn't easy to find – for some reason, if you plug the campground into your GPS, you'll literally be on the wrong side of the tracks, where you will arrive at a dead end with a sign that says you are in the wrong place."
Site spacing variations: Campsite proximity varies significantly between parks. "The sites are pretty big. The campground is not congested at all," reports a visitor to Northwoods, contrasting with tighter configurations at other parks.
Seasonal facilities: Many amenities operate seasonally in the Cherry Valley region. "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," notes one camper, highlighting the importance of confirming facility availability before arrival.
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Lakeland Camping Resort offers extensive water activities for children. "The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends," describes a parent who found the resort particularly family-friendly.
Playground equipment: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for younger campers. Northwoods RV Resort provides "several playgrounds and jumpy balloon," offering recreational options beyond swimming and fishing.
Store availability: On-site purchasing options vary between campgrounds. "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," explains a camper who suggests preparing accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Site surface considerations: Gravel pads are common at Cherry Valley area campgrounds. Lehman's Lakeside RV Resort provides "50-amp service on gravel pads," while at Sycamore RV Resort, "Reliable full hookups. Very clean and well cared for property; especially the laundry and bathroom/shower areas. Postage stamp space on gravel but we had things to do outside the resort."
Seasonal RV storage: Some RVers maintain seasonal arrangements. At Pine Country, "Good people here. It is close to home and we start and finish the camping season here," notes a regular who uses the campground as a bookend for their camping season.
Water quality factors: Mineral content in water varies by location. At Lehman's Lakeside RV Resort, "The park water is high in Iron. The pot roads need service as they do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit."
