73 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Chillicothe, Illinois provide a mix of waterfront and wooded camping experiences along the Illinois River. Millpoint Park offers spacious RV sites with full hookups and tent camping areas with river views, while Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area provides more primitive camping surrounded by levees and water access. Chillicothe RV and Recreational Area caters specifically to RV campers with modern amenities during their April to October season. Most sites in the region are established campgrounds rather than dispersed camping areas, with several offering cabin rentals and a few featuring glamping options.
Access to camping areas varies significantly with seasonal conditions, particularly around the Illinois River watershed. Many campgrounds in the area experience periodic flooding, especially in spring when river levels rise. A review mentioned, "This location can flood when the river rises," highlighting the importance of checking weather conditions before visiting. Water quality can also be a concern, with some campers noting iron-rich water at certain campgrounds that affects taste and color. Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area and Woodford State Conservation Area both provide electric hookups and vault toilets, though amenities are basic compared to private campgrounds. Road quality is generally good, with most sites accessible without high-clearance vehicles, though some entrance roads at conservation areas may be rough.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with the Illinois River and connected lakes providing fishing and boating opportunities. "Beautiful views of the Upper Peoria Lake/Illinois River," noted one camper at Millpoint Park. Shade is abundant at most campgrounds, with mature trees offering relief from summer heat, particularly at river sites. Campers frequently mention the quiet atmosphere and spacious sites as highlights, especially at conservation areas and state-managed properties. Wildlife viewing opportunities are excellent along the river's edge, though hunters utilize many of these mixed-use campgrounds during hunting seasons, creating periodic noise from firearms. Weekends bring increased boat traffic and fishing activity, especially during summer months, while conservation areas remain relatively quiet on weekdays year-round.
"Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing"
"If you’re looking to stay close to Peoria and enjoy beautiful sunsets and the water this place has it. Big trees, deep shade and it’s right on the Peoria Lake on the Illinois River."
from $18 - $100 / night
Check Availability"The campground itself is small and simple, offering spacious, mostly shaded sites with EZ access to the Illinois River, where anglers set up early and kayakers glide past with that slow, content rhythm"
"The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."
"Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies. The campsite has three main loops with RV pads and electric goo ups."
"This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water that"
"It was also a short walk to the Illinois River!!!"
"They also warned us of an upcoming storm - this location can flood when the river rises. They also said to let them know if others were too loud."
"With the river curving gently nearby and tall trees leaning in as if to welcome you with the non-stop shower of falling leaves in a kaleidoscope of Autumn colors, there’s a soft kind of stillness that"
from $8 - $12 / night
Check Availability"This place is very clean with the lake nearby for swimming or fishing. Very clean restrooms and friendly staff. There are hookups at each site and a few spots for pump out."
"This is a beautiful, off-the-beaten path ‘no frills’ campground that comes very close to being called primitive, yet offers water pit privies and a designated sanitary dump station in addition to in-ground"
"Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn’t expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"
"Beautiful Starved Rock is Illinois's favorite state park. Hiking through forests along the Illinois River to canyons and waterfalls with eagles soaring overhead."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $59 - $89 / night
Check Availability"Set on a serene 105-acre site perched above the Illinois River valley, Great Oaks Camp delivers an atmosphere of peaceful serenity blended with purposeful programming."
ScoutTook my daughter for the weekend. Camp host were wonderful and even worked with us when I arrived later then planned. Full hookup was perfect and location was great.
Location is close to Utica so we were able to enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
Wonderful spot and we will definitely be back.
GuideWe had an easy after-hours first come first serve check in experience. Directions were easy to follow and the campground itself was well-kept. Having a power hook-up for a night was a huge plus.
The state park trails aren't really accessible from the campground but are a short drive away. They are doing A LOT of work on the trail system so not all trails are open at this time. Definitely check out some of the canyons and overlooks if you are staying in the campground.
LegendIf your family enjoys spending more time on the trail than sitting around the campsite, Starved Rock Campground makes a wonderful home base for exploring one of Illinois' most beautiful state parks. Located just outside Starved Rock State Park, the campground offers spacious sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, mature shade trees and just enough modern comforts, including shower facilities and flush restrooms, to make returning after a full day of hiking especially rewarding. One of my favorite memories was watching families head out early with hiking boots and backpacks, then return later that afternoon tired, a little muddy and smiling as they swapped stories about waterfalls, canyons and wildlife around their campfires. The best souvenirs here aren't the photos you take, but the adventures your family shares along the trail. From what we experienced, the more shaded campsites offer the nicest combination of privacy and a peaceful setting, especially during the warmer months. We would gladly recommend Starved Rock Campground for families because it provides comfortable camping, EZ access to one of the Midwest's premier hiking destinations and countless opportunities to spend meaningful time together outdoors. Just remember that you'll need to drive a few minutes into the state park itself to reach the main trailheads, lodge and canyon system.
ScoutProbably the nicest campground ive stayed at
ScoutWhat a find! Beautiful CG. So green; so quiet. Very nicely organized with children placed near the very appealing playground and volleyball facilities, campers with pets near the wonderful dog park. The WiFi is very functional. There is a laundry facility in the camper services building. There’s a lovely community fire pit with the most pleasant rocky fountain. The sites are spacious and offer a nice mix of sun/shade. Best of all, the grounds are spotless. No wait, the best part is how nice the staff is. Or maybe it’s how lush the foliage looks. I don’t know. Go check it out yourself and see if you can decide.
TravelerDrove in late at night and was able to self register and pay at the gate. Has electric hook ups, tent camping sites and a great shower building. Showers were free, clean and comfortable. Not always the case with public campgrounds
LegendAs the name suggests, Creekside Campground borders a tributary of the Vermillion River, which is really just a creek in these parts, and it sits as the lowest point of all the campgrounds here at Pleasant Creek. This campground is not for those driving an RV or hauling a 5th wheel - Creekside is really just for primitive tent campers, who enjoy being connected to nature with only the most basic of comforts. The vibe here at Creekside is definitely communal, offering up less privacy than most primitive campsites I have ever been to. After entering Pleasant Creek, you’ll pass the Office, Camp Store and Arcade on the left, where you’ll also notice a small basketball court on the right, passing by the primary community bathhouses, you’ll immediately veer to the left where you’ll cross the lone bridge where you’ll turn hard right and downwards along the ravine to arrive at the Creekside Campground. Down here and along the Vermillion River there are 32 primitive campsites available numbered #101– 106 and #108– 128 on the lower edge, with a small number of sites raised slightly above, but still downhill from the Highlands with sites numbered #130– 134. Apart from a water spigot and a single porta-potty, there are no other amenities here. As Creekside is carved from the curve of the property that follows the Vermillion River along with the thick tree line, which creates a completely separate feel from the rest of Pleasant Creek, preserving a uniquely festive community vibe. The sites here have full visibility between each other, so if privacy and space are of concern, I would suggest one of the other 2 campgrounds earmarked for tent campers.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you need anything, and I mean anything at all, the very great father and son duo of Dan& Dan, will work tirelessly to ensure that your experience here at this campground is nothing short of amazing, so if you need anything, just ask either of them; (2) While the Vermillion River is merely a creek in these parts, if you head due west, and search a little, you’ll find a couple decent natural launches where you can access the wider river OR you can access a great kayak launch site either at the lower dells in Starved Rock SP or by contacting Starved Rock Kayak Company (who have their own, very amazing riverfront primitive campsite, BTW and that you can search up here on TheDyrt), who will let you launch from either one of their sites on either side of the Illinois River; and (3) While there’s not a whole lot of restaurants in this area, if you do want to get out to try some of the local fare, I would recommend you check out nearby Utica, where I would recommend either Lodi Tap House or Año del Gallo, which is a nice stand-alone Mexican joint serving up some decent fare along with Margaritas.
Happy Camping!
ScoutThis was clearly a campground that used to have owners who cared for it. It is not anymore. We were there for a weekend trip. Most of the amenities listed are done through the main office which were closed at 6:45pm on a Friday with no notice. There are no hours posted for the office which means No Ice, no wood, no access to anything bc the office is where everything is.
We visited the pool and it was FILTHY. Clumps of hair pulled out left and right and if the kids went to the bottom, it stirred up terrors from the deep. We heard from many people who are regulars that it has gone down hill since new ownership took over.
Guide$25 a night for 30 amp hookup is pretty good! The sites are clean and spacious. It’s quiet too! Pretty lake, but sites aren’t right on the lake.
The bathrooms need some work. Water had a boil order on it and showers only worked in the men’s room. Water was HOT! Which is great! However, the water smelled metallic…
Camping in the Chillicothe area centers around the terrain formed by the Illinois River watershed, with an elevation averaging 450-500 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. Fall camping is particularly popular due to reduced insect activity and moderate temperatures between 45-65°F.
Hiking on levees: Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area offers 3 miles of hiking trails marked by levees with abundant waterfowl viewing opportunities. One camper shared, "There are a series of levees that circle around the campground. We walked along the levees to explore the area. The brush was maybe knee high but it was a peaceful hike."
Fishing access: Millpoint Park provides multiple fishing options beyond just the Illinois River. A visitor noted, "You don't even need to get into a boat, by accessing one of 2 small little lakes where you can simply cast a line in from the dock or around the perimeter." Bluegill, buffalo, and largemouth bass are commonly caught species.
Sunset watching: For memorable evening views, find a spot facing west toward Peoria. A camper at Carl Spindler Campground described the experience: "You'll be sipping Mai Tais leaning back in your camp chair listening to some Amy Winehouse watching the sun set in the west over the Illinois River as the twinkling stars come out to shine."
Wildlife observation: Many conservation areas become hotspots for bird watching during migration seasons. Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area campers often report seeing various waterbirds. "We witnessed the most spectacular sunset over the river. It was well worth the night's adventures," mentioned one visitor describing their experience.
Spacious campsites: Jubilee College State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its site dimensions. A camper shared, "We tent camp and majority for the sites also have plenty of room for one or two tents." This makes it suitable for families with multiple tents or larger camping setups.
Water access options: The multiple boat ramps and water entry points are highly valued by paddlers and boaters. One Millpoint Park visitor mentioned, "There's a fantastic boat launch that will have you fishing, kayaking and experiencing this body of fresh water shortly after you anchor into your spot for the night."
Affordability: Many campgrounds in the area maintain reasonable rates compared to other regions. At Carl Spindler Campground, a camper noted, "The best part about this lakefront getaway – apart from the incredibly cheap prices for an overnight stay – was hands down, the very friendly staff who offer up everyone a very strong dose of Midwestern hospitality."
Star viewing: The limited light pollution in conservation areas creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. A Jubilee College State Park visitor commented, "Great campground to get out of the city. The viewing of stars is incredible."
Seasonal flooding concerns: The Illinois River watershed experiences regular flooding cycles that affect campgrounds. A Woodford State Conservation Area visitor advised, "The hosts are kind and friendly. They also warned us of an upcoming storm - this location can flood when the river rises."
Water quality variations: Iron content in water supplies affects taste and appearance at several locations. A Millpoint Park camper warned, "The water here has a lot of iron in it, so don't attempt to drink it, but according to the locals, it's fine to shower in, so I would encourage you to bring a decent amount of bottled water with you."
Hunting season awareness: Conservation areas permit hunting, which affects camping during certain seasons. A Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area camper reported, "At 5 AM diesel pickup trucks pulling boats began to pull into the parking area... Eventually we heard the boats heading out along with gun shots- some were nearby."
Highway noise proximity: Several campgrounds are located near main roads. A camper at Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area mentioned, "This is a great site if you don't mind a very busy rural highway right behind you."
Playground options: Comlara County Park offers multiple play areas for children. A visitor mentioned, "There are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow."
Site selection strategy: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly layouts. One Comlara County Park visitor shared, "The open field camping really lends itself to a community feel, some people have wonderful setups and especially at night, the more luxurious configurations attract the kiddos to checkout."
Bug preparedness: Summer camping requires specific insect protection in this region. A Millpoint Park camper advised, "If you haven't camped out here in central Illinois during the summer, you will want to bring good DEET spray to keep the ticks away as well as hard-core smoke or scent-fused candles that are peppermint, eucalyptus or lavender-scented to keep the gnats at bay."
Tent site selection: For tent campers with children, certain areas provide better experiences. A visitor to Carl Spindler observed, "If you'd like to knock some pins down while slurping some delicious local cold brew, head on over to Landmark Bowling Center," highlighting nearby family-friendly activities when kids need a break from camping.
Electric options: Chillicothe RV and Rec Area provides dedicated RV facilities. A camper described it as "very clean with the lake nearby for swimming or fishing. Very clean restrooms and friendly staff. There are hookups at each site and a few spots for pump out."
Extended power cords: Some sites require additional electrical equipment. A Carl Spindler Campground visitor recommended, "While I always pack a long 100 foot electrical cord for all of my electricity needs, I've never had to use it, except here, where the electrical outlet in the primitive tent camping area is shared by all 4 sites."
Seasonal camper presence: Several campgrounds host long-term residents. One Carl Spindler visitor noted, "There are a lot of seasonal campers there as well," which affects the community atmosphere and site availability.
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. A Jubilee College State Park camper warned, "There was not a level campsite available in the whole place- all had some gravel that had obviously not been maintained in several years," highlighting the importance of bringing leveling blocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Chillicothe, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Chillicothe, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 73 campgrounds and RV parks near Chillicothe, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Chillicothe, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chillicothe, IL is Millpoint Park with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chillicothe, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Chillicothe, IL.
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