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."
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…
RangerWe added a day to our Starved Rock itinerary and couldn't get into Starved Rock State Park Campground that night, so quickly booked this from the road. Got into the Highlands, which was packed and super close quarters. Not what we love, but several sites looked like extended families/friends had booked together and they were having a blast, especially the kids. Looked like they had some activities available and we saw several kids with fishing poles heading somewhere fun. We didn't explore the rest of the grounds; perhaps other sections afforded more privacy. I thought it was a bit pricey for the amenities (one shower house very far away) and hemmed-in feel, but it served our purpose for one night.
RangerWe loved site 89 at Starved Rock State Campground, in the wooded area of the east loop. Felt enveloped by nature among the trees and birds. Nice privacy, with neighbors at a distance through the trees. The pit toilets weren’t far and were well-kept. The only disappointment was the shower house. The shower itself was excellent—hot and powerful—but one men's and one women's shower for more than 70 sites isn't sufficient, and those facilities felt neglected.
The location of this campground is perfect if you’re there to explore the canyons, as it’s an easy drive to so many trailheads. We hiked up to Starved Rock and also down into seven canyons over the four days there: Illinois, Ottawa, Kalkaskia, Council Bluffs, St Louis, French, and Wildcat. We enjoyed a riverboat cruise down the Illinois River among bluffs of sandstone. We had lunch in Ottawa one day and Utica another; both cool towns. We also loved our time just relaxing at the site in such a beautiful setting.
TravelerYou must pack in your own water and there are no electric hookups. Beautiful well maintained grounds with lots of open sky for starlink.
LegendSet just off I-80 near Sheffield, the Lock 22 Campground offers some of the simplest, most serene camping you’ll find in the Hennepin Canal State Trail system. Here, you’re not at a full-service campground– this is the kind of place where the canal’s old lock whispers history and the towpath beckons walkers and anglers. First impressions? A flat, grassy expanse with scattered trees, picnic tables, pit toilets and a quiet canal-side vibe that is refreshingly basic, peaceful and full of charm if you’re into low-maintenance camping.
As a Class ‘C’ campground, Lock 22 offers primitive facilities only, meaning no showers, no hookups and no electricity(yes, a whole lot of‘Nos’), but it does include toilets and drinking water. Campsites are vehicle-accessible and the$8/night per-family fee is collected in person by a site security officer(if they show up), on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth groups follow a separate fee schedule with minimums and supervision rules. Camping is quiet, basic, and outdoors-first here.
What really sets this spot apart is its location and simplicity. It’s under the lock bridge itself, so be sure to bring a chair, toss a line in the canal and wander the towpath trails that take you past aqueducts and marshes. Cell service is reported as excellent, making it a surprisingly connected getaway. Nearby, Sheffield offers a few basic services, and you're within easy driving distance of I-80 and surrounding towns.
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful:(1) For the flattest, quietest camping, choose a grassy site closest to the canal but back off from the parking area;(2) Bring all the water you'll need as while Lock 22 has drinking water, it’s only at a designated faucet and not at the campsites themselves;(3) The canal towpath is fantastic for peaceful walking, biking, fishing and bird-watching, but for the best experience, get there early;(4) Check the Visitor Center north of I-80 for trail maps so that you can plan your canal hiking and camping;(5) No campfires outside of designated fire pits, so I would strongly encourage you to bring alternative cooking options like a butane or propane-fueled stove or range; and(6) If you drive into Sheffield check out Wings Café serving hearty comfort food, or try The Dug-Out Sports Pub for pub-style eats and local atmosphere.
Happy Camping!
ScoutI live near this park and have used it regularly for years. It is certainly nothing special... just a nice average park. I usually do a combination van and tent camp here and it is totally adequate for that. It looks to be fine for RVs as well. The pit toilets are usually clean and relatively bug free. The shower house is clean and adequate. I just think of this as my "local campground"... my go to for a quick weekend getaway to set up and use my gear, and have friends out to share a fire. The park itself is nice, quiet and clean. You will see deer and raccoons. Jubilee is off a County Highway (Rt 150), about 5 miles off I-74. Small town with DG and Gas stations are about 5 miles away; Peoria IL is 15ish miles away.
ScoutEven in this incredible heat ( high 90's) the woodsy campground feels pleasant. Birds tweeting, lots of space between sites. The zero entry swimming pool is new and spotlessly clean, as are the showers. The owners are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend.
GuideWe arrived as a storm was blowing in. Tornado watch, severe thunderstorms and torrential rains. Despite the in conditions, when learning it was our first night ever in an RV, our host went above and beyond to meet our needs. Although we reserved a 30 amp site, our site only had 50. She ventured out in the pouring rain to bring us an adapter. The next morning, our site had flooded and she rode out to our site to assess the situation. She was incredibly responsive by call and text. We were baptized by fire on our first night of RV life, but because of her, we made it!
ScoutNice campground, but make sure you are on the outside. Very little shade.
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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