Best Campgrounds near Clare, IL
The camping landscape around Clare, Illinois includes both established campgrounds and primitive sites within a short drive. MacQueen Forest Preserve offers secluded tent camping and cabins with walk-in access, while Sycamore RV Resort provides full hookup sites for recreational vehicles. Several other options exist within a 30-mile radius, including Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area and Rock Cut State Park, which both feature cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping. The region supports diverse camping styles from basic tent sites to glamping yurts, particularly at Chicago Northwest KOA near Union.
Camping in this area follows seasonal patterns with most campgrounds operating from April through October. MacQueen Forest Preserve remains accessible year-round with its primitive $4 tent sites, though amenities are minimal with only vault toilets and non-potable water available. Many established campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends when facilities fill quickly. Winter camping options are limited, with only a few sites like Sycamore RV Resort maintaining year-round operations. Road access is generally good with most sites accessible via standard vehicles. "This is a very primitive campground with 1 set of vault toilets. The other campsites require a walk/hike along a gravel path for completely wooded sites or cross a football sized meadow for open air sites," noted one visitor to MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Campgrounds in the area range from basic to well-equipped, with varying levels of privacy and amenities. MacQueen Forest Preserve stands out for its secluded sites, with campers appreciating the significant distance between camping spots. According to one visitor, "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you." In contrast, Sycamore RV Resort offers more developed facilities including fishing ponds, a beach area, and full hookups, though some reviewers mentioned sites being closely spaced. Many campgrounds in the region feature water access, with fishing opportunities available at several locations. Train noise can be a consideration at some sites, particularly at MacQueen Forest Preserve where several trains pass nearby during nighttime hours.
