Best Campgrounds near Clare, IL

Clare is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Clare and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Clare, Illinois (95)

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Recent Reviews near Clare, IL

695 Reviews of 95 Clare Campgrounds



Guide to Clare

Camping near Clare, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the many trails available at Rock Cut State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Tons of trails, fishing, and even a swimming pond," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. A visitor shared, "This is the Muskie Capitol of Illinois," highlighting the variety of fish you can catch.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Blackwell Family Campground, you can spot various wildlife. One camper noted, "You forget you’re in the middle of town! Quite and roving park rangers give it a very safe feel."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities. A review for Lowden State Park Campground stated, "Facilities are clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. At Chicago Northwest KOA, a guest mentioned, "The staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the natural beauty surrounding the campgrounds. One review for White Pines Forest State Park Campground said, "The park is beautiful. Lovely trees, lots of shade."

What you should know

  • No Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, have strict no alcohol policies. A reviewer noted, "This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. For example, Big Rock Campground has "one flush toilet and two pit toilets," which may not be enough for larger groups.
  • Crowded Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy on weekends. A visitor at O'Connell's RV Campground mentioned, "Once Friday rolled around, wow all the people."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Chicago Northwest KOA, families can enjoy "Gem Mining, Jump Pad, Gagaball, Minigolf," and more.
  • Safety First: Ensure your kids are safe, especially in busy campgrounds. One parent at O'Connell's RV Campground expressed concern about "people on golf carts everywhere at all hours of the night."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A review for Thomas Woods Campground mentioned, "Many of the tent spots are spaced out enough to provide privacy and quiet."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A visitor at Burnidge Forest Preserve - Paul Wolff Campground noted, "There are water and electric hookups as well."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near roads or train tracks. A review for Paul Wolff Campground mentioned, "Heard 3 trains between 10 pm and 6 am."
  • Plan for Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have showers or full hookups. A camper at Big Rock Campground said, "There are no showers. There is one flush toilet and two pit toilets."

Camping near Clare, Illinois, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just be sure to check the specific amenities and policies of each campground to find the best fit for your trip!

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