Josh F.
Traveler
TravelerChannahon State Park Campground
Gate closes
Did not stay because was planning on staying in my car in the lot but the gate says it closes at sunset, not sure if that's true as there is tent camping.
Camping near Morris, IL
79 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping near Morris, Illinois ranges from riverfront tent sites and full-hookup RV parks to primitive sites along the I&M Canal State Trail. Kayak Morris stands out with riverfront tent sites and kayak rentals, making it popular for water activities. Illini State Park, located near Marseilles, provides both Whitetail and Great Falls campgrounds with tent and RV sites as well as cabins. Love's RV Hookup offers dedicated RV spaces with full hookups for travelers along Interstate 80, while McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove provides primitive tent sites with boat and hiking access along the I&M Canal State Trail.
Road conditions and seasonal weather significantly impact camping experiences in the area. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though flooding can occur during heavy rain periods, particularly at low-lying sites. "Morning breakfast after the glampout night provided by the staff, good food and quiet environment," noted one visitor to Kayak Morris, highlighting the additional amenities some sites offer. McKinley Woods campers should be prepared for potential flooding, as one review mentioned waking up to "three inches of water everywhere" after heavy rainfall. Most developed campgrounds provide drinking water and toilet facilities, though amenities vary considerably between locations. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with better coverage closer to Morris and major highways.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive feedback from visitors to the area. The Illinois River and its tributaries create numerous opportunities for fishing, with one camper reporting catching "over 50 striper" during their stay at Kayak Morris. Several reviews mention the calm waters ideal for kayaking, particularly at the river convergence areas. Sites at Kayak Morris allow campers to "launch right from our campsite," making water access convenient. For cyclists, the I&M Canal Trail provides excellent connectivity between campgrounds, with McKinley Woods and Channahon State Park offering direct trail access. Tent campers seeking seclusion can find walk-in sites at McKinley Woods and Gebhard Woods State Park, though these areas tend to fill quickly on summer weekends. RV travelers have multiple options with full hookups, particularly at the more developed campgrounds and travel centers along Interstate 80.
Best Campgrounds near Morris (79)
1. Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park
"Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view."
"Spent a couple nights here (site 3) for Vintage Illinois at a nearby park. Quiet, fairly level, gravel sites. Electric worn but fully functional. Lots of trees and shade."
from $12 - $55 / night
Check Availability2. Kayak Morris
"You get to see tugboats and barges go up and down the Illinois river right from your campsite."
"Small and hidden right on the Illinois River. Received a free night of camping with a whole day of kayaking which is absolutely recommended."
from $29 / night
Check Availability3. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
"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 Availability4. Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859
"Located just due east on the outskirts of little known Morris, Illinois just off I80, this little roadside stand isn’t the largest Love’s I’ve ever seen, but it sure does pack a punch. "
"Rating as a truck stop/overnight and not campground rating We pulled in around 10pm, easily backed in with no obstacles, hook ups were all easy and convienent and we were on I80 again before 7
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from $37 / night
Check Availability5. Gebhard Woods State Park Campground
"The soft hush of Nettle Creek and the canopy of old hardwoods set the tone the moment we rolled into the tiny family campground at Gebhard Woods, which I would describe as a simple and wooded pocket tucked"
6. Whitetail Campground — Illini State Park
"or Illini) native American Indian tribe, who were one of the most prolific and important native American Indian tribes to have settled in the Mississippi River valley, of which large sections of Illinois"
"It’s pretty close to Chicago so it works for weekend getaways. We stayed in the wooded loop. It’s rustic without electric/water hookups. The other loop looked more set up for rvs. "
from $10 - $45 / night
Check Availability7. McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
"This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest! We will continue to go there for as long as we live in this area."
9. Glenwood RV Resort
10. Channahon State Park Campground
"It is a bit away from businesses. However if you arrive by car you drive through the quaint town. Arriving by bicycle is even better. The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp."
Drive Time
- 46 min from Chicago, IL
- 56 min from Kankakee, IL
- 1 hr 12 min from Bloomington, IL
- 1 hr 19 min from Rockford, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Morris, IL
172 Photos of 79 Morris Campgrounds
Amanda W.
Kayak Morris
Rita S.
McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove
Abbe
Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park
Art S.
Whitetail Campground — Illini State Park
Stuart K.
Deer Creek Campground
Stuart K.
Mallard Bend RV Resort
Jeff G.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
Stuart K.
Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff CottageS & RV
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort
Aaron W.
Hi-Tide Recreation
Erick B.
Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds
Recent Reviews near Morris, IL
535 Reviews of 79 Morris Campgrounds
- Cassondra P.
LegendLove's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859
Rating for what it is
This is not a campground but if you need an overnight quick stop this was great! Rating as a truck stop/overnight and not campground rating
We pulled in around 10pm, easily backed in with no obstacles, hook ups were all easy and convienent and we were on I80 again before 7
You check in online once your there and process was great
It is a travel stop so there are bright lights and truck noise - but we were tired and had no issues sleeping through night!
The staff were very kind, bathrooms inside were clean
- Mary H.
RangerPleasant Creek Campground
Sufficient for a quick stopover
We 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.
- Mary H.Ranger
Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
Wooded site was just what I hoped for
We 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.
- AAbdulrahman A.
ScoutBig Rock Campground
Beautiful And Quite
Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply
Maria Mercedes M.LegendWoodhaven Lakes
Camping Community in the Corn Fields
The first thing that struck us about Woodhaven Lakes was that it didn't feel like a campground at all - it felt like a small town built entirely around family camping. Spread across nearly 1,800 acres of woodlands, lakes and prairie in north-central Illinois, this membership campground somehow manages to offer seven lakes, swimming pools, sandy beaches (yes, even though you are in the middle of a land-locked state), miles of trails, playgrounds, mini golf, restaurants, a well-stocked camp store, spotless bathhouses and more family activities than we could possibly fit into one trip without losing its relaxed, welcoming feel. My favorite memory was watching families gather along the beach as the kids bounced between building sandcastles, splashing in the water and making brand-new friends before racing back to camp for dinner. Some places are measured in acres; this one is measured in smiles, laughs and conversations. From what we saw, the waterfront campsites in Zones 1-5, 7, 10-11, 16, 21, 23 and 24 offer the nicest combination of peaceful lake views and convenient access to many of the campground's amenities. We would absolutely recommend Woodhaven Lakes for families looking to create lasting memories because of its incredible variety of activities, beautifully maintained facilities and endless opportunities to simply enjoy being together outdoors.
- RRichard C.Scout
Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground — Kankakee River State Park
Ok
JJust ok. Facilities were disappointing
Stuart K.LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
- BBrad T.Scout
Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
042 Site
Nice campground, but make sure you are on the outside. Very little shade.
Guide to Morris
Camping near Morris, Illinois centers around the Illinois River system and the I&M Canal corridor. Sites range from primitive tent camping to full-service RV parks, with elevations averaging 500-550 feet above sea level. Spring flooding can impact low-lying areas, particularly along the Des Plaines River convergence, while summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Kayaking the calm waters: The Illinois River offers excellent paddling opportunities at Kayak Morris, where campers report the river is "so calm its awesome." One visitor mentioned they "had my first experience of a lit up kayak tour for fireworks," showcasing special events available to paddlers.
Hiking nearby state parks: While camping at Starved Rock Campground, visitors can access numerous canyons and waterfalls within a 10-minute drive. "We loved seeing all of the waterfalls and checking out the lodge and restaurant. There were amazing views and plenty of trails to keep us busy," noted one camper.
Cycling the I&M Canal Trail: The extensive trail system connects several campgrounds in the region. From McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, cyclists can access miles of flat terrain. One visitor explained: "The main draw to this place is the tow path. I highly recommend bringing a bike to enjoy the trail. The trail is also part of the Grand Illinois Trail network."
What campers like
Fishing success: Anglers consistently praise the fishing at Kayak Morris, where one camper reported "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!"
Affordable waterfront sites: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Illini State Park, where one visitor found "very relaxed and clean campground that isn't busy and has really cheap rates for off-season camping. $18 a night for walk-in and we got a 50amp spot right in front of the Illinois river."
Wildlife viewing: The convergence of river systems creates excellent wildlife habitat. At Whitetail Campground, one camper enjoyed "the beginning of fall, which lots of color on the ground, the cicadas singing their last, and squads of migrating geese bedding down for the night."
What you should know
Facility maintenance varies: Bathroom and shower conditions can be inconsistent across campgrounds. At Great Falls Campground, one camper noted "The showers on site TRICKLED, not even enough to wash your hair. The sinks constantly run, they don't shut off."
Seasonal flooding risks: Low-lying sites may flood during heavy rain, particularly at McKinley Woods where one camper reported waking to "three inches of water everywhere" after a downpour, with water "reached the side walk" by departure time.
Reservation systems differ: Some parks require advance booking while others operate first-come-first-served. At Illini State Park, a camper was confused when "the guy told us we had to do a pull up basis. But there were slots reserved for other people."
Tips for camping with families
Playground locations: When selecting a campsite, note proximity to play areas. At Great Falls Campground, one family mentioned: "Beautiful spot, but it was directly across from a playground, which I failed to read about when booking. If you have kids, this is perfect for you."
Jellystone Park activities: For structured family entertainment, Jellystone Park Millbrook offers daily programming. A visitor noted: "Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day."
Halloween camping: Several area campgrounds offer special Halloween events. At Jellystone Park, the October weekends feature "plenty of spooky things to do" according to one camper, who added "This is an activity packed weekend which is amazing. Good for kids of all ages including the adults."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup access: At Illini State Park, one RVer shared: "Electric worn but fully functional. Lots of trees and shade." However, some sites require planning as "the hookups were actually on the site next door...my 25 foot power cord was insufficient to reach."
Overnight highway stops: For travelers along I-80, Love's RV Hookup offers convenient facilities. The location provides "10 back-in RV slots" with "7 individual shower stalls" and "all of the typical hook-ups (water, 30/50 amp electric and sewage) along with WiFi," according to a recent visitor.
Dump station awareness: When camping at state parks, check dump station conditions. One camper at Illini was disappointed: "OMG what a disaster. It's a relic from decades ago. Uneven and puddles of 'water' all over the dump area. Really happy to track that into my coach and truck, not."
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of camping are available in Morris, Illinois?
What types of camping are available in Morris, Illinois?
Morris and its surrounding area offer diverse camping experiences. For tent camping and a more traditional outdoor experience, Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park provides wooded sites with plenty of trees for hammock camping and clean facilities. For those seeking unique camping experiences, McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove offers walk-in camping with ADA-accessible sites. The region also supports primitive camping at Gebhard Woods State Park with hike-in sites for a more rustic experience. For families, nearby Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Millbrook provides amenity-rich camping with activities. The variety ensures options for every camping preference from basic to more comfortable accommodations.
Are there RV facilities or rentals available in Morris, Illinois?
Are there RV facilities or rentals available in Morris, Illinois?
Morris offers several RV-friendly options. Glenwood RV Resort, located just minutes from I-80 and near the Illinois River, provides dedicated RV facilities with proper hookups. For travelers needing convenient overnight parking, Walmart — Joliet Supercenter offers a spacious lot that accommodates RVs. Tiki RV Park is another roadside option for RV travelers in the area. For those seeking RV rentals, you'll need to check with local rental companies as most campgrounds don't offer on-site RV rentals. Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort near Joliet is another option with full facilities for larger RVs. Most RV parks in the area are easily accessible from major highways, making Morris a convenient stop for RV travelers.
What campgrounds are available near Morris, IL?
What campgrounds are available near Morris, IL?
Morris, IL offers several nearby camping options. Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859 provides convenient roadside accommodations right in Morris for travelers on I-80. Just a short drive away, Channahon State Park Campground offers a more natural setting with sites along the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail. Other nearby options include Kayak Morris for water enthusiasts, Gebhard Woods State Park Campground for hikers seeking a more rustic experience, and Illini State Park with its Great Falls Campground and Whitetail Campground areas about 20 minutes from Morris. The region provides diverse camping experiences within a 30-minute drive radius of the city.
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