Tent camping near Custer Park, Illinois offers riverfront options along the Kankakee and Illinois Rivers with sites that often remain open year-round despite northern Illinois' seasonal climate shifts. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping provides more comfortable conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F. Water access is a central feature of camping in this area, with several sites offering direct water access.
What to do
Kayak on calm waters: At Kayak Morris, campers can launch directly from their riverfront sites. "If you want a nice riverfront camp site this place is perfect. they also have kayak rentals available," notes Eric R. The river conditions are typically gentle, making it suitable for beginners and families.
Fishing expeditions: The confluence of rivers creates prime fishing spots throughout the region. "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!" reports Sam Murphy M. about his experience at Kayak Morris. Several campgrounds provide direct access to popular fishing areas.
Hike the I&M Canal Towpath: The historic towpath connects multiple camping areas and provides a flat, maintained trail surface for day hikes. Buffalo Rock State Park Campground connects directly to this path, with a reviewer noting "The park has a playground, restroom (with running water), and drinking fountains with spouts. The water tasted funny but it was nice having a source to refill my bottles."
Wildlife observation: Many campgrounds in the area offer opportunities to see local wildlife. "We canoed 3 miles up to the state park before we could cross over to the DuPage (a lovely river) and then back on the Des Plaines. There are also very nice trails through the woods in the area," explains a visitor to the camping areas along the water systems near Custer Park.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: The direct river access at multiple sites ranks high with campers. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site. If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," shares Eric R. about Kayak Morris.
Secluded tent sites: Several campgrounds offer walk-in sites that provide more privacy. "Camp sites aren't actually in buffalo rock, they're across the street at I&M canal. You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you're looking for privacy this is it," explains Amanda P. about Buffalo Rock State Park camping options.
Accessibility options: Some campgrounds have made efforts to accommodate campers with mobility needs. At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, "All sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs. Firepits are 3' across, the steel rim is a foot above the ground, but the pit is 8" below ground level."
Trail connectivity: Campers appreciate how the sites connect to regional trail networks. "This campground is right in town... Arriving by bicycle is even better. The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night," notes Art S. about Channahon State Park Campground.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Many campgrounds in the area have strict gate closing policies. "The park closes early, 8PM in summer, and earlier still off season. Check the fine print on your reservation!" advises a camper at Frederick's Grove.
Walking distances: Most tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Channahon State Park Campground, "It should also be noted that you need to walk in to the campsites (parking is really close by)," explains Art S. Plan to pack accordingly with portable gear.
Water quality concerns: While potable water is available at several sites, quality varies. "Water is available by an old fashioned pump, and is drinkable, but cloudy," reports a camper at Frederick's Grove.
Noise factors: Be prepared for both natural and human-made sounds. "At night, you can hear owls and distant trains, but motorboats and jet-skis begin around 6:AM," notes a camper about the riverfront camping experience in the area.
Flooding potential: Some campgrounds may experience water issues during heavy rains. "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up," warns Rita S. about her experience at Frederick's Grove.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade and terrain. At McKinley Woods, "The sites are far apart, with #1 being the shadiest and most secluded but uneven." Sites #3 and #4 offer paved surfaces that work better for setting up family-sized tents.
Morning activities: Plan for early risers due to natural lighting and boat noise. "We had an enjoyable weekend here relaxing and getting away from the city," shares Paul R. about his experience at Kayak Starved Rock Campground. The campground provides river views and access to nearby state parks.
Bathroom considerations: Most tent-focused campgrounds offer basic facilities. "The Porta potties were shockingly clean! The potties also have motion sensor lights in them for at night visits. They also have wipes, spray underarm deodorant, hand sanitizer and automatic air freshener," reports Paul R. about the facilities at Kayak Starved Rock Campground.
Biking opportunities: The flat towpaths make for excellent family cycling. "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride," notes a reviewer about the regional trail system.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive camping areas near Custer Park don't accommodate large RVs. At Mac Finn's Landing, the focus is on fishing access rather than RV amenities. "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River imo! Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers," says Raven Rock S.
Consider nearby alternatives: For those traveling with RVs, camping options expand further from Custer Park. Kayak Starved Rock Campground offers an experience where "The campgrounds is a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. The campsites are impeccably clean and well-maintained, spacious enough for both privacy and a sense of community."
Supply planning: With limited facilities, RVers should prepare accordingly. "Provisions are never far away, with the campground store well-stocked with camping essentials, snacks, firewood, and bottled water," notes Tracy E. about Kayak Starved Rock Campground.
