Camping options near Danville, Illinois span across east-central Illinois and western Indiana, with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet. The region features a mix of prairie restoration areas, wooded ravines, and waterways including the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River—Illinois' only National Scenic River. Seasonal camping typically runs from April through October, though some campgrounds remain open year-round with variable facilities during winter months.
What to Do
Hiking through diverse terrain: Kickapoo State Recreation Area offers trail systems for various skill levels. "Been going to this campground all my life. She's showing her age! This would be a great place for a mower! I use this campground as my initial trip out each year to shakedown the camper for the year. Lots of trails, fishing is bad, campground is overgrown," notes Richard R.
Paddling opportunities: Several local waterways provide canoeing options. "Campground is super basic but the access to trails and paddling is amazing. This park is severely underfunded so don't expect much for amenities. That said it's a great place to setup for a weekend on the trails," says Josh M. about Kickapoo.
Fishing and wildlife viewing: Harry L Swartz Campground features multiple fishing ponds. "Three nice ponds for fishing. We would definitely stay there again," reports Eric B. The campground is also part of a dark sky park. "Since the campground is right next to a Dark Sky Park, stargazing is amazing if you have good weather," adds Rachel.
Walking the dog: Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area provides pet-friendly trails. "This park has very nice hiking trails and a swimming beach. The kids had a great time, and I got to kick back and relax," says Todd T.
What Campers Like
Diverse campsite options: Turkey Run State Park Campground offers a range of site types. "We were in a wooded section and it was pretty private however our site was pretty sloped. Next time I would probably pick the site on either side of 167," advises Samantha S. She also notes: "The wooded sites on the outsides that back up to woods have a decent number of trees separating you from the site next to you."
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most campgrounds welcome pets with specific guidelines. "Depending on what you would like this campground has a little bit of everything. There are camp sites that are walk to for some more distance from others, a lot of close drive to spots, RV, and a lot of close boat camping sites," explains Jennifer S. about Kickapoo.
Privacy options: Selecting the right site makes a difference for campers with dogs. "Some of the sites are very private, others are closer together. 42-47 had a lot of vegetation between them and were very private," explains Rachel about Harry L Swartz Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms were super clean and the showers were hot with good water pressure," reports Samantha S. about Turkey Run.
What You Should Know
No alcohol policy enforcement: Unlike some other area campgrounds, Kickapoo strictly prohibits alcohol. "Nice CG. No booze signs posted, take it serious! Watched a ranger evict and entire group late in the evening for drinking. They weren't being rowdy but we're breaking the rules," warns Lucas T.
Wildlife encounters: Shades State Park Campground and other area campgrounds have active wildlife. "Watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything," cautions Samantha S. about nearby Turkey Run.
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly across sites. "Lots of really nice campsites," notes Carla C. about Shades State Park, while another camper points out that "sites in the middle of Kickapoo's camping loops tend to be smaller, while perimeter sites offer more space."
Seasonal availability: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area operates from May through November with more primitive accommodations than some other options.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: D & W Lake RV Park offers family-friendly water options. "The lake behind our trailer is beautiful and can be fished Catch and Release with Blue Gill and Bass. There's plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park," notes Luna L.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "RV Park with 5 tent sites, a lake, small playground, and a dog run. The bathrooms and showers were very clean and well maintained," shares Julie P. about D & W Lake.
Weekend planning: Consider timing for quieter experiences. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning/early afternoon," suggests Samantha S.
Pet monitoring: When bringing dogs to pet-friendly campsites, be aware of wildlife activity. "Deer and wildlife seen in the mornings," reports Cassandra I. about Kickapoo's primitive camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Forest Glen County Preserve and other campgrounds may require leveling equipment. "The RV sites are great for either rv, van, or tent camping with a lot of level ground at most sites," notes David P. about Kickapoo.
Electric options: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups, but capacities vary. "There are no water hook ups at site," points out Dave R. about Raccoon Lake campground, while others mention that sites at Forest Glen Preserve include electric.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. "There are a few pull throughs," notes Dave R., which can be helpful for larger RVs with pets.
Easy highway access: For overnight stops with pets, "Super easy on and off the highway. With that you do get some noise but not too bad," reports Charles M. about D & W Lake, making it convenient for travelers with animals.
