B
Brad T.
Scout
ScoutStarved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
042 Site
Nice campground, but make sure you are on the outside. Very little shade.
Camping near DeKalb, IL
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Several campgrounds dot the prairie landscape surrounding DeKalb, Illinois, providing a mix of developed facilities and natural settings for outdoor recreation. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, located about 15 miles south of DeKalb, offers tent, RV, and cabin camping options with electric hookups and modern amenities. Sycamore RV Resort, situated just north of DeKalb in the neighboring town of Sycamore, provides full-hookup sites primarily for RVs. The region includes a combination of state parks, forest preserves, and private campgrounds, with most facilities concentrated within a 30-minute drive of the city.
Camping availability extends year-round at many locations near DeKalb, though amenities like water hookups are typically winterized from late fall through early spring. Most established campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. The relatively flat terrain throughout the area makes for easy camping setup, though limited tree cover at some locations means summer heat can be a consideration. Cell phone coverage is generally reliable throughout the region, with stronger signals at campgrounds closer to town. A visitor to Shabbona Lake noted, "The entire park is shaded. It's beautiful in the fall."
Campers report high satisfaction with lake-based recreation opportunities, particularly at Shabbona Lake where fishing is a primary attraction. The campground features both wooded sites with privacy and more open areas with lake views. Sites in the Canvasback Cove area (sites 119-116) are particularly popular for their water views, while others (136-141) offer more seclusion among trees. While many campgrounds accommodate RVs with electrical hookups, tent camping options are somewhat more limited. MacQueen Forest Preserve provides an alternative with tent sites and cabin accommodations in a more natural setting. According to one review, "Sites are not very private, but the fall colors made up for it." Most mixed-use campgrounds balance convenience with natural surroundings, making them suitable for family outings or weekend retreats.
Best Campgrounds near DeKalb (118)
1. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
"If you find yourself out in these parts near Shabbona in north central Illinois it is because of either one of two reasons - you are incredibly lost and stumbled across this hidden natural preserve gem"
"All within easy walking distance to the lake. Camp store and two boat rental spots allow for flexiblity on busier weekends."
from $25 / night
Check Availability2. Sycamore RV Resort
"Very nice grounds that are quiet. 10 minute drive to town. 20 minutes from Dekalb. Some Covid 19 restrictions. Beach and restrooms are closed. Campers must have their own toilets."
"Nice lake for fishing and a beach area for the kids to go swimming."
3. Big Rock Campground
"Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi"
"Open campground with nearly zero tree. We had a great campfire but didn’t take advantage of the whole park to explore. She wants to again this year but we will spend more time hiking."
from $18 - $35 / night
Check Availability4. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground
"Normal Illinois state park. Not a lot of services but good size sites and peaceful. Lake with canoe rentals and fishing. Nice walking trails."
"with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east."
from $12 - $50 / night
Check Availability5. MacQueen Forest Preserve
"You have to walk up to the sites. There's a wagon and a dolly to take your things. There isn't much in terms of hiking trails."
"I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground."
6. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability7. Chicago Northwest KOA
"You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"
"We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"
8. Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort
"Propane, full hookups, fairly sized fenced in dog run area, a lake with a beach front. Play ground for the kids and a strict 5MPH speed limit. "
"We couldn’t reach the WiFi from our site but it was good closer to the lake. They also have free TV but we didn’t hook up to that."
from $45 - $70 / night
Check Availability9. 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 Availability10. Thomas Woods Campground
"While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here."
"Most of the sites were right on the road and you’d need to position your car right for privacy. The tent sites are clumped pretty tight together with a couple exceptions."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 32 min from Rockford, IL
- 55 min from Chicago, IL
- 58 min from Janesville, WI
- 1 hr 30 min from Kenosha, WI
Recent Camping Photos near DeKalb, IL
318 Photos of 118 DeKalb Campgrounds
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Recent Reviews near DeKalb, IL
824 Reviews of 118 DeKalb Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendThousand Trails Pine Country
Shaded, Family-Friendly Country Retreat
There’s something instantly calming about rolling into a campground wrapped in tall pines and soft breezes, and Pine Country had that peaceful, easy feeling that made all of us exhale before we even found our site. This campground is expansive and welcoming, with full-hookup spots laid out across wide loops, plenty of shade, clean bathrooms and a friendly mix of families settling in for weekends or longer stays. Our boys loved wandering between the fishing pond and the small recreation areas and we ended the evening sharing freshly baked chocolate chip cookies that we made over an open fire on a Camp Chef black skillet munching them down at the picnic table while listening to the trees rustle above us. For families looking for a convenient home base near Rockford with lots of room to spread out, EZ access to town for supplies and a campground that really does feel safe and relaxed, Pine Country is an EZ pick. Highly recommended for young families seeking space, shade and a low-key, gentle setting to recharge.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Sycamore RV Resort
Peaceful Lakeside Pause in the Heart of Corn Country
There’s something so comforting about pulling into Sycamore RV Resort and seeing the sunlight dance across those two spring-fed lakes, giving you that immediate exhale that only a calm Midwestern campground can bring. The property is medium-sized, incredibly tidy and thoughtfully laid out, with full-hookup RV sites circling the water, a small sandy beach for summer splashing, clean restrooms and showers, simple playgrounds and EZ walking loops that make it feel both manageable and welcoming for families. The boys were in heaven the next morning when we drove over to Elleson’s Bakery for fresh homemade donuts still warm from the oven. Later we wandered through historic downtown Sycamore during Pumpkinfest, taking in the decorated storefronts and carved pumpkins lined up like a little parade. Back at the RV Resort, from what we saw, the best campsites are any of the lakeside slots on the western shore because they offer the prettiest sunrise views and the quietest pockets of the resort. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its peaceful lakeside setting, its clean and convenient amenities and its proximity to a charming small provincial Midwestern town that makes even a simple weekend feel memorable.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Holiday Acres Camping Resort
Country Calm with a Dash of Classic Campground Fun
The moment we pulled into Holiday Acres, that cozy ‘old-school campground’ feeling washed over us, with tall trees, winding lanes and a big, friendly welcome from the office that instantly made the boys sit up and take notice. The campground is beautifully laid out with roomy sites, full hookups, a well-kept swimming pond, mini golf, a little camp store and restrooms that were impressively clean for a busy family spot. After a long drive, the boys made a beeline for the playground and the pedal carts, and later that night we all sat under the string lights eating ice cream sandwiches from the camp store while fireflies blinked and buzzed through the trees. If you’re a family looking for somewhere safe, shaded and EZ-going with just enough activities to keep the kids happily worn out, this place absolutely fits the bill. Highly recommended for its friendly atmosphere, great kid-focused amenities and peaceful, wooded setting.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Gebhard Woods State Park Campground
A Tiny, Peaceful Hideaway by Nettle Creek
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 along the historic I&M Canal in the very quaint nearby town of Morris that feels like stepping back into a gentler, slower rhythm. With only a very small number of walk-in and car-accessible sites, everything here is intentionally uncomplicated with basic picnic tables, simple fire rings, primitive vault toilets, functional stand-up grills, expansive shelter in case of rain and an abundance of shade. The entire campground opens up within EZ walking distance of the creek, footbridges and a canal path that our little ones immediately ran off to explore. One of my favorite moments came as we watched them marvel at all of the turtles they discovered near the creek banks, their laughter echoing under the trees while my husband and I stirred the campfire and breathed in that cool creek-bank air ... grateful for a night that asked so little of us except to be present. While Gebhard Woods is primitive in every way with no hookups, no frills and no store, it’s absolutely perfect for families who want quiet, nature and room for little imaginations to run wild with the best spots being the shaded sites closest to Nettle Creek where the breeze and water sounds soften everything just right. Highly recommended for families seeking peaceful simplicity, kid-friendly exploring and a truly low-key overnight in the woods.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Camp Reinberg
A Forest Preserve Escape for the Whole Family
From the moment we pulled into Camp Reinberg, our entire family felt something was unique and different about the peacefulness that you immediately encounter when arriving here to Camp Reinberg – it was the kind of quiet that settles over you long before the bags are unpacked, which felt remarkable considering how close this little retreat sits to suburban Palatine. This Forest Preserve of Cook County campground is modest in size with a mix of tent pads, a very small circuit of RV-friendly sites and several modern cabins that give it the feeling of a thoughtfully managed woodland outpost rather than a crowded complex. Amenities are simple but well-cared-for, including clean restrooms, hot showers, shaded picnic areas, a proper indoor camping kitchen and dining hall as well as a large open field for play complete with an enormous bonfire pit and BBQ grill area with direct access to the miles of hiking paths that wind through Deer Grove Forest Preserve. Our favorite moment came just before sunset when the boys darted between the oaks spotting chipmunks while we lingered at the picnic table with a thermos of hot cocoa, savoring the calm and popping in extra marshmallows for full effect. For families, this campground is genuinely recommended thanks to its safety, gentle trails and close-to-town convenience with the best site choice being either one of the tent pads along the wooded northeastern edge (sites#6-10) or the northernmost corner of the RV loop if you’re looking for a spot for your rig (#2-4), where the privacy and tree cover make the stay feel much more like a deep-forest escape.
Beth D.
GuidePaul Wolff Campground
Good place for a night or 2
First, you have to make reservations in advance online. The website says otherwise. They are spacious sites and well maintained the water. Spicket are a significant distance from each campsite so come prepared for that.
- MMark L.Scout
Rolling Oaks Campground
Always amazing
This was my family's campground before my grandmother passed when I was 7. From then till a few years ago I hadn't been back. The first time getting back was definitely a trip down memory lane. Now I try to get a campsite at least once a year. It's always quiet and peaceful & the staff is always willing to help make sure that you have the best experience possible.
Harold H.ScoutLehmans Lakeside RV Resort
Location is ok but staff are not
The worst thing about this campground is that the well water contains rust that affects your entire trailers water system. Staff did not tell you beforehand that your trailer will be destroyed. I’ve stayed here seven months and have had my water repeatedly cut off without notice.
Guide to DeKalb
Camping sites near DeKalb, Illinois offer a mix of prairie ecosystems and wooded retreats within a 50-mile radius of the city. The region sits at approximately 850-900 feet above sea level with relatively flat topography punctuated by occasional wooded areas and small water features. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though water systems are typically winterized after the first frost in mid-October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pierce Lake at Rock Cut State Park spans nearly 40 miles of shoreline with boat rentals available. "The lake has produced a lot of trophy fish, if that's your thing. Otherwise it's quiet and peaceful. We like to go just to chill and read out out in the woods," notes Scott C.
Hiking trails: Several conservation areas offer marked paths through prairie and woodland settings. At Thomas Woods Campground, visitors can explore varied terrain with multiple difficulty levels. "Some of grass and others were dirt. The wildflowers caught our eye and we enjoyed pausing to appreciate their beauty," according to Art S., who visited the park.
Water recreation: Swimming and boating options exist at select locations within 45 minutes of DeKalb. Sycamore RV Resort features "a small beach with a snack shack" according to Deb M., who adds the property has "two lakes, catch and release fishing" making it suitable for families wanting water activities.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: MacQueen Forest Preserve offers primitive camping in a former scout camp setting. "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," writes Amy G., emphasizing the privacy factor rare in the region.
Affordable options: Several county forest preserves maintain low-cost camping areas with basic amenities. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, individual tent sites run just $4 per night. One visitor noted, "It's all self-checking, you just use the pay box in the parking lot," highlighting the straightforward reservation process.
Late season camping: Many campers appreciate the fall foliage and reduced crowds after Labor Day. Big Rock Campground features spacious sites with utility connections in a prairie setting. "Nice campground with big, level sites. Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability," reports Melissa C.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds in the area experience railroad noise at night. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, a camper warned: "If you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night."
Limited shade coverage: Many DeKalb-area campgrounds feature open prairie settings with minimal tree cover. Big Rock Campground has "very very few spots with shade and trees" according to Marisa A., who described it as "a nice field if that's what you look for in a campground."
Facility limitations: Shower availability varies significantly between locations. At Paul Wolff Campground, one visitor pointed out: "There aren't any showers and you need to pay with cash or check. No credit cards. Hard to pay that much when you can't shower or clean up."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds or structured recreation areas. Sycamore RV Resort is described as "fun for the kids" by Tyler S., though primarily designed for campers rather than tents.
Access to supplies: Emergency provisions and basic supplies are often limited on-site. Rock Cut State Park provides a modest camp store, but as Meg K. explains, "Long drive to get into town and not much there but a gas station and grocery store." Plan accordingly with needed supplies.
Weekend reservations: Summer bookings fill quickly, especially at state parks with online reservation systems. For Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, Nikki O. advises: "Got there early Saturday morning and there were only a few sites left. I would suggest making reservations or getting there on a Friday."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup positioning: At many sites, utility connections may be positioned inconveniently. At Big Rock Campground, Amanda K. notes: "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" This practical detail helps RVers prepare properly.
Campground accessibility: Most DeKalb area campgrounds accommodate medium-sized rigs, but some forest preserve locations have limitations. Lehman's Lakeside RV Resort offers "reliable full hookups" according to Carolyn C., though she cautions about "postage stamp space on gravel" and notes the property is "very clean and well cared for."
Road conditions: Interior campground roads vary significantly in quality. At Lehman's Lakeside RV Resort, Ron D. mentions the "pot roads need service as they do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit," highlighting an important consideration for those with larger rigs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near DeKalb, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near DeKalb, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near DeKalb, IL is Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area with a 4-star rating from 32 reviews.
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