Camping near Dixon, Illinois centers on paddling access, with many sites located along the Rock River and Kishwaukee River watersheds. The region features elevation changes from river valleys to limestone bluffs, creating varied terrain unusual in northern Illinois. Fall temperatures range from 45-70°F, making September through October ideal for tent camping when mosquitoes are less prevalent and campfire restrictions aren't typically in place.
What to do
Paddle the Rock River: Castle Rock State Park's boat-in sites require some planning for the return journey. "It was no joke when the other reviews said it was almost a 3 hour canoe back up to the boat launch. However, it was a very great experience once we got to the campsite," notes Brian H. about Castle Rock State Park Campground.
Explore local trails: The Hennepin Canal offers multiple access points for hiking and biking. "The Hennepin Canal Trail goes right through camp. On a previous visit I rode my bike along the crushed gravel trail. With a few connecting roads, I traveled from a Chicago suburb to the Mississippi River," explains Art S. from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground.
Visit historical sites: The area contains working grist mills and other historical structures. "This place has a really nice connection with history as it features a fully functioning grist mill that goes all the way back to early Americana where corn meal and wheat flour were made from the stream currents," notes Stuart K. about Franklin Creek State Natural Area.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: MacQueen Forest Preserve offers significantly more privacy than typical campgrounds. "This is one of those places that's so awesome, you really don't want to tell people about it. It used to be an old boy scout camp, and now they let the public use it. There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart," shares Amy G. about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Budget-friendly camping: Most sites in the area are inexpensive compared to developed campgrounds. "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4," explains another MacQueen Forest Preserve camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide excellent birding and wildlife spotting. "If you're a bird watcher, you'll enjoy the flycatchers, warblers, and woodpeckers, vireos as well as barn and horned-rim owls," reports a visitor to Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most campsites are primitive with minimal amenities. "You will not have electricity, A/C, heat or even running water that you can drink. On the contrary, you will have flat land right on the banks of the Illinois River where you can set up your tent," warns a visitor to Kayak Starved Rock Campground.
Site accessibility varies: Transport logistics require planning at many campgrounds. "You do have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel road and mowed trail," explains a MacQueen Forest Preserve camper.
Train noise: Some sites experience railroad activity. "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 rather close to the campground," notes a visitor to MacQueen.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly grounds: Former Boy Scout properties offer kid-friendly features. "There are over 640 acres of meadow, forest, and stocked pond. I'm not sure if it's still there, but there used to be a challenging obstacle course up a steep hill, over a wood wall with stations in the woods," remembers Marisa A. from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center.
Shallow water exploration: Certain areas provide safe water play for younger children. "You'll also discover that there is a very nice stream here that the kids will love jumping across and/or wading in searching for crawdads or small fish," mentions a visitor to Franklin Creek.
Wildlife encounters: Several parks offer educational animal viewing. "Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers. A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk," notes Bill M. about Buffalo Rock State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent campgrounds near Dixon accommodate small trailers only. "This small campground has separate space for equestrian campers and those without horses. The campsites are all on grassy areas with trees at the edges," explains Art S. about Hennepin Canal Lock 21.
Limited hookups: Don't expect amenities at most sites. "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table. Water available a couple of places along the canal. Very nice visitor center open until 3 during the week, no weekends. Only $8," reports Jeff and Linda L. about Hennepin Canal Lock 21.
Alternative accommodations: Some locations offer cabins as alternatives to tent camping for the best camping near Dixon, Illinois. "This is a Lutheran kids camp that offers a place for families to come and camp. Sometimes there are family retreats planned where you can bring your tent or trailer and camp in designated campsites in a tranquil meadow," notes a visitor to Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center.
