There’s a lot more to Illinois than the great city of Chicago. Along with this exciting urban hub there are many natural areas where locals and residents alike enjoy getting outside. With 141 parks it’s no wonder the DNR created the motto, “State Parks, Great Parks” in 2013. This phrase is the title of their initiative to continue improvements on local natural areas with upgraded campgrounds and additional staff to cater to the more than 44 million yearly visitors looking for hiking and camping in Illinois.


People from all over the state – and even outside the country – take the short 1.5-hour drive from Chicago to Starved Rock State Park, where they can hike 13 miles of trails offering elevation gains on wooded pathways along the Illinois River. The 18 canyons serve as great places to spot waterfalls after a rain and families love ending the day with s’mores around the bonfire at the nearby Starved Rock State Park campsites. 


Those looking to learn about the state’s heritage while camping in Illinois may head farther south to Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park & Memorial. This 162-acre park is 12 miles southwest of Decatur near Harristown, IL, and features the land where Abraham Lincoln first resided in the state. If you visit be sure to check out the memorials commemorating this important president.


People who want to mountain bike in this Midwestern state will enjoy heading to Palos Park, a forest preserve known for its excellent biking, hiking and equestrian trails that cover over 50 miles of terrain. When it comes to camping in Illinois, this locale offers beautiful facilities at Camp Bullfrog Lake where you can put up a tent next to a lake and hike short or long loops that end up back at your campsite. 


If you want to check out the beautiful Lake Michigan drive to Illinois Beach State Park to spend time in the water along the 6.5 miles of sandy shoreline. The park is 4,160 acres offering ample opportunities for hiking, watersports, picnicking, fishing and camping. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Illinois during your stay in the Prairie State.

Illinois

The Best Camping in Illinois | 100+ IL Campgrounds

Dogwood is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Dogwood, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Discover great camping spots near Dogwood, reviewed by campers like you.

Dogwood

The Best Camping Near Dogwood, Illinois

Oblong Park and Lake

We are your premier Effingham, Illinois Campground family owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. We are an RV Park and Campground ideally located on the north shores of Lake Pauline in scenic South Central Illinois. If you are searching for a quiet and peaceful setting within 1 mile of I-70 and I-57, call or book online today!

Camp Lakewood Campground is open year round

**Hours of Operation: **

All Kiefer Campgrounds are open 24 hours a day. Our registration office and store hours vary depending on season. Site deliveries will be made only during open office/store hours. Night check-in is available anytime the office is closed and you can reserve online 24 hours a day.

**Campground Policies:**

1. Parents and visitors are responsible for the conduct of their children while on the premises. Children must be at their campsite during quiet hours which are 10pm to 7am. An adult must accompany small children when using the restrooms or while in the game room.
2. Use existing campfire rings only. Do not move fire rings. Do not burn or put trash in fire rings. No outside wood is allowed inside the campground.
3. There are no tents allowed on RV sites.
4. There is only one tent allowed per tent site.
5. Please place all garbage in the trash dumpster located across the parking lot from the office.
6. No dirt bikes, ATV’s, or mini-bikes ridden in the campground.
7. RV/vehicle washing is not permitted in the campground.
8. Our campground is not responsible for accidents resulting in injury to guests and/or damages to their property, or for the loss of valuables of any kind.
9. Do not run generators in the park.
10. Internet access is provided as a free service to our guests; however, we are not responsible for any damages to files, hardware, or any other problems that may occur as a result of your usage. Outages can and do occur. In the event of an outage, every attempt will be made to restore internet service as quickly as possible.
11. Do not damage trees in any way.
12. No lines stretched between trees or across camp sites.
13. Anyone not abiding by the campground rules will be asked to leave with no refund.
14. The office reserves the right to refuse service to anyone.
15. All campsites will be paid for in advance at the time of registration.



**Pool Policy:**

The pool is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 9:00 a.m. to dusk. There is no lifeguard on duty. State law requires that anyone (15) fifteen years old or younger be accompanied by a guardian of (21) twenty-one years of age or older while in and/or around a pool area. Therefore, we will ask any children swimming without an appropriate guardian to leave the pool and pool area. We put your child’s safety above all else, and we hope you agree with us. We also must stipulate the following while in the pool area: NO smoking, NO pets, NO food nor drinks, and NO diving and/or running for safety purposes.

**Golf Cart Policy:**

We now allow privately owned golf carts on our properties! All drivers must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. All drivers must sign a liability waiver before using their cart on property. The owner of the cart is financially responsible for any damage caused by their cart to the campground property or any other camper’s property on the grounds.

**Pet Policy:**

We love pets! We welcome all non-aggressive pets that visit us on a leash with their owner attached. Please remember that others walk where you and your pet walk, so please pick up what they leave behind. If we all do our part, no one will be stepping into anything unpleasant. Please keep your pets feeling safe at all times. Pets often do not like being left alone in a strange place or around strange humans and may need your assistance and reassurance.

**Check In/Check Out Policy:**

All campsites will be paid for in advance (at check-in). Check-in time begins at 1:00 p.m. Check-out time is 12:00 p.m. for campsites and 11:00 a.m. for cottages and cabins. If you need a late check-out, please make arrangements with the office.

**Campsite Policy: **

We allow only one (1) camping unit and six people per site. Additional charges will occur for more than two adults per site. Only one passenger vehicle allowed per site. All others are asked to park in the visitors parking. If you have concerns with this guideline, please contact the office.



Camp Lakewood

Sam Parr State Park

Hickory Hollar Campground

Come to the Fairview Park campground for a fun and exciting time. We have electric and water hook-up as well as fire pits and showers.

In 1996, the City took over the Township Park District which consists of 40 acres. Fairview Park has a swimming pool, children's playground area, campground, bandstand, horse arena, horseshoe pitch arena, tractor pull, sunken garden, memorial garden, five shelters, several picnic areas and twin ponds for fishing, as well as a campground with water and electrical hook-ups, fire pits and a shower facility.

First come first serve, no reservations. 

Electric and water hookups, bathhouse also available. 

CAMPING CAN BE PAID FOR AT 602 E. MONROE.

If no one is home park board member, Jerry Clark will stop by and obtain payment from you at your campsite.

Fairview Park Campground

A great place to fish, hike, play ball or just snuggle up to the potbelly stove with a good book.

Arrowhead Recreation and Wildlife Area is located just off Interstate 57 at Johnston City, Illinois (Exit 59) in Williamson County. The area boasts a 30-acre lake, paved boat ramp for fishing, walking path, and 66 sites for RVs and tent camping. Handicap accessible campsites are available. A cabin is available on-site for one to four people. Only electric motors and canoes are permitted. You will find largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, and channel catfish in this small reservoir. Take advantage of discounted rates for seniors, veterans, and stays longer than 7 days. Electric and water are available at all sites (water to sites not available in winter). Experience an old-time feel while visiting the on-site general store. In winter, it is a great place snuggle up to the potbelly stove with a good book. When spring comes, pick your own blackberries, raspberries, and wild strawberries to enjoy during your stay. Fish, hike, play ball, or just relax. There is a little something for everyone at Arrowhead Lake Campground. Only electric motors and canoes are permitted on the lake. You will find largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, and channel catfish in this small reservoir. There is a little something for everyone at Arrowhead Lake Campground.



Arrowhead Campground

Our Terre Haute, Indiana location is located just a couple miles off of exit 11a on I-70. If you are searching for a quiet and peaceful setting within 3 miles of I-70, call or book online today!

Terre Haute Campground is open year round

\*\*Hours of Operation: \*\*

All Kiefer Campgrounds are open 24 hours a day. Our registration office and store hours vary depending on season. Site deliveries will be made only during open office/store hours. Night check-in is available anytime the office is closed and you can reserve online 24 hours a day.

**Campground Policies:**

1. Parents and visitors are responsible for the conduct of their children while on the premises. Children must be at their campsite during quiet hours which are 10pm to 7am. An adult must accompany small children when using the restrooms or while in the game room.
2. Use existing campfire rings only. Do not move fire rings. Do not burn or put trash in fire rings. No outside wood is allowed inside the campground.
3. There are no tents allowed on RV sites.
4. There is only one tent allowed per tent site.
5. Please place all garbage in the trash dumpster located across the parking lot from the office.
6. No dirt bikes, ATV’s, or mini-bikes ridden in the campground.
7. RV/vehicle washing is not permitted in the campground.
8. Our campground is not responsible for accidents resulting in injury to guests and/or damages to their property, or for the loss of valuables of any kind.
9. Do not run generators in the park.
10. Internet access is provided as a free service to our guests; however, we are not responsible for any damages to files, hardware, or any other problems that may occur as a result of your usage. Outages can and do occur. In the event of an outage, every attempt will be made to restore internet service as quickly as possible.
11. Do not damage trees in any way.
12. No lines stretched between trees or across camp sites.
13. Anyone not abiding by the campground rules will be asked to leave with no refund.
14. The office reserves the right to refuse service to anyone.
15. All campsites will be paid for in advance at the time of registration.



**Pool Policy:**

The pool is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 9:00 a.m. to dusk. There is no lifeguard on duty. State law requires that anyone (15) fifteen years old or younger be accompanied by a guardian of (21) twenty-one years of age or older while in and/or around a pool area. Therefore, we will ask any children swimming without an appropriate guardian to leave the pool and pool area. We put your child’s safety above all else, and we hope you agree with us. We also must stipulate the following while in the pool area: NO smoking, NO pets, NO food nor drinks, and NO diving and/or running for safety purposes.

**Golf Cart Policy:**

We now allow privately owned golf carts on our properties! All drivers must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. All drivers must sign a liability waiver before using their cart on property. The owner of the cart is financially responsible for any damage caused by their cart to the campground property or any other camper’s property on the grounds.

**Pet Policy:**

We love pets! We welcome all non-aggressive pets that visit us on a leash with their owner attached. Please remember that others walk where you and your pet walk, so please pick up what they leave behind. If we all do our part, no one will be stepping into anything unpleasant. Please keep your pets feeling safe at all times. Pets often do not like being left alone in a strange place or around strange humans and may need your assistance and reassurance.

**Check In/Check Out Policy:**

All campsites will be paid for in advance (at check-in). Check-in time begins at 1:00 p.m. Check-out time is 12:00 p.m. for campsites and 11:00 a.m. for cottages and cabins. If you need a late check-out, please make arrangements with the office.

\*\*Campsite Policy: \*\*

We allow only one (1) camping unit and six people per site. Additional charges will occur for more than two adults per site. Only one passenger vehicle allowed per site. All others are asked to park in the visitors parking. If you have concerns with this guideline, please contact the office.



Terre Haute Campground

Casey KOA

Whether you are looking for history, unusual plant life or recreation, Lincoln Trail State Park has something to interest you. Located just west of IL Rt. 1, 2 miles south of Marshall in Clark County, the area is named after the trail Abraham Lincoln's family followed enroute from Indiana to Illinois in 1831. Three Native American groups, the Miami, Kickapoo and Mascouten, occupied the site before it was ceded to the United States in the early 19th century. Today, visitors to the 1,023-acre park can enjoy the sights of an American Beech woods; wildflowers, including the unusual squaw-root and beech drops; and recreational activities such as boating, camping, fishing, hiking and winter sports. There is truly something for everyone. Two Class A campgrounds, Plainview and Lakeside, offer something for every type of camper. For those who like the beautiful sights and sounds of the great outdoors, but prefer the amenities of home, both areas offer electricity, showers, tables, fireblocks, playground equipment, water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping station. For those who wish to be attuned to nature without the distractions of modern conveniences, Lakeside Campground also includes a Class C camping area for tents. The shower buildings are closed by November 1 (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen May 1 (may be earlier, weather depending). Organized youth groups may wish to reserve the group camping area in advance by calling the park office. All campers must obtain camping permits before entering the campground. The Lincoln Trail State Park restaurant/concession has available firewood, bait, boat rentals and during the camping season will make free deliveries of dinners to the campground.

Lincoln Trail State Park

For longer stays at Red Hills State Park, there are more than 100 Class A campsites with vehicular access that provide electricity, a sanitary dump station, water and access to a modern handicapped-accessible building with showers and flush toilets. Some sites are pull-through with 50 amp service. 

Red Hills Lake State Park

The Windy City isn’t exactly synonymous with camping and the outdoors. However, if you know where to look, you’ll be surprised at just what you can find. With a handful of lakes, parks, and conservation areas, you may just find a hidden gem in Illinois.

The best camping near Chicago is found south of the city in the Des Plaines State Conservation area, near Joliet, IL. If that doesn’t suit you, head to the campgrounds at Camp Bullfrog Lake in the Palos Preserves area. This is actually recognized as an International Dark Sky place, so you’ll be able to enjoy unbridled night skies while still remaining close to the city. Best of all, they offer tent and RV accessible campsites.

Chicago

Chicago, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Chicago is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Chicago, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Chicago | Illinois Campgrounds

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Detroit. Detroit is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Detroit and user-submitted reviews.

Detroit

The Best Camping Near Detroit, Illinois

Looking for the best campgrounds near Aurora, IL? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Aurora is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Aurora camping trip.

Aurora

The Best Camping Near Aurora, Illinois

Looking for the best campgrounds near Rockford, IL? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Rockford, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Rockford

The Best Camping Near Rockford, Illinois

Searching for the best camping near Joliet, IL? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Joliet camping trip.

Joliet

The Best Camping Near Joliet, Illinois

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Naperville, IL is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Naperville is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Naperville, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Naperville

The Best Camping Near Naperville, Illinois

Searching for the best camping near Peoria, IL? Peoria is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Peoria, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Peoria

The Best Camping Near Peoria, Illinois

North Peoria, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of North Peoria. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

North Peoria

The Best Camping Near North Peoria, Illinois

Searching for the best camping near Elgin, IL? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Illinois camping has to offer. Discover great camping spots near Elgin, reviewed by campers like you.

Elgin

The Best Camping Near Elgin, Illinois

Looking for the best campgrounds near Waukegan, IL? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Waukegan campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Waukegan

The Best Camping Near Waukegan, Illinois

Join the fun near Shawnee National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Illinois camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Shawnee National Forest, IL. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Shawnee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Carlyle Lake. Carlyle Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Carlyle Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Carlyle Lake

The Best Camping Near Carlyle Lake, Illinois

Rend Lake, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Rend Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Rend Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Rend Lake

The Best Camping Near Rend Lake, Illinois

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 camping trip.

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

The Best Camping Near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22, Illinois

Lake Shelbyville is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Lake Shelbyville is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

The Best Camping in Dogwood

Top Campgrounds in Dogwood (54)

1.