69 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Dunlap, Illinois range from established state parks to family-owned RV parks, with most options located within a 30-mile radius. Jubilee College State Park Campground offers tent and RV sites with electric hookups and drinking water in a wooded setting northwest of Dunlap. Along the Illinois River, several campgrounds like Millpoint Park and Carl Spindler Campground provide waterfront camping with boat access, fishing opportunities, and full hookup sites. The area features a mix of public and private camping areas, with accommodations ranging from primitive tent sites to cabins and glamping options at places like Sankoty Lakes and Millpoint Park.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability, with many sites operating from spring through fall. Jubilee College State Park typically operates from May 1 to December 31, while other campgrounds like Chillicothe RV and Rec Area maintain a mid-April to mid-October season. "The campground sits along the Illinois River: many campsites face it. It's secluded and quiet. Campsites are spacious and well-distanced," noted one visitor about Millpoint Park. Summer weekends often see higher occupancy rates, particularly at waterfront locations. Weather in central Illinois brings hot, humid summers and cold winters, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable camping conditions. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during holiday weekends like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.
The Illinois River serves as a focal point for many camping experiences in the region. Campers frequently mention the peaceful waterfront views and fishing opportunities as highlights. At Carl Spindler Campground, visitors appreciate the shoreline tent sites that provide direct water access. "Stayed with daughter in tent site right on shore of Illinois River. Has marina adjacent, showers, host, and laundry. Inexpensive tent sites with access for fishing, paddling, wildlife and sunset viewing," shared one camper. Wildlife viewing opportunities include waterfowl like wood ducks and Canadian geese, particularly at conservation areas like Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area. Campers seeking more seclusion can find it at the primitive sites in Sand Ridge State Forest, which features unique sandy soil trails unusual for Illinois. Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with highway-adjacent sites like those near I-80 experiencing more traffic sounds compared to the secluded waterfront locations.
"Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing"
"If you’re looking to stay close to Peoria and enjoy beautiful sunsets and the water this place has it. Big trees, deep shade and it’s right on the Peoria Lake on the Illinois River."
from $18 - $100 / night
Check Availability"The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."
"Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies. The campsite has three main loops with RV pads and electric goo ups."
"This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water that"
"It was also a short walk to the Illinois River!!!"
"The campground itself is small and simple, offering spacious, mostly shaded sites with EZ access to the Illinois River, where anglers set up early and kayakers glide past with that slow, content rhythm"
"They also warned us of an upcoming storm - this location can flood when the river rises. They also said to let them know if others were too loud."
"With the river curving gently nearby and tall trees leaning in as if to welcome you with the non-stop shower of falling leaves in a kaleidoscope of Autumn colors, there’s a soft kind of stillness that"
from $8 - $12 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $59 - $89 / night
Check Availability"This place is very clean with the lake nearby for swimming or fishing. Very clean restrooms and friendly staff. There are hookups at each site and a few spots for pump out."
"This is a beautiful, off-the-beaten path ‘no frills’ campground that comes very close to being called primitive, yet offers water pit privies and a designated sanitary dump station in addition to in-ground"
"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 Availability
Guide$25 a night for 30 amp hookup is pretty good! The sites are clean and spacious. It’s quiet too! Pretty lake, but sites aren’t right on the lake.
The bathrooms need some work. Water had a boil order on it and showers only worked in the men’s room. Water was HOT! Which is great! However, the water smelled metallic…
RangerWe added a day to our Starved Rock itinerary and couldn't get into Starved Rock State Park Campground that night, so quickly booked this from the road. Got into the Highlands, which was packed and super close quarters. Not what we love, but several sites looked like extended families/friends had booked together and they were having a blast, especially the kids. Looked like they had some activities available and we saw several kids with fishing poles heading somewhere fun. We didn't explore the rest of the grounds; perhaps other sections afforded more privacy. I thought it was a bit pricey for the amenities (one shower house very far away) and hemmed-in feel, but it served our purpose for one night.
RangerWe loved site 89 at Starved Rock State Campground, in the wooded area of the east loop. Felt enveloped by nature among the trees and birds. Nice privacy, with neighbors at a distance through the trees. The pit toilets weren’t far and were well-kept. The only disappointment was the shower house. The shower itself was excellent—hot and powerful—but one men's and one women's shower for more than 70 sites isn't sufficient, and those facilities felt neglected.
The location of this campground is perfect if you’re there to explore the canyons, as it’s an easy drive to so many trailheads. We hiked up to Starved Rock and also down into seven canyons over the four days there: Illinois, Ottawa, Kalkaskia, Council Bluffs, St Louis, French, and Wildcat. We enjoyed a riverboat cruise down the Illinois River among bluffs of sandstone. We had lunch in Ottawa one day and Utica another; both cool towns. We also loved our time just relaxing at the site in such a beautiful setting.
TravelerYou must pack in your own water and there are no electric hookups. Beautiful well maintained grounds with lots of open sky for starlink.
LegendSet just off I-80 near Sheffield, the Lock 22 Campground offers some of the simplest, most serene camping you’ll find in the Hennepin Canal State Trail system. Here, you’re not at a full-service campground– this is the kind of place where the canal’s old lock whispers history and the towpath beckons walkers and anglers. First impressions? A flat, grassy expanse with scattered trees, picnic tables, pit toilets and a quiet canal-side vibe that is refreshingly basic, peaceful and full of charm if you’re into low-maintenance camping.
As a Class ‘C’ campground, Lock 22 offers primitive facilities only, meaning no showers, no hookups and no electricity(yes, a whole lot of‘Nos’), but it does include toilets and drinking water. Campsites are vehicle-accessible and the$8/night per-family fee is collected in person by a site security officer(if they show up), on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth groups follow a separate fee schedule with minimums and supervision rules. Camping is quiet, basic, and outdoors-first here.
What really sets this spot apart is its location and simplicity. It’s under the lock bridge itself, so be sure to bring a chair, toss a line in the canal and wander the towpath trails that take you past aqueducts and marshes. Cell service is reported as excellent, making it a surprisingly connected getaway. Nearby, Sheffield offers a few basic services, and you're within easy driving distance of I-80 and surrounding towns.
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful:(1) For the flattest, quietest camping, choose a grassy site closest to the canal but back off from the parking area;(2) Bring all the water you'll need as while Lock 22 has drinking water, it’s only at a designated faucet and not at the campsites themselves;(3) The canal towpath is fantastic for peaceful walking, biking, fishing and bird-watching, but for the best experience, get there early;(4) Check the Visitor Center north of I-80 for trail maps so that you can plan your canal hiking and camping;(5) No campfires outside of designated fire pits, so I would strongly encourage you to bring alternative cooking options like a butane or propane-fueled stove or range; and(6) If you drive into Sheffield check out Wings Café serving hearty comfort food, or try The Dug-Out Sports Pub for pub-style eats and local atmosphere.
Happy Camping!
ScoutI live near this park and have used it regularly for years. It is certainly nothing special... just a nice average park. I usually do a combination van and tent camp here and it is totally adequate for that. It looks to be fine for RVs as well. The pit toilets are usually clean and relatively bug free. The shower house is clean and adequate. I just think of this as my "local campground"... my go to for a quick weekend getaway to set up and use my gear, and have friends out to share a fire. The park itself is nice, quiet and clean. You will see deer and raccoons. Jubilee is off a County Highway (Rt 150), about 5 miles off I-74. Small town with DG and Gas stations are about 5 miles away; Peoria IL is 15ish miles away.
ScoutEven in this incredible heat ( high 90's) the woodsy campground feels pleasant. Birds tweeting, lots of space between sites. The zero entry swimming pool is new and spotlessly clean, as are the showers. The owners are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend.
ScoutCalled last minute and owner was helpful and clear. Price was great and we got water & electric we needed. Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. We had a class C so was easy, but may be more challenging for a larger rig. Owner's dog was older, slow and very friendly. Opposite of our two small puppies :)
If looking for a quick overnight that allows you to rest for the next day this is a good option.
GuideWe arrived as a storm was blowing in. Tornado watch, severe thunderstorms and torrential rains. Despite the in conditions, when learning it was our first night ever in an RV, our host went above and beyond to meet our needs. Although we reserved a 30 amp site, our site only had 50. She ventured out in the pouring rain to bring us an adapter. The next morning, our site had flooded and she rode out to our site to assess the situation. She was incredibly responsive by call and text. We were baptized by fire on our first night of RV life, but because of her, we made it!
Camping sites near Dunlap, Illinois range from primitive riverfront spots to full-hookup RV parks within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 600-700 feet above sea level in the Illinois River Valley, creating a mix of wooded highlands and river bottomlands. Fall camping season typically begins in mid-September with average temperatures around 70°F, making it a popular time for campers seeking moderate weather conditions after the humid summer months.
Hiking equestrian trails: At Jubilee College State Park Campground, visitors can access excellent horse trails that connect throughout the park. "Excellent horse trails. Went with a group of around 8 people and it was beautiful! Well maintained," notes Rachel H. The park's trail system supports multiple activities beyond horseback riding.
Night sky viewing: Parks in rural areas around Dunlap offer minimal light pollution. "Great campground to get out of the city. The viewing of stars is incredible," says Joe M. about Jubilee College State Park. Several campgrounds provide open areas ideal for stargazing, particularly during new moon phases.
Wildlife observation: Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area features wetland habitats along the Illinois River. "We stood out by the boat ramps for a nice view across the river," writes Art S., who visited during bird hunting season. The area attracts numerous waterfowl species throughout the year, with peak migration periods in spring and fall.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing access points exist throughout the region. Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area provides designated fishing areas with boat access. "This rustic yet charming place was a welcoming respite for the weekend. The hosts are kind and friendly," notes Art S. The park includes a fish cleaning station for processing your catch.
Waterfront campsites: Millpoint Park offers sites directly along the Illinois River with open water views. "Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve," explains Stuart K. The sites feature full hookups with spacious layouts uncommon in many private campgrounds.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the ample space between campsites at certain parks. "This campground is our 'go-to' when we need a last minute getaway from city life. Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies," shares Brooke C. The east loop at Jubilee College State Park offers better tree coverage and more privacy between sites.
Budget-friendly options: Carl Spindler Campground provides affordable waterfront camping close to Peoria. "Inexpensive tent sites with access for fishing, paddling, wildlife and sunset viewing," notes James M. The campground maintains rates around $24-28 per night for electric sites, significantly lower than many private RV parks in the region.
Winter camping availability: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, some parks remain open year-round. "I have camped at this park several times over the last few years. Especially like winter truck camping here. The pit toilets are always available in the winter, and I usually have the park to myself," writes Jonathan J. about Jubilee College State Park.
Water quality varies: Several campgrounds have mineral-rich water systems. At Millpoint Park, "The water here has a lot of iron in it, so don't attempt to drink it, but according to the locals, it's fine to shower in, so I would encourage you to bring a decent amount of bottled water with you," advises Stuart K. Similar issues exist at other campgrounds in the region.
Seasonal flooding risk: Low-lying campgrounds near the Illinois River experience periodic flooding. At Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area, "While most of Illinois is low-lying, you will want to make particular note of this as you're encamped next to a river that can (and often does) flood," cautions Stuart K. Calling ahead to check conditions is recommended, especially after heavy rainfall.
Limited facilities at conservation areas: State conservation areas typically offer minimal amenities. "A little rough, but is kept up as best as they can. Funding for the area is lacking. It floods out when it storms. Alot of gnats. Entry road needs repairs," reports Jeny C. about Woodford State Conservation Area. However, these areas generally provide more solitude than developed campgrounds.
Hunting season impacts: Several camping areas around Dunlap are within active hunting zones. "At 5 AM diesel pickup trucks pulling boats began to pull into the parking area. It was cold and dark so we stayed inside. Eventually we heard the boats heading out along with gun shots," describes Art S. about Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area. Fall campers should be aware of hunting schedules and wear bright colors when hiking.
Playground availability: Limited playground options exist at most conservation areas. Carl Spindler Campground has "Small and outdated playground and a basketball stand but no basket or net," according to Lee D. Families seeking recreational facilities should consider bringing their own activities.
Fishing spots for kids: Several parks offer beginner-friendly fishing access. At Millpoint Park, one visitor shared, "Took my son out fishing and had him practice casting! He is 4. If you're looking to escape, be in nature, close to the water with nice sites, this place is it," writes Ranko K. The park has small lakes where children can easily fish from the shore.
Site selection for tent campers with children: Starved Rock Campground requires careful site selection. "The east loop has better tree coverage and more privacy. The west loop has more site in a large open space, maybe better for groups," advises Kim L. Avoid sites near water spigots and roads as other campers frequently cut through these areas.
Wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds have significant wildlife activity. At Jubilee College State Park, Ashley C. reports, "This camping spot was very quiet and secluded, just like I wanted, but at about midnight there were at least 3 bobcats snarling and growling near our tents and then they circled our tents, sniffing them." Preparing children for possible wildlife encounters is recommended.
Level sites: Many RV sites around Dunlap require minimal leveling. At Millpoint Park, Melissa C. notes they "enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling." However, site conditions vary significantly between parks, with state facilities typically less developed than private campgrounds.
Long-term stays: Some campgrounds accommodate longer stays. Carl Spindler Campground "appeared that there were many long-term campers staying here," observed Lee D. The park's location near Peoria makes it popular with working travelers and seasonal residents.
Gate access restrictions: Sankoty Lakes requires special access procedures. "The RV area is only accessible by driving around the side of the complex and through a neighborhood, and then you have to wait for someone to come open the gate," explains Elizabeth R. RVers should confirm access procedures when making reservations.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times at busy campgrounds. At Starved Rock Campground, "Took about 45 min for us to dump being 5th in line at 10:30am," reports Kim L. Most campgrounds have single dump stations that can become congested during peak checkout times, typically between 10am-noon on Sundays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Dunlap, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Dunlap, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 69 campgrounds and RV parks near Dunlap, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Dunlap, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dunlap, IL is Millpoint Park with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dunlap, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Dunlap, IL.
Keep Exploring
