63 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The landscape surrounding Edwards, Illinois features a mix of established campgrounds and natural areas along the Illinois River, with options ranging from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent camping. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access waterfront sites at Millpoint Park in East Peoria, where spacious campsites face the Illinois River and Upper Peoria Lake. Jubilee College State Park Campground in Brimfield offers a more traditional state park experience with both tent and RV accommodations. Sand Ridge State Forest, southwest of Edwards, provides a unique camping environment with sandy soil trails and scattered pine forests that create an unexpected ecosystem for central Illinois.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. Water quality varies across facilities, with several campers noting high iron content in the water at riverside campgrounds. "Don't forget your RV water filter! The water here is very rusty," advised one Millpoint Park visitor. Summer brings increased insect activity, particularly near water bodies, with reviewers recommending DEET spray for ticks and scented candles for gnats. Cell coverage is generally reliable throughout the region, though signal strength varies at more remote locations. Reservations become essential during holiday weekends, with Memorial Day through Labor Day representing peak demand periods.
Illinois River access represents a defining feature of many campgrounds in the area, with fishing, kayaking, and sunset viewing opportunities frequently mentioned in visitor reviews. Carl Spindler Campground offers "inexpensive tent sites with access for fishing, paddling, wildlife and sunset viewing," according to one camper. Sites with shade receive particular praise during summer months, with Millpoint Park earning recognition for its "big trees, deep shade" along the riverfront. While waterfront locations provide scenic views, they occasionally face flooding risks during heavy rain periods. For those seeking quieter experiences, Sand Ridge State Forest's backpacking sites offer more solitude, with one visitor noting, "We didn't see anyone else on the trail... All the backpacking sites were empty so it seems that lots of options are possible."
"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."
"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"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!!!"
from $59 - $89 / night
Check Availability"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 Availability"The trail is a mix of sand and soil. It’s quite an unexpected discovery in Illinois. We didn’t see anyone else on the trail but we saw cars parked so hikers were out there. "
"It’s a nice get away from the city. I haven’t stayed at any of the backpacking sites, but the main campground. It is located under a bunch of tall pines, and feels fairly open."
from $8 / night
Check Availability"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"
"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"
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…
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!
ScoutNice walking trails and good fishing at the lake
ScoutSite was walking distance from the lake. quiet cul-de-sac
Camping options near Edwards, Illinois range from rustic tent sites to fully-equipped RV campgrounds spread across the region's diverse landscape of pine forests and river access points. The area features sandy soil conditions uncommon in the Midwest, creating unique ecosystems that support distinctive plant life including prickly pear cactus. Winter camping is available at select locations, with temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F December through February, while summer temperatures average 75-90°F with moderate humidity.
Stargazing opportunities: Jubilee College State Park Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "The viewing of stars is incredible," notes Joe M., who appreciates the park's dark skies away from city light pollution.
Winter truck camping: Some campgrounds remain accessible year-round with basic facilities. "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," shares Jonathan J. about his off-season experiences.
Historical exploration: Visit the historical structures within certain parks. "I enjoy riding my bike around the park and down to the actual college. There is a really old cemetery at the college if you just want to creep yourself out at night," recommends Jonathan J., highlighting the educational and historical aspects of the area.
Waterfront access: Millpoint Park provides direct river access with excellent water recreation. "This place has beautiful views of illinois river. Nice sized campsites. Everything was clean and well taken care of!" explains camper Carissa, emphasizing the natural setting.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out. "Our site was up against the woods giving us a sense of being on our own. Vault toilets are clean and in a couple locations. We have two trees perfect for the hammock and yet enough sun to use the solar panels," notes Art S. about Pine Campground.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds accommodate various family activities. "Our family had a day out there on our bikes and loved it!" shares Sarra W., highlighting the simple outdoor enjoyment available for family groups of all ages.
Water quality considerations: Bring drinking water when camping in the region. "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.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife. "At about midnight there were at least 3 bobcats snarling and growling near our tents and then they circled our tents, sniffing them. My friends and I were stuck in our tents for an hour waiting for the bobcats to walk off into the woods," reports Ashley C. from her experience at Jubilee College State Park.
Hunting seasons impact: Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area and nearby conservation areas see significant hunting activity. "At 5 AM diesel pickup trucks pulling boats began to pull into the parking area... Eventually we heard the boats heading out along with gun shots... We chose to skip the hiking trail with the onset of hunting season," explains Art S., highlighting the importance of awareness during hunting seasons.
Playground availability: Limited playground facilities exist at certain campgrounds. "I'd like to see them add a playground. The RV area seemed safe enough to let kids ride bikes," notes Ryan L., indicating the current limitations at some of the best places to camp near Edwards.
Educational opportunities: Carl Spindler Campground offers nature learning experiences. "We enjoyed the short nature trail that leaves directly from the area. The trail starts off as a boardwalk over an interesting marsh area and then transitions to a primitive trail eventually leading you to the lake shoreline," describes Nancy W.
Safety considerations: Be aware of location-specific hazards for children. "A main road runs right behind the campsites. They have a wood fence on the electric side but not on our side. It obscures some of the headlights," warns Art S., emphasizing the importance of choosing appropriate sites when camping with children.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Our site was paved with a picnic table and fire pit and all the hook-ups worked well," reports Nancy W. about her stay at Carl Spindler Campground with a 45-foot RV.
Seasonal availability: Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area offers year-round camping with specific amenities. "Very small CG with maybe 10-15 sites. All electric hookup, has dump station a little down the road," explains Sara J., providing helpful context for RV planning.
Site selection considerations: When selecting RV sites, consider specific location factors. "If you are a tent camper, there's 3-4 designated areas for primitive camping, but if you'd like something less primitive and with access to water and electricity, then book yourself into one of the 5 designated tent sites: #233-#237," suggests Stuart K., information that applies equally to small RVs seeking utility access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Edwards, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Edwards, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 63 campgrounds and RV parks near Edwards, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Edwards, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Edwards, IL is Jubilee College State Park Campground with a 3.7-star rating from 18 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Edwards, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Edwards, IL.
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