Best Tent Camping near Elburn, IL

Tent campers near Elburn, Illinois have access to several primitive campgrounds within an hour's drive, including MacQueen Forest Preserve with its secluded hike-in tent sites along the Kishwaukee River. The preserve offers nine wooded tent sites that require walking along gravel paths or crossing a meadow to reach completely forested camping areas. Other options include Channahon State Park Campground and Buffalo Rock State Park, both offering walk-in tent camping along the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail system.

Most tent sites in the area require campers to pack in their own supplies, as amenities are limited to basic vault toilets and occasional water pumps that may not provide potable water. MacQueen Forest Preserve charges just $4 per tent, with sites featuring fire pits and picnic tables, but no drinking water. A visitor commented, "This is where to go if you don't like pitching a tent in a field of RVs." Sites at Buffalo Rock State Park Campground are accessible only by walking or biking, with the furthest site (the group site) located three miles from the ranger station. Campers should be prepared to carry all gear to their sites, as most locations require at least a short walk from parking areas.

The walk-in nature of these tent campgrounds creates a more secluded experience than typical developed campgrounds. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, tent sites are spread out at least 50 yards apart, providing exceptional privacy. A camper noted that "you can't see the campsite next to you, and they all have a picnic table and a fire ring." Castle Rock State Park offers a unique boat-in tent camping experience along the Rock River, where paddlers can access primitive sites that cannot be reached by car. These riverside tent sites provide a true backcountry feel despite being relatively close to civilization. Train noise can be heard at some locations, particularly at MacQueen Forest Preserve, where several trains pass during the night, though many campers find this adds to the experience rather than detracting from it.

Best Tent Sites Near Elburn, Illinois (17)

    1. MacQueen Forest Preserve

    6 Reviews
    Kirkland, IL
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 522-6254

    "This is where to go if you don't like pitching a tent in a field of RVs. There is one wheelchair accessible tent site on a blacktop path in the forest canopy."

    "You can't see the campsite next to you, and they all have a picnic table and a fire ring. 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."

    2. Kayak Morris

    11 Reviews
    Morris, IL
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 567-4653

    $29 / night

    "We stayed when there were not many people there so we had plenty of space but could see it getting crowded when it’s full."

    "It was quiet, relaxing, and very well maintained. 1 trash area, 4 porta Potties for use for the campground. You can rent kayaks for the day, fish, wade in the river (no swimming)."

    4. Kayak Starved Rock Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 567-4653

    $29 / night

    "Before we begin, let me share 3 things with you: (1) I love camping, preferably primitive camping where I get to pitch my tent, leaving the comforts of modern civilization behind in the hopes of returning"

    "One such place, an oasis of tranquility and beauty nestled in the Illinois wilderness, is the Kayak Starved Rock Campground."

    5. McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove

    3 Reviews
    Channahon, IL
    36 miles
    Website

    $15 - $30 / night

    6. Channahon State Park Campground

    1 Review
    Channahon, IL
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 467-4271

    "It is a bit away from businesses. However if you arrive by car you drive through the quaint town. 

    Arriving by bicycle is even better. The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp."

    7. Castle Rock State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Oregon, IL
    48 miles
    Website

    $6 / night

    "Located about 100 miles West of Chicago, Castle Rock State Park features one of the ONLY campgrounds that I've visited this close to the city in which I was completely alone."

    "Site selection is first come, first serve and the registration and payment is done on the honor system, and they do have rangers that monitor."

    8. Buffalo Rock State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ottawa, IL
    45 miles
    Website

    $6 / night

    "You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you’re looking for privacy this is it. There aren’t toilets tho or running water.."

    "A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."

    9. Hammel Woods

    Be the first to review!
    Joliet, IL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 727-8700

    $20 - $40 / night

    10. Illinois and Michigan Canal

    Be the first to review!
    Joliet, IL
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 942-0796

    $6 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Elburn, IL

714 Reviews of 17 Elburn Campgrounds



Guide to Elburn

Tent camping near Elburn, Illinois, offers a variety of scenic spots perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With options ranging from secluded sites to well-equipped campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

Tips for tent camping near Elburn

  • Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area provides a pet-friendly environment, making it a great choice for families traveling with furry companions.
  • MacQueen Forest Preserve features well-maintained bathrooms and easy self-service check-in, ensuring a hassle-free camping experience.
  • Kayak Morris allows for both tent and RV camping, and offers the chance to rent kayaks for a fun day on the water.

Local attractions and activities

  • Channahon State Park Campground is conveniently located near the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail, perfect for cyclists looking to explore the area.
  • McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove offers access to hiking trails and the scenic Des Plaines River, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
  • Camp Tuckabatchee features a range of activities such as fishing, hiking, and horseback riding, making it a versatile destination for campers.

Some prices for tent camping range from $4 to $5

  • MacQueen Forest Preserve offers primitive sites for just $5 per night, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious campers.
  • Kayak Morris provides a unique camping experience with prices that reflect its amenities and activities, ensuring good value for your stay.
  • Camp Tuckabatchee has various options, including cabin rentals and tent sites, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Elburn, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Elburn, IL is MacQueen Forest Preserve with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Elburn, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Elburn, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.