Best Tent Camping near Findlay, IL
Tent campsites near Findlay, Illinois include several established options within a short drive. Spillway Campground, located along the Kaskaskia River, offers primitive tent sites for $10 per night with river access. Shady Grove Campground in Hidden Springs State Forest provides drive-in tent camping with basic amenities, while Spitler Woods State Natural Area offers tent-specific sites in a natural setting approximately 25 miles north of Findlay.
Most tent campgrounds in the Findlay area feature basic amenities with varying levels of services. Spillway provides drinking water, electric hookups, showers, and toilets, making it suitable for campers seeking more developed sites. Shady Grove Campground offers more primitive conditions with drinking water and vault toilets but no electric hookups or showers. Sites typically have dirt or gravel pads with minimal grading. Fire rings and picnic tables are common at most locations, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Pets are permitted at several campgrounds, including Spillway and Shady Grove, but restrictions exist at Sullivan Marina and Campgrounds Resort.
The tent camping experience near Findlay provides good access to water recreation and natural areas. Spillway Campground's location on the Kaskaskia River offers fishing opportunities and canoe rentals. A visitor commented that "the campground is the only one with full access to the river after it leaves Lake Shelbyville," making it popular for anglers. Despite proximity to town, the area remains relatively peaceful, especially during off-peak seasons. Sullivan Marina and Campgrounds Resort maintains strict hours, with gates closing at 10 PM, requiring campers to call for entry after hours. Tent campers should note that while some sites offer good shade coverage, others may be more exposed. The region's campgrounds tend to be less crowded than more popular Illinois destinations, particularly during weekdays and shoulder seasons.
