Campgrounds near Fisher, Illinois offer fishing, hiking, and recreation options within 30 minutes of town. Sites range from $10 to $40 per night, with varying amenities based on location and season. Several campgrounds provide accessible accommodations for campers with disabilities, particularly at established recreation areas. The region features a mix of wooded and open sites throughout the prairie landscape.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Most campgrounds near Fisher offer fishing access, with varying catch types. At D & W Lake RV Park, visitors can enjoy catch-and-release fishing for "Blue Gill and Bass" according to camper Luna L. The lake has a convenient walking trail around its perimeter, with one camper noting it's a "1/2 mile walk around."
Hiking through diverse terrain: The area features trails through woodlands and restored prairie. At Harry L Swartz Campground, campers can access trails directly from the campground. Rachel notes, "The hiking trails are great (although be prepared for mud) and one even takes you right under an eagle nest. Bald eagles are visible on the river."
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution makes several campgrounds ideal for night sky viewing. Harry L Swartz Campground is located near a Dark Sky Park, with one camper mentioning, "Since the campground is right next to a Dark Sky Park, stargazing is amazing if you have good weather."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region, with some offering secluded spots. At Moraine View State Recreational Area, the various camping areas differ substantially. Ryan M. explains, "The dispersed camping sites were the closest to what I'd been used to coming from New Hampshire," while noting that "rustic tent sites were still a little close together but were at least wooded."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower houses. At Friends Creek Campground, campers consistently praise the maintenance. Lee D. reports, "Very clean with soap, paper towels, and a shelf for toiletries. Did not use the shower but it looked clean as well."
Natural surroundings: Despite central Illinois' reputation for flat farmland, many campgrounds feature notable natural elements. Kate O. describes Friends Creek as surrounded by "tall trees and next to a tall grass prairie conservation area - complete with historic schoolhouse, mowed trails to a nearby creek, gentle rolling hills, trees, birds & wildlife and a small bridge."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking policies vary by location and season. At Prairie Pines Campground, reservations can be made through Reserve America, with one camper noting they booked "135 days prior to arriving."
Site selection considerations: Campgrounds have varying site layouts and features. At Friends Creek, "All sites are gravel and level. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. The sites are spaced a decent amount of distance apart and with the many trees, it did not feel crowded."
Alcohol regulations: Policies differ between campgrounds, with some strictly enforcing no-alcohol rules. At Moraine View State Recreational Area, signs clearly state "NO alcohol-allowed" with one camper warning, "Nice CG. No booze signs posted, take it serious! Watched a ranger evict an entire group late in the evening for drinking. They weren't being rowdy but were breaking the rules."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds provide play areas for children. At Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, Linda N. reports, "We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach. There was a walking path from our site to the shore which was perfect for our young family to go back and forth on."
Beach activities: Water access points vary in quality and facilities. Clinton Lake State Recreation Area features a swimming beach that requires a small entry fee. Abdul notes, "2 dollar beach entry 10-7 pm," making it an affordable option for families.
Loop selection for noise level: Different camping loops offer varying experiences. At Clinton Lake, Marisa A. explains, "The loops that allow alcohol can get a bit rowdy with weekend partiers, but the alcohol restricted loops can get loud from all the families."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites range from basic to full-service. At D & W Lake RV Park, multiple reviews mention the full hookup sites. Ron D. notes, "Stayed here 2 nights on our way to Northern Illinois, easy access off the interstate, sites are spacious, grounds are well maintained."
Accessibility factors: Some campgrounds provide detailed information about site access. At Kickapoo State Recreation Area, David P. explains, "The RV sites are great for either rv, van, or tent camping with a lot of level ground at most sites."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have sewer connections. At Prairie Pines Campground, one camper noted the "Coin-operated laundromat in toilet/shower building" and that "WiFi available but wasn't given log on password upon check in."
