Tent camping near Fisher, Illinois provides opportunities for outdoor recreation in a mostly flat landscape characteristic of central Illinois. The area averages 39 inches of rainfall annually with humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 85°F from June through August. Winter camping options are limited as most campgrounds close seasonally from November through March due to freezing temperatures and occasional snow.
What to do
Fishing access: Hickory Hill Campground offers a catch and release lake where tent campers can fish without traveling off-site. One visitor noted, "We called in the afternoon and got a full hook up, pull through spot. Lots of nice amenities for families."
Hiking trails: Spitler Woods State Natural Area contains several hiking paths through mature hardwood forest that showcase central Illinois ecology. A regular visitor explained, "Great sites. Plenty to do. Favorite place to camp in Illinois."
Water recreation: Several lakes within driving distance of Fisher provide kayaking and swimming options during summer months. Campers mention Evergreen Lake at nearby Comlara Park as a good option, with one reviewer suggesting visitors can "anchor on or near and explore this little picturesque outcrop" called Deer Island.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: The mature trees at Hickory Hill Campground provide natural cooling during hot Illinois summers. A camper mentioned, "Very nice place. Great for a weekend getaway. Clean, quiet, and plenty of shade. Friendly staff and other campers."
Community atmosphere: Many tent campers appreciate the social environment at established campgrounds in the area. One reviewer described Hickory Hill as having "very strong Midwestern hospitality and warm welcome you'll receive from just about everyone you encounter here."
Level terrain: Most tent sites near Fisher feature relatively flat ground that requires minimal preparation. A camper observed that Hickory Hill has "Gravel sites but mostly level," making tent setup straightforward for most visitors.
What you should know
Limited supplies: The rural location requires planning ahead. A camper advised, "This campground is pretty isolated, clear out in the boondocks just northwest of the major college town of Bloomington (Illinois State University), where you can easily access everything, but if you do make your way out here to Hickory Hills, you better bring everything you need."
Weather considerations: Central Illinois experiences frequent thunderstorms from April through September. Tent campers should bring rain gear and prepare for potentially muddy conditions after rainfall.
Reservation patterns: Weekends fill quickly at campgrounds near Fisher, particularly during university events in nearby Bloomington-Normal. Most locations accept reservations 6 months in advance for peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Tent camping families have access to various recreation facilities. According to one visitor at Hickory Hill, amenities include "an in-ground pool opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day, basketball court, mini golf, shuffleboard, pool table, ping pong and various soda and snack vending machines and games in the recreation center."
Proximity considerations: Campsite selection matters for families with young children. Sites near bathroom facilities reduce nighttime walks, while those farther from common areas offer more quiet.
Local attractions: Day trips from Fisher camping locations include children's museums in Bloomington-Normal and smaller attractions in nearby towns. One camper mentioned, "Should you need anything, I would encourage you to explore nearby El Paso, which has some nice surprises awaiting you."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RVers note that many campgrounds near Fisher have closely positioned sites. One camper observed, "This seems to be more of a full time camping location. Lots of buildings and I was offered a lot for sale. Golf carts seem to be the most common mode of travel as there are plentiful."
Local dining options: When not cooking at camp, RVers recommend exploring nearby towns. A reviewer suggested "The Local Tap Craft Kitchen & Ale House, which has glorified bar food (wings, pizza, burgers), slightly above average wine list and a pretty amazing selection of local craft brews from 5 distinct nearby breweries."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds near Fisher operate from April through October due to harsh winter conditions. Shoulder season camping (April-May and September-October) offers more availability and milder temperatures than summer months.
