Best Tent Camping near Fulton, IL

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Fulton? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Fulton campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Fulton, IL (16)

    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      3. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      5 Reviews
      63 Photos
      5 Saves
      Wheatland, Iowa

      The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center is located along the Wapsipinicon River and consists of 225 acres of upland and bottomland forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The Wapsi Center, along with Sherman Park across the river, provide a 432-acre complex offering a wide variety of uses. The larger of the two campsites at the Center, Elm Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site. The site offers flat ground for many tents, two fire pits, picnic tables, trash cans, and two sets of horseshoe pits. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site. Vincent Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site offering a fire pit, picnic tables, and trash can. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • Tents

      $17 - $80 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park Campground

      4. Castle Rock State Park Campground

      7 Reviews
      26 Photos
      65 Saves
      Oregon, Illinois

      Castle Rock State Park is located along the west bank of the Rock River in Ogle County, three miles south of Oregon, on Ill. Rt. 2. Castle Rock camping is centrally located in the Rock River Hills region of Illinois, and its rolling topography is drained by the Rock River. The park is representative of the Rock River Hills area with rock formations, ravines and unique northern plant associations. A sandstone bluff, adjacent to the river, has given the park its name.​​​​

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Trash

      $6 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground

      5. Wildcat Den State Park Campground

      9 Reviews
      69 Photos
      63 Saves
      Illinois City, Illinois

      Two historical attractions both have active friends groups. One is the "turn of the century" Melpine one-room schoolhouse, which is located in the park and offers visitors a glimpse of Iowa's past.

      The other historical attraction is the Pine Creek Grist Mill, which was built in 1848. The mill was built by Benjamin Nye, one of Muscatine County's first settlers. He also built the county's first store and post office in 1838. The mill is one of the finest examples of mid-19th century mills left in the country and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The mill is being restored to its original condition. Great strides have been made at the mill and it is now grinding corn for the first time in more than 75 years.

      Wildcat Den is a great place for a family to "get away from it all" for a weekend or a family vacation. Campsites can be reserved in the non-modern campground which has water and vault toilets. There are no showers and there is no electrical service to the campsites.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents

      $6 - $9 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground

      7. Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground

      1 Review
      10 Photos
      Nachusa, Illinois

      This is an equestrian campground only. Please register at the self check kiosk.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group

      $4 - $8 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve

      8. Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve

      2 Reviews
      15 Photos
      3 Saves
      Illinois City, Illinois

      20 primitive campsites with shower building and water access

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Trash

      $14 - $32 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

      9. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

      1 Review
      9 Photos
      10 Saves
      Monmouth, Iowa

      The 273-acre area is located along the South Fork of the Maquoketa River. The unique beauty of Northeast Iowa is very evident here with limestone rock outcroppings, upland timber, flood plain, wildlife, and panoramic scenery. Wildlife food plots are planted throughout the area to help wildlife survive harsh winters. Primitive camping is available by the river with restroom facilities nearby. This area is a convenient stop for canoeists traveling down the Maquoketa River.

      primitive camping (walk-in or paddle-in, tent only) pit toilets

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Toilets
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

      10. Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

      2 Reviews
      21 Photos
      8 Saves
      Sheffield, Illinois

      Campgrounds with multiple campsites along the canal can be found at Lock 21, North Day Use Area

      Equestrian camping is restricted to the south side of the Lock 21 area. Equestrian campers are asked to bring a shovel to clear their own horse droppings, which may be pushed off to the side of the trail. There is no tethering to trees.

      If you are not familiar with the canal it may be confusing trying to find the campsites. Stop by the Hennepin Canal Visitor Center to pick up a detailed map of the canal, which shows all of the country crossroads. You can also call the visitor center and ask to be mailed a copy: 815-454-2328. I

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Equestrian
      • Standard (Tent/RV)

      $8 / night

    Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews in Fulton

    560 Reviews of 16 Fulton Campgrounds


    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground
      Nov. 16, 2024

      Hansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground

      Out-N-Da-Boondocks Working Ranch Camping Experience

      Ever dreamt of working / living / camping on an actual working horse ranch?  Then you've arrived at the perfect spot.  As my post from a bit more than a year ago provided quite a bit of detail on this campground, I’m following up on that review by sharing more fotos as well as providing a topline update:

      Highlights: (1) Great hiking and kayaking in nearby Rock Cut State Park & George Fell Nature Preserve; (2) Supreme amount of peace & quiet; (3) Authentic feeling like you are actually on a working horse farm; (4) Sites are spacious and nicely shaded; (5) Excellent, well-maintained amenities like a game room, arcade, playground, small swimming pond, clean restroom & showers; (6) Very friendly and welcoming CG staff; and (7) Ample space to wander around and get lost in nature

      Lowlights: (1) This CG is very remote; (2) There is nothing nearby to either stock up on supplies or grab a bite to eat, so when you come here, bring everything with you that you’ll need

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground
      Nov. 15, 2024

      Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground

      Primitive Equestrian Camping in the Prairies

      Located just northwest of the little hamlet called Franklin Grove, which is just due north of Ronald Reagan’s birthplace in Dixon, Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground is ideal if you are one of those primitive campers who want to take their noble steed(s) with them for the night in order to gallup along some pretty amazing horse-friendly trails. While there’s not a lot in the way of amenities here, if you need a post to tie up your horse, a round-about where they can go for countless circle walks along with plenty of hay to keep them fed, then this location might just be ideal for you.

      What I enjoyed most about Franklin Creek State Natural Area is the 882 acres of fresh prairieland that feels fairly untouched and ready for some eager exploration. There’s several small natural springs completely shadowed by endless forests of hardwoods along with all of the natural fauna that you would expect in these parts like gray and fox squirrels, white-tailed deer, racoons, chipmunks, beavers and opossums. If you’re a bird watcher, you’ll enjoy the flycatchers, warblers, and woodpeckers, vireos as well as barn and horned-rim owls. And according to the information I found on-site, there’s more than 19 species of fish that you can find in the fresh water streams, creeks and rivers here.

      From an amenities standpoints, while you will find 4 picnic shelters (Bartlett, Sunday, Banker and Hausen-Knox, all of which can be reserved), restrooms, potable drinking water, stand-up grills and fire pits, there is very little in the way of amenities in the actual equestrian campground apart from water spigots with a picnic shelter, restrooms, running water, show area and the occasional picnic table. The equestrian trails offer more than 12 miles of horse hoofing fun and the terrain is heavily forested with just slight variable grades increasing and decreasing around fairly easy-to-maneuver turns. You’ll also discover that there is a very nice stream here that the kids will love jumping across and / or wading in searching for crawdads or small fish.

      What you’ll enjoy most about being here, apart from the peace & quiet as well as the abundance of serenity is that this place has a really nice connection with history as it features a fully functioning grist mill that goes all the way back to early Americana where corn meal and wheat flour were made from the stream currents of water passing by that would fuel the grist mill. On weekends, you can actually take the kids to this site, located just 70 yards west of the Equestrian Campground for a super-cool interactive exhibition. Other activities here that you can access include an archery range, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, biking, hunting and even snowmobiling.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Should you get tired of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or on-board RV mini-fridge, then you are in luck as with in the nearby town of Franklin Grove, given its very small population of just slightly more than 1,000 souls shouldn’t have many restaurants (let alone stop lights), but thankfully for your sake, it does. Apart from the Casey’s gas station, which actually serves up some pretty awesome pizza believe it or not, there’s 3 proper restaurants all serving ‘down home Midwestern comfort food’ that are each pretty delectable: Lincoln Way Café, Rooney’s and Rev on 38; (2) If you are looking to explore a slice of history in these parts and the grist mill just isn’t your thing, head due west to Dixon where you can go explore the boyhood home of Ronald Reagan. There’s also nearby Chaplin Creek Historic Village featuring an old salt box farmhouse as well as a one room school, which will take you back to the late 1800s before the world knew modernization and technology; (3) Although the trail hiking at Franklin Creek State Natural Area are very good, should you be on the hunt for much more challenging trail hiking or biking, then head on over to either White Pines Forest State Park or Castle Rock State Park, both of which are only about a 20 minute drive from here and offer very large areas to explore; (4) Should you come with kayak or canoe and are looking for some good challenging currents to get some excellent oar-rowing in, you will struggle to find that here at Franklin Creek State Natural Area, so I highly recommend towing your watercraft over to the banks of the Rock River where you will be richly rewarded; and (5) When you are ready to book this particular equestrian campground, just go to the IL SP site to book it: https://camp.exploremoreil.com/location/221.

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lundeens Landing
      Nov. 10, 2024

      Lundeens Landing

      Rock Riverside Oasis

      Hiding underneath of the I80 bridge carrying you over the Rock River, you’ll spot Lundeens Landing on the EAST side of this interstate (you’ll want to take note of this as The Dyrt has this campground in the wrong location on the WEST side of I80 in the small town of Barstow). Getting here to Lundeens is not the easiest journey, as you’ll need to head northwards on I80 crossing the bridge (if you are coming in by way of Colona), where you’ll want to get off on I88 heading west, where shortly after the exit, you’ll have to make a U turn and take the frontage road (193rd Street) that straddles I80 heading south until you can catch Route 4 / Barstow Road heading east, where you’ll pass underneath that bridge holding up I80 and continue east about 2 miles before spotting Lundeens on the left with a gorgeous view of the Rock River.

      Now that you’ve made your way here, let me tell you about this place. First, you’ll be greeted by the main office that sits up about a story on stilts, which BTW isn’t for bird watching, but rather to safeguard the building from any river flooding that may happen (and trust me, in this parts, it happens). After checking in with the owner, Joe, or one of his few employees, you’ll make your way down a single narrow loop that will take you to your designated plot of land. It goes without saying that the best sites are those located right in front of the Rock River. And if you’re a tent camper, you’ll find bliss at the far end of the loop as far away from the main office as possible, where you’ll find water & electric-equipped sites tucked into some really thick brush complete with your own mini-forest.

      Apart from the very warm Midwestern hospitality that you’ll receive here from Joe, his father and the rest of the Lundeens crew, this medium-sized camping outpost offers up a no-frills, basic level of camping comfort with direct access to one of the most exciting rivers I’ve had the great pleasure of kayaking and fishing on. Amenities include: pull-thru and back-in sites for RVs, general market, typical RV hook-ups (water, 15 / 20 / 30 / 50 amp electric), concrete patios, picnic tables, fire rings, honey wagon, dump station, pet-friendly, playground, nature trails, weekly events, boat ramp & 7 river docks, shuttle service, canoe & kayak rentals, pretty clean restroom & showers, innertubes, adventure island (located just across the river) and a small beachhead.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) While it’s likely the direct access to Rock River that attracted you to this location, if you have bikes, you should bring them as the frontage road that brought you here is one very EXCELLENT road to bike on to see and explore the gorgeous Midwestern country landscape that exists here; (2) In speaking with Joe’s father at length about the campground, there’s plans to put in another campground area just across the street and due northwest of this property, which will offer additional RV spots, a designated laundry facility with coin-operated washers & dryers as well as many more amenities; and (3) Depending upon your interest and a craving, if you want to gnosh on some local grub, the best nearby spots include: Choppers Bar & Grill, Tap 22 Bar & Grill and 11th Hour Bar & Grill (yes, everything's a Bar & Grill out in these parts).

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from 6B's Campground
      Nov. 10, 2024

      6B's Campground

      Duo-Layered Camping Experience

      My twin brother and I discovered this little hidden gem of a campground outpost just a mile or so east of Maquoketa Caves SP. This nature-infested outpost is split into 2 levels with an upper plateau section that is more geared towards the tent-pitchin’ bredren of my tribe, while the lower level straddles the Maquoketa River and offers up splendid waterfront views of the slow-moving, fresh-water creek variety. Apart from the very welcoming folks that run this place, led by Karen Townsend, what I loved most about 6B’s was the very welcoming community of fellow campers who rolled out the‘red carpet’ treatment for us when we rocked up. The upper level offers up only a solid picnic table, in-ground fire rings w/ fold-up BBQ grills and a tree-lined backdrop with a fenced in front lawn– perfect for a quick and EZ set-up. Massive bonus points for the location of this campground, which apart from rural country farmers and bat cave tourist passerby traffic, there was virtually no noise pollution to battle with.

      If you’re rolling in on an RV, 5th wheeler or trailer, while you likely could park your mobile living room on the upper plateau, you’ll likely feel much more comfortable on the lower river basin, providing that you can make it down the somewhat steep decline gravel road(this is Iowa, so I don’t think anyone will be too challenged, but just want to put the decline out there). Before you’ve arrived at the river’s edge, you’ll notice a simply sublime solo picnic table that has strategically been placed in one of the very large, abandoned bat caves, which makes for a very special picnic outing. Turning left as you reach the riverfront, you’ll follow a single, narrow loop that offers up slots on a first-come, first-served basis, with each offering up water, 30 amp electric, boat ramp, diving platform and a fairly flat landing to park for the night or a week(or even month!).

      Downsides? This camping outpost only accepts cash, money order or checks, which was a major bummer for us as we didn’t have any of those with us and while there were banks nearby(well, some 30 miles away), we weren’t members of the bank, which wasn’t even open, on account that it was after noon on a Saturday, so yeah, while a small thing, it became quite a big deterrent for us. If you can get this solo downside, there really is nothing else but upside, chief of which includes direct access to the Maquoketa River, which we enjoyed, given we were toting my tandem kayak with us, as well as, of course, just 3 miles west to Maquoketa Caves SP.

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
      Nov. 10, 2024

      Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

      Eco-Locate This Blissful Hidden Campground Gem

      This Iowa SP campground is simply AMAZING and if you are a bat cave spelunker, you are going to be absolutely excited by this place, if you don’t know it already. For the rest of us outdoor enthusiasts who are simply looking for a great campground, then you’ve also struck the campground lottery, but if you are interested in staying here, I would STRONGLY encourage you to mind your dates taking note of when bat hibernation ends and begins – for what it’s worth, my brother and I drove all the way here only to find out that hibernation began the day of our arrival. That said, we could still hike all of the amazing trails, but couldn’t access the bat caves.

      The campground that resides here, is less than a quarter mile away from the access point to the bat caves, creating huge upside for selecting this campground in the first place. A heavily wooded area encompasses every single site (there’s 28 in total w/ 24 offering 20 / 30 / 50 amp electric) providing a substantial amount of shade, will also allowing decent sunlight as well along a slowly winding lone lane that leads one into this shrouded camping haven. While the spots (#12-#16) towards the end of the lane are more earmarked for mi tent pitchin’ bredren, whereas the rest of the sites (#1-#11; #17-#28) are set-up for the RV and 5th Wheel toting crowd (although you could easily set up a tent on any one of these sites should you choose to).

      A couple of points to keep in mind– the entrance to the campground is the busiest, so if this is of concern, steer clear of #1-#3 or #27-#28. Second, if you have kids and want to be planted near the playground, you might want to target sites #26-#28, where the spacious kids playground sets right behind these sites. In the event that being nearest the built-in amenities (restroom, shower, water source, community library, trash, firewood) are important to you, then look at sites #5-7 and #23-26. With this in mind, as you meander further down the lone campground loop lane, the quieter and more sheltered the place gets, so from #6-#24 should be a prime target for you if peace & solitude are important to you. Despite all of the advice I’ve just given, I don’t think you can really go wrong with any site here.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re looking for a primitive tent camping experience, then you’re going to want to book sites #12 and #13, which set a bit further back for the cul-de-sac end of the lane offering up more privacy and less noise from the rest of the camping commune; (2) All sites designated for RV’s are back-in and range in driveway length between 31 and 68 feet; (3) The campground itself is closed between December 1 thru February 28 each year; (4) This SP offers up more than 370 acres with 6 miles of hiking trails with 13 distinct bat caves to explore, so bring good hiking shoes, headlamps, proper long sleeve shirts and pants to keep the bugs and ticks away, which abound here aplenty; and (5) There’s plenty of picnic tables, most under shelters as well as scattered stand-up and in-ground BBQ grills all offered up on a first-come, first-served basis.

      Happy Camping!

    • Jonathan J.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lowden State Park Campground
      Nov. 3, 2024

      Lowden State Park Campground

      Just Ok

      The rustic campground was closed for winter. The main campground was half closed off also. Everyone was funneled in to one area so there was no privacy. The statue was pretty cool though.

    • Jon L.
      Camper-submitted photo from O'Connell's RV Campground
      Oct. 23, 2024

      O'Connell's RV Campground

      BULLET HOLES IN MY AIRSTREAM!

      BULLET HOLES IN MY AIRSYTREAM. Yes, you read that correctly. I had 4 bullet holes in my Airstream and to date, O'Connell's has NEVER RETURNED ANY CALLS OR EMAILS regarding this incident. A police report was made, photos were taken, and still nothing. Thousand Trails should be aware of this, but I'm guessing they are not. What if your kids were playing outside? My neighbor had a bullet hole in her shed and he also posted about it. O'CONNELL'S IS DANGEROUS, stay away from the new "Premium" lot section. I paid extra for this?

    • Dan M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Grove Campground
      Oct. 14, 2024

      Hickory Grove Campground

      Definitely worth a stop!

      This a really nice campground with a lot of recent upgrades. Great location, excellent piece of land, and the owners are super friendly. Sites give you TONS of room and they are all FHU.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Pond
      Oct. 9, 2024

      Horseshoe Pond

      Nice smaller CG in City of Maquoketa, Iowa

      CG offers gravel pads, tables, fire rings, electric, sump station, water, small pond with fishing, paddling, dog park. Close to stores for supplies, dining, fuel.

    • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
      Oct. 2, 2024

      Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

      Nice campground, fun caves, older established state park

      My mom remembers visiting this park in the 40's. Not a surprise since Grampa was a Geologist.
      This is a small campground for such an old park, only 34 sites, walk-ins included. All sites are along one road with a turnaround at the end. There is only one building with toilets, showers and no pit toilets. These are clean and well maintained.
      There is a playground near the entrance that is shared with the caves entrance area, a bit of a walk.
      The caves themselves are down a long hill from the campground. There are facilities there too, and a concession stand with limited hours/ days. The caves are fun to explore, but not ADA accessible. Bring flashlights and in some areas watch your head.
      The Visitor's center at the park entrance is staffed by volunteers and only open on weekends.
      Once you've done the caves, there's not much else to see within the park. But visit the Hurstville interpretive center for a nice nature center and trails.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Sep. 19, 2024

      Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      Very nice County cabin near Wapsi River

      Cabin sleeps 6, has all amenities including firewood at no cost! Education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round, Wapsipinicon River below bluff offers paddling, fishing. Menke Observatory offers sky programs.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Park
      Sep. 19, 2024

      Bennett Park

      Nice small County CG with pond

      Campground is nice with a few newer amenities, including shower house and handicap campsite. Gravel pads at sites include tables, fire, pits, electric,. There’s a dump station, play area, shelters for rent, and a pond that you can actually swim and fish and paddling.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Campground
      Sep. 9, 2024

      Hennepin Canal Campground

      Easy place to camp

      5 site in all. 4 sites can be accessed by rv or trailer. 5th one has barriers up and only tents. Each site has fire rings and tables to use. 3 sites back up along the canal. Public park restrooms near by.

    • .! E !.
      Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
      Sep. 5, 2024

      Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

      Perfect!

      Very nice, affordable and peaceful campsite. Stayed one night for tent camping, campsite was clean and accommodating with fire pit, picnic table, lights, Wi-Fi, and power plug. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Perfect camping site.

    • CThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
      Sep. 4, 2024

      Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground

      Super cheap for what you get.

      I got a primitive tent site in an area all to myself, with a shower house just down the road, in a beautiful and quiet campground for $10 cash. You really can’t beat that. Campground is separate from the park so you don’t have to pay a park entrance fee to stay here.

    • Brent A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Vel Terra
      Sep. 3, 2024

      Vel Terra

      Wonderful Little Campground

      We stayed at this campground over Labor Day. The owner intentionally doesn't fill all of the sites in order to give people more space- a great luxury over a holiday like this. The sites are pretty small and only one 'sleeping structure' is allowed on each site but we found that Jeff was very willing to let us put up two tents (one for my wife & I 

      + one for the kids) because we were in the same family.

      The bathrooms and showers were very neat and well maintained. We didn't use the showers because they were paid but our friends did and had good things to say about them.

      The campground has a very nice playground (the favorite of the trip for one of my kids) and a lounge where anyone staying at the campground can rest with A/C, wifi, a phone charging area, and some board games.

      The primary drawback is that there isn't a lot of outdoor activities to do in the area. All the land is private so there's not great hiking (a little in the state park about 20 min drive away), IL law allows waterways to be privately owned so you can't kayak the river, etc. Galena is nearby if you want to go shopping and we really enjoyed going to Terrapin Apple Orchard and picking some apples (if you're there in the Fall). But all in all I would say this is a great campground to rest and relax at- probably not ideal for outdoor adventures.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sherman Co Park
      Aug. 28, 2024

      Sherman Co Park

      Scenic County park along Wapsipinicon River

      The campground offers to camp areas: one better suited for RVs, and the other area is better suited for primitive tent, camping. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings, our recites include electric. There is a campground host, shower house, shelter and playground area there too. The tent sites are prone to flooding occasionally from the gun river. There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
      Aug. 28, 2024

      Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

      Nice modern cabin in County campground

      Cabin sits at end of campground lane with covered porch, parking for 3 cars, ADA accessible. Cabin has 2 sleeping rooms, sleeping loft, and sofa. Capacity is 10, with all kitchen amenities. Has fire pit, wood available in campground, tables, and gas grill with rental. Playground nearby, park has seasonal pool, garden of course, trails, Pride Lake for fishing and paddling.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
      Aug. 22, 2024

      Interstate RV Park

      Overnight stop along I-80

      Campground has gravel lanes, roads pads, appears to have annual residence, campground office, pool is clean, planes, farm, and fleet nearby for Supplies. Sites include tables, water, electric, though need updating.

    • AThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
      Jul. 10, 2024

      Wildcat Den State Park Campground

      Lovely hidden space

      Found by hiking at the Wildcat Den State Park. Lovely little campside with 19 places, rustical without electricity, dump etc. But got one waterstation and toilets. Every space with picknicktable and fireplace, surrounded by trees. Places are gras. Sorry for my english, Camp from Germany :-)

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground
      Jul. 1, 2024

      Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground

      Serene Primitive Camping Outpost

      For those searching out ‘bare bones’ extreme primitive camping conditions with which to imbibe the best of what tent camping au naturale looks like, smack dab in the middle of absolutely nowhere, then welcome to Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground. This particular outpost follows a chain of similar sparsely outfitted campgrounds that more resemble simple grass pastures to set up your encampment versus a proper designated campground with all of the accoutrement. Located just off of Route 80, you’ll be searching for the Annawan exit, where heading northbound, you’ll take a right upon exiting and immediately thereafter, turn left, crossing the median, which will send you down a path that greets the Hennepin Canal, where you’ll turn left and follow the gravel road only about 50 yards before coming upon Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground.

      For mi primitive tent pitchin' bredren, you have just discovered a small slice of heaven. There’s nothing here but the following: (1) Nobody; (2) A slow-moving current of Hennepin Canal that is sublime for a kayak or canoe to dip her beak in; (3) Enough space for 4 to maybe 5 tents to set up for the night; and (4) A proper his / her restroom, which even I was shocked to see – and curiously enough, it was well-maintained, but that said, it’s still just a glorified hole in the ground with a plastic toilet on top. Beyond this, you only have yourself, a pristine bit of nature to explore and the never-ending swooshing of nearby Interstate 80 traffic, which you very quickly get over.

      Do note that this (and the other camping locations up and down the Hennepin Canal) are offered up on a first-come, first-served basis with no proper reservation system in place. There’s a canal security officer who MAY stop by to collect a fee or not – when we were there, no such officer arrived, so while we were prepared to pay the $8 nightly fee, we ended up not having to pay and there’s no ‘on-your-honor’ drop box to leave an envelope with the nightly fee, which we would have gladly paid, so we used that $8 to pay it forward on our next camping adventure. Because this place is so 'off the beaten path,’ we didn’t encounter a single soul during our entire stay, apart from a farmer who dropped by near dusk to offer us up a half dozen eggs for our breakfast the following morning, which was supremely awesome.

      After setting up our tent for the evening and prepping our kayaks for a dawn launch, my mates and I headed into nearby Annawan, where we had a really nice dinner over at the Purple Onion where the fried catfish was simply outstanding and the rhubarb pie was an unexpected gift. Following this, we headed over to Paxton’s Corner Coop for some killer cupcakes and ice cream. I can’t believe we found this 'out-of-the-world' place so close to our very primitive camping experience!

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) The nearby town of Annawan really is a local blessing as it offers up just a few restaurants and a single grocery store with which to augment your otherwise primitive experience, so if you run out of anything or need something in particular on short notice, even though you’re primitive camping, within 5 minutes, you can access just about anything you need; (2) If you are looking for some unique hiking options, there’s two that are very close by, including Mineral Marsh Nature Reserve and further afield, McCune Sand Prairie; (3) Should you be carrying watercraft with you, of course, there’s the Hennepin Canal in which you are camping in front of, but if you are looking for a bigger or alternative water escape, then head due south of this location by about 20 minutes to discover Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area that has the amazing Johnson Lake to explore as well as fish in; (4) If you are looking for a really nice, albeit different dining experience, then Johnson Sauk Trail State RA also offers up Red Earth Café, where the dining room has a sweeping view of the lake; and (5) Whether you are searching for a local icon or not, if you do make your way to Johnson Sauk Trail State RE, check out Ryan’s Historic Red Barn, which you can access and take stunning photos of.

      Happy Camping!

    • Charles M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

      Beautiful State Park

      This park is beautiful and perfect for an adventurous hike. The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends. We would definitely go back.

    • Charles M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Bellevue State Park Campground
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Bellevue State Park Campground

      Campsite Was Average at Best

      I took my son and one of his friends campjng to Bellvue State Park, however, we did not visit the actual park itself. The camp sites were close to one another, many had almost no privacy from the other campsites. We were at campsite 40, which had a severe incline. Also, if you prefer to hammock camp you may not be able to do so. I was able to find one tree and hook the other side up to my vehicle.



    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fulton, IL?

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