The Galena, Illinois region sits at approximately 600-800 feet above sea level, with rolling hills and wooded terrain creating a distinctive Midwest camping landscape. Located in the unglaciated Driftless Area, this northwestern corner of Illinois offers campgrounds within 20 miles of downtown Galena that provide river access, bluff views, and varying terrain. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through February, with summer camping season running primarily April through October.
What to do
Paddling excursions: Rock Creek County Marina and Campground offers kayak and canoe rentals for exploring Mississippi River backwaters. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," notes Ryan, who gave the campground five stars.
Environmental education: Visit the nature center at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground where children can see local wildlife. "They have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed. The grounds are on backwaters of the Mississippi so there are boat ramps, docks, and areas to fish," writes Chris F.
Scenic drives: Base yourself at Palace Campground for day trips along the Great River Road. "You can't beat the location!!! We love Galena, we didn't do the shops this trip just two days of hiking, BEAUTIFUL views," says Lauren P., who appreciated the campground's proximity to natural attractions.
What campers like
Rural settings: Rustic Barn Campground RV Park in Kieler, Wisconsin offers countryside views just 10 miles from Galena. "What a picturesque campground! With rolling hills of Wisconsin farmland surrounding you, you can't beat the view. This is an extremely well maintained park with large pull thru sites, level sites with plenty of room, free wifi," writes Tina N.
Riverside locations: Blanding Landing provides Mississippi River access and fishing opportunities. "Overall nice campground. Hosts are friendly and I saw rangers driving through multiple times. Each site includes picnic table and fire pit. Most have electric," says Mary S., who adds "As a note, we have ATT and had decent cell service here."
Sunset viewing spots: Seven Eagles RV Resort provides nature reserve access for walking and cycling. "Mostly a seasonal campground, only has 4 sites that are for weekenders. Very nice folks running the place. The neighbors where also very welcoming... Nature reserve accessible from campground. We took several walks and bike rides around it," mentions Jodi.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near the Mississippi River experience train traffic. At Blanding Landing, "The biggest issue is train tracks with trains running by very often. Maybe an hour or 90 minutes with none then there would be three in a very short period," warns Tony D.
Limited winter options: Most rv parks near Galena, Illinois close seasonally. Palace Campground operates from April 1 to November 1, while Rustic Barn Campground runs from April 13 to October 31. "Showers are open until October 14 this year," notes Jeff and Linda L. regarding Rock Creek Marina facilities.
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary in site size and proximity. At Palace Campground, one camper noted "The sites are VERY close together but we were next to very nice people, if you like space you won't like this." For more room, Rustic Barn offers "large pull thru sites, level sites with plenty of room."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Off Shore RV Park provides family-friendly amenities. "Resort has many options: even camp sites, 4 villas, resort inn rooms. Sites have hard surfaces, fire rings, water, electric... resort has restaurant, playground, water park," shares James M.
Playground access: Palace Campground includes play areas. "There is a Walmart right next to it. The bathrooms are clean. They host events like mini golf. Swings and playground for kids," writes Ivana B., who rated the campground five stars.
Family programming: Consider Rock Creek for naturalist-led activities. "Plenty of sites, boat landing, kayak/canoe rentals, naturalist programs, nature center with native animals including large fish aquarium, cabins, park store and kitchen, shower house, pontoon river cruises," explains James M.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check rv parks near Galena, Illinois for site conditions. At Seven Eagles RV Resort & Campground, "Sites were closer then I would like would be the only negative... There is ATT service, but not strong. There is also WiFi, but also not strong," reports Jodi.
Full hookup availability: Rustic Barn Campground in Wisconsin provides complete services. "58 sites with various amenities. Some are long pull-throughs, some are back-in, some have 30 amp with or without a patio, and some have 50-amp electric with or without a patio. Tents are NOT allowed," explains Lee D.
Site selection strategy: At Palace Campground, "If you get along the outsides you have a lot more privacy and better chance they will be level. If you aren't worried about sharing a conversation with your neighbor then you can pick anything," advises Scott M.
