There’s a lot more to Illinois than the great city of Chicago. Along with this exciting urban hub there are many natural areas where locals and residents alike enjoy getting outside. With 141 parks it’s no wonder the DNR created the motto, “State Parks, Great Parks” in 2013. This phrase is the title of their initiative to continue improvements on local natural areas with upgraded campgrounds and additional staff to cater to the more than 44 million yearly visitors looking for hiking and camping in Illinois.


People from all over the state – and even outside the country – take the short 1.5-hour drive from Chicago to Starved Rock State Park, where they can hike 13 miles of trails offering elevation gains on wooded pathways along the Illinois River. The 18 canyons serve as great places to spot waterfalls after a rain and families love ending the day with s’mores around the bonfire at the nearby Starved Rock State Park campsites. 


Those looking to learn about the state’s heritage while camping in Illinois may head farther south to Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park & Memorial. This 162-acre park is 12 miles southwest of Decatur near Harristown, IL, and features the land where Abraham Lincoln first resided in the state. If you visit be sure to check out the memorials commemorating this important president.


People who want to mountain bike in this Midwestern state will enjoy heading to Palos Park, a forest preserve known for its excellent biking, hiking and equestrian trails that cover over 50 miles of terrain. When it comes to camping in Illinois, this locale offers beautiful facilities at Camp Bullfrog Lake where you can put up a tent next to a lake and hike short or long loops that end up back at your campsite. 


If you want to check out the beautiful Lake Michigan drive to Illinois Beach State Park to spend time in the water along the 6.5 miles of sandy shoreline. The park is 4,160 acres offering ample opportunities for hiking, watersports, picnicking, fishing and camping. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Illinois during your stay in the Prairie State.

Illinois

The Best Camping in Illinois | 100+ IL Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Garden Prairie, IL has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Garden Prairie. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Illinois camping adventure.

Garden Prairie

The Best Camping Near Garden Prairie, Illinois

Your carefree getaway begins at the Best Bed and Breakfast near Huntley, Illinois, at Harmony Inn.  We are very family-friendly!  Harmony Inn is also a great Romantic Getaway near Huntley, Illinois.  If you are a business traveler, Harmony Inn is a great small hotel and a welcome change from the usual places to stay.   Perhaps you are looking for a small inn with breakfast.  Harmony Inn offers a wonderful homemade breakfast.

This exclusive ranch style lodging is located 2 miles west of the picturesque village of Huntley.  You will only be an hour from Chicago and 30 minutes east of Rockford, Illinois.   It is on the northern edge of Del Webb's Sun City.  The Illinois Railway Museum is just 10 miles drive. 

Guests love our new luxury rooms in a spotlessly clean, fresh atmosphere.  Guests choose which individually styled room they prefer when booking.  Every room has a private luxury bathroom.  Some rooms have deep soak tubs with showers, others have a walk-in shower.  Bathrobes and slippers add to the luxury feel while you relax and rewind.  Choose from 2 patios, complete with an amazing 6-acre view, a firepit, flower beds, table and chairs, a wood burning smokeless firepit, a grill, and a patio heater.

There are several options when staying at Harmony Inn. A group can book 3 bedrooms with 3 private baths together with a kitchen, living room and laundry room, or each room can be reserved individually as a private room with a private luxury restroom and access to a shared kitchen and living room.

There are over 60 restaurants within a 5-mile radius of Huntley, Illinois.  Check out our Dining page for details.  Our Things to Do page is updated frequently too.  Look up Harmony Inn, Huntley, IL on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HuntleyIllinois60142 for even more current ideas of things to do locally.

Your host is available 24 hours a day to ensure you are comfortable and have everything you need.  Each room has a key code lock and guests receive a text and email just before check-in with this code.  Guests are greeted upon arrival and assisted with a smooth check in.  After a brief tour, we will introduce guests to our flock.  The turkeys, geese, ducks and chickens will come running to meet you most enthusiastically!  We will provide you with some feed for them and offer to take your photo. 

The property is close to town, but tucked away on a large, wooded property.  Come enjoy the best place to getaway and relax and try something different at Harmony Inn.


Harmony Inn

Holiday Acres RV Camping Resort is a family-owned campground that prides itself on being one of the larger campgrounds in the midwest but small enough for a personal touch.

Whether you're looking for quiet time and lots of privacy or seeking an energetic friendly environment, Holiday Acres is a wonderful place! Many people make Holiday Acres "**THE**" place as their home away from home.

Swimmimg pool, Miles restaurant and Bar on-site, weekly events, live band nights, children's crafts, GaGa ball, volleyball, mini golf, hay rides, golf cart parades and more



Holiday Acres Camping Resort

Pine Country RV Camping is an RV camp in Northern Illinois that was created to be a convenient stopover or final destination for family fun. Whether you are traveling across the country or just want to see America's Heartland, Pine Country makes RV camping hassle-free with easy access sites and a prime location that are ideal for your excursion. Minutes from the Boone County Fair and Rockford, our RV camp is close to local attractions in Northern Illinois as well as plenty of activities to keep you busy. For an adventure in the Midwest, Pine Country RV Camping is where you want to be. From our RV camp in Northern Illinois, you can easily head to Chicago to see the sites of the big city and Lake Michigan. Or, just walk in the woods that surround the property, sit by the campfire, and take in the natural beauty of the region.

Thousand Trails Pine Country

Looking for the quiet farm vibes, with nearby luxuries?

This beautiful oasis has plenty of space, and allows you to create your own memories in your own time. You are also more than welcome to join in on some of the optional adventures of the day! The chickens, ducks, dogs, and horses are happy to meet you and nuzzle in for some treats! (Just ask! Dietary restrictions cause for attention to a couple.)



There are extensive trails near by, scenic views for biking, a creek half a mile away for kayaking & fishing, and all within a couple miles from the interstate!



You don’t want to miss out on this heavenly sanctuary! This is an EXPERIENCE, not only a stop on your trip!



Electric is optional if you have cord. Cigarettes/Cigar smoking is allowed so long as butts are diffused and picked up. There will be a littering fee if not. Animals cannot ingest.



Western MoVa Oasis

Northern Illinois active farm with primitive facilities, not a commercial campground. One or two camps/groups /day. Rv site north of farm sheds and 25-acre wooded oak savanna on the south side of the farm. The oak savanna has been untouched since the Indians and buffalo roamed these parts and no homes within approx one mile.



Finch Farm

Thomas Woods Campground is in the Marengo Ridge Conservation Area and part of the McHenry County Conservation District.  Spend a night in nature! We offer camping opportunities for groups and individuals. The District has five group campgrounds located throughout the county, one over night cyclist camping location, and one campground for individuals and families which accommodates both tents and RVs. 

Thomas Woods Campground

Enjoy a peaceful camping experience in a friendly and quiet country setting, with long, pull-through RV sites, shaded tent sites, rustic and deluxe camping cabins, and even fully equipped travel trailers for rent.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the park.

There is a lot to do for families! Check out the Gem Mining, Jump Pad, Gagaball, Minigolf, Frisbee Golf, Polipong and huge playground! Join us for hay-wagon rides, face painting, flashlight candy hunt and more on weekends.

Have fun at Onesti's Wild West Town next door, visit the Illinois Railway museum, Santa's Village Azoosment Park, Six Flags Great America and cool off at Magic Waters near Rockford or in our own crystal clear pool.

Take the "Metra" train from nearby Crystal Lake or Woodstock to visit Chicago for sightseeing, festivals, and tours. We are also a convenient distance to the Woodfield Mall, Prime Outlet Discount Mall, and the Grand Victoria Riverboat Casino. Various local restaurants are within minutes.

{Additional Info}:

2 Deluxe Studio Cabins with patios are set up next to each other in the RV park to facilitate families, that like to camp close to each other.

All of our rustic cabins are equipped with an A/C unit.

You will find us approximately 55 miles from downtown Chicago, 4.5 miles to I-90, in a rural setting of northwestern Illinois.

Open from mid-April through mid-October.

Gated campground 24hrs a day (after hour arrivals need a reservation)

Dogs are allowed, but breed restrictions apply.

Chicago Northwest KOA

Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort

This 48-acre former Boy Scout camp still includes the dining hall lodge, three enclosed shelters with wood stoves, hiking /cross country trails and a dozen tent campsites. It is one of the most botanically rich and topographically varied forested preserves in our district. Showy Orchis, Glade Mallow, Cancer Root, ferns, and a nice array of other uncommon plants occur in the diverse upland and floodplain forests. A 100 foot bluff, too steep to walk, drops to the South Branch Kishwaukee River – a run where the river flows across limestone bedrock and the drops over THE GREAT KISHWAUKEE FALLS: an eroded fracture straight across the river’s bed that allows the water to crash straight over the precipice before falling six inches to the bedrock below! (OK, maybe not spectacular, this is the Midwest, after all.) The state endangered Black Sandshell mussel has been found in this portion of the river and Bald Eagles nest less than a mile west, down the river.

MacQueen Forest Preserve

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city and suburban life and enjoy an RV camping trip on the river in Garden Prairie, Illinois. Northwoods RV Resort is less than 90 minutes from Chicago. Our gated RV resort campground features a brand new swimming pool and hot tub, new bathhouses, community lodge, log pergola patio with a fireplace, swimming beach, full hookups for water, power& sewer, laundry facilities, restrooms, snack bar, on-site propane filling, new WiFi infrastructure and tons of planned activities. Our pristine 60 acre park is spacious and comfortable and located right on the Kishwaukee River. If you are searching for a quiet and peaceful campground setting for your vacation, then book your stay at Northwoods RV Resort today. Break out the hot dogs and marshmallows to by the fire with your family. Come rough it in style!

In the town of Garden Prairie itself, you can visit the family-owned Hamlet's Cafe for a bit of small town charm, great service and a delicious home cooked breakfast. For lunch, check out Sonny's Express food truck and grab some of their famous homemade egg rolls and fried rice. The city of Rockford boasts a myriad of activities to keep all ages entertained including golf, zip-lining, museums, spas, paint studios, boat tours, bars and restaurants and shopping malls. Northwoods RV Resort is close to a wide variety of local attractions and entertainment. Nearby, you'll find the award winning Magic Water Waterpark as well as gorgeous state parks. Nearby attractions include: Nicholas Conservatory, Forest City Queen, Edward's Apple Orchard, Donley's Wild West Town, Boone County Fair, Harvard's Milk Days, Marengo's Settlers Days, Susie;s Garden Patch, Starved Rock State Park and more.

Northwoods RV Resort

The Windy City isn’t exactly synonymous with camping and the outdoors. However, if you know where to look, you’ll be surprised at just what you can find. With a handful of lakes, parks, and conservation areas, you may just find a hidden gem in Illinois.

The best camping near Chicago is found south of the city in the Des Plaines State Conservation area, near Joliet, IL. If that doesn’t suit you, head to the campgrounds at Camp Bullfrog Lake in the Palos Preserves area. This is actually recognized as an International Dark Sky place, so you’ll be able to enjoy unbridled night skies while still remaining close to the city. Best of all, they offer tent and RV accessible campsites.

Chicago

Chicago, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Chicago is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Chicago, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Chicago | Illinois Campgrounds

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Detroit. Detroit is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Detroit and user-submitted reviews.

Detroit

The Best Camping Near Detroit, Illinois

Looking for the best campgrounds near Aurora, IL? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Aurora is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Aurora camping trip.

Aurora

The Best Camping Near Aurora, Illinois

Looking for the best campgrounds near Rockford, IL? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Rockford, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Rockford

The Best Camping Near Rockford, Illinois

Searching for the best camping near Joliet, IL? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Joliet camping trip.

Joliet

The Best Camping Near Joliet, Illinois

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Naperville, IL is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Naperville is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Naperville, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Naperville

The Best Camping Near Naperville, Illinois

Searching for the best camping near Peoria, IL? Peoria is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Peoria, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Peoria

The Best Camping Near Peoria, Illinois

North Peoria, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of North Peoria. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

North Peoria

The Best Camping Near North Peoria, Illinois

Searching for the best camping near Elgin, IL? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Illinois camping has to offer. Discover great camping spots near Elgin, reviewed by campers like you.

Elgin

The Best Camping Near Elgin, Illinois

Looking for the best campgrounds near Waukegan, IL? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Waukegan campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Waukegan

The Best Camping Near Waukegan, Illinois

Join the fun near Shawnee National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Illinois camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Shawnee National Forest, IL. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Shawnee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Carlyle Lake. Carlyle Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Carlyle Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Carlyle Lake

The Best Camping Near Carlyle Lake, Illinois

Rend Lake, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Rend Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Rend Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Rend Lake

The Best Camping Near Rend Lake, Illinois

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22, IL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 camping trip.

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

The Best Camping Near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22, Illinois

Lake Shelbyville is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Lake Shelbyville is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

The Best Camping in Garden Prairie

Top Campgrounds in Garden Prairie (97)

1.