Best Campgrounds near Geneseo, IL

Geneseo, Illinois offers a range of mixed-use campgrounds primarily located along waterways including the Hennepin Canal and Mississippi River. Geneseo Campground, situated directly on the Hennepin Canal, provides accommodations for tents, RVs, cabins, and even yurts across its 72 sites. Nearby options include Sunset Lakes Resort in Hillsdale and Chief Keokuk Campground at Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area. The region's campgrounds typically feature wooded settings with mature oak trees, gravel sites, and access to water-based recreation including fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited year-round options. Full hookup RV sites typically include 30/50-amp electric service, water, and sewer connections, while tent camping areas offer more basic amenities. One camper noted, "Great campground, easy to find canal for walking. Bathrooms were OK." Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when the proximity to water activities increases demand. The terrain is generally level with good road access, making most campgrounds accessible for vehicles of all sizes, though some bridges in the area have height restrictions that may affect RV routing.

Campers consistently mention the waterfront access as a highlight of the camping experience. The Hennepin Canal provides opportunities for paddling, with several campgrounds offering equipment rentals including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats. According to one visitor, the Geneseo Campground is "a nice quiet campground, great for relaxing and enjoying a camp fire. Great location right on the Hennepin Canal." Family-friendly amenities are common at larger facilities, with activities ranging from swimming pools and playgrounds to bike rentals for exploring the extensive trail system. While sites at some campgrounds are noted as being relatively close together, the mature tree cover helps provide privacy between camping areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities include birds and small mammals along the waterways.

Best Camping Sites Near Geneseo, Illinois (100)

    1. Geneseo Campground

    15 Reviews
    Geneseo, IL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 442-2662

    $40 - $95 / night

    "will be surrounded by."

    "Very Clean, very goos hosts/owners and a great location near the town of Geneseo and right along a river for kayak, Canoe, SUP activity. Very Wooded sites - with old huge trees.   "

    2. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    23 Reviews
    Bettendorf, IA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 259-3628

    $14 - $26 / night

    "As with all the campgrounds along the Northern Illinois Great River Trail, it is along side Rt. 84, and railroad tracks."

    "Bugs were not too bad when we were there (October) which was surprising as it was so close to the river and still warm. The after-hours check-in procedure was a little confusing."

    3. Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area

    24 Reviews
    Mineral, IL
    16 miles
    +1 (308) 853-2425

    "This campground is located just north of Kewanee, Illinois. It has a lake with seasonal canoe, kayak and paddle boat rentals and a cafe."

    "Had the tent section nearest the to the lake to ourselves (site 100). This was great since we had a reactive dog, so it being not crowded was perfect!"

    4. Illiniwek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bettendorf, IA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 496-2620

    "The campground is also right next to a biking trail. There was public and private bathrooms. The private ones were only accessible to campers that received a key from the park office."

    "There is a section of the campground where you can camp right on the edge of the Mississippi River which is nice, but you must deal with people fishing the entire time."

    5. Sunset Lakes Resort

    5 Reviews
    Port Byron, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 747-5253

    "It was on the pond, very quiet and away from a lot of the activities...which was fine for me. The regular sites look nice as well. Lots to do...pool, mini-gold, volleyball, etc."

    "Access to a lake with paddle boats and kayaks available. Swimming pool and a great camp store."

    6. Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground - Members Only

    1 Review
    Geneseo, IL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 944-3022

    $15 - $30 / night

    "This particular chapter in Geneseo was chartered back in 1952 and shortly thereafter founded Ike’s Park located right along the Hennepin Canal, which features among other things: picnic facilities, fishing"

    7. Lundeens Landing

    3 Reviews
    Colona, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 496-9956

    "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"

    8. Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    17 Reviews
    Rock Island, IL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 787-0665

    "Close to stores, and resturants. A casino close by."

    "I had fun nice little get away from every one nature is everywhere compared to city I love it"

    9. Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground

    3 Reviews
    Mineral, IL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 782-6302

    $8 - $20 / night

    "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"

    10. Colona Scott Family Park

    1 Review
    Colona, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 949-2128
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Recent Reviews near Geneseo, IL

506 Reviews of 100 Geneseo Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    Nice quiet place

    Water was available on my visit 10-7 thru 10-10. The place is clean and well kept, including the pit toilets. Plenty of hiking along the canal and 10 miles away from most stores. Fee is $8 however if you’re an Illinois resident over 62 camping is free Sunday through Thursday nights.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    Trails, Tales & a Big Round Barn at Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    If you like your camping served with a side of quirk, Johnson Sauk Trail State Park near Kewanee, Illinois, delivers in spades. First impressions are of rolling hills, shady hardwoods, and wide-open prairie that feels like someone took a painter’s brush to the Midwest and got carried away. It’s big, it’s woodsy, and it has just enough old-fashioned charm to make you think you’ve stumbled into a summer postcard here in the heart of the Prairie State. Families and weekend wanderers flock here, but the atmosphere stays laid-back and the kind of place where you can still hear the wind in the trees over the laughter and screaming of kids chasing fireflies.

    The campground itself is no slouch, with more than 70 sites ranging from rustic tent pads (25 in total) to electric hook-up spots that keep RVs humming happily. Sites are generally roomy and shaded, each with picnic tables and fire rings that dare you to try out your best s’mores engineering skills. Bathhouses are clean and close, with flush toilets and showers that (miracle of miracles) actually have good water pressure. Roads are paved and very easy to navigate, though keep an eye on turns if you’re wrangling a bigger rig. Pets are welcome, kids have plenty of room to roam, and the general feel is safe and easygoing.

    And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who ‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.

    Outside the campground, Johnson Lake offers paddleboat rentals, fishing piers, and calm waters for paddling, which is ideal for wearing out the kids while you pretend you’re training for a kayak marathon! Trails wind through forest and prairie with wildlife sightings being frequent enough that you’ll start feeling like you’re starring in your own nature documentary. When hunger hits, Kewanee is just down the road, with options ranging from old-school diners to pizza joints. And don’t skip The Coop, a local gem in the hamlet of Annawan with an ice cream parlor and baked goods like cinnamon rolls, iced cookies and chocolate chunk brownies so good you’ll briefly consider moving to town just to live closer.

    Insider tips? Yep, here’s a handful: (1) Book a site in the lake loop(of which there’s some 7 or slots to choose from) for quick access to Johnson Lake, where despite a short trek to the water’s edge, you’ll get fewer complaints from the kids when it’s time to haul gear to the water and you’ll also be treated to unbeatable sunset views from one of the scattered benches along the lakefront; (2) For food, check out Cerno’s Bar & Grill in Kewanee, which was established in 1898 BTW and feels like you’re stepping back in time for massive burgers and a family-friendly vibe, Good’s Furniture for surprisingly solid sit-down meals (yes, furniture and food under one roof), and The Coop for ice cream and baked goods that will tempt you back two days in a row; (3) Don’t miss touring the Ryan Round Barn with it’s four stories of history, architecture and oddball charm that kids and adults alike will find fascinating. Just remember: it’s round, so if you get lost inside, maybe camping isn’t your sport; and (4) Bring a kayak or canoe for Johnson Lake as the calm water is great for families, fishing will likely net some channel catfish, largemouth bass and white crappie and you’ll likely spot turtles, herons and maybe even a beaver supervising your paddling skills.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground - Members Only

    Hidden Gem Along the Hennepin Canal

    This is the Geneseo Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America, which coming across one fine Autumn day, I was completely unaware of this organization, which apparently is America’s oldest and most successful conservation organizations. This particular chapter in Geneseo was chartered back in 1952 and shortly thereafter founded Ike’s Park located right along the Hennepin Canal, which features among other things: picnic facilities, fishing, boating and kayaking, a boat ramp, handicapped accessible fishing pier as well as a community lodge that you can book in advance, in addition to a primitive style campground offering up some 20 or so sites on a first-come, first served basis.

    To put it bluntly, this place is incredibly simple and basic, which is its beauty in a nutshell. This undiscovered little gem will make you feel as though you’ve just hit the primitive camping lottery jackpot as very few folks outside of Geneseo even know of this place. So if you’re coming from slightly further afield, you’ll appreciate getting in on something special. Upon arrival from Route 82, which if you are coming from the nearest major highway of I80, you’d be heading northbound, you need to simply hang a right onto a very modest gravel road that has an immediate declining slope upon entry. Once you turn into Izaak Walton Park, you’ll feel embraced by something truly special with mature maples and oaks surrounding you before coming across a sign marking this territory as Ike’s Place with the community lodge on the right. If you continue on, just about 30 yards further you’ll come across the self-check-in kiosk where you just need to fill out the required information and drop your$10(member) or$20(non-members) in an envelope and you can set up wherever you’d like.

    As you are literally right next to the Hennepin Canal, you’ll want to set up as near the canal as you can get, although, you could sit back a bit further south if you’d like under the canopy of a mature treeline. Beyond the beautiful, scenic riverview, there’s just a couple of community shelters, basic restroom facilities with vault toilets, a fishing pier and a large area that faces a larger swath of the Hennepin Canal that for a short bit resembles a lake, although when you are on the water, you’ll learn it’s just the bend in the river. Here at Izaak Walton Park alongside the property immediately to the south, Geneseo Prairie Park, there’s lots of decent hilly hiking trails to keep you occupied. And of course, if you’re an angler, you’ll appreciate the quick and easy access to casting a line where you’ll be able to catch panfish, small- and large-mouth bass as well as catfish.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) While you are north of Geneseo, you shouldn’t have too much problem with cell coverage out in these parts– we got 4 bars with Verizon and 3 bars with AT&T;(2) Not all of the sites are level, so you definitely want to check out a number of the sites before deciding upon which to choose from– where you’ll also want to keep in mind that not all of the sites have electricity, so either plant yourself near an outlet or bring a long electrical cord;(3) While there is a dump station on-site, when we were there, it was locked, so while we were able to place most of our trash in the garbage receptables, be prepared to haul yours out with you before leaving; and(4) You’ll want to take note that you are sitting alongside the Hennepin Canal, which if you haven’t been to before, provides about 100 miles worth of some pretty amazing slow-moving current that is excellent for kayaks and canoes, so if you’ve got one, bring it, but if not, the good folks at Geneseo Campground just due north of this location across the river will rent you one.

    Happy Camping!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Summit Campground - West Lake Park

    Nice Break

    We are headed to North Carolina and needed a break from the back-to-back travel days. This campground was clean and quiet while we’re were there. We did stay from Monday to Wednesday so it might be busier on the weekends.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

    The Brady Bunch of Campgrounds

    SOC-Fox Campground is like the middle child in a family of seven - yes, count 'em seven - campgrounds within Scott County Park. Think Brady Bunch, but with fire pits and RV hookups instead of bell bottoms and avocado-colored kitchens. It’s not the flashiest sibling, but it’s got that reliable Midwest charm that makes you go,'Yep, it's not the most attractive, but it will get the job done.' First impression? Clean, organized and incredibly less chaotic than you’d expect from the Jan of the camping family.

    The sites here are roomy, shaded, and well-behaved, just like campers who say 'please' and 'thank you' everywhere you go, well, because you're in the Midwest. You’ve got a mix of electric and FHU options, so everyone from RV royalty to tent campers with coolers full of questionable lunch meat can settle in comfortably. Roads are wide enough that you won’t have to close one eye and pray when maneuvering your rig. Bathhouses? Shockingly nice. Like, did a spa consultant sneak in here when no one was looking?!  Nice. Fire rings and picnic tables come standard, and the pet-friendly vibe means your dog will probably make more friends than you do.  There's some shade, but most of it is on the treeline on the perimeter.

    And let’s talk about Scott County Park itself, which is like the Disney World of county parks. You want hiking? Got it. Equestrian trails? Saddle up. Disc golf? Fore! Playground for the kids? Absolutely. And then there’s the aquatic center. Not a pool. Not a splash pad. A full-on aquatic wonderland with waterslides, diving boards and enough chlorine to strip a small car of paint. Meanwhile, other campgrounds are out here bragging about their kiddie swings. Weak, right?!

    Insider Tips?  Here's a handful: (1) Shady sites near the woods are perfect for naps and hiding from the in-laws, while open sites are better if you need your daily satellite news fix; (2) Hungry? Roll into nearby Eldridge for The Rustic Ridge, where the burgers are taller than your nephew’s science project and fries are an entire food group all to itself; (3) Kayak fans can float the Wapsipinicon River where it’s calm, scenic and you’ll get to wave at locals fishing with that 'I’ve lived here since 1842' energy; and (4) Don’t skip the aquatic center as your kids will cannonball themselves into exhaustion while you finally finish that camp chair beer in peace.

    Happy Camping!

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

    Nice modern cabin along lake

    Cabin has on-site parking as well as overflow parking nearby, hard surface with picnic table, and firing, gas grill, covered porch with Lakeview, sleeps eight, fireplace and full kitchen amenities, ADA accessible restroom. Park offers seasonal swimming beach, for lakes to paddle and fish at, disc golf course, Concessions in season, and lots of trails.

  • Michael P.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Fairport State Recreation Area Campground

    Host not friendly very rude woman would not recommend staying here at all

    Would not recommend fairport camping  in muscatine iowa at all the host is rude and non caring personality more like two faced   i would recommend  shady creek  or one of the others on the same hwy if looking for nice and great host

    On the note dnr are great thou

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Shady Creek

    Beautiful View

    Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi. Very clean friendly stay

  • Sam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground

    Loud, crowded.

    I don't think we'll be back. The best part about the whole experience was the crazy road that leads to the overlooks. The campground is stacked close together, there's no signs for directing you towards sites, no place to put garbage, only a couple vault toilets. Never did see the shower house, but we just left the next day anyways. Loud people singing, playing music and snapping limbs till almost 4am, trains run all night. Not really my kinda place.


Guide to Geneseo

Camping near Geneseo, Illinois centers primarily on the Hennepin Canal and Rock River watersheds, with sites ranging from primitive to full-service options. The area has relatively level terrain with an average elevation around 650 feet above sea level. Seasonal variations are significant with most campgrounds operating April through October when temperatures typically range from 55°F to 85°F during peak camping season.

What to do

Kayaking the Hennepin Canal: Access the 72-mile waterway directly from multiple campgrounds with rentals available at Geneseo Campground. "Hennepin Canal provides opportunities for paddling... if you don't have a kayak or canoe, do yourself a favor and rent one from the good people at Geneseo Campground," notes Stuart K., who recommends exploring beyond the campground area.

Mountain biking at Illiniwek: The forest preserve near Illiniwek Campground offers challenging trail options. "For those into mountain biking, there is the Illiniwek Forest Preserve 5-mile trail, just a mile south of Fisherman's Corners. Some call it the best trail in Illinois," according to Sebastian G., who frequently rides the area.

Fishing across multiple waterways: Different species inhabit the local rivers and lakes. "If you're reeling, you should expect to catch blue gill, catfish, bass and crappie," advises Stuart K., who suggests crossing to "Izaak Walton Park on its east side where there's a large open canal/lake to cast in" for the best fishing spots.

What campers like

Tent camping separation: At Chief Keokuk Campground, the pine forest creates a distinct camping experience. "One large section of the campground is walk-up non-electric sites in a grove of pine trees. It's lovely! Perfect for hammocks. Shady but open enough to get a breeze," reports Amanda C., who appreciates the tent-focused areas.

Riverfront privacy: Many campers value waterfront sites for their seclusion. "Sites include sites with service, fire rings, shower houses/rr, play areas, shelter for rent, river access for boating/paddling/fishing," explains James M. about Fishermans Corner, noting the Mississippi River sites provide both recreation and solitude.

Affordable primitive options: Budget-conscious campers have several options. "For those searching out 'bare bones' extreme primitive camping conditions... welcome to Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground," writes Stuart K., adding that "camping at the Canal is on a first-come, first-serve basis" with fees around $8 per night collected by a site security officer.

What you should know

Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds vary widely in site proximity. "Sites are shaded, with services, fire pits, wood available, site volunteer. Access along river for fishing. Railroad runs nearby can be loud," notes James M. about Fishermans Corner, highlighting both amenities and potential noise issues.

Bathroom facilities vary significantly: From full facilities to basic options. "The bathrooms are very clean, but no hot water after telling the host twice," reports Karla N. who stayed at Fishermans Corner, while others mention that primitive canal sites have vault toilets without showers.

Water access limitations: Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground and similar primitive sites require planning ahead. "Currently, the ONLY DRINKING WATER available on the ENTIRE canal is located at the main parking lot in front of the visitor center... There are no operable drinking water fountains along the rest of the canal so bring your own water," warns Iris A.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds offer organized recreation options. "From an amenities standpoint, there's an amazing kid's playground, well-stocked camp store, propane refueling station, kayak & canoe rental, gas grill rental, e-bike, pedal carts & fat tire bike rental," Stuart K. notes about Geneseo Campground.

Pool access during hot months: Sunset Lakes Resort provides water recreation beyond the natural waterways. "Access to a lake with paddle boats and kayaks available. Swimming pool and a great camp store," explains Ben W., making it popular during summer heat waves.

Safety considerations: Some campsites have specific challenges for families with young children. "My wife, son, and I recently stayed here on our trip back home from Iowa. The campground was clean and quiet," shares Shawn S., though others note proximity to water requires constant supervision of children.

Tips from RVers

Hookup variations: Electric service is inconsistent across the area's campgrounds. "We have really come to appreciate US Army Corps of Engineers (CoE) campgrounds. They are affordable (especially for seniors)... Site 40 had an electric hookup site with a generous sized level concrete pad, picnic table, and fire grate," explains Lee D. about their stay at Fishermans Corner.

Level sites: Many RVers note the importance of selecting the right spot. "Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas," shares Al K. about their experience finding suitable parking at Fishermans Corner.

Weather considerations: Seasonal variations affect campground conditions. "Great staff! Helpful. Pulled out privacy tent to remedy toilet concerns. Small flies or gnats quite annoying. Pretty, quiet, lush. Would worry about mosquitoes in late summer," advises a camper named "Name" after staying at Geneseo Campground in spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Geneseo, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Geneseo, IL is Geneseo Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 15 reviews.