B
Brad T.
Scout
ScoutStarved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
042 Site
Nice campground, but make sure you are on the outside. Very little shade.
Camping near Peru, IL
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Campgrounds surrounding Peru, Illinois cluster along the Illinois River Valley, offering varied camping experiences within 15 miles of town. The region includes established sites like Starved Rock State Park Campground with tent, RV, and cabin options, plus the highly-rated Starved Rock Family Campground where wooded sites provide natural separation between campers. Visitors seeking additional accommodations can explore Lasalle/Peru KOA which offers boat-in access alongside traditional drive-in sites, or Pleasant Creek Campground featuring tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping yurts.
Most campgrounds in the area remain open from spring through fall, though seasonal availability varies. Starved Rock Campground operates year-round while nearby Pleasant Creek Campground typically opens from April 15 to October. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when Illinois River Valley attractions draw significant tourism. Many sites feature full hookups with 50-amp electric service, water connections, and dump stations for RVs, while tent campers will find designated areas with fire rings and picnic tables. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though coverage may diminish in some canyon areas. According to one visitor, Starved Rock State Park provides "nicely wooded and picturesque" sites "similar to northern Wisconsin" despite being "not far off the highway."
The Illinois River shapes the camping experience throughout the region, with several locations offering river views or direct water access. Campgrounds near Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks provide convenient bases for exploring their hiking trails, canyons, and waterfalls. Review insights highlight the contrast between busier campgrounds near major attractions and more secluded options. Campers frequently mention the ability to access hiking trails directly from campsites, particularly along the I&M Canal corridor that parallels the Illinois River. The proximity to small towns like Utica offers additional amenities while maintaining a rural atmosphere. One reviewer noted that Illini State Park campground provides "a great river view" along with "clean bathrooms" and "plenty of trees to hammock" despite occasional weather challenges.
Best Campgrounds near Peru (104)
1. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
"Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn’t expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"
"Beautiful Starved Rock is Illinois's favorite state park. Hiking through forests along the Illinois River to canyons and waterfalls with eagles soaring overhead."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability2. Pleasant Creek Campground
"Within LaSalle County or for that matter, the whole of north central Illinois, I don’t know of any other privately run, multi-campground locations like Pleasant Creek that offers a total of 6 separate,"
"There is a nice pavilion, a game room/club house, basketball court, fishing pond, firewood for sale, and a few short trails."
3. Lasalle/Peru KOA
"Everything in the campground is within walking distance. They have a dishwashing sink and garbage cans every 30-50 feet. Convenient. Bathrooms and showers are super clean. Recommend for sure."
"It’s adjacent a large field so you do get some wind and the occasional sound of farm equipment…but there’s a lot of nice spots."
4. Starved Rock Family Campground
"Located here in the heart of north central Illinois, where you can very easily get lost in the golden hue of sweet corn or the dizzying amounts of drilled bean fields, there’s a special quiet that exists"
"No water hookup but spigot nearby. No sewer hookup but dump station on-site.
So fun to hike and explore a series of canyons along the Illinois River."5. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
"more than two years 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) Closely located"
"Before we begin, let me share 3 things with you: (1) I love camping, preferably primitive camping where I get to pitch my tent, leaving the comforts of modern civilization behind in the hopes of returning"
from $29 / night
Check Availability6. Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park
"Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view."
"Spent a couple nights here (site 3) for Vintage Illinois at a nearby park. Quiet, fairly level, gravel sites. Electric worn but fully functional. Lots of trees and shade."
from $12 - $55 / night
Check Availability7. Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground — Matthiessen State Park
"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 abounds in this particular Illinois"
"to hike during the day and the friendly on-site ranger made a call over to nearby Starved Rock SP to secure me a camping spot over there, so not all was lost. "
from $10 / night
Check Availability8. Nature’s Way RV Park
"Just outside and behind this main building, you’ll discover a rather large, covered pavilion which is great for larger groups or for anyone wanting to picnic under some shade. "
from $30 - $125 / night
Check Availability9. Buffalo Rock State Park Campground
"A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."
"You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you’re looking for privacy this is it. There aren’t toilets tho or running water.."
from $6 / night
Check Availability10. Starved Rock State Park - Youth Campground
"All of this in arguably the absolute best state park in the whole of Illinois."
"function; (3) The second meadow offers more privacy, a quieter vibe along with the sense you’ve stumbled into your own private patch of wilderness; (4) Hiking at Starved Rock delivers 13+ miles of trails"
Drive Time
- 55 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 2 min from Bloomington, IL
- 1 hr 6 min from Peoria, IL
- 1 hr 26 min from Kankakee, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Peru, IL
205 Photos of 104 Peru Campgrounds
Alan F.
Starved Rock Family Campground
Stuart K.
Clark's Run Campground
Marc W.
Lasalle/Peru KOA
Stuart K.
Nature’s Way RV Park
Kim N.
Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
Stuart K.
Starved Rock State Park - Youth Campground
Amanda P.
Pleasant Creek Campground
Erick B.
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
Scott N.
Buffalo Rock State Park Campground
Amy G.
Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground
Stuart K.
The Waller Events & Camping
Art S.
Whitetail Campground — Illini State Park
Recent Reviews near Peru, IL
609 Reviews of 104 Peru Campgrounds
Raymond P.ScoutChief Blackhawk Group Camp
Campsite numbers don’t match Internet numbers
Nice walking trails and good fishing at the lake
- Raymond P.Scout
Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
Level sites with electric
Site was walking distance from the lake. quiet cul-de-sac
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area
Riverbank Stillness along the Banks of the Illinois River
There’s a lovely hush that settles over Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area the moment you wind your way beneath the tall timber and pull into this rustic riverfront campground, the kind of place where the breeze feels soft and the squirrels seem to outnumber the people. The campground itself is small and simple, offering spacious, mostly shaded sites with EZ access to the Illinois River, where anglers set up early and kayakers glide past with that slow, content rhythm that makes you want to join them. The boys loved wandering the little footpaths between the trees, pretending they were explorers while my husband gathered kindling and I soaked in the quiet that’s so hard to find in everyday life. One of my favorite moments was watching the sun drop behind the far treeline as we all shared marshmallows at the fire ring, the river catching the last light just perfectly. For families who don’t mind the rustic feel, including vault toilets, limited amenities, and a true ‘bring what you need’ kind of setup, this place offers peaceful nights, wide-open nature, and a sense of being tucked away in something truly untouched. For the best campsite here, choose Site 18, which is the most private river-adjacent spot with a deep pocket of shade and just enough open ground for the boys to play safely while still keeping them in view.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Gebhard Woods State Park Campground
A Tiny, Peaceful Hideaway by Nettle Creek
The soft hush of Nettle Creek and the canopy of old hardwoods set the tone the moment we rolled into the tiny family campground at Gebhard Woods, which I would describe as a simple and wooded pocket tucked along the historic I&M Canal in the very quaint nearby town of Morris that feels like stepping back into a gentler, slower rhythm. With only a very small number of walk-in and car-accessible sites, everything here is intentionally uncomplicated with basic picnic tables, simple fire rings, primitive vault toilets, functional stand-up grills, expansive shelter in case of rain and an abundance of shade. The entire campground opens up within EZ walking distance of the creek, footbridges and a canal path that our little ones immediately ran off to explore. One of my favorite moments came as we watched them marvel at all of the turtles they discovered near the creek banks, their laughter echoing under the trees while my husband and I stirred the campfire and breathed in that cool creek-bank air ... grateful for a night that asked so little of us except to be present. While Gebhard Woods is primitive in every way with no hookups, no frills and no store, it’s absolutely perfect for families who want quiet, nature and room for little imaginations to run wild with the best spots being the shaded sites closest to Nettle Creek where the breeze and water sounds soften everything just right. Highly recommended for families seeking peaceful simplicity, kid-friendly exploring and a truly low-key overnight in the woods.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Woodford State Conservation Area
Riverbend Quietude for the Whole Family
With the river curving gently nearby and tall trees leaning in as if to welcome you with the non-stop shower of falling leaves in a kaleidoscope of Autumn colors, there’s a soft kind of stillness that settles over you the moment you pull into Woodford State Conservation Area. The campground here is small and simple, tucked into thick woods with EZ access to the boat launch, abundant fishing spots and winding shaded nature trails, plus vault toilets and fairly new looking picnic tables that keep things primitive, yet convenient even in this somewhat more rustic setting. Our two little boys loved wandering the shaded paths looking for deer tracks before finishing the night with marshmallows that melted faster than they could giggle about them. Since the campground doesn’t offer numbered or distinct campsite loops, the best places to set up are the shady pockets furthest from the gravel road you drove in, where the breeze is cooler and the trees thin just enough for those pretty filtered sunsets. While you’ll feel embedded in nature here, should you need any supplies, you can quickly access big box retailers and restaurants in less than 20 minutes from here in nearby East Peoria. I’d recommend this campground for families who appreciate quiet nature time, EZ access to paddling and fishing as well as a peaceful wooded environment that feels far from everything yet wonderfully grounding.
- MMark L.Scout
Rolling Oaks Campground
Always amazing
This was my family's campground before my grandmother passed when I was 7. From then till a few years ago I hadn't been back. The first time getting back was definitely a trip down memory lane. Now I try to get a campsite at least once a year. It's always quiet and peaceful & the staff is always willing to help make sure that you have the best experience possible.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Chief Blackhawk Group Camp
Spacious Woodland Haven for Big Gatherings
There’s something about arriving at the Chief Blackhawk Group Camp that immediately feels like stepping into a wide, green embrace, with the tall hardwoods and quiet prairie edges giving families the kind of breathing room that only a true group campground can offer. Set deep within Johnson-Sauk Trail State Park, this expansive, grassy group area provides a wonderful blend of shade, open field space, EZ parking access and nearby trails, with clean vault toilets and a central gathering area perfect for camp kitchens, games and big family meals. One of my favorite moments came as the boys chased fireflies along with their cousins across the open field at dusk, their happy shouts mixing with the crackle around the campfire along with our extended family as the sky slowly turned lavender above the treetops. Because there are no numbered sites here, the best setup is simply choosing the shady tree line along the western edge of the loop as close to the lake as you can get, where tents tuck in beautifully and families can enjoy both privacy and a view of the open meadow to the rear or the waterfront vista in front. And if you want to treat the family to a really nice treat, try out Paxton’s Corner Coop back in Annawan featuring fresh made ice cream and cinnamon rolls. I’d recommend Chief Blackhawk Group Camp for families looking to host reunions or multi-family trips, thanks to its generous space, quiet setting and the EZ access to hiking trails, Lake Johnson and all the classic memories a big campout tends to create.
Sue B.
RangerHennepin Canal Lock 11
Great spot for a night
We stayed here on the way back from a trip out west, and it was great for us. Pit toilets and a picnic table were unexpected bonuses. The app we used suggested a fee but we couldn't find anywhere to leave the $, and there was no one there collecting it. My 14 yo dog was struggling to regulate her body temp, so she and I camped in a tent while my hubby and the other pup slept in the van.
Guide to Peru
Illinois River Valley camping sites near Peru, Illinois offer campers sites ranging from 450 to 750 feet in elevation. Seasonal weather can challenge campers with swift temperature changes during spring and fall months. Most campgrounds in the region maintain operating seasons from April through October, though some extend to year-round availability depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Kayaking the Illinois River: Launch from Kayak Starved Rock Campground for direct river access. "You can anchor and explore this small island– in fact, bring a blanket and picnic basket and make a day of it," suggests a visitor referring to Plum Island. The campground sits directly across from Starved Rock State Park, providing unique views from the water.
Canyon hiking in less crowded areas: Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground offers access to trails with fewer visitors than nearby alternatives. "There exists a combination of EZ, intermediate and difficult hiking and riding paths," notes one reviewer. The park's 5 miles of trails feature interesting limestone formations and seasonal waterfalls.
Wildlife observation: Buffalo Rock State Park provides viewing opportunities for native and introduced species. "Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers. A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk," explains a camper. This smaller park offers river overlooks without the crowds found at larger parks in the region.
What campers like
River views from campsites: Great Falls Campground at Illini State Park provides direct Illinois River frontage. "We had a nice quiet spot right on the river. With the locks closed this year, the traffic on the river was way down," mentions a reviewer. These riverside sites fill quickly during peak season.
Natural separation between sites: Starved Rock Family Campground maintains good spacing between camping areas. "Sites aren't stacked on top of each other and seem fairly level," states one camper. Another notes, "The site is large enough for a nice dog walk and a very short drive to starved rock."
Off-season camping advantages: Campers report benefits to visiting during less busy periods. "Definitely a very relaxed and clean campground that isn't busy and has really cheap rates for off-season camping. $18 a night for walk-in and we got a 50amp spot right in front of the Illinois river," reports one visitor to Illini State Park.
What you should know
Water levels affect site conditions: Several campgrounds face occasional flooding challenges. At Pleasant Creek Campground, "A heavy downpour resulted in water up over our ankles all through the site! Thank goodness the tents floated while we hunkered down in our vehicles," warns one camper. Sites along creeks and in lower elevations face highest risk.
Booking requirements vary: Some campgrounds operate on first-come systems while others require advance planning. "Got kicked out cause I didn't have a horse. Even though it was completely empty," reports a visitor to Matthiessen State Park's equestrian campground, highlighting the importance of understanding site restrictions.
Facilities differ widely between parks: Bathroom and shower quality ranges significantly. "The showers on site TRICKLED, not even enough to wash your hair. The sinks constantly run, they don't shut off," notes a camper at Illini State Park. Research facility conditions before arrival, especially for longer stays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Nature's Way RV Park provides dedicated play areas. "Above and beyond this, there's a designated propane refilling station, very well-maintained restroom and shower facilities, basketball court, scattered picnic tables and stand-up BBQ grills, WiFi and cable access, kid's playground, community fire rings," details one visitor.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with pools during summer months. A Pleasant Creek Campground visitor notes, "The kids loved going to the playground and they do have an arcade but other that that there's not much to do. A little creek runs through the campground and you can walk along that."
Starved Rock State Park hiking caution: Trails can challenge younger children. "People get down on Illinois. And I get it. It's a typical Midwest state and it's mostly pretty flat. But...then there's Starved Rock! Easily accessible to most of IL residents, Starved Rock is a great half-day for anyone looking for hiking, waterfalls, and views, views, views!" A visitor recommends: "We enjoyed a quick trail mix snack at the bottom of the steep inclines. Gave the kiddos the energy they needed to make it to the top."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Lasalle/Peru KOA, "The spots are very tight and you have very little room between you and your neighbor. With all the rain this year, many sites flooded during a storm while we camped and they had to be moved to other areas that were not actual sites," reports one RVer. Request higher elevation sites when possible.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times. "The dump station was also up a one way in/out hill. You had to make a tight U-turn coming down from your site to get up to it. Plan on going early otherwise you're going to get stuck on the hill waiting…even after you finished dumping," advises a Pleasant Creek Campground visitor.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation. At Starved Rock Family Campground, "When we checked in, we just got a map and no rules or information sheet. Their rules etc. are on their website." Another visitor at Pleasant Creek notes, "To get up to the sites, it's a one way up and down road. Hopefully no one else is coming the opposite direction."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find tent camping near Peru?
Where can I find tent camping near Peru?
For tent camping near Peru, Illinois, Starved Rock Campground offers a nicely wooded setting with a scenic atmosphere reminiscent of northern Wisconsin. The campground provides a quiet experience not far from the highway. Another excellent option is Great Falls Campground in Illini State Park, where you'll find plenty of trees for hammocking and beautiful river views. The campground's natural setting makes it popular among tent campers looking to connect with nature while still having access to basic amenities.
What amenities are available at Peru campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Peru campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Peru offer varied amenities to suit different camping styles. Channahon State Park Campground provides access to the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail, making it perfect for cyclists. For RVers, Millpoint Park features spacious, well-distanced campsites along the Illinois River with many sites offering river views. Most area campgrounds provide clean restrooms, while state parks typically include shower facilities. Some private RV parks offer additional amenities like full hookups and dump stations. For those needing just an overnight stop, several parking options exist at local businesses with level parking areas.
What camping is available near Peru, IL?
What camping is available near Peru, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Peru, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 104 campgrounds and RV parks near Peru, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Peru, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Peru, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Peru, IL is Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 100 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Peru, IL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Peru, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Peru, IL.
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