The Hennepin Canal area sits at approximately 520 feet above sea level in Bureau County, with camping options spanning across flat to gently rolling terrain typical of north central Illinois. Temperatures range from summer highs around 85°F to winter lows near 12°F, making April through October the primary camping season. Most primitive canal sites lack potable water access, requiring campers to bring their own supply or visit the visitor center for fill-ups.
What to do
Kayaking the Illinois River: Launch from Kayak Starved Rock Campground where sites directly face the water. "We brought our own canoe out on the water," notes Cullen S., while other campers can take advantage of rental options. Sites feature fire pits with cooking grates near the water's edge.
Hiking at state parks: The region offers multiple trail systems within short driving distance of campsites. "We took the dog and hiked Matthesion state park, which was beautiful and only a mile or so passed the starved rock state park entrance," shares Caitlin C., highlighting accessible day trip options for campers based at canal sites.
Horseback riding: Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground provides designated equestrian camping with wooden hitching posts. "We did see a couple riding on the trail today," notes Art S. The Hennepin Canal Trail runs directly through camp, offering miles of riding paths on crushed gravel surfaces.
Canal exploration: The historic lock system creates unique recreational features. "The Hennepin Canal Trail goes right through camp. On a previous visit I rode my bike along the crushed gravel trail. With a few connecting roads, I traveled from a Chicago suburb to the Mississippi River," explains Art S. about the extensive trail network.
What campers like
Peaceful riverfront sites: Many campers appreciate direct water access and views. At Kayak Starved Rock Campground, "Our campsite was wonderful and was on a point on the river that has a 180 degree view of the river," reports Paul R., noting the natural setting as one of the campground's best features.
Campground layout and privacy: Pleasant Creek Campground offers varied site options. "Because of its layout, you never get a true sense of how big the whole campground is (50 acres). The largest and most open area is on top of the hill (the Highlands) but there are other areas that are shadier and more close to nature (Alcove way, Creekside, Oak Grove, the Glades)," explains Brian O.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, canal sites receive positive reviews for cleanliness. For Hennepin Canal Lock 21, Jeff F. notes, "The place is clean and well kept, including the pit toilets." Even in more developed campgrounds, facility maintenance stands out, with Paul R. remarking, "The Porta potties were shockingly clean! The potties also have motion sensor lights in them for at night visits."
Affordable rates: Canal camping provides budget-friendly options. "Only $8," notes Jeff and Linda L. about Hennepin Canal Lock 21, adding "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table." Illinois residents over 62 receive additional benefits as Jeff F. points out: "Fee is $8 however if you're an Illinois resident over 62 camping is free Sunday through Thursday nights."
What you should know
Site reservation systems vary: While state parks and private campgrounds require advance booking, canal sites operate differently. "Camping at the Canal is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are no set check-in or check-out times," explains Iris A. about Hennepin Canal Lock 11. "The Canal's site security officer makes rounds to each campsite to collect camping fees, in-person. Campers can pay by cash or check."
Potential flooding concerns: Several campgrounds in the area sit in low-lying terrain. At Pleasant Creek Campground, Amanda W. cautions, "The bulk of the campsites are down in a valley and ours was along the creek. A heavy downpour resulted in water up over our ankles all through the site!"
Limited water access: Most primitive sites lack drinking water. "There are no operable drinking water fountains along the canal so bring your own water for your hike or camping trip," warns Iris A. Even at more developed sites, water access may be limited. Jeff and Linda L. note about Hennepin Canal Lock 21: "Water available a couple of places along the canal."
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities operate on limited schedules. About Hennepin Canal Lock 21, Jeff and Linda L. mention, "Very nice visitor center open until 3 during the week, no weekends," highlighting the importance of planning visits around facility hours.
Railroad proximity: At Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground, Amy G. warns: "There is a railroad bridge RIGHT NEXT TO the campsite (about 50 yards) and it is functional. We found this out in the middle of the night when we were jolted from sleep by headlights and loud noise!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Starved Rock Family Campground provides dedicated children's play areas. "Amazing park for children, front office has everything you could imagine," notes Tony K., making it suitable for families seeking structured activities.
Swimming options: Water recreation varies by location. Paul R. shares about Kayak Starved Rock Campground: "There is no parking for it but there's a nice sandy beach along the road before the dam we pulled over to swim in!" Pleasant Creek Campground offers additional options with "a swimming hole and the clubhouse were great to mix in to keep the youngsters entertained," according to Mike P.
Safety considerations: Holly J. raises concerns about some canal sites: "The camp sites here are right between the parking lot and the fishing spots so all the fishermen and hikers go right through your site. No privacy at all. As a single female traveler, I didn't feel safe enough to stay here."
Alternative activities: For rainy days or breaks from outdoor activities, some campgrounds offer indoor options. Ryan L. notes about Condits Ranch: "They have a general store with necessities like milk etc, and extras like movies to borrow, and swag to purchase."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing and access: RV sites vary widely in size and arrangement. At LaSalle/Peru KOA, Jason notes: "The front of this park is the typical KOA. Trailer spots, pool, general store. Showers and bathroom are VERY clean and the staff is on top of things."
Road conditions: Access roads can present challenges for larger rigs. At Pleasant Creek Campground, Rodney D. warns: "The only issue we had was the narrow road up the hill, I would hat to be half way up and meet another camper coming down." Similarly, Brian A. cautions: "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."
Full hookup availability: Hennepin canal sites offer no hookups, while private campgrounds provide varying levels of service. Brian O. notes at Pleasant Creek: "Fire pits are basic steel circles, bring your own grill. There's one central restroom with showers, clean and spacious, but it can be a walk from some areas (long hills too)."
Navigation challenges: Several reviewers mention difficulty finding some of the canal sites. Amy G. describes Hennepin Canal Lock 6 as "a great little find in the middle of nowhere," adding "I have to be honest, coming into this one 'in the dark' was a bit creepy. No lights, no signs and some graffiti on the railroad bridge."
