R
Ryan B.
Scout
ScoutHickory Hill Campground
My time here
This will be my 11th season at Hickory Hill Campground. I have seen many people come and go, but at the heart of this Campground is a sense of togetherness.
Best Campgrounds near Hennepin, IL
The Hennepin Canal area provides a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites spanning north central Illinois. Starved Rock State Park Campground, about 15 miles southeast of Hennepin, features tent and RV sites with electric hookups and cabin accommodations. The Hennepin Canal Lock system offers multiple primitive camping areas along its waterway, including Lock 6, Lock 11, and Lock 21, which provide basic tent camping with minimal facilities. Pleasant Creek Campground and Condits Ranch expand the options with full hookup RV sites, cabins, and some glamping accommodations within 20 miles of Hennepin.
Camping in this region operates primarily from April through October, with some sites like Starved Rock remaining open year-round. Reservations are essential at developed campgrounds, while the Hennepin Canal camping areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no set check-in or check-out times. Many canal campsites require self-registration with payment collected by a site security officer. The terrain is generally flat with easy access, though some primitive sites may have limited facilities. One camper noted of Hennepin Canal Lock 6, "This was a great little find in the middle of nowhere. We were traveling home after Thanksgiving and we don't like crowded campgrounds. We were in a tent and this was perfect."
Campers consistently mention the peaceful, natural setting of the Hennepin area, particularly along the canal. The camping areas along the Hennepin Canal provide direct access to the canal towpath, which extends approximately 100 miles and is suitable for hiking, biking and paddling. Several visitors highlight the unique lock structures and waterway access as distinctive features. The primitive nature of canal camping appeals to those seeking solitude, while the nearby established campgrounds offer more amenities. A visitor at Hennepin Canal Lock 21 remarked, "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table. Water available a couple of places along the canal. Very nice visitor center open until 3 during the week. Nice place to kayak and canoe." Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species, particularly in the state parks and along the canal corridor.
Best Camping Sites Near Hennepin, Illinois (89)
1. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
100 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL18 milesWebsite+1 (815) 667-4726$25 - $35 / night
"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."
2. Pleasant Creek Campground
27 ReviewsOglesby, IL18 milesWebsite+1 (815) 431-0936"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. Condits Ranch
4 ReviewsHennepin, IL6 milesWebsite+1 (815) 437-2226$50 / night
"Condit’s Ranch is family friendly and away from it all. Sue and the staff could not be nicer. We did tent camping and the setup was perfect. Huge lot. Fire pit and electric. "
4. Lasalle/Peru KOA
14 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL18 milesWebsite+1 (815) 667-4988"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."
5. Starved Rock Family Campground
11 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL18 milesWebsite+1 (815) 202-2088"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."6. Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground
2 ReviewsPrinceton, IL7 milesWebsite+1 (815) 454-2328$8 - $20 / night
"But we looked around with a flashlight and it seemed good! So we built a fire and stayed the night."
"We had a wonderful time around the canal with our main issues being luck."
7. Hennepin Canal Lock 11
3 ReviewsPrinceton, IL10 milesWebsite+1 (815) 454-2328"basis or the rustic elements you will find when camping at any one of these spots, one thing is for certain: if you planned to truly ‘get away from it all’ you really can have your sandwich and eat here"
8. Nature’s Way RV Park
3 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL20 milesWebsite+1 (815) 667-4988$30 - $125 / night
"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. "
9. Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
4 ReviewsSheffield, IL16 milesWebsite+1 (217) 782-6302$8 / night
"bliss first via the major Highway 80, running east-west, and then, eventually via Route 6, which is more like a well-paved country backroad than anything else."
"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."
10. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
8 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL20 milesWebsite+1 (630) 567-4653$29 / night
"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"
"One such place, an oasis of tranquility and beauty nestled in the Illinois wilderness, is the Kayak Starved Rock Campground."
Recent Camping Photos near Hennepin, IL
175 Photos of 89 Hennepin Campgrounds
Amy G.
Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground
Stuart K.
Clark's Run Campground
Alan F.
Starved Rock Family Campground
Ryan L.
Lasalle/Peru KOA
Kristin L.
Pleasant Creek Campground
Thomas U.
Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
Stuart K.
Starved Rock State Park - Youth Campground
Stuart K.
Nature’s Way RV Park
Cullen S.
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
Scott N.
Buffalo Rock State Park Campground
Art S.
Hennepin Canal Lock 22 Campground
Art S.
Woodford State Conservation Area
Recent Reviews near Hennepin, IL
556 Reviews of 89 Hennepin Campgrounds
- D
Debora L.ScoutMillpoint Park
Millpoint campground
It’s a nice place river views, even beaches at the river a path in the woods that are also 4 wheel paths lots of fun there. The bad part is there water is bad not even reg rv filters last one day. My white shower when I left was orange I was there for 4 days. Everyone is laid back no hurry to do anything
Stuart K.
LegendGreat Oaks Camp
Hidden Haven for Groups, Camps & Quiet Reflection
Set on a serene 105-acre site perched above the Illinois River valley, Great Oaks Camp delivers an atmosphere of peaceful serenity blended with purposeful programming. First impressions are warm and welcoming with well-kept grounds, cabins, tent camping spots and lodges arranged thoughtfully, with a sense of intentional space that beckons people to settle in, reflect and connect.
The facility includes multiple lodging options for larger groups including Poplar Lodge that sleeps up to 60 guests across four dorm rooms, complete with a small kitchen and a fireside meeting room with TV/DVD. Hickory Lodge houses 20 people with two dorm rooms, couches and its own meeting area. Stafford Chapel offers two cabins sleeping up to 20 campers each, plus a large multipurpose room equipped for presentations. Eagle Nest and Turkey Roost cabins offer 16–20 beds in comfortable bunk setups, ideal for combined retreats. All buildings are heated and air-conditioned, with fully equipped bathrooms and showers.
Group activities are abundant and included at no additional charge. You can access archery, canoeing, paddle boats, fishing, disc golf, swimming, basketball, sand volleyball, Gaga ball, hiking, field games, high ropes, paintball, challenge initiatives and even an escape room. Meeting spaces like Pine Tree Lodge (with its commercial kitchen) ensure that meals are satisfying and communal. Free firewood is provided too.
Insider Tips? Here you go: (1) For large groups, consider reserving Poplar Lodge and Stafford Chapel together, offering both comfort and flexible meeting space; (2) If your group enjoys outdoor challenges, the high ropes course and escape room are standout features and make for great group bonding; (3) Pine Tree Lodge is ideal for meal prep or rainy-day hangouts as it’s got a commercial kitchen, card tables, and plenty of room; (4) Bring athletic gear as even casual games are covered: disc golf, volleyball, basketball and Gaga ball fields are included; (5) Rates include food, firewood and nearly all activities, which is great for budget planning and simplifying logistics; and (6) For meals outside camp or a short nature walk, consider heading into nearby Lacon where you’ll find a small host of restaurants like Wildey’s Country Diner, Mr. Mike’s Place, FroSmokes Meatery and Rita’s Kitchen & Bar all serving up delectable Midwestern staples.
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
Primitive Camp Right by the Fox River Under Ancient Oaks
Situated about five miles west of Yorkville in Kendall County, Silver Springs State Fish& Wildlife Area spans over 1,350 acres including the beautiful Silver Springs, two manmade lakes and several miles of Fox River shoreline. Camping here is highly primitive and organized around youth and group backpack sites that offer a peaceful, history-rich wilderness setting. It’s not your typical family campground, but more of a lean-into-nature, group-only campout.
The camping experience here is stripped-down with no vehicle access to campsites, no RV hookups and no showers, just ground-based tents in shaded woods along the river. You’ll need to carry in all your gear and water, as this is basic trail-side camping. What you get is serenity, solitude and a tapestry of oak forests, prairie restoration zones and natural spring magic that makes this place feel timeless.
What really sets this park apart is its raw connection to landscape and wildlife. The spring itself bubbles a clear, cold pool that doesn’t freeze in winter, offering a shimmering focal point amid oaks and prairie grasses. Beyond that, the park offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing on Loon & Beaver Lakes as well as the Fox River, plus a robust network of trails stretching 4 miles for hikers and 7 miles for horseback riders. In winter, you can even ice-skate or cross-country ski weather permitting (read: wait for the snow to fall and the water to freeze over).
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you hadn’t picked up on it already, bring everything you need as this is primitive camping to the max with no potable water or facilities at campsites; (2) The spring is a must-see and I would encourage you to visit during sunset when the light turns the waters silvery; (3) You definitely want to plan some trail time hiking near those lake and river paths that are perfect for wildlife viewing and quiet reflection; (4) While you certainly could do solo camping here, this place ideal for organized youth groups or scout trips; (5) While you won’t be able to drive up to your site, there is a decent parking lot that will at least allow you to get pretty close to where you will eventually be camping, so while it will take a handful of trips, depending upon how many people you come with, at least you’ll be able to hike in ¼ mile to the first spot or a ½ mile further in where there are larger group sites; and (6) For groceries or hot meals after camping, head into Yorkville for the nearest comforts with excellent digs like Smokey’s for some authentic BBQ, Crusade Burger Bar for its namesake handhelds and craft beer as well as The Vault, which is a former bank offering up Midwestern comfort food.
Happy Camping!
Gerard E.
GuideStarved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
Semi Modern
May 15-20, 2025
Easy check in, empty on Thursday, site 47 Is full sun and level.
Not much shade in the western sites, plenty of grass, pads are gravel, mostly even. ADA sites are concrete. Site 49 and 51 have some shade. The eastern sites are wooded, narrow and secluded cept for a few near the shower house.
Electric was 20&30amp, newer metal fire pit with adjustable ring. Large wooden table. Pit toilets are ADA compatible, shower house has 2 showers, 2 stalls and urinal. Push button with good pressure and heat.
Cellular, T-Mobile 5G 2 bars outside, 3 bars LTE inside camper.
The Hosts were great, and very helpful. The campground overall is old and could use an upgrade. The toilets, showers, and playground, although the youth area has a newer area for the kids.
The park could use more water fill stations and there are two spots for dumping but only one septic hole. Trash dumpsters are located away from the camping area which makes for a nice walk in the evening.
Caden R.
TravelerHennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground
Good Overall
We had a wonderful time around the canal with our main issues being luck. On our first day there we were stalked and approached by some people who seemed to be on drugs, however we moved up the canal to a different campground and all seemed fine afterwards until our fishing poles were stolen at the new spot.
Ken and Sheryl C.
RangerGeneseo Campground
Small and quiet
Good for an overnight. Long term residents. Stayed in 42’ 5th wheel
Chris H.ScoutWhite oak primitive camp Hudson IL
Not free; must reserve and pay fee.
Listed on app as free, but it actually requires a reservation and fee.
Brian O.LegendPleasant Creek Campground
lives up to it's name, good option for Starved Rock area
Because of it's 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).
Depending on the time of year, the creek may not be running, but the fishing pond is always full. Many activities in well maintained areas. It's a new campground and the general store hasn't built up much inventory yet. The firewood is dry and burns well.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).
There are small cabins for rent and long-term sites are available.
Guide to Hennepin
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Hennepin, IL?
What camping is available near Hennepin, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Hennepin, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 89 campgrounds and RV parks near Hennepin, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Hennepin, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Hennepin, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hennepin, 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 Hennepin, IL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hennepin, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Hennepin, IL.
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