Tent campsites near Heyworth, Illinois are situated in the rolling hills and oak-hickory forests of central Illinois, which typically sees hot, humid summers and cold winters. The camping season generally runs from April through October, with most conservation areas closing during winter months. The region's terrain features modest elevation changes between 700-850 feet above sea level with several waterways providing fishing opportunities.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: Hickory Hill Campground features a catch and release lake where campers can try their luck without leaving the property. Local anglers frequently visit Woodford State Conservation Area to fish from shore or launch boats. "There are a series of levees that circle around the campground. Locals came in all day long to fish. Some launched their boats but most stayed on shore," notes one camper about Woodford State Conservation Area.
Walking trails: Several camping areas feature walking paths suitable for nature observation. The levee system at Woodford creates natural walking paths through knee-high brush. A visitor mentioned, "We walked along the levees to explore the area. The brush was maybe knee high but it was a peaceful hike."
Wildlife photography: The conservation areas provide opportunities for photography, particularly during sunset hours. At Hickory Hill Campground, visitors can enjoy the "verdant rolling hills of central Illinois" while Woodford offers what one camper called an "incredible view for sunset photography" across its open water areas.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many camping areas offer peaceful settings away from urban noise. One camper described Spring Lake as "a quiet place in an open field surrounded by forest" while another noted that Hickory Hill Campground is "Clean, quiet, and plenty of shade."
Family amenities: Spitler Woods State Natural Area receives praise for its diverse activities, with one visitor stating it has "Great sites. Plenty to do. Favorite place to camp in Illinois."
Helpful camp hosts: Campground staff receive positive mentions for their hospitality. At Woodford State Conservation Area, visitors appreciate that "The hosts are kind and friendly. They were willing to help bring picnic tables to a site if they weren't already there. They also warned us of an upcoming storm."
What you should know
Flooding potential: Low-lying camping areas near water may experience flooding after heavy rainfall. Woodford State Conservation Area campers should be particularly cautious as "this location can flood when the river rises" according to one visitor.
Insects: Seasonal insect activity varies by location. Edward Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area offers more open settings, while Woodford visitors noted "bunches of large gnat-like insects but they didn't bite like mosquitos."
Road conditions: Access roads to some camping areas require careful driving. Several conservation areas have gravel or dirt roads that may become rough after rain. One camper at Woodford mentioned "the entrance road. It was bumpy but not too bad" while noting caretakers "are waiting for more money from the state to finish improving the entrance road."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Families seeking water recreation beyond fishing should consider Hickory Hill Campground with its "in-ground pool opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day," providing a controlled swimming environment for children.
Recreational facilities: Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area offers hiking directly from the camping area, with one visitor noting "Deer run hiking trail is right in camp and gets you a bit of a hike."
Camp store supplies: Some campgrounds offer on-site supplies for forgotten items. Hickory Hill features a "fully-stocked general store, which also serves as the main office where you will check-in upon arrival, offering up firewood, snacks, water, ice and other sundries."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many tent campsites near Heyworth offer primitive sites without typical RV hookups. For those requiring facilities, Hickory Hill Campground provides "30/50 amp electric, water and sewage" though sites can be "kind of tight. Gravel sites but mostly level."
Full-time vs. temporary camping: Hickory Hill Campground has both permanent and transient camping options. One RVer observed it "seems to be more of a full time camping location" with "lots of buildings" where they were "offered a lot for sale."
Accessibility: Call ahead for last-minute availability at developed campgrounds. A visitor to Hickory Hill Campground reported, "We called in the afternoon and got a full hook up, pull through spot" demonstrating the possibility of securing sites without advance reservations.
