Best Camping near Galesburg, IL

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Galesburg. Galesburg is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Illinois camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Galesburg, IL (85)

    Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey
    Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey
    Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey
    Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey
    Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey
    Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey

    1.

    Allison Lake Storey

    10 Reviews
    19 Photos
    18 Saves
    Galesburg, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground

    3.

    Jubilee College State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    10 Photos
    37 Saves
    Brimfield, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    5.

    Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    16 Reviews
    60 Photos
    42 Saves
    Rock Island, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    6.

    Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    21 Reviews
    19 Photos
    34 Saves
    Bettendorf, Iowa

    Overview

    With impressive views of the mighty Mississippi River, Fishermans Corner provides convenient RV and tent camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lush river landscape provides plenty of shade, and activities from water sports to hiking to wildlife viewing. Eagle watching is particularly popular during the winter months at Fishermans Corner.

    Recreation

    Although there is no river access from within the campground, the Fishermans Corner Day Use facility is a short walk away and offers numerous fishing areas as well as a canoe ramp. Visitors can also catch a weekly educational program at the amphitheater located within the campground. The Central Trail section of the famous Mississippi River Trail passes directly in front of the campground, offering visitors miles of walking and biking trails along the river bank. The expansive Elton E. Fawks Bald Eagle Refuge and Nature Preserve and the Illiniwek Forest Preserve are also located just minutes away.

    Facilities

    Although there is no river access from within the campground, the Fishermans Corner Day Use facility is a short walk away and offers numerous fishing areas as well as a canoe ramp. Visitors can also catch a weekly educational program at the amphitheater located within the campground. The Central Trail section of the famous Mississippi River Trail passes directly in front of the campground, offering visitors miles of walking and biking trails along the river bank. The expansive Elton E. Fawks Bald Eagle Refuge and Nature Preserve and the Illiniwek Forest Preserve are also located just minutes away.

    Natural Features

    Fishermans Corner offers an excellent view of a small aquatic marsh near Locks and Dam 14, which is home to an array of wildlife species. On any given morning visitors may see turtles sunning on rocks near the river bed or countless bird species hunting the shallow waters for food. The scenery during camping season never disappoints, whether it's the vivid greenery during the spring or the breathtaking medley of colors during the fall.

    contact_info

    For local information, please call (563) 232-9096 or call (815) 259-3628 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    The John Deere Pavilion, an interactive museum spanning almost 200 years of the famous American agricultural company's history is located a convenient 20-minutes away by car. For a more exotic experience, the Botanical Center located in Rock Island, features an array of colorful plant species located in both indoor and outdoor gardens.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $26 / night

    • No image available

      7.

      Cabin Fever Campground

      3 Reviews
      18 Saves
      Kewanee, Illinois
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Reservable
      • RVs
      • Tents

      $30 - $60 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Citizens Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Citizens Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Citizens Lake Campground

      8.

      Citizens Lake Campground

      3 Reviews
      3 Photos
      1 Save
      Oquawka, Illinois
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs
      Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek

      9.

      Shady Creek

      16 Reviews
      41 Photos
      62 Saves
      Illinois City, Illinois

      Overview

      Shady Creek Campground is a 22-acre park where campers enjoy getaways on the banks of the Mississippi River. A nature trail, shore fishing and fantastic bird watching are offered at Shady Creek.

      Recreation

      The Mississippi River draws many anglers annually. The most popular fish species is the channel catfish; bluegill, walleye and northern pike are also found in the river. Picnicking and playing horseshoes is a popular activity in the park.

      Facilities

      The Mississippi River draws many anglers annually. The most popular fish species is the channel catfish; bluegill, walleye and northern pike are also found in the river. Picnicking and playing horseshoes is a popular activity in the park.

      Natural Features

      The park has spectacular views of the Mississippi River. Many trees throughout the campground provide great places to lounge in the shade. The Upper Mississippi River begins at the headwaters of Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows 1,250 miles to Cairo, Illinois where it joins the Ohio River.

      Nearby Attractions

      Wildcat Den State Park is just north of Shady Creek, offering hiking trails and the historic Pine Creek Grist Mill built in 1848. The Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge is a 40-minute drive downstream. Trails and observation decks are open to the public. Hunting and fishing are allowed in many area of the refuge.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs

      $25 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground

      10.

      Geneseo Campground

      12 Reviews
      22 Photos
      29 Saves
      Geneseo, Illinois

      Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests.

      If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi.

      Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground!

      For more camping options - including group reservations - please visit our website at https://rol.camp/geneseo-campground or call 309-442-2662.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs

      $40 - $95 / night

    Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

    Pet-friendly camping near Galesburg

    Recent Reviews In Galesburg

    368 Reviews of 85 Galesburg Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from Langwood Education Center
      September 5, 2024

      Langwood Education Center

      Great place!

      Langwood Education Center looks like a great spot for a weekend camping trip, especially if you’re into outdoor education. If you’re planning to camp there with kids, it could be a fun way to blend learning and adventure. Plus, it’s close enough to larger cities, making it convenient for a quick getaway. I’ve been planning something similar but also juggling a lot of writing assignments lately. For those who need help with academic papers or essays while on the go, https://99papers.com/essay-writing/ has been a great resource. They’ve saved me a lot of time when I’ve had deadlines looming. Anyway, has anyone visited recently and can share tips on the best trails or activities for families?

    • Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
      September 5, 2024

      Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

      Perfect!

      Very nice, affordable and peaceful campsite. Stayed one night for tent camping, campsite was clean and accommodating with fire pit, picnic table, lights, Wi-Fi, and power plug. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Perfect camping site.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
      August 31, 2024

      Jubilee College State Park Campground

      Peaceful and low key

      Excellent campground for those who want to relax and have quiet time. Nature trails are nicely groomed and mowed. Not a lot of amenities for families with young kids but bring your own corn hole bags and badminton. Nice for adults who want some peace and quiet.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
      August 22, 2024

      Interstate RV Park

      Overnight stop along I-80

      Campground has gravel lanes, roads pads, appears to have annual residence, campground office, pool is clean, planes, farm, and fleet nearby for Supplies. Sites include tables, water, electric, though need updating.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
      August 20, 2024

      Jubilee College State Park Campground

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    • Camper-submitted photo from Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park
      August 15, 2024

      Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

      Very, very clean, County, modern cabin, surrounded by Prairie overlooking lake

      This cabin has all modern conveniences with two sleeping rooms, full service, kitchen, living room, with sofa, sleeper, and fireplace, ADA bathroom and a covered porch overlooking the lake. There’s a gas grill, fire pit, picnic table for outdoor recreation. The park offers kayak rentals, paddle boat rentals, swimming beach in season, and concessions.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Summit Cabin 1
      August 15, 2024

      Summit Cabin 1

      Very nice, clean County cabin overlooking lake

      This modern cabin offers to better bedrooms, full service, kitchen, living room, with sofa, sleeper, and fireplace, ADA bathroom, covered porch with chairs and view of the lake, fire pit, and picnic table outside. Park offers, kayak and paddleboard, rentals, concessions, and a swimming beach in season.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey
      August 2, 2024

      Allison Lake Storey

      Second time was not the same

      We stayed here at the beginning of May last year. We thought it was a pretty good camp ground, but didn’t realize how different it would be the second time around a little later in the season. It was noisy and packed, tenters taking up more room than they should’ve, and no one to tell them not to. We had a camper set up close to us and taken over three sites. It was even uneven terrain than we remembered where we were set up, more dirt than grass. The bathrooms smelled heavily like urine and were not clean. When we left to dump the dump we had to switch to the other dump station because the hose threading was so bad. Even the other one wasn’t great, but we had to make it work. We will not be back, unless we try at the beginning of the season when it’s less busy and things aren’t as dirty. Even then, I don’t know if we want to battle the uneven sites.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cabin Fever Campground
      July 15, 2024

      Cabin Fever Campground

      Place is nice, manager isn't.

      The place is nice and very quiet on weekdays.  My only complaint is Rick who runs the place.  I have not had good experiences with him.  He really seems unhappy in his job.  I heard him tell a good friend of mine while I was standing just feet away  "... I hate managing the place".

    • Camper-submitted photo from Galesburg East / Knoxville KOA Journey
      July 12, 2024

      Galesburg East / Knoxville KOA Journey

      Great Campground fixing it up

      They are spending a lot on this campground. New restrooms, traveled all pads, trimmed trees, new playground equipment. It is a hidden gem. If you are on I 74 great place to stay. We will be back. A lot of events scheduled. Cabins being put in.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
      July 10, 2024

      Wildcat Den State Park Campground

      Lovely hidden space

      Found by hiking at the Wildcat Den State Park. Lovely little campside with 19 places, rustical without electricity, dump etc. But got one waterstation and toilets. Every space with picknicktable and fireplace, surrounded by trees. Places are gras. Sorry for my english, Camp from Germany :-)

    • Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground
      July 1, 2024

      Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground

      Serene Primitive Camping Outpost

      For those searching out ‘bare bones’ extreme primitive camping conditions with which to imbibe the best of what tent camping au naturale looks like, smack dab in the middle of absolutely nowhere, then welcome to Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground. This particular outpost follows a chain of similar sparsely outfitted campgrounds that more resemble simple grass pastures to set up your encampment versus a proper designated campground with all of the accoutrement. 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 send you down a path that greets the Hennepin Canal, where you’ll turn left and follow the gravel road only about 50 yards before coming upon Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground.

      For mi primitive tent pitchin' bredren, you have just discovered a small slice of heaven. There’s nothing here but the following: (1) Nobody; (2) A slow-moving current of Hennepin Canal that is sublime for a kayak or canoe to dip her beak in; (3) Enough space for 4 to maybe 5 tents to set up for the night; and (4) A proper his / her restroom, which even I was shocked to see – and curiously enough, it was well-maintained, but that said, it’s still just a glorified hole in the ground with a plastic toilet on top. Beyond this, you only have yourself, a pristine bit of nature to explore and the never-ending swooshing of nearby Interstate 80 traffic, which you very quickly get over.

      Do note that this (and the other camping locations up and down the Hennepin Canal) are offered up on a first-come, first-served basis with no proper reservation system in place. There’s a canal security officer who MAY stop by to collect a fee or not – when we were there, no such officer arrived, so while we were prepared to pay the $8 nightly fee, we ended up not having to pay and there’s no ‘on-your-honor’ drop box to leave an envelope with the nightly fee, which we would have gladly paid, so we used that $8 to pay it forward on our next camping adventure. Because this place is so 'off the beaten path,’ we didn’t encounter a single soul during our entire stay, apart from a farmer who dropped by near dusk to offer us up a half dozen eggs for our breakfast the following morning, which was supremely awesome.

      After setting up our tent for the evening and prepping our kayaks for a dawn launch, my mates and I headed into nearby Annawan, where we had a really nice dinner over at the Purple Onion where the fried catfish was simply outstanding and the rhubarb pie was an unexpected gift. Following this, we headed over to Paxton’s Corner Coop for some killer cupcakes and ice cream. I can’t believe we found this 'out-of-the-world' place so close to our very primitive camping experience!

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) The nearby town of Annawan really is a local blessing as it offers up just a few restaurants and a single grocery store with which to augment your otherwise primitive experience, so if you run out of anything or need something in particular on short notice, even though you’re primitive camping, within 5 minutes, you can access just about anything you need; (2) If you are looking for some unique hiking options, there’s two that are very close by, including Mineral Marsh Nature Reserve and further afield, McCune Sand Prairie; (3) Should you be carrying watercraft with you, of course, there’s the Hennepin Canal in which you are camping in front of, but if you are looking for a bigger or alternative water escape, then head due south of this location by about 20 minutes to discover Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area that has the amazing Johnson Lake to explore as well as fish in; (4) If you are looking for a really nice, albeit different dining experience, then Johnson Sauk Trail State RA also offers up Red Earth Café, where the dining room has a sweeping view of the lake; and (5) Whether you are searching for a local icon or not, if you do make your way to Johnson Sauk Trail State RE, check out Ryan’s Historic Red Barn, which you can access and take stunning photos of.

      Happy Camping!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
      June 28, 2024

      Millpoint Park

      Peaceful, Clean, Beautiful River Views

      Peaceful campground, well maintained, beautiful views of the Upper Peoria Lake/Illinois River. We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling. Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
      June 20, 2024

      Jubilee College State Park Campground

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    • Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake Park - Macomb
      June 17, 2024

      Spring Lake Park - Macomb

      Just lovely so spacious and clean. Gorgeous view of lake from cabins.

      Friendly staff. Kayak and Pontoon to rent. Trails go all over the entire park! Clean showering facilities. Our furnished cabin faced the lake it was an incredible view.  We had fun fishing and sitting by the campfire in the evenings. Overall definitely worth the 5 stars!!!! Thanks Ryan and all of the staff out there! We will revisit soon.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
      June 6, 2024

      Jubilee College State Park Campground

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    • Camper-submitted photo from Jubilee College State Park Campground
      May 31, 2024

      Jubilee College State Park Campground

      jubilee college state park

      Nestled in the heart of Illinois, this campground provides picturesque landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. It's an ideal spot for families, friends, and solo adventurers looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy a serene environment. For students balancing their love for the outdoors with academic responsibilities, https://essays.edubirdie.com/engineering-assignment-help connects them with a platform offering engineering assignment help. Just as Jubilee College State Park provides a break from routine, EduBirdie supports students in managing their academic workload effectively.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
      May 10, 2024

      Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

      Bare Bones Primitive Camping Haven

      Located literally just a few stone’s throw due west of the tiny town of Wyanet, which is just a few miles west of better-known Princeton, you will access this little spec of undisturbed primitive camping 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. While you will be hard pressed to find Hennepin Canal Lock 21 on your GPS, trust me, if you simply head west out of Wyanet, you will eventually find this jewel in the middle of nature.

      If you didn’t already know, the Hennepin Canal, and its series of locks & dams will eventually connect you with two of the most amazing rivers in the entirety of the US: the mighty Mississippi as well as the murky depths of the Illinois River – both of which are great for kayaking BTW. Should you choose to follow the canal in its entirety, you will be ushered through the minuscule townships of Mineral, Sheffield, Wyanet, Tiskilwa and Bureau – all of which are fairly emblematic of small Midwestern blue-collared towns that still to this day possess an equal amount of charm and hospitality, which the area is very well known for.

      Given that you can’t actually make a reservation here (or at any of the campgrounds along the Hennepin Canal for that matter) as this spot and the 5 others that make up the Hennepin Canal Lock camping options are only offered on a first-come, first-served basis, one thing is for certain: if you planned to truly ‘get away from it all’ you really can ‘have your cake and eat here too’ at Hennepin Canal Lock 21. While there is no actual check-in or check-out time, occasionally there is a park ranger that will come by to check on the location and collect those $8 nightly fares, although we never came across a ranger during our entire canal-navigating weeklong journey. You should also note that all of the campgrounds up and down the canal are class C camping, meaning that these primitive camping sites do not have showers or electricity, so either bring your own or, better yet, learn to live without these conveniences for a few days and actually embrace the opportunity to connect with nature.

      As you arrive, ultimately via Route 6 & Route 34, you will need to hang a left (coming westbound from Wyanet), where after just a short jig heading due south, you will find the first of 5 camping areas on either side of the main road you are driving down. On the right, in addition to the camping area, you will discover the first of 3 restrooms and just slightly beyond that, the boat launch. If instead of turning right to follow this first encampment, you head left, following the Hennepin Canal, you will see a small camping area on your immediate left, followed by a water spigot, after which you will come across another much larger camping area that has the second restroom facility. Opposite of these 2 camping areas on the other side of the road, there are 2 small camping areas that run right along the canal. If you go back to to the main road, from which you just came, and continued south across the little land bridge and hang another left, you will go around a small pond that will eventually present the third and final restroom facility as you go up a slight incline, where on your immediate right will be the sixth and final camping area that has been reserved for equestrian campers, of which there’s about 4-5 individual sites complete with a wooden hitching post to tie your horses down.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Of all the camping options up and down the Hennepin Canal, while Canal Lock 21 is likely the largest and has more campsite offerings, it is still very basic and primitive, apart from the restroom, boat launch, picnic tables and fire rings that you will find. If that bothers you or you are simply looking for a spot with more space to explore, then likely the Hennepin Canal camping options aren’t for you, and instead, you may want to look just a bit further afield to another amazing place called Johnson-Sauk SP; (2) Should you grow weary of fixing ‘franks & beans’ again for dinner over your roaring fire, while there isn’t much out in these parts, if you are looking for some local fare, over in nearby Wyanet, you’ll find an abundance of just 3 options: Casey’s for well-made, fresh pizza; Harley-K’s Filipino Restaurant, which might actually just shock you!; or Ecky’s Tap, which is fairly darn amazing actually, but only serves up booze. For anything else, head on into Princeton, where there’s tons of options; (3) There is no potable drinking water anywhere at any of these locks up and down the Hennepin Canal apart from at the Visitors Center, so ensure you bring your own water or a filtration system; (4) Should you have your own kayak or canoe, the Hennepin Canal is very nice to explore, although at times difficult to navigate, especially when you come to each of the sets of locks and dams. If that is bothersome and you simply want to get some oaring in without having to take your watercraft in and out of the water every 30 minutes or so, then head on over to Goose Lake just southwest of Hennepin, which is a fantastic lake to explore and has some decent fishing as well; and (5) If you are on the look-out for simply amazingly fresh meats to ‘slap on the Barby’ then head on over to Wyanet Meat Locker, which has fresh venison, pheasant and of course, all of the typical Midwestern carnivore fare like brats, Ribeyes, burgers and pork chops, which all would be DELISH on that flip-open BBQ grill you have back at Canal Lock 21.

      Happy Camping!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
      May 9, 2024

      Clarks Ferry

      Great campground

      This campground sits between the Mississippi River with barge traffic and busy rail road tracks. I knew this up front because you can see it on the map. To me this just means people are working which is great. I know the horns blow all night and day long but i choose to ignore it. The campsites are great. The hosts are warm and welcoming also very helpful. I missed a great photo opportunity last night. Birds were migrating to the north and flying very close to the river. It was awesome to watch. We love this campground!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
      April 1, 2024

      Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area

      Exquisite Camping Amongst Pencil Tree Forest

      At some point, when walking through this thickly packed, seemingly endless supply of super-thin pencil trees that comprise this hidden gem of a forest, one realizes a pretty amazing fact: when mankind is purposeful about not just preserving, but proliferating the pristine nature that exists all around us, we can be incredibly successful in that endeavor. But only if we put our minds to it. That’s precisely the thought I had when seeing this Pencil Tree Forest for the first time. Obviously, this forest didn’t happen out of pure luck and it certainly wasn’t through preservation of what had existed before that we first stepped foot on this particular patch of land that led to this most immaculate place. No, it was actually the Corp of Engineers that purposefully planted the trees that now adorn this amazing swath of heaven no earth.

      As for the campground itself, while there isn’t much brush here to provide any decent privacy, the overabundance of hardwoods, giant oaks and pines in this area creates an overwhelming sense of solace and peacefulness, despite being able to see most of your neighbors. The spots themselves are all Class A Camping, offering just electric (so, no sewer or water hook-ups for the RV-toting crowd), with 71 pads being offered and 25 Class C Camping tent sites. There is a single shower structure here and a few different bathrooms, some more permanent than a few others, that seem to either be temporary or are being worked on. There’s plenty of picnic tables and in-ground fire rings w/ fold-over BBQ grills. Beyond this, be prepared to bring what you need with you.

      If you are looking to get on the water and either get some rowing in or attract some fish to your line, then nearby Lake Johnson has you covered. In fact, it’s so close, you can easily walk to it, but if you have your own kayak or canoe, you might want to tow it down to the boat launch with your SUV or truck if you have the means. And if you don’t have any watercraft, no biggie, the good folks here at the Marina will rent you one of theirs. Note that only electric trolling motors are allowed to be on the lake here.

      Whether you want to stay near your campsite or go further afield, there’s no shortage of great picnic areas, whether it’s a simple picnic table set up lakeside, perhaps with its own grill or cooking stove, or under the shade of a covered pavilion, there’s lots of options here to create the absolute perfect outdoor feasting occasion.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) You’ve got to check out Ryan’s Round Barn, which you would have seen upon entering Johnson-Sauk Trail State Park, and is a local landmark of sorts, which was built around the turn of the century by Protestant religious sects who designed these in a particular way so as they ‘didn’t leave any corners where the devil could hide.’; (2) If you’ve got hiking on your mind, there’s some really good, albeit basic hiking to be had here with some very great sightseeing – in all there’s about 12 miles of good hiking to explore the area here from Johnson-Sauk that will have you walking through seasoned pine and old oak forests; (3) Should you want to go fishing and find yourself in need of anything, whether its rental boats, snacks and sodas, fishing bait or souvenirs, the Marina here at Johnson-Sauk has you covered; (4) There’s also a decent restaurant here at the Marina, called Red Earth Café, but when we were there last, it was closed and we heard rumors that is was not going to reopen, which was a bummer, therefore, if you want to eat out, you’re going to have to trek it back in to nearby Annawan, just due north on 78, where there’s just a few restaurants to choose from, including Mick’s Bar & Grill, which basically has hot dogs and burgers or Purple Onion, which has typical Midwestern comfort food like country fried steak, fried walleye and pork chops; and (5) The hit of Annawan, IMHO, is Paxton’s Corner Coop, which will immediately make you feel like you have stepped foot on some film location in Hollywood, with all of its other-worldly oddities, but press on and enter the establishment to find some of the most delectable desserts I have ever come across: caramel rolls, amazing natural ice cream, delectable cupcakes and, my personal favorite, the oatmeal crème sandwiches! 

      Happy Camping!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Summit Campground - West Lake Park
      March 13, 2024

      Summit Campground - West Lake Park

      Good County CG and Park with amenities

      CG is being updated today connect with Lisa cal sewer system. Sites offer: tables, fire rings, hard drive through pads, electric, water, showers/RR, play areas, horse shoes, trails, and 2 cabins adjacent to CG. Overflow/visitor parking. Park offers trails, 4 lakes for paddling, fishing, and swim beach in season, concessions, disc golf.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
      March 7, 2024

      Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park

      Great Country CG with amenities

      CG open yest round with sites offering: fire ring/ firewood, tables, water, electric, pads, office, seasonal host, recycling. Park offers 4 lakes to fish, paddle, disc golf course, shelters to rent, trails, cabins, concessions at swimming beach. Play areas, volleyball, bags and horseshoes, dump station. New playground being installed.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
      December 6, 2023

      Shady Creek

      Nice quiet spot on the Mississippi

      Bathrooms were clean. Easy in and out of the campground. Nice boat launch. Right on the Mississippi



    Guide to Galesburg

    Camping near Galesburg, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Kayaking and Fishing: Head to Chief Keokuk Campground for some time on the water. One camper mentioned, "Had fun kayaking on the lake, caught a catfish!" This campground is perfect for those who enjoy water activities.
    • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at Jubilee College State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "There are nice trails and lake area—keep an eye out for mulberries and raspberries!"
    • Wildlife Watching: At Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River, you can enjoy the serene river views and spot various wildlife. One reviewer said, "It felt like we had escaped to a riverside sanctuary."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Millpoint Park remarked, "The showers and bathrooms are amazing! Very clean."
    • Peaceful Atmosphere: Many enjoy the quiet surroundings. A camper at Scott County Park shared, "Beautiful, spacious and quiet campground."
    • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Geneseo Campground said, "Great staff! Helpful."

    What you should know:

    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest, have basic facilities. A camper noted, "No water or electric hook-ups so bring your generator."
    • Wildlife Presence: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A visitor at Illiniwek Campground mentioned, "The campground has playgrounds, volleyball, restrooms, shelters, open spaces, and fishing/boating/paddling along the Mississippi River."
    • Crowded on Weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Jubilee College State Park Campground noted, "Saturday night was the opposite however, with people at the campers and RVs staying up late."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Playgrounds Available: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. One family at Scott County Park enjoyed, "Play areas, camp volunteers onsite, wood available, boat ramp, shelter."
    • Bring Outdoor Games: Pack games like cornhole or badminton. A camper at Jubilee College State Park Campground suggested, "Not a lot of amenities for families with young kids but bring your own corn hole bags and badminton."
    • Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to have some downtime. A visitor at Geneseo Campground said, "Great for relaxing and enjoying a campfire."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA mentioned, "Loads of sites with what appears to be FHU’s."
    • Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds have limited water access. A visitor at Millpoint Park advised, "Bring cases of bottled water."
    • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A camper at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River noted, "All sites are paved or cement with electric, some have water."

    Camping around Galesburg, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences, from peaceful retreats to family-friendly adventures. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular campground near Galesburg, IL?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Galesburg, IL is Allison Lake Storey with a 3.8-star rating from 10 reviews.

    • What parks are near Galesburg, IL?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Galesburg, IL that allow camping, notably Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 and Coralville Lake.