Camping spots near Le Roy, Illinois span across public and private lands with varied terrain and facilities. Most campgrounds sit on land carved by glaciers, creating rolling hills and lakes surrounded by prairie and woodland. The region's camping season typically extends from April to October, with some year-round options available. Summer temperatures average 80-85°F during the day, with cooler nights ideal for campfires.
What to do
Fishing and kayaking access: At Moraine View State Recreational Area, the lake provides multiple options for water activities. "Nice lake for fishing and kayaking. Excellent restaurant on site also," notes Kelly M., who enjoyed the peaceful setting.
Hiking trails: Explore marked paths at Weldon Springs State Park Campground where multiple trails surround the park's pond. "Scenic little park. Tent and trailer camping here, but the real reward is in the primitive backpacking sites," shares Bree C., who found the hiking opportunities worthwhile.
Historical exploration: Visit the historic one-room schoolhouse at Friends Creek Campground, which offers guided tours by appointment. "Great trails with lots of gorgeous old oaks. The old school house is a must see," notes one camper who appreciated the historical aspect of this camping area.
Swimming beaches: Most beaches in the area charge separate entrance fees beyond camping costs. "The $2 dollar beach entry 10-7 pm" at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area provides affordable water recreation according to Abdul M., who rated the beach experience a 3 out of 5.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Waterfront camping at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area receives high ratings. "We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach. There was a walking path from our site to the shore which was perfect for our young family to go back and forth on," explains Linda N.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more seclusion, hike-in sites offer a different experience. "Short walk from the parking lot if carrying heavy gear, but still spaced out enough to feel isolated. Vault toilets right at the parking lot as well," notes Elizabeth W. about the backcountry sites at Weldon Springs State Park.
Fall colors: Seasonal camping offers changing scenery. "This campground surprised us. We got there in the dark and woke up to Fall colors, Canadian geese, trails, playgrounds. We got in without a reservation and upgraded to a beautiful spot on the water," shares Jennifer M. about her autumn experience at Moraine View.
Clean facilities: Many campers praise the maintenance standards at smaller campgrounds. "This hidden gem of a campground is very quiet and serene - surrounded by tall trees and next to a tall grass prairie conservation area," writes Kate O. about Friends Creek Campground.
What you should know
Site selection varies: At Moraine View State Recreational Area, the camping areas differ substantially. "We went here with a group of tent campers sight unseen, so that's always rolling the dice. We stayed until the main part where you could reserve online through reserve America. Would not recommend that area to anyone. Sites are right on top of each other in every direction," explains Ryan M., who preferred the rustic tent sites.
Warm lake water: D & W Lake RV Park offers peaceful lakeside camping with unique features. "Pulled in about 7pm and immediately was greeted by the manager who showed us to our site, helped us pull in get settled and brought us firewood. The lake behind our trailer is beautiful and can be fished Catch and Release with Blue Gill and Bass," notes Luna L.
Seasonal maintenance issues: Algae and maintenance can affect water recreation. "Nice place no alcohol. 'Lake' has had a lot of algae over the last couple years," reports Julie about Moraine View State Park, indicating that water quality changes seasonally.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds like Love's RV Stop-Normal are convenient for overnight stays but come with traffic noise. "As this RV Park is right off the interstate, you get highway noise," notes MickandKarla W., who still rated it 4 out of 5 for convenience.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "They have a beach and a boat launch. The loops that allow alcohol can get a bit rowdy with weekend partiers, but the alcohol restricted loops can get loud from all the families," explains Marisa A. about Clinton Lake State Recreation Area.
Beach activities: Swimming areas often include additional amenities. "The good: swim beach is not right in campground but nearby. $3 entry for beach. The RV campground is on the water, book far enough in advance for a waterfront site," advises Sarah M., noting the separation between camping and beach areas at Moraine View.
Shade considerations: Look for sites with tree cover during summer. "Our site was huge. Right by jones pond, but the fishing was not the best right by our site. Beautiful park but littered with bottle caps and cigarette butts," reports Melissa B. about Comlara County Park, highlighting the importance of site inspection.
Dog-friendly areas: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. "We have only stayed in the electric only sites as the full hookup sites are hard to come by. Very quiet at night and depending on your site, there are nice views of the summer sky," shares Tim F. about Clinton Lake.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the area require additional equipment. "This is a beautiful state park, lovely camping. I was on site P16 which offers a lake view. They have recently paved the roads which was nice," mentions Brandi M. about Moraine View State Park.
Water access points: At Gibson City South Park Municipal Campground, facilities are basic but affordable. "This is a great city run campground attached to a block sized city park. 30 amp and water at each site. The park has restrooms, with showers. You only need to grab a key from the police department," explains Cowboy W., highlighting the $10/night cost.
Electric options: Different campgrounds offer varied hookup capabilities. "Very nice campground with well spaced sites. The bathrooms were very clean. Be aware that there are 50 amp sites and 30 amp sites. The 50 amp sites are more expensive," advises Larry R. about Friends Creek Campground.
Dump station locations: Most campgrounds provide sewage disposal points. "It's a nice Illinois state park. Very quiet. Clean bathrooms, the consecution stand is closed. So can't rent boat etc. but a nice lake to paddle canoe/kayak," shares Steve H. about Weldon Springs State Park.
