Tent camping options in the Lena, Illinois area encompass varied terrain from forested riverbanks to prairie settings. Located in northwest Illinois at an elevation of approximately 945 feet, this region experiences humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the prime camping seasons. River access points along the Rock River provide alternative approaches to several primitive camping areas.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Access boat-in tent campsites at Castle Rock State Park Campground via a two-mile paddle down the Rock River. "It's a 2 mile drift downriver from the boat launch to the campground. When we were there the river was placid and we had no trouble paddling back when our stay was over," notes camper Brian O.
Trail exploration: Hike more than 12 miles of trails at Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground. The campground sits on 882 acres of prairie with multiple small natural springs shaded by hardwood forests. "What I enjoyed most about Franklin Creek State Natural Area is the 882 acres of fresh prairieland that feels fairly untouched and ready for some eager exploration," reports a visitor.
Brewery visits: Camp near New Glarus Brewery at New Glarus State Park. "This is a small, rustic campground with water and vault toilets. It's proximity to the brewery and the restaurants, shops, and bars of New Glarus, can't be beat," shares Kate B. The brewery is accessible via a short bike ride from the campground.
What campers like
Off-grid experience: Blackhawk Memorial Park offers rustic tent camping with minimal amenities. "Quiet, off the grid! Very pleasant!" reports Christie B. The park appeals to campers seeking a more primitive experience away from developed facilities.
Accessible natural features: Multiple sites offer direct access to water. At Castle Rock, "sites are primitive, but have tables and fire pits. Since all sites are on the riverbank and there's a state forest across the river, you really do feel like you're away from it all," writes Brian O.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature stocked ponds or river access. "What a view! Climbing the stairs is a must! We use the boat ramps to launch our kayaks!" mentions Hannah T. about Castle Rock State Park. The Rock River offers multiple fishing spots accessible from tent camping areas.
What you should know
Site selection timing: Tent sites at most campgrounds near Lena fill quickly during summer weekends. At Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites, backpacking sites are "1/2-1 mile hike from parking lot. Great hike threw out the state park. 2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus," notes Nick C.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. One camper at New Glarus reports: "These sites are right next to the highway and are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise. The highway seems to be a regular truck route, with lots of semis driving by at all hours."
Water access challenges: Paddling to boat-in sites can be difficult depending on conditions. "It was tough paddling upstream when I returned to the boat launch after camping, even after a dry spell. That said—I'm pretty weak so if I can do it, it's not impossible!" writes Rosa G. about Castle Rock.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The park is simple. There are some really shallow tent spots though, so make sure you reserve in advance," notes one camper about New Glarus. Some sites have vault toilets that can be problematic: "BRIGHT lights, and always buggy. And of course the gross smell when it really heats up."
Site privacy factors: New Glarus State Park Campground offers walk-in tent sites with more separation. "The walk-ins have a good amount of space between each site, however the sites on the east side of the bike trail get less level the further you get from the parking lot," explains Sarah W.
Water activities: Campgrounds with swimming access provide relief during hot summer months. Governor Dodge State Park features "lots of access to pit toilets and water fountains from primary camping sites! Lots of things to do!" according to AC S.
Tips from RVers
Small rig limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas near Lena cannot accommodate large RVs. Blackhawk Memorial Park can handle small RVs but is "great little off grid camping for people that aren't afraid of bugs! No trailers with yapping ankle biters, Glammpers stay away!" advises Dave S.
Parking considerations: Access to walk-in sites often requires special planning. At New Glarus, "carts are available for transporting your gear which means you can bring more gear than you would bring backpacking. The walk-in sites have a good amount of space between each site," notes a reviewer.
Seasonal road conditions: Spring and fall can bring challenging access to some campgrounds. "You can take a short hike to the park's ampitheater from the walk-in sites, but they do not have programs very often," mentions a camper about navigating New Glarus during shoulder seasons.
