The Illinois River corridor surrounding Peoria Heights offers diverse camping experiences within a predominantly flat Midwestern landscape. Established campgrounds like Millpoint Park and Carl Spindler Campground provide waterfront sites along the Illinois River, approximately 5-10 miles from Peoria Heights proper. These riverside locations feature full hookup RV sites, primitive tent camping areas, and some cabin options. Woodford State Conservation Area and Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, both within 30 minutes of Peoria Heights, offer more natural settings with fewer amenities but greater seclusion. The region's camping options extend from developed RV parks with 50-amp service to primitive sites nestled among cottonwood, silver maple, and willow trees.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with Jubilee College State Park specifically open May 1 to December 31. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F, along with persistent insects. "If you haven't camped in central Illinois during summer, bring good DEET spray for ticks and scented candles to keep gnats at bay," notes one experienced camper. Water levels along the Illinois River fluctuate seasonally, occasionally causing flooding in low-lying areas like Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area. Cell service remains reliable near established campgrounds, though coverage may diminish in more remote conservation areas.
Waterfront sites receive consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly those at Millpoint Park where campers praise the "big trees, deep shade, and beautiful sunsets over the Illinois River." Fishing opportunities abound throughout the region, with multiple boat launches providing access to the Illinois River and connected lakes. Several campgrounds feature spacious sites that accommodate both tents and RVs, though amenities vary considerably. Visitors note that water quality can be an issue at some locations, with one camper advising: "Don't forget your RV water filter! The water here is very rusty." For travelers seeking overnight convenience rather than natural settings, several retail parking areas in East Peoria and along major highways permit RV parking.
$18 - $100 / night
"Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing"
"If you’re looking to stay close to Peoria and enjoy beautiful sunsets and the water this place has it. Big trees, deep shade and it’s right on the Peoria Lake on the Illinois River."
"This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water that"
"It was also a short walk to the Illinois River!!!"
"The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."
"Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies. The campsite has three main loops with RV pads and electric goo ups."
$8 - $12 / night
"They also warned us of an upcoming storm - this location can flood when the river rises. They also said to let them know if others were too loud."
"This is a beautiful, off-the-beaten path ‘no frills’ campground that comes very close to being called primitive, yet offers water pit privies and a designated sanitary dump station in addition to in-ground"
"Comlara is a beautifully laid out hidden gem in Illinois. Evergreen Lake is the perfect back drop to the campground."
"Located just northwest of Bloomington, which is located absolutely smack-dab in the middle of the state of Illinois, you’ll discover a nature wonderland over here nearly hidden from plain site."
"This place is very clean with the lake nearby for swimming or fishing. Very clean restrooms and friendly staff. There are hookups at each site and a few spots for pump out."
ScoutIt’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
LegendSet 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!
GuideMay 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.
TravelerWe 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.
ScoutNice staff members can't complain. It has everything needed to get away and still not stress about comfort well kept and maintained alcohol and campfire is a must to experience the full camping trip no hangover no fun just drink responsibly and be kind and respectful to other fellow campers
GuideIt’s a small “campground” right on the river with bathrooms, electric, and water. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table as well. The main issue here is that it’s between two busy streets and everyone with a loud truck in this town wants to drive by the river at night. It’s also completely out in the open, so there’s no privacy, which is made worse by the bright street lights that light up this entire place. Other than noise and privacy, it’s a nice place. Price as of Nov. 2025 is $35/night.
ScoutListed on app as free, but it actually requires a reservation and fee.
LegendBecause 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.
GuideWater was available on my visit 10-7 thru 10-10. The place is clean and well kept, including the pit toilets. 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.
Camping sites near Peoria Heights, Illinois offer both managed and primitive options within a largely agricultural region. The terrain features rolling hills along waterfronts interspersed with small woodland areas, creating varied microclimates across camping locations. Water levels can rise quickly after rainfall, particularly at Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area where one camper noted the area "can flood when the river rises."
Fishing access: 4 miles
At Millpoint Park, multiple fishing spots accommodate different preferences. "We were able to do some fishing and kayaking. We caught some bluegill, buffalo, and large mouth bass," reports Marie B. The park offers both lake fishing from docks and river access for boat fishing.
Birding: 25-minute drive
Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area provides habitat for numerous waterfowl species along the Illinois River. "We stood out by the boat ramps for a nice view across the river," notes Art S., who observed multiple species during fall migration. Morning hours offer the best wildlife viewing.
Hiking: Multiple loops
Jubilee College State Park maintains several miles of multi-use trails. "There is a decent trail system, which supports hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails are well maintained and most are used on regular basis," explains Brooke C. The park also offers "excellent horse trails" according to Rachel H., who rode with a group of eight.
Spacious sites: 25-35 feet
Sites at Comlara County Park provide ample room for setup. "Site 111, which had a nice long concrete pad for parking cars on - fits easily 2-3 cars," reports Mike K. The park offers both open field camping and more secluded options, with "large open fields with camping spots - some are electric or not, so check while you reserve."
Affordable waterfront camping: $28/night
Riverside sites receive consistent praise for value, particularly at Carl Spindler Campground. "This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access," notes Stuart K. Many waterfront sites feature electric-only hookups but offer direct water access.
Night sky visibility: Limited light pollution
Multiple campers mention excellent star-viewing conditions at certain sites. "The viewing of stars is incredible," reports Joe M. about Jubilee College State Park. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours after 10 PM, creating good conditions for night sky observation.
Seasonal wildlife hunting affects access
Wildlife management areas permit hunting during season, which impacts camping. "At 5 AM diesel pickup trucks pulling boats began to pull into the parking area... Eventually we heard the boats heading out along with gun shots - some were nearby," explains Art S. about Woodford State Conservation Area. When planning fall and winter trips, check hunting dates.
Water quality varies by location
Water at some campgrounds contains high mineral content. "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird," notes Melissa C. about Millpoint Park. Multiple reviewers recommend bringing bottled drinking water, particularly for locations along the Illinois River.
Limited facilities at conservation areas
Wildlife and conservation areas offer basic amenities only. "A little rough, but is kept up as best as they can. Funding for the area is lacking," reports Jeny C. regarding Woodford State Conservation Area. Most conservation areas provide vault toilets and fire rings but lack showers or electric hookups.
Playground options: Limited availability
Families seeking playground facilities should consider Carl Spindler Campground, which offers a small play area near the camp host. "VERY family oriented atmosphere - there was no nonsense loud drunkards in the evenings, relatively quiet and relaxing. This was a huge bonus to us, as we had younger kids," reports Mike K. about the overall atmosphere at nearby Comlara Park.
Swimming access: Designated areas only
Some locations restrict swimming to marked areas. "You can rent boats and kayaks to take out on the lake during the day and grills throughout the park to have a bbq at night with friends. There are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy," notes Sage C. At Comlara Park, "beach costs extra" according to Melissa B.
Safety concerns: Road proximity
Several campgrounds are situated near roadways. "A main road runs right behind the campsites. They have a wood fence on the electric side but not on our side," explains Art S. about Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area. Another camper warns, "I would be worried with small children moving around there."
Leveling requirements: Vary by park
Bring leveling blocks for older campgrounds. "We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling," reports Melissa C. at Millpoint Park. Conversely, at Comlara County Park, "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts," according to Kathie M.
Winter camping options: Limited availability
For cold weather camping, Jubilee College State Park closes after December 31, while Carl Spindler Campground remains open year-round. "We had the entire campground to ourselves on a cold weekend stay," recalls Art S. "The pit toilets are always available in the winter, and I usually have the park to myself," notes Jonathan J. about winter camping at Jubilee College State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Peoria Heights, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Peoria Heights, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 68 campgrounds and RV parks near Peoria Heights, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Peoria Heights, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Peoria Heights, IL is Millpoint Park with a 4-star rating from 17 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Peoria Heights, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Peoria Heights, IL.
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