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Best Campgrounds in Illinois

2,894 Reviews

Illinois's state parks and forests harbor a range of camping accommodations from developed sites to more primitive options. Starved Rock State Park near Oglesby provides camping facilities with both tent and RV sites, while also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort. Rock Cut State Park in Loves Park similarly accommodates various camping styles with electric hookups and amenities suitable for both tent and recreational vehicle camping. Shawnee Forest Campground in southern Illinois expands these options further with glamping and yurt accommodations alongside traditional sites.

Campground availability remains consistent throughout the year at many Illinois locations, though amenities and accessibility vary seasonally. "The sites are pretty big. The campground is not congested at all. The people are very nice. Everyone waves to everyone," noted one visitor at an Illinois campground. Full-hookup sites typically include water, electric, and sewer connections at locations such as Illinois Beach State Park, while more rustic experiences can be found at places like Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area, which offers vault toilets but no showers or electric hookups. Reservations are recommended for popular destinations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly.

Waterfront camping locations receive particularly positive feedback from visitors across Illinois. Lake Glendale in the Shawnee National Forest earned praise from one camper who described it as "a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF" with "beautiful lake, beautiful biking trails." Sites with lake or river views tend to book quickly, especially during summer months. Many campgrounds maintain shower facilities and restrooms, though cleanliness and maintenance can vary. Family-friendly amenities such as playgrounds and fishing opportunities enhance the camping experience at locations like Comlara County Park near Hudson and Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs, which offers boating access and hiking trails in addition to varied camping accommodations.

Map showing campgrounds in IllinoisExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites in Illinois (516)

    1. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    100 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4726

    $25 - $35 / night

    "Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn’t expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"

    "Beautiful Starved Rock is Illinois's favorite state park. Hiking through forests along the Illinois River to canyons and waterfalls with eagles soaring overhead."

    2. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

    81 Reviews
    Machesney Park, IL
    Website
    +1 (815) 885-3311

    $12 - $50 / night

    "Normal Illinois state park. Not a lot of services but good size sites and peaceful. Lake with canoe rentals and fishing. Nice walking trails."

    "with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east."

    3. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park

    67 Reviews
    Zion, IL
    Website
    +1 (847) 662-4811

    $25 / night

    "The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."

    "We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"

    4. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    55 Reviews
    Karbers Ridge, IL
    Website
    +1 (618) 253-7114

    $10 / night

    "This is a stunning but small campground on top of a crazy high ridge surrounded by cliffs. I had no idea landscapes like this existed in Illinois and was pleasantly surprised."

    "Two of the reviews are not the Illinois subject area but of somewhere in the western US."

    5. Shawnee Forest Campground

    36 Reviews
    Vienna, IL
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-0619

    $40 / night

    "We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go."

    "Super friendly camp host, conveniently located off the interstate and feels pretty secure and tranquil. I will say some of the gravel was washed out which is surprising given how dry it’s been."

    6. Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    32 Reviews
    Eddyville, IL
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-2111

    $15 / night

    "However, by Saturday morning (Easter weekend) all but 5 sites had cleared out and we had the place nearly to ourselves for the rest of the stay. "

    "Loved all the hikes within walking distance, a bit of a drive in but fun to explore"

    7. Comlara County Park

    34 Reviews
    Hudson, IL
    Website
    +1 (309) 434-6770

    "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."

    8. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Shabbona, IL
    Website
    +1 (815) 824-2565

    $25 / night

    "If you find yourself out in these parts near Shabbona in north central Illinois it is because of either one of two reasons - you are incredibly lost and stumbled across this hidden natural preserve gem"

    "All within easy walking distance to the lake. Camp store and two boat rental spots allow for flexiblity on busier weekends."

    9. Camp Bullfrog Lake

    30 Reviews
    Willow Springs, IL
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-9785

    $20 - $138 / night

    "Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life. Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."

    "What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."

    10. Kickapoo State Recreation Area

    29 Reviews
    Oakwood, IL
    Website
    +1 (217) 442-4915

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Stayed here on Dec. 10, 2021 (yes the night of all the tornadoes throughout the Illinois/Kentucky/Tennessee area), I and everyone else at the campsite got pretty lucky, we were just outside the path of"

    "Great little campground in Central Illinois. Some pretty trails overlooking, beside, and sometimes through water."

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  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Rock Cut State Park - Hickory Hills Campground

    Where Tent Camping Touches the Shore

    Hickory Hills Campground is Rock Cut State Park’s more primitive, tent-only camping destination, distinct from the electric Class A and B camping areas. Located along the eastern edge near Pierce Lake, this campground offers non-electric Class B sites and are numbered from 1 to 60 and set along a wooded lake frontage small peninsula right on Lake Pierce with this CG spot making for a quieter, more rustic experience with the closest access to the lake of any of the 6 other campgrounds that exist here at Rock Cut SP.

    Sites are modest and simpler than premium loops: you won’t find hookups here, but you will have nearby access to water hydrants and restrooms located just outside the loop. Central facilities cover essentials like showers, toilets and a dump station in the broader park; however, between November and April, water and dump services are unavailable, so plan accordingly.

    Hickory Hills shines for its proximity to nature and lakeside access where you can cast a line, paddle around or hike the dozens of miles of forest trails. Still, be prepared for less privacy between sites as there’s virtually no ground shrubbery with many of the sites being sloped or closely spaced, so expect limited shade (in fact, you may want to bring your own shelter), and a more basic setup than other loops here.

    Insider Tips? Let’s count to 5: (1) Make your reservation as EARLY as possible through ExploreMoreIL™ since Hickory Hills offers fewer, more highly desired tent-only sites that are either lakefront or lakeview; (2) Pack your shade as several sites are sloped or open wherein early setup and a sunshade or awning can help maintain comfort and / or privacy; (3) Move shiftable gear near the loop entrance as the facilities are outside the loop, so a wheeled cart or stroller comes in very handy; (4) For easier meal prep or last-minute snacks, stop at the central camp store between White Oak and Plum Grove campgrounds with this central store stocking basics like ice, firewood and snacks; and (5) Bring your kayak, canoe and / or fishing rod as Hickory Hills Campground puts you within easy reach of Pierce Lake’s quiet shore, which is great for paddle sessions or launching simple lake adventures.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area

    Primitive Camp Right by the Fox River Under Ancient Oaks

    Situated about five miles west of Yorkville in Kendall County, Silver Springs State Fish& Wildlife Area spans over 1,350 acres including the beautiful Silver Springs, two manmade lakes and several miles of Fox River shoreline. Camping here is highly primitive and organized around youth and group backpack sites that offer a peaceful, history-rich wilderness setting. It’s not your typical family campground, but more of a lean-into-nature, group-only campout.

    The camping experience here is stripped-down with no vehicle access to campsites, no RV hookups and no showers, just ground-based tents in shaded woods along the river. You’ll need to carry in all your gear and water, as this is basic trail-side camping. What you get is serenity, solitude and a tapestry of oak forests, prairie restoration zones and natural spring magic that makes this place feel timeless.

    What really sets this park apart is its raw connection to landscape and wildlife. The spring itself bubbles a clear, cold pool that doesn’t freeze in winter, offering a shimmering focal point amid oaks and prairie grasses. Beyond that, the park offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing on Loon & Beaver Lakes as well as the Fox River, plus a robust network of trails stretching 4 miles for hikers and 7 miles for horseback riders. In winter, you can even ice-skate or cross-country ski weather permitting (read: wait for the snow to fall and the water to freeze over).

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you hadn’t picked up on it already, bring everything you need as this is primitive camping to the max with no potable water or facilities at campsites; (2) The spring is a must-see and I would encourage you to visit during sunset when the light turns the waters silvery; (3) You definitely want to plan some trail time hiking near those lake and river paths that are perfect for wildlife viewing and quiet reflection; (4) While you certainly could do solo camping here, this place ideal for organized youth groups or scout trips; (5) While you won’t be able to drive up to your site, there is a decent parking lot that will at least allow you to get pretty close to where you will eventually be camping, so while it will take a handful of trips, depending upon how many people you come with, at least you’ll be able to hike in ¼ mile to the first spot or a ½ mile further in where there are larger group sites; and (6) For groceries or hot meals after camping, head into Yorkville for the nearest comforts with excellent digs like Smokey’s for some authentic BBQ, Crusade Burger Bar for its namesake handhelds and craft beer as well as The Vault, which is a former bank offering up Midwestern comfort food.

    Happy Camping!

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    Nice Campground

    We followed our GPS along with the campground instructions, though the written directions were slightly off. Coming off I-80 to IL-92 west, the instructions said to turn left at the third stoplight onto 78th Street, but the correct turn was actually at the second stoplight. Other than that small hiccup, both the GPS and campground directions worked fine. Check-in was quick and easy, and we were guided by golf cart to our site. We were told to make wide turns where the cart did, and by following that advice we had no issues pulling into pull-through site 31 with full hookups. The site was more than long enough for our 40-foot fifth wheel and F450. Most of the utilities were located near the middle of the pad, but we needed about 25 feet of water hose to comfortably reach the connections and align with the sewer. We had 3 bars on Verizon and 2 bars on T-Mobile. The campground has mature trees throughout, so satellite users may need to reposition for a clear shot, though it would be possible. Since our T-Mobile signal was solid, we used T-Mobile Home Internet instead of deploying Starlink. Water pressure was decent during our stay. The campground offers a mix of deluxe patio sites and water-view or water-access sites, though for our one-night stay we were in a basic gravel site. There are permanent and seasonal residents in the campground, but the sites were neat and orderly. Overall, this was a decent campground for a short stop or even a longer stay.

  • Gerard E.
    Jan. 24, 2026

    Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    Semi Modern

    May 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.

  • Caden R.
    Jan. 16, 2026

    Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground

    Good Overall

    We 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.

  • Kyle L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 3, 2026

    Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    Who knew places like this exist back east!?

    This is a stunning but small campground on top of a crazy high ridge surrounded by cliffs. I had no idea landscapes like this existed in Illinois and was pleasantly surprised. The campground was super clean, though it seemed like everything was shut down for the season. It was a pleasant surprise.

  • Shawn B.
    Jan. 2, 2026

    Timberview Lakes Campground

    Be openminded

    Nice 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

  • Ken and Sheryl C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 6, 2025

    Geneseo Campground

    Small and quiet

    Good for an overnight. Long term residents. Stayed in 42’ 5th wheel

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 25, 2025

    Dutchman Lake Camp

    Dutchman Lake Dispersed Camping

    Plenty of dispersed camping on a well maintained dirt road. There’s fire pits all over and no shortage of spots.

Guide to Illinois

Camping in Illinois offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, family-friendly activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there's something for everyone in the Land of Lincoln.

What to do

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Comlara County Park, have great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, “There are simply tons of little nooks and crannies all around the lake to get some decent fishing in.”
  • Hiking: Trails are abundant, especially in places like Moraine View State Recreational Area. A visitor noted, “The nature trails are nicely groomed and mowed.”
  • Swimming: Campgrounds like Clinton Lake State Recreation Area offer swimming areas. One family shared, “We loved the option for fishing and swimming in a nearby watering hole.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Double J Campground and RV Park stated, “The bathrooms here were heated and sparkling clean.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds provide ample space between sites. A camper at Coon Creek said, “I was impressed with the space between the sites, the mature trees, and the overall peaceful setting.”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One visitor at Sangchris Lake State Park remarked, “Tony and Danielle and the rest of the entire campground host staff do absolutely everything to make sure you have a great stay!”

What you should know

  • Privacy Concerns: Some campgrounds can feel crowded. A review of Comlara County Park pointed out, “They are spaced a little too close to comfort for my taste.”
  • Water Quality: Be cautious about drinking water at certain sites. A camper at Millpoint Park mentioned, “Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird.”
  • Wildlife: Raccoons can be a nuisance at some campgrounds. One camper at Weldon Springs State Park reported, “She had to leave in the middle of the night because the raccoons were so bad.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A review of Moraine View State Recreational Area noted, “Good fishing and kayaking, facilities could be a little cleaner but not bad.”
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have games and activities ready. One camper at Jubilee College State Park suggested, “Bring your own corn hole bags and badminton.”
  • Check for Nearby Attractions: Some campgrounds are close to fun spots. A visitor at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, “We couldn’t have asked for a better location for our family and our interests.”

Tips from RVers

  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A review of Coon Creek highlighted, “Every campsite has electric 30amp or 50amp.”
  • Be Prepared for Slopes: Some sites can be uneven. A camper at Millpoint Park advised, “Make sure to bring plenty of cribbing if you’ve never stayed here before.”
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with good facilities. A visitor at Sangchris Lake State Park noted, “There are restrooms and a shower house that are clean.”

Camping in Illinois can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Illinois campgrounds offer the best amenities for family camping?

Illinois offers several family-friendly campgrounds with excellent amenities. South Marcum Campground on Rend Lake stands out with hundreds of sites ranging from wooded areas to lakefront spots, plenty of bathrooms, and lake access for swimming and boating. Glenwood RV Resort provides a convenient location just minutes from I-80 with recreational facilities perfect for families. Other notable options include Spitler Woods State Natural Area with plenty of activities, and Pearl Lake, which offers a refreshing lakeside retreat during hot summer months. Many Illinois campgrounds feature clean facilities, picnic areas, playgrounds, and access to hiking trails that make them ideal for family adventures.

What are the best state parks for tent camping in Illinois?

Starved Rock State Park is a premier tent camping destination with its wooded, picturesque setting reminiscent of northern Wisconsin. The campground offers a quiet atmosphere while being conveniently located near the park's famous canyons and waterfalls. Eagle Creek State Park Campground is another excellent choice for tent campers, with spacious sites and well-maintained facilities. Mississippi Palisades State Park provides stunning views of the Mississippi River. Other noteworthy state parks include Illini State Park with its great river views and tree coverage perfect for hammock camping, and Rock Cut State Park, offering a variety of tent camping options with access to hiking trails and water activities.

Are there any free camping options in Illinois?

Free camping is limited in Illinois, but there are a few options. Channahon State Park Campground offers free camping and is particularly accessible for bicyclists on the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail. Friends Creek Campground in mid-Illinois has some non-electric sites that may be available at no cost or minimal fees. The Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois has some dispersed camping areas that are free to use, though they typically lack amenities. Always check current regulations before heading out, as policies can change. Most camping in Illinois requires at least a small fee, especially at developed campgrounds with facilities. For budget-conscious campers, state forests and wildlife management areas sometimes offer more economical options than state parks.

Keep Exploring

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