Best Campgrounds near Manhattan, IL
The landscape surrounding Manhattan, Illinois features a mix of established campgrounds and RV parks within a 30-mile radius. Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park, approximately 20 miles south, offers year-round camping with electric hookups and shaded sites along the Kankakee River. Closer to town, Martin's Camping Ground provides basic facilities for both tent and RV campers, though with limited amenities compared to larger parks. Several campgrounds in the area maintain proximity to the Illinois River system, including Kayak Morris which earned high ratings from visitors for its water access and peaceful setting. The region's camping options range from state park facilities with moderate amenities to private RV resorts with full hookups and seasonal availability.
Reservations become essential during summer months when Illinois humidity and heat can make shade a critical consideration. As one camper noted about nearby Illini State Park, "Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view." Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with a few year-round exceptions like Camp Bullfrog Lake and Hollywood Casino RV Resort. Cell service remains generally reliable throughout the area due to the flat terrain and proximity to Chicago suburbs. Flooding can affect riverfront sites during spring, particularly at McKinley Woods and other locations along the Illinois and Fox Rivers.
River access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Manhattan area. The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes near several campgrounds, providing opportunities for cycling and hiking. According to one visitor at McKinley Woods, "The main draw to this place is the tow path. I highly recommend bringing a bike to enjoy the trail." Many sites feature level, gravel pads suitable for RVs with electric hookups, while tent campers often prefer the more secluded areas at places like Whitetail Campground in Illini State Park. Summer temperatures frequently reach the 90s with high humidity, making water access particularly valuable. Visitors frequently mention the fishing opportunities, with bluegill and crappie being common catches in the area's waterways.
