Pleasant Creek Campground houses upscale glamping accommodations just minutes from Starved Rock State Park, with Buffalo Rock State Park offering additional canvas tent options. These curated outdoor experiences include comfortable beds with clean linens, climate-controlled units, and private fire pits for evening relaxation. Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds provides waterfront glamping experiences with modern amenities and beach access for those seeking a water-oriented stay. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, luxury canvas tents feature electricity, premium mattresses, and furnished outdoor living spaces designed for comfort. Several locations include resort-style features such as dedicated glamping hosts, complimentary breakfast options, and evening nature programs. "The sites are spacious with several different sections suited towards different camping experiences," noted one visitor of Pleasant Creek.
Guests at Green River Oaks Camping Resort enjoy waterfront glamping sites with private decks overlooking the scenic landscape. The resort-style camping experience includes guided nature walks, outdoor yoga sessions, and evening stargazing programs during summer months. Several glamping locations feature farm-to-table dining with ingredients sourced from local producers. Buffalo Rock State Park provides a more secluded glamping experience with trails connecting directly to cabin sites, allowing guests to explore effigy mounds and spot local wildlife. According to one camper, "Buffalo Rock is a great place to avoid the crowds while still appreciating the beautiful bluff overlooks of the river." Most glamping facilities remain open from April through October, with select locations offering heated canvas accommodations during shoulder seasons for year-round enjoyment.
"A little creek runs through the campground and you can walk along that. They sell firewood and the bathrooms are really nice."
"Within LaSalle County or for that matter, the whole of north central Illinois, I don’t know of any other privately run, multi-campground locations like Pleasant Creek that offers a total of 6 separate,"
"You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you’re looking for privacy this is it. There aren’t toilets tho or running water.."
"A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."
from $6 / night
"Just outside and behind this main building, you’ll discover a rather large, covered pavilion which is great for larger groups or for anyone wanting to picnic under some shade. "
"Staff was organized and friendly. Pet friendly. We want to come back when we can stay longer."
from $30 - $125 / night
"But noise was not an issue. Bathrooms were clean. Everything was good."
"Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful. Always came here for trick or treating and it’s a fun event for the camp ground with plenty of spooky things to do."
"bordering Lake Michigan – other than this, finding a proper beachhead is impossible."
"When the lake is open it’s great to bring kids for the water sports. They have dances every Saturday night. It’s mostly an RV park, but really great for the family."
"Comlara is a beautifully laid out hidden gem in Illinois. Evergreen Lake is the perfect back drop to the campground."
"Lots of grass and wooded area tons of great trails multiple places to fish, swim beach, I think I saw two different parks."
"Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits."
"The tent sites are right next to the water which is beautiful but can get very windy. There is no privacy between the sites (no trees, etc)."
from $20 - $138 / night
"The beach and lake were always well maintained, and we had often enjoyed live music at the pavilion. You can even play mini golf here! I would highly recommend for anyone that can invest."
"Our family had an incredible stay at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park over Easter week."
"Green River Oaks Camping Resort near Amboy is a throwback kind of place with equal parts family fun, quirky charm and "I can’t believe this is still here” vibes."
"That was my first impression when visiting this family-owned and operated campground located just outside of Amboy, here in northern Illinois, where the sheer veracity of this place (some 130 acres in"
ScoutTook my daughter for the weekend. Camp host were wonderful and even worked with us when I arrived later then planned. Full hookup was perfect and location was great.
Location is close to Utica so we were able to enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
Wonderful spot and we will definitely be back.
Guide$25 a night for 30 amp hookup is pretty good! The sites are clean and spacious. It’s quiet too! Pretty lake, but sites aren’t right on the lake.
The bathrooms need some work. Water had a boil order on it and showers only worked in the men’s room. Water was HOT! Which is great! However, the water smelled metallic…
RangerWe added a day to our Starved Rock itinerary and couldn't get into Starved Rock State Park Campground that night, so quickly booked this from the road. Got into the Highlands, which was packed and super close quarters. Not what we love, but several sites looked like extended families/friends had booked together and they were having a blast, especially the kids. Looked like they had some activities available and we saw several kids with fishing poles heading somewhere fun. We didn't explore the rest of the grounds; perhaps other sections afforded more privacy. I thought it was a bit pricey for the amenities (one shower house very far away) and hemmed-in feel, but it served our purpose for one night.
LegendTucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
ScoutWe love this KOA that is the closest one to our home.
LegendGreen River Oaks Camping Resort near Amboy is a throwback kind of place with equal parts family fun, quirky charm and "I can’t believe this is still here” vibes. Think swimming pools, organized weekend events and a heavy dose of nostalgia for anyone who grew up chasing fireflies until dark. I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some additional photos, videos and because there was so much detail in my previous review, a quick summary of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Multiple swimming pools that instantly turn into kid magnets, so be sure to bring goggles and plenty of Advil; (2) Planned activities like crafts, bingo and hayrides, making it feel like summer camp with electric hookups; (3) A camp store stocked with everything from ice cream to RV odds & ends; (4) Shady, mature trees that keep the sun at bay and give the place that cozy ‘deep woods’ feel; (5) Decent-sized sites with full hookups available, so no wrangling with dump stations (unless that's your thing?); (6) Seasonal campers who bring the neighborhood vibe, complete with pink flamingo decorations and lawn ornaments galore; (7) Family-friendly atmosphere where kids roam in packs on bicycles, scooters and skateboards like happy little coyotes on wheels; (8) On-site mini golf that looks like it came straight from the 1980s (complete with Cindi Lauper and Tiffany greatest hits playing in the background!), but in the best possible way; (9) A game room that keeps kids (and more adults than I care to count) reliving their Pac-Man glory days on a busy, rainy afternoon; and (10) Close proximity to Amboy & Sublette for fuel, groceries, and the occasional ‘get me out of here for a bit’ moment, wherein I HIGHLY recommend a stop by Long Branch Saloon for 'family style' fried chicken and pasta or Depot Tap for, well, bottle beers (cause surprisingly, there are no beer taps!) and deep fried everything from mushrooms, cod and cheese sticks.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Restrooms and showers that can get crowded and aren’t exactly spa-like; (2) Weekend crowds, so if you don’t like the sound of laughter, splashing and karaoke drifting through the night, brace yourself (or get noise-cancelling ear plugs!); (3) Some sites can be tight, especially for larger rigs, so good luck backing in while your audience of seasoned campers provides ‘helpful’ commentary and (unwanted) critical maneuvering advice; (4) Wi-Fi that ranges from ‘not bad’ to ‘did the squirrels chew the cable again?’; (5) Mosquitoes that could probably organize their own HOA; (6) Roads in the campground are narrow and sometimes more pothole than pavement; (7) If you’re looking for peace and quiet, you may want earplugs (see earlier point ... yes, there's truth in repetition) – this is a social campground; (8) Seasonal sites can sometimes feel more like little fortresses than open camping; (9) Not much in the way of hiking trails, unless you count laps around the pool; and (10) Cell service is hit or miss depending on your carrier and your willingness to stand on a picnic table holding your phone to the sky.
Happy Camping!
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!
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.
GuideBeautiful, quiet, and clean park. I stopped for a quick overnight but will definitely be back to stay when I have more time. Sites could use more space as there is no privacy at all but that's the only thing that needs improvement.
Marseilles, Illinois sits along the Illinois River in an area characterized by sandstone canyons and river bluffs. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with high humidity, while winters see averages around 25°F with occasional snowfall. Several campgrounds near Marseilles remain open year-round, though tent camping is most comfortable from May through September when nighttime temperatures stay above 55°F.
Fishing opportunities: Buffalo Rock State Park offers surprisingly good fishing spots along the Illinois River. "The park has a playground, restroom(with running water), and drinking fountains with spouts. The water tasted funny but it was nice having a source to refill my bottles," notes Scott N., who also mentions seeing plenty of wildlife during his visit.
River access: Pleasant Creek Campground provides easy access to the Vermillion River. "Right near the vermillion river which offers a white water rafting trip in the early season, just about 5 miles from starved rock," writes Eric R., highlighting the proximity to water recreation.
Trail exploration: Hikers appreciate the lesser-known trail systems at Buffalo Rock State Park Campground. "A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk," mentions Bill M., who adds that it's "a great place to avoid the crowds" while still enjoying river views.
Swimming options: For families seeking swimming facilities, Comlara County Park offers both lake access and dedicated swimming areas. One visitor notes, "Beautiful, quiet, and clean park. I stopped for a quick overnight but will definitely be back to stay when I have more time," showing the appeal of this location for water activities.
Privacy levels: The campgrounds near Marseilles offer varying degrees of seclusion. "If you're looking for privacy this is it," reports Amanda P. about the walk-in sites at Buffalo Rock State Park, though she notes there aren't toilets or running water at these remote spots.
Smaller crowds: Many campers appreciate finding alternatives to the busy Starved Rock area. "This little gem is across the river from Starved Rock State Park. So, you can appreciate the bluff overlooks of the river without dealing with the crowds," writes Bill M. about the Buffalo Rock area.
Wildlife viewing: Nature's Way RV Park provides good opportunities for nature observation. One reviewer describes the location as "perfect for a peaceful retreat" with "exceptionally friendly" staff who "went above and beyond to ensure our stay was pleasant."
River experiences: Campers enjoy waterfront options near Marseilles. "Its nice and quiet. When you park at the lot head towards Utica. The first spot was about a half mile in," explains Jess about Buffalo Rock, adding, "Walk to Ottawa is very magical. Wouldn't change a thing."
Site flooding concerns: Some campgrounds in low-lying areas experience water issues during heavy rain. At Pleasant Creek Campground, Jackie S. warns, "The bulk of the campsites are down in a valley and ours was along the creek. A heavy downpour resulted in water up over our ankles all through the site!"
Seasonal variations: Many glamping options close to Marseilles, Illinois have limited seasonal availability. Comlara County Park notes that certain facilities may be closed in off-season: "We went in the fall, quiet and nice. Most things were closed for the season but had a good time. Bring everything you need if its after season," advises Karen L.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for insects during summer months. Clinton G. mentions at Pleasant Creek Campground, "We had the shade and the sites had nice people and we were near a stream, but there was a ton of poison ivy in the uncut beside the tent. Even ivy in the utility box for water and electricity."
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging access routes. Rodney D. comments about Pleasant Creek, "The only issue we had was the narrow road up the hill, I would hat to be half way up and meet another camper coming down."
Structured activities: Jellystone Park Millbrook offers numerous organized events for children. "This is a good campsite for the kids. Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day," explains Tori P., who particularly recommends their Halloween events.
Water fun: Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds provides extensive water recreation for children. "We go every year with another family. We have had sites 105-103 and 123-125 and 29/36. We love it. Tons of activities for kids and pretty chill for adults," shares Erick B.
Educational opportunities: Families can learn about local wildlife at Buffalo Rock. "Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers. A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk," notes Bill M., highlighting the educational aspects of this park.
Budget considerations: Some campgrounds charge extra fees for activities. Marcie J. points out about Comlara County Park: "Large lots are nice, out houses need cleaned. Good rates but the kicker is the $20.00 fee per boat/kayak to get on the lake plus the fee for the swimming area was a bit much for us."
Site selection strategy: At Camp Bullfrog Lake, site choice makes a difference. "This is my second time staying at Bullfrog lake. The first time I was in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade," explains Layla P.
Hookup availability: Pleasant Creek Campground offers full hookup options, though the layout can be challenging. Brian A. notes, "The dump station was also up a one way in/out hill. You had to make a tight U-turn coming down from your site to get up to it. Plan on going early otherwise you're going to get stuck on the hill waiting."
Off-season preparation: For RVers camping during shoulder seasons, plan for limited facilities. At Jellystone, Karen L. advises, "Bring everything you need if its after season," suggesting self-sufficiency for late-fall or early-spring visits.
Parking considerations: Size limitations affect larger rigs at some campgrounds. Green River Oaks Camping Resort offers spacious sites but access can be challenging. As one reviewer notes, "The sites are full hookup, but several times we have been at sites where the sewer dump pipe sticks up over 8" above the ground. Higher than the outlet of my trailer."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Marseilles, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Marseilles, IL is Pleasant Creek Campground with a 3.1-star rating from 28 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Marseilles, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 glamping camping locations near Marseilles, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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