Raymond P.
Scout
ScoutChief Blackhawk Group Camp
Campsite numbers don’t match Internet numbers
Nice walking trails and good fishing at the lake
Camping near Bartonville, IL
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The Illinois River corridor near Bartonville features a mix of established campgrounds with varying amenities and proximity to water. Millpoint Park and Leisure Oaks Park operate as primary developed campgrounds in the Bartonville area, with Carl Spindler Campground in nearby East Peoria providing additional options. These facilities accommodate various camping styles, from tent sites to full RV hookups, with some locations including cabin rentals. Millpoint Park stands out for its spacious waterfront sites along the Illinois River, while several campgrounds in the region provide essential amenities including electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities.
Many campgrounds in the Bartonville area operate seasonally, with facilities like Leisure Oaks Park typically open from April through October. Road access throughout the region is generally good with paved surfaces leading to most established sites. "The campground was clean and quiet. Enjoyed camping here. Will definitely camp here again when we go visit family," noted one visitor about Carl Spindler Campground. Full hookup sites are widely available for RVs, though tent camping opportunities exist primarily along waterfront areas where sites may be more primitive. Utility water at some locations contains high iron content, making it unsuitable for drinking without filtration. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays when waterfront sites fill quickly.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw for visitors to the Bartonville area, with access to the Illinois River and Upper Peoria Lake. Several campers mentioned the scenic river views as highlights of their stay, particularly for fishing and water activities. Shade varies considerably between campgrounds, with Millpoint Park receiving positive comments about its mature tree cover. "Beautiful views of the Upper Peoria Lake/Illinois River. We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling," reported one camper. The proximity to Peoria provides convenient urban amenities while still allowing for a camping experience. Campground quality varies significantly, with some locations receiving criticism for maintenance issues while others earn praise for cleanliness and spacious sites. Most campgrounds near Bartonville permit pets and provide fire rings or pits, with firewood available for purchase at select locations.
Best Campgrounds near Bartonville (60)
1. Millpoint Park
"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."
from $18 - $100 / night
Check Availability2. 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 to a fresh body of water that"
"It was also a short walk to the Illinois River!!!"
3. Jubilee College State Park Campground
"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."
4. Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest
"The trail is a mix of sand and soil. It’s quite an unexpected discovery in Illinois. We didn’t see anyone else on the trail but we saw cars parked so hikers were out there. "
"It’s a nice get away from the city. I haven’t stayed at any of the backpacking sites, but the main campground. It is located under a bunch of tall pines, and feels fairly open."
from $8 / night
Check Availability5. Kentuckiana Campground
"When Unhitching if there is anyone waiting to drive by, you feel kind of rushed. Don’t let it make you forget wheel chocks or something important. They have a nice pond."
"We stayed here last year and will likely stay there again this year when we are back in Illinois. The park has two sides, one side closer to the stage."
6. Walmart - Peoria Supercenter
7. Kentuckiana Kampground and Country Opry
8. Leisure Oaks Park
9. Comlara County Park
"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."
10. Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
"This campground has walk-in only camping but it’s right next to where you park. It’s a quiet place in an open field surrounded by forest. Choose a campsite under some trees if you like."
Drive Time
- 9 min from Peoria, IL
- 39 min from Bloomington, IL
- 1 hr 3 min from Springfield, IL
- 1 hr 21 min from Decatur, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Bartonville, IL
45 Photos of 60 Bartonville Campgrounds
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Carl Spindler Campground
Stuart K.
Millpoint Park
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Jubilee College State Park Campground
Art S.
Woodford State Conservation Area
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Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest
Joy H.
Horseman's Park — Sand Ridge State Forest
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Timberline Campground
Stuart K.
Kamp Komfort RV Park and Campground
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Hickory Hill Campground
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Recent Reviews near Bartonville, IL
251 Reviews of 60 Bartonville Campgrounds
- Raymond P.Scout
Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
Level sites with electric
Site was walking distance from the lake. quiet cul-de-sac
Carole I.
GuideLove's RV Stop-Normal IL 867
Loves rv stop
No trees but iris off the highway. Quiet enough considering it’s off highway. Nice , clean.
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area
Riverbank Stillness along the Banks of the Illinois River
There’s a lovely hush that settles over Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area the moment you wind your way beneath the tall timber and pull into this rustic riverfront campground, the kind of place where the breeze feels soft and the squirrels seem to outnumber the people. The campground itself is small and simple, offering spacious, mostly shaded sites with EZ access to the Illinois River, where anglers set up early and kayakers glide past with that slow, content rhythm that makes you want to join them. The boys loved wandering the little footpaths between the trees, pretending they were explorers while my husband gathered kindling and I soaked in the quiet that’s so hard to find in everyday life. One of my favorite moments was watching the sun drop behind the far treeline as we all shared marshmallows at the fire ring, the river catching the last light just perfectly. For families who don’t mind the rustic feel, including vault toilets, limited amenities, and a true ‘bring what you need’ kind of setup, this place offers peaceful nights, wide-open nature, and a sense of being tucked away in something truly untouched. For the best campsite here, choose Site 18, which is the most private river-adjacent spot with a deep pocket of shade and just enough open ground for the boys to play safely while still keeping them in view.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Woodford State Conservation Area
Riverbend Quietude for the Whole Family
With the river curving gently nearby and tall trees leaning in as if to welcome you with the non-stop shower of falling leaves in a kaleidoscope of Autumn colors, there’s a soft kind of stillness that settles over you the moment you pull into Woodford State Conservation Area. The campground here is small and simple, tucked into thick woods with EZ access to the boat launch, abundant fishing spots and winding shaded nature trails, plus vault toilets and fairly new looking picnic tables that keep things primitive, yet convenient even in this somewhat more rustic setting. Our two little boys loved wandering the shaded paths looking for deer tracks before finishing the night with marshmallows that melted faster than they could giggle about them. Since the campground doesn’t offer numbered or distinct campsite loops, the best places to set up are the shady pockets furthest from the gravel road you drove in, where the breeze is cooler and the trees thin just enough for those pretty filtered sunsets. While you’ll feel embedded in nature here, should you need any supplies, you can quickly access big box retailers and restaurants in less than 20 minutes from here in nearby East Peoria. I’d recommend this campground for families who appreciate quiet nature time, EZ access to paddling and fishing as well as a peaceful wooded environment that feels far from everything yet wonderfully grounding.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Chief Blackhawk Group Camp
Spacious Woodland Haven for Big Gatherings
There’s something about arriving at the Chief Blackhawk Group Camp that immediately feels like stepping into a wide, green embrace, with the tall hardwoods and quiet prairie edges giving families the kind of breathing room that only a true group campground can offer. Set deep within Johnson-Sauk Trail State Park, this expansive, grassy group area provides a wonderful blend of shade, open field space, EZ parking access and nearby trails, with clean vault toilets and a central gathering area perfect for camp kitchens, games and big family meals. One of my favorite moments came as the boys chased fireflies along with their cousins across the open field at dusk, their happy shouts mixing with the crackle around the campfire along with our extended family as the sky slowly turned lavender above the treetops. Because there are no numbered sites here, the best setup is simply choosing the shady tree line along the western edge of the loop as close to the lake as you can get, where tents tuck in beautifully and families can enjoy both privacy and a view of the open meadow to the rear or the waterfront vista in front. And if you want to treat the family to a really nice treat, try out Paxton’s Corner Coop back in Annawan featuring fresh made ice cream and cinnamon rolls. I’d recommend Chief Blackhawk Group Camp for families looking to host reunions or multi-family trips, thanks to its generous space, quiet setting and the EZ access to hiking trails, Lake Johnson and all the classic memories a big campout tends to create.
Sue B.
RangerHennepin Canal Lock 11
Great spot for a night
We stayed here on the way back from a trip out west, and it was great for us. Pit toilets and a picnic table were unexpected bonuses. The app we used suggested a fee but we couldn't find anywhere to leave the $, and there was no one there collecting it. My 14 yo dog was struggling to regulate her body temp, so she and I camped in a tent while my hubby and the other pup slept in the van.
Stuart K.LegendChief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
Pine Needle Forest Camping Paradise
Set within the sweeping woodlands and restored prairie of Johnson-Sauk Trail State Park, Chief Keokuk Campground offers a peaceful Midwestern getaway anchored by the calm waters of Johnson Lake. The winding park road leads you through thick stands of oak, hickory and maple before opening into several spacious loops, each offering a blend of shady electric sites and quieter primitive pockets tucked along the treeline. With miles of trails, gentle rolling hills and a large fishing lake at the heart of the park, this campground gives travelers a classic Illinois nature retreat that feels far removed from the farmland grid just outside the gates. Given that I provided so much detail in my previous review, I'm going to focus on the HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS that offers a quick summary:
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Beautiful wooded loops with generous shade and privacy thanks to mature hardwoods; (2) Close proximity to Johnson Lake for easy paddling, shoreline strolls and fishing where you can expect to catch largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, bullhead, muskie, northern pike and redear sunfish; (3) Miles of well-marked hiking trails, including segments overlooking prairie restorations and glacial-era terrain; (4) Spacious sites that are comfortably spread out compared to many other IL state park layouts; and (5) Quick access to historic Ryan’s Round Barn, one of the region’s most unique architectural landmarks.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Limited cell service in several sections of the campground; (2) Some sites are uneven and may require extra leveling effort; (3) Seasonal mosquitoes can be fierce, especially near the lake; (4) No camp store, meaning supply runs require a drive back to nearby Kewanee; and (5) Shower buildings, while functional, can feel dated during peak-season crowds.
Happy Overnighting!
Ryan B.
TravelerHickory Hill Campground
My time here
This will be my 11th season at Hickory Hill Campground. I have seen many people come and go, but at the heart of this Campground is a sense of togetherness.
Guide to Bartonville
Tent and RV camping sites near Bartonville, Illinois offer a mix of river access and forest settings. The region sits at approximately 450-600 feet elevation with hot, humid summers and mild spring and fall seasons. Winter temperatures regularly dip below freezing, making April through October the primary camping season for most locations, with some campgrounds remaining open year-round for hardier campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bass, bluegill, and buffalo fish are common catches in the Illinois River watershed. "We caught some bluegill, buffalo, and large mouth bass," notes a visitor to Millpoint Park. Some campgrounds provide direct water access for shore fishing, while others have boat launches.
Trail exploration: Nearby hiking paths range from sand-based to wooded routes. "There is a really old cemetery at the college if you just want to creep yourself out at night," mentions a reviewer about the historic sections near Jubilee College State Park Campground. The green trail at Sand Ridge State Forest showcases various ecosystems with relatively easy terrain.
Birdwatching and wildlife viewing: The Illinois River corridor serves as a major migration route. "We didn't come across water sources so we asked the ranger. He pointed out a couple spots that have spigots or hand pumps," shared a visitor at Pine Campground about exploring the conservation area. Bring binoculars and wildlife guides, especially during spring and fall migrations.
What campers like
Quiet river viewpoints: Sunsets over the Illinois River earn consistent praise. "We were on 2 huge pull-thru sites with just our 2 tents and we were the only tent campers I saw... Views of the river were great, kindling was plentiful, and it was SO QUIET and peaceful at night!" reports a camper at Millpoint Park from their fall camping trip.
Affordable rates with decent amenities: Most campgrounds offer reasonable pricing. "I payed $28 a night for a full hook up," notes a camper at Carl Spindler Campground. Primitive tent sites are often available for under $20 per night at state-managed facilities.
Star viewing opportunities: Light pollution is minimal at several parks. "Great campground to get out of the city. The viewing of stars is incredible," mentions a camper at Jubilee College State Park. Sites further from Peoria generally offer better night sky viewing conditions.
What you should know
Water quality varies significantly: Iron content is high at some locations. "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird," advises a camper at Millpoint Park. Several reviewers recommend bringing bottled water for drinking and cooking needs.
Reservation requirements differ by location: Some accept walk-ins while others need advance booking. "We were late reserving a campsite for Memorial Day Weekend. But Don had a spot for us," reports a camper at Millpoint Park. Holiday weekends typically require reservations weeks in advance at popular sites.
Campground layout affects privacy levels: Site spacing varies significantly. "Spaces are tight. Most are pull-though but there isn't a lot of room between campers so don't expect much privacy," notes a camper at Kentuckiana Campground. Some parks offer more isolated tent-only areas for those seeking seclusion.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds have dedicated children's areas. "Great place for kids. Decent little parks. Huge slide in the holler," reports a visitor to Kentuckiana Campground. Some facilities have multiple play areas scattered throughout the grounds.
Wildlife education opportunities: Nature encounters provide learning experiences. "There is prickly pear in this area so be careful where you step," warns a ranger at Pine Campground. This unusual Midwest feature makes for interesting exploration with proper guidance.
Beach and swimming options: Water access varies by location. "The campground has nice bathrooms and hookups. We got a beautiful spot right on the lake," notes a camper at Comlara County Park. Some parks charge additional fees for beach access, ranging from $5-10 per person.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary within and between campgrounds. "We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling," reports an RVer at Millpoint Park. Bring leveling blocks even at developed sites, as many older campgrounds have uneven pads.
Electrical considerations: Hookup locations may require extra equipment. "One thing to be aware of is the trash point is at the parking lot," notes a camper at Carl Spindler Campground. "In the overflow 'unpaved' section there is 1 station of power for 4 campers. So you definitely need a LONG power cord."
Seasonal restrictions: Some facilities limit winter camping or reduce services. "They close most of the park in the winter time which only leaves 22 paved sites available," reports a camper about Comlara County Park. Call ahead during off-season periods to confirm availability and access conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Bartonville, IL?
What camping is available near Bartonville, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Bartonville, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 60 campgrounds and RV parks near Bartonville, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Bartonville, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Bartonville, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bartonville, IL is Millpoint Park with a 4-star rating from 17 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bartonville, IL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bartonville, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Bartonville, IL.
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