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Camping options within a 30-mile radius of Metamora, Illinois range from riverfront sites to wooded state parks, with most facilities concentrated along the Illinois River corridor. Millpoint Park in East Peoria offers waterfront camping with spacious sites along Upper Peoria Lake, while Carl Spindler Campground provides marina access for boaters. Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area, located closest to Metamora, features primitive camping with basic amenities in a natural setting popular with anglers and hunters. For RV travelers, several developed campgrounds like Kamp Komfort in Carlock and Timberline Campground in Goodfield provide full hookup options with 30/50-amp service.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region of central Illinois. Summer brings humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F, along with persistent insects that prompt many campers to pack appropriate repellents. "If you haven't camped out here in central Illinois during the summer, you will want to bring good DEET spray to keep the ticks away," notes one reviewer of Millpoint Park. Spring flooding can affect riverside campgrounds, particularly at Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area, where campers are advised to check conditions before arrival. Most private campgrounds operate from April through October, while state-managed areas like Comlara County Park remain open year-round with limited winter services.
The Illinois River shapes much of the camping landscape around Metamora, creating opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Campers frequently mention the quality of waterfront sites, with one visitor to Carl Spindler Campground highlighting "inexpensive tent sites with access for fishing, paddling, wildlife and sunset viewing." Shade availability varies significantly between campgrounds, with Millpoint Park receiving praise for its "big trees, deep shade" along the river. Highway noise affects some locations, particularly those near I-80 and I-74, though several reviewers note that Starved Rock Family Campground manages to create a surprisingly quiet environment despite its proximity to major roads. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting good LTE coverage.
"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 Availability"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!!!"
"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."
"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"
"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."
"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"
from $8 - $12 / night
Check Availability"Nestled in the verdant rolling hills of central Illinois, you’ll discover Hickory Hills Campground located just a short drive west of I39 and completely off the grid, due to the slight incline of this"
"This seems to be more of a full time camping location. Lots of buildings and I was offered a lot for sale. Golf carts seem to be the most common mode of travel as there are plentiful."
from $26 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Nice staff, quiet enough for being somewhat close to the highway. The trees seemed to block the noise well. They have a pool that was closed because of a virus or something."
"bit more than a year ago provided quite a bit of detail on this campground, I’m following up on that review by sharing more fotos as well as providing a topline update: Highlights: (1) Closely located"
from $40 - $45 / night
Check Availability"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"
"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."
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.
RangerWe loved site 89 at Starved Rock State Campground, in the wooded area of the east loop. Felt enveloped by nature among the trees and birds. Nice privacy, with neighbors at a distance through the trees. The pit toilets weren’t far and were well-kept. The only disappointment was the shower house. The shower itself was excellent—hot and powerful—but one men's and one women's shower for more than 70 sites isn't sufficient, and those facilities felt neglected.
The location of this campground is perfect if you’re there to explore the canyons, as it’s an easy drive to so many trailheads. We hiked up to Starved Rock and also down into seven canyons over the four days there: Illinois, Ottawa, Kalkaskia, Council Bluffs, St Louis, French, and Wildcat. We enjoyed a riverboat cruise down the Illinois River among bluffs of sandstone. We had lunch in Ottawa one day and Utica another; both cool towns. We also loved our time just relaxing at the site in such a beautiful setting.
TravelerYou must pack in your own water and there are no electric hookups. Beautiful well maintained grounds with lots of open sky for starlink.
LegendSet just off I-80 near Sheffield, the Lock 22 Campground offers some of the simplest, most serene camping you’ll find in the Hennepin Canal State Trail system. Here, you’re not at a full-service campground– this is the kind of place where the canal’s old lock whispers history and the towpath beckons walkers and anglers. First impressions? A flat, grassy expanse with scattered trees, picnic tables, pit toilets and a quiet canal-side vibe that is refreshingly basic, peaceful and full of charm if you’re into low-maintenance camping.
As a Class ‘C’ campground, Lock 22 offers primitive facilities only, meaning no showers, no hookups and no electricity(yes, a whole lot of‘Nos’), but it does include toilets and drinking water. Campsites are vehicle-accessible and the$8/night per-family fee is collected in person by a site security officer(if they show up), on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth groups follow a separate fee schedule with minimums and supervision rules. Camping is quiet, basic, and outdoors-first here.
What really sets this spot apart is its location and simplicity. It’s under the lock bridge itself, so be sure to bring a chair, toss a line in the canal and wander the towpath trails that take you past aqueducts and marshes. Cell service is reported as excellent, making it a surprisingly connected getaway. Nearby, Sheffield offers a few basic services, and you're within easy driving distance of I-80 and surrounding towns.
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful:(1) For the flattest, quietest camping, choose a grassy site closest to the canal but back off from the parking area;(2) Bring all the water you'll need as while Lock 22 has drinking water, it’s only at a designated faucet and not at the campsites themselves;(3) The canal towpath is fantastic for peaceful walking, biking, fishing and bird-watching, but for the best experience, get there early;(4) Check the Visitor Center north of I-80 for trail maps so that you can plan your canal hiking and camping;(5) No campfires outside of designated fire pits, so I would strongly encourage you to bring alternative cooking options like a butane or propane-fueled stove or range; and(6) If you drive into Sheffield check out Wings Café serving hearty comfort food, or try The Dug-Out Sports Pub for pub-style eats and local atmosphere.
Happy Camping!
ScoutI live near this park and have used it regularly for years. It is certainly nothing special... just a nice average park. I usually do a combination van and tent camp here and it is totally adequate for that. It looks to be fine for RVs as well. The pit toilets are usually clean and relatively bug free. The shower house is clean and adequate. I just think of this as my "local campground"... my go to for a quick weekend getaway to set up and use my gear, and have friends out to share a fire. The park itself is nice, quiet and clean. You will see deer and raccoons. Jubilee is off a County Highway (Rt 150), about 5 miles off I-74. Small town with DG and Gas stations are about 5 miles away; Peoria IL is 15ish miles away.
ScoutEven in this incredible heat ( high 90's) the woodsy campground feels pleasant. Birds tweeting, lots of space between sites. The zero entry swimming pool is new and spotlessly clean, as are the showers. The owners are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend.
ScoutCalled last minute and owner was helpful and clear. Price was great and we got water & electric we needed. Very quiet place and away from busy highways but convenient. If traveling through the area would definitely consider again. We had a class C so was easy, but may be more challenging for a larger rig. Owner's dog was older, slow and very friendly. Opposite of our two small puppies :)
If looking for a quick overnight that allows you to rest for the next day this is a good option.
GuideWe arrived as a storm was blowing in. Tornado watch, severe thunderstorms and torrential rains. Despite the in conditions, when learning it was our first night ever in an RV, our host went above and beyond to meet our needs. Although we reserved a 30 amp site, our site only had 50. She ventured out in the pouring rain to bring us an adapter. The next morning, our site had flooded and she rode out to our site to assess the situation. She was incredibly responsive by call and text. We were baptized by fire on our first night of RV life, but because of her, we made it!
Camping spots near Metamora, Illinois offer a mix of primitive and full-service options within a landscape dominated by agricultural fields and scattered woodlands. The region sits at approximately 750 feet above sea level, with camping areas concentrated along river corridors that cut through the otherwise flat terrain. Water access varies dramatically by season, with spring bringing high water levels while late summer can see significant drawdowns at riverside campgrounds.
Fishing opportunities: Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area provides access to the Illinois River system with multiple species available. "This rustic yet charming place was a welcoming respite for the weekend. We walked along the levees to explore the area. Locals came in all day long to fish. Some launched their boats but most stayed on shore," notes a visitor to Woodford State Conservation Area.
Hiking along levees: The protected waterways near Metamora offer unique walking routes atop flood-control structures. At Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, campers can access "3 miles of hiking trails marked by levees where you'll see no shortage of waterfowl like wood ducks and Canadian geese." One reviewer mentioned that "We witnessed the most spectacular sunset over the river. It was well worth the night's adventures."
Water recreation: Boating and paddling are major activities throughout the region. "There is a fantastic boat launch that will have you fishing, kayaking and experiencing this body of fresh water shortly after you anchor into your spot for the night," writes a reviewer of Millpoint Park. Another camper noted, "We caught some bluegill, buffalo, and large mouth bass" while fishing from the riverfront.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide larger-than-average camping spots. At Millpoint Park, campers appreciate that "all sites are incredibly spacious, unlike a lot of other RV parks." One reviewer noted, "The campground sits along the Illinois River: many campsites face it. It's secluded and quiet. Campsites are spacious and well-distanced."
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers find the region offers good value. A Carl Spindler Campground visitor commented, "The rate of $24 for an electric site was reasonable. Full hookup sites and a few tent sites are also available." Another camper added, "Inexpensive tent sites with access for fishing, paddling, wildlife and sunset viewing."
Proximity to water: Many campsites offer direct water access. At Comlara County Park, "We got a beautiful spot right on the lake," and at Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, a visitor mentioned, "Great camping spot #10 very close to the Illinois river and great views."
Flooding concerns: Riverside campgrounds are subject to seasonal water level changes. "This location is quite popular with local fishermen and gets absolutely jam-packed, particularly on the weekends. You will want to make particular note that you're encamped next to a river that can (and often does) flood, so be sure you know what the weather conditions have been."
Limited facilities at some locations: The more natural sites often have basic amenities. At Carl Spindler Campground, "Showers were small and I did not use so cannot comment on how well they worked." Another camper noted that at Woodford State Conservation Area, "A little rough, but is kept up as best as they can. Funding for the area is lacking."
Water quality issues: Several campgrounds report water with high mineral content. "The water here has a lot of iron in it, so don't attempt to drink it, but according to the locals, it's fine to shower in," reports a camper about Millpoint Park. At Carl Spindler, another camper advised, "Don't forget your RV water filter! The water here is very rusty."
Playground access: Some camping areas offer dedicated play spaces. At Hickory Hill Campground, families can enjoy "an in-ground pool opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day, basketball court, mini golf, shuffleboard, pool table, ping pong and various soda and snack vending machines and games in the recreation center." One visitor noted it has "Lots of nice amenities for families."
Swimming options: Several locations offer water access for cooling off. Comlara County Park has a swimming beach, though a visitor mentioned "the fee for the swimming area was a bit much for us." At Kamp Komfort, a camper appreciated that "They have a pool and a VERY nice shower house and restroom."
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options for families. At Comlara County Park, "There are more hike in tent sites that would provide more rustic experience," and "Sites 96 and 97 would be my picks if I could choose: both are private and have large camping pad areas" at Starved Rock Campground.
Hookup variety: Different campgrounds offer various connection options. At Kamp Komfort, "It has full hookups at all the sites," and a reviewer appreciated that "Some of the sites have concrete pads, some don't. You can't put a carpet on the grass, and you have to put the firepit on the gravel, so you don't harm the grass."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment. A camper at Comlara County Park noted "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts. Site is very large however. Does have nice shade." At Timberline Campground, one visitor experienced issues where "at our site the breaker was broken, so we waited for hours for someone to come fix it."
Late season camping: Year-round options exist but with reduced services. "We were looking for a quick place to spend the night, like a Walmart or gas station when we found this gem. It is only a few miles off the highway, making it super convenient for a quick overnight stop," writes a late October visitor to Comlara County Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Metamora, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Metamora, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 77 campgrounds and RV parks near Metamora, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Metamora, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Metamora, IL is Millpoint Park with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Metamora, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Metamora, IL.
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