RV camping near Milan, Illinois centers around the Mississippi and Cedar Rivers, with access to extensive waterway systems through both natural channels and the historic Hennepin Canal. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 570-650 feet, with seasonal operations typically running April through October. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring camping often contends with river flooding that can affect low-lying areas.
What to Do
Biking the Great River Trail: Fishermans Corner provides direct access to extensive bike trails. "We spent the morning biking the Great River Bike trail as we enjoyed the perfect weather. It was a slow day in the campground and many sites were still open," notes Scott M. The trail extends through multiple cities with numerous access points.
Fishing the Mississippi: Shady Creek offers prime fishing spots directly on the river. One camper reports, "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi." Fishing is particularly productive during early morning hours when boat traffic is minimal.
Wildlife viewing: Rock Creek Marina and Campground features a nature center with educational displays. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," explains Ryan. The nature center includes aquariums with native fish species.
What Campers Like
Level concrete pads: Campers consistently praise the stability of the pads at many area campgrounds. "Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas," notes Al K. about Fishermans Corner. These level sites minimize setup time and eliminate the need for leveling blocks.
River views: Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground provides direct canal access. "This undiscovered little gem will make you feel as though you've just hit the primitive camping lottery jackpot as very few folks outside of Geneseo even know of this place," writes Stuart K. The campground sits directly along the Hennepin Canal with multiple water-view sites.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Friendly staff, very clean and peaceful. Nice shower rooms and amenities and very reasonably priced," mentions Tom N. about Geneseo Campground. Regular cleaning schedules help maintain cleanliness even during peak season.
What You Should Know
Insect conditions: The riverfront location means mosquitoes and other insects can be problematic, especially in warmer months. "Bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest," warns James M. about Rock Creek Marina. Campers should pack repellent and consider site selection carefully during peak summer months.
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near several riverside campgrounds, creating periodic noise disturbances. "Although Thomson has less RR noise, there is the hunting, with parts of the park closed off, and gunfire going from dawn to dusk...I find the trains the lesser of the evils!" explains Sebastian G. about Fishermans Corner. Noise patterns typically include multiple overnight trains.
Site spacing: Some campgrounds feature closely positioned sites. "My one complaint is that the sites are packed tightly together and more suited for RVs than tents," Andrew S. mentions about Fishermans Corner. Tent campers may prefer seeking sites with natural barriers or spacing.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground facilities: Cedar River Campground offers multiple kid-friendly amenities. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids," notes Jackie J. The playground area features both traditional equipment and natural play spaces.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide nature learning experiences. "The grounds have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed," writes Chris F. about Rock Creek Marina. Many locations offer weekend ranger programs during summer months.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas to keep children safe near water. "Sites are right on the river w/ views - worth it to try to get those. Very clean, little playground for kids, nice spacing between sites," shares Sarah C. about Fishermans Corner, though swimming is not its primary feature.
Tips from RVers
Water access points: RV sites typically share water access points rather than individual hookups. "Water is dispersed throughout the campground, and a dump station," notes Elisha L. about Fishermans Corner. Campers should bring extra hose lengths to reach distant spigots.
Big rig accommodation: Several parks offer pull-through sites that accommodate larger vehicles. "Easy to navigate, even with big rigs, which there were plenty. Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one," reports Gary P. about Shady Creek. Most sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, with some locations offering space for larger rigs.
Electrical options: Different campgrounds offer varying electrical service. "Sites include fire rings, tables, gravel backing pads, electric with some right near water edge," explains James M. about Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground. Most parks feature 30-amp and 50-amp options, with electrical site prices averaging $10-20 higher than non-electric sites.
