Top Tent Camping near Nachusa, IL

Searching for a tent campsite near Nachusa? The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Nachusa with tent camping. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Nachusa, IL (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park

    1. Castle Rock State Park

    7 Reviews
    26 Photos
    65 Saves

    Castle Rock State Park is located along the west bank of the Rock River in Ogle County, three miles south of Oregon, on Ill. Rt. 2. Castle Rock camping is centrally located in the Rock River Hills region of Illinois, and its rolling topography is drained by the Rock River. The park is representative of the Rock River Hills area with rock formations, ravines and unique northern plant associations. A sandstone bluff, adjacent to the river, has given the park its name.​​​​

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $6 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Keokuk Campground

    2. Chief Keokuk Campground

    22 Reviews
    124 Photos
    27 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center
    Camper-submitted photo from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center

    3. Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from MacQueen Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from MacQueen Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from MacQueen Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from MacQueen Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from MacQueen Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from MacQueen Forest Preserve

    4. MacQueen Forest Preserve

    6 Reviews
    27 Photos
    60 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Starved Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Starved Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Starved Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Starved Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Starved Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Starved Rock Campground

    5. Kayak Starved Rock Campground

    8 Reviews
    33 Photos
    28 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $29 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    6. Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    2 Reviews
    21 Photos
    8 Saves

    Campgrounds with multiple campsites along the canal can be found at Lock 21, North Day Use Area

    Equestrian camping is restricted to the south side of the Lock 21 area. Equestrian campers are asked to bring a shovel to clear their own horse droppings, which may be pushed off to the side of the trail. There is no tethering to trees.

    If you are not familiar with the canal it may be confusing trying to find the campsites. Stop by the Hennepin Canal Visitor Center to pick up a detailed map of the canal, which shows all of the country crossroads. You can also call the visitor center and ask to be mailed a copy: 815-454-2328. I

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 11
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 11
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 11
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 11
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 11
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 11

    7. Hennepin Canal Lock 11

    3 Reviews
    10 Photos
    5 Saves

    The Hennepin Canal State Park is not enrolled in the ReserveAmerica camping reservation system and DOES NOT take camping reservations. Camping at the Canal is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are no set check-in or check-out times. The Canal’s site security officer makes rounds to each campsite to collect camping fees, in-person. Campers can pay by cash or check. Camping along the Hennepin Canal towpath is PROHIBITED – camping is only allowed in the designated campsites. Fires are only allowed in the state designated fire pits at the campgrounds. Camping is not permitted in the main complex area (the area around the visitor center). Currently, the ONLY DRINKING WATER available on the ENTIRE canal is located at the main parking lot in front of the visitor center at the large shelter. There is also a faucet on the side of the visitor center, just to the left of the main entrance. There are no operable drinking water fountains along the rest of the canal so bring your own water for your hike or camping trip.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Rock State Park

    8. Buffalo Rock State Park

    4 Reviews
    13 Photos
    84 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed

    $6 / night

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      Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews In Nachusa

      616 Reviews of 15 Nachusa Campgrounds


      • Jon L.
        Camper-submitted photo from O'Connell's RV Campground
        Oct. 23, 2024

        O'Connell's RV Campground

        BULLET HOLES IN MY AIRSTREAM!

        BULLET HOLES IN MY AIRSYTREAM. Yes, you read that correctly. I had 4 bullet holes in my Airstream and to date, O'Connell's has NEVER RETURNED ANY CALLS OR EMAILS regarding this incident. A police report was made, photos were taken, and still nothing. Thousand Trails should be aware of this, but I'm guessing they are not. What if your kids were playing outside? My neighbor had a bullet hole in her shed and he also posted about it. O'CONNELL'S IS DANGEROUS, stay away from the new "Premium" lot section. I paid extra for this?

      • Dan M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Grove Campground
        Oct. 14, 2024

        Hickory Grove Campground

        Definitely worth a stop!

        This a really nice campground with a lot of recent upgrades. Great location, excellent piece of land, and the owners are super friendly. Sites give you TONS of room and they are all FHU.

      • Rob
        Camper-submitted photo from Starved Rock State Park Campground
        Oct. 11, 2024

        Starved Rock State Park Campground

        Relaxing weekend in the middle of everywhere

        Stayed in the east loop, overlooking the ravine, had a small trail behind our site that was all wooded. Decent pines and brush separating sites on both sides. Didn't feel like the sites were on top of each other. Not too far from refill station, farther from toilets which is nice to reduce flies and bugs. We'll definitely stay here again.

        Didn't bother with $9 bundle of firewood from the vending machine. Jacks had a wagon load of firewood for $20 cash, much better deal and it lasted for 3 nights.

        Keep in mind the grounds are fully separated from the state park, you'll need to drive 8 to 10min to get to the hiking trails. Biking out of the campgrounds also didn't seem close enough with young kids.

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Campground
        Sep. 9, 2024

        Hennepin Canal Campground

        Easy place to camp

        5 site in all. 4 sites can be accessed by rv or trailer. 5th one has barriers up and only tents. Each site has fire rings and tables to use. 3 sites back up along the canal. Public park restrooms near by.

      • mThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Starved Rock State Park Campground
        Sep. 5, 2024

        Starved Rock State Park Campground

        One night stay while traveling home

        Very friendly host at the gate! Just what my wife and I were looking for. Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn’t expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Mississippi Palisades State Park
        Sep. 4, 2024

        Mississippi Palisades State Park

        Super cheap for what you get.

        I got a primitive tent site in an area all to myself, with a shower house just down the road, in a beautiful and quiet campground for $10 cash. You really can’t beat that. Campground is separate from the park so you don’t have to pay a park entrance fee to stay here.

      • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Starved Rock Family Campground
        Sep. 3, 2024

        Starved Rock Family Campground

        Enjoyable Stay

        Our RV GPS took us off I-39 for a nice country drive to the campground (CG). Google Maps wanted to bring us in off I-80, which also works as the CG just off I-80. The CG check in time is 2:00 PM. We called and they said it would be fine to come in a half hour earlier. Upon arrival, we checked in at their office that has a nice sized store that sells sundry, gifts, and camping stuff. Check-in was fast and we were off to pull through site L-1 with FHUs in the far side of this large CG. The pull through was plenty long enough for our 40’ 5th wheel and F450. The utilities were centered on the pad so that was nice as I was able to dump both black tanks with a 10’ hose. There’s a shower house on this side of the CG as there are also tent sites in this area. Water pressure was good at about 50 psi and we got between 2 and 3 bars on Verizon. When we checked in, we just got a map and no rules or information sheet. Their rules etc. are on their website. There was a well maintained picnic table and an old fashioned rock fire pit, which was kind of cool. The pool is up front by the office/club house. And the large playground along with a dumpster is at the entrance to the back CG area. Up front by the office, there’s a small fenced dog area that we didn’t use and another dumpster as you head out of the CG. They also have Wifi in that area, but not throughout the CG, which was fine with us for our overnight stay. As we were in the back of the CG, we did not notice highway noise. The shower house in our area also had laundry consisting of two washers and two dryers. You can rent golf carts here along with selling wood and ice. The sites are nicely spaced for a private CG, but we would not call them spacious. Loves and a Dollar General are nearby. You can also buy sundries in the campground's store and gift shop. We enjoyed our short overnighter.

      • S
        Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Acres Camping Resort
        Aug. 25, 2024

        Holiday Acres Camping Resort

        Beware

        Review: Holiday Acres Campground Our recent stay at Holiday Acres Campground was nothing short of a nightmare. From the moment we arrived, we felt unwelcome and targeted by both the staff and the locals. It's hard to say definitively if this place was racist, but the behavior we experienced certainly felt that way. Firstly, we were harassed and intimidated by the locals. They would drive around our campsite at night, yelling racial slurs and other offensive comments. This created a disturbing and unsettling atmosphere that made our stay extremely uncomfortable. The staff were equally unpleasant. We were falsely accused of peeing in the pool without any evidence, which seemed more like an excuse to target us than a genuine concern. Additionally, one staff member consistently displayed unprofessional and rude behavior. She berated one of us and treated him condescendingly, as if he were a boy rather than an adult. She exhibited this condescending behavior with the locals as well. Requests for assistance were met with eye rolls and obvious reluctance. Her dismissive and offensive attitude was consistent throughout our stay. The final straw came when we were kicked out for calling her a name after she persistently treated us with disrespect. While name-calling isn't appropriate, her behavior towards us was intolerable and unprovoked. The facilities were also abysmal. The bathrooms constantly smelled like fart, possibly due to the high sulfur content in the water, which only added to the overall negative experience. The showers were yellow with orange bits that could be scraped off, and the lack of cleanliness was appalling. The playgrounds looked so poorly maintained that you could get a splinter just from looking at them. To make matters worse, we were falsely accused of stealing by a local camper. Despite promises to review security footage, no evidence was provided, and no apology was offered for the false accusation. The pool area was another disappointment. The pool was cold, likely because it had just been filled. While the pool area itself was nice, it lacked lounging chairs, which would have enhanced comfort and relaxation. Overall, our experience at Holiday Acres Campground was horrific. The combination of harassment from locals, the hostile attitude of the staff, the filthy facilities, and the lack of amenities made for an extremely uncomfortable and distressing stay. I would strongly advise anyone considering this campground to stay far away, especially if you are looking for a welcoming and respectful environment.

      • Anita A.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Starved Rock Family Campground
        Aug. 10, 2024

        Starved Rock Family Campground

        Gem

        Found this on our way to Colorado from Michigan and what a Gem. We don't like crowded campgrounds and happy to give up some amenities to have some elbow room, peace and quiet. No water hookup but spigot nearby. No sewer hookup but dump station on-site.
        So fun to hike and explore a series of canyons along the Illinois River. Nearby Ottawa has all the city amenities and nearby Utica in the opposite direction a quaint strolling town, bike paths. Will return!

      • W
        Camper-submitted photo from Nature’s Way RV Park
        Aug. 10, 2024

        Nature’s Way RV Park

        Great setting

        Just 5 minutes to Starved Rock state park and one mile from interstate 80. Great country setting with full hook ups, pool, laundry, camp store and showers.

      • Darshon J.
        Camper-submitted photo from MacQueen Forest Preserve
        Jul. 27, 2024

        MacQueen Forest Preserve

        Well Kept Campground

        Well maintained bathrooms, great secluded sites. Super easy no registration its first come first serve. I will be goin again with my family.

      • B
        Camper-submitted photo from Starved Rock State Park Campground
        Jul. 26, 2024

        Starved Rock State Park Campground

        Very rustic feel, limited, dated and poorly maintained facilities

        We stayed in the east loop which is heavily wooded compared to the west loop. Site 99 has no grass but is very large - ended up camping behind the RV on a little point that overlooks a ravine. Very neat, rustic feel. Heavy tree canopy means no Starlink. Verizon and AT&T both had only 1 bar. TV was nearly impossible to hold a signal. From our site closest bathrooms were a short walk but are port-a-pots. Shower house is likely a drive away especially if you have women and children in your party. All of the Starved Rock State Park trails and sites to see are a drive away, not part of the campground. For me the most annoying thing we encountered… there must be a small airport nearby because there was nearly constant small planes buzzing around thought out the day. Would stay here again, but not a favorite.

      • Andrew A.
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Tuckabatchee
        Jul. 21, 2024

        Camp Tuckabatchee

        RJ the camp director smokes pot on the job

        This new director smokes pot while children are out there camping! This is a children’s camp! My children will never be returning

      • Rebecca C.
        Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
        Jun. 30, 2024

        Rock Cut state park

        Not well maintained

        We have a 30 amp trailer. When we got there, the electricity wasn't working. It was 93° on a Saturday. We called the Rangers and asked them to look at our site breaker since it kept tripping. They came, told us the park was old and not updated but then ultimately told us it was our trailer. We had to rent a motel for the night because we couldn't even pull out the slide or anything. This was after spending about 6 hours pulling apart all the electrical in the trailer. Went to camping world the next day just for us to use their plugs and it was fine. We thought maybe it was our cord so we bought a new one and still nothing. We called the Rangers again who came to look at it. Told us that the park was just so old that it probably couldn't keep up and moved us to a 50 amp sight. The 30 amp plug there would work for about 2 mins and then would keep tripping again. So we ended up having to go back to camping world to get an adapter to use the 50 amp. Wasted about 30 hours of our trip over their electrical not being updated and they knew that. Tried to reach out to get the first night reimbursed since we literally couldn't even stay there or use our trailer. Was told we had to come back the next day to speak to the head ranger, came back and he wasn't there again. Was told he would call us two different times and never got a call. Will never stay here again.

      • tThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Starved Rock Family Campground
        Jun. 23, 2024

        Starved Rock Family Campground

        Large and peaceful site

        While this location is much newer, it checked everything off my box. Small dog area (not the best fencing though if your dog is an escape artist), pool, showers, RV amenities, amazing park for children, front office has everything you could imagine. The site is large enough for a nice dog walk and a very short drive to starved rock.

      • Danielle D.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Northwoods RV Resort
        Jun. 22, 2024

        Northwoods RV Resort

        Great for seasonal camping

        The sites are pretty big. The campground is not congested at all. The people are very nice. Everyone waves to everyone.

        We came here because they showed a water obstacle course on their website. When we got here, we were informed that their beach hasn't passed health tests for the past few years. So no obstacle course or beach area.

        The pool is very clean and the staff helped us pick a better site upon arrival. They also have a very pretty river to fish.

        There is no store. The only thing available is firewood. If you need anything at all, there is a Walmart about ten minutes down the road.

        The site is nice and grassy but there are a ton of bugs; mostly gnats.

        All in all, it's a very clean place with great people. The pool is wonderful. The parks are great. But it's definitely a more lay back and relax kind of place. Not a ton of stuff to do for kids.

      • Dhaval P.
        Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Starved Rock Campground
        Jun. 22, 2024

        Kayak Starved Rock Campground

        Beware of Deceptive Practices and Unauthorized Charges

        I recently booked a stay at Kayak Starved Rock Campground and had an extremely disappointing experience. The campgrounds were in poor condition, with overgrown grass and geese droppings everywhere. The bathrooms were unsanitary, with the porta potties emitting a foul odor and situated right next to the kayaks. To make matters worse, there were no showers available on-site, and the website misleadingly suggests that showers are available for$2 at a municipal location, which is actually several miles away. The website also mentions a pool, but there was no pool to be found. After deciding to cancel our stay, I left a review on Google expressing my dissatisfaction. Shockingly, the lady managing the campground contacted me and offered a refund in exchange for removing my negative review. This unethical practice suggests that many of the positive reviews you see might be fabricated or manipulated. To add to this troubling experience, even after they refunded me, I noticed multiple unauthorized charges on my credit card from this business. Therefore, I strongly recommend that no one provide their credit card information to this campground. I strongly advise against trusting the reviews for this campground and would not recommend staying here. It’s important for potential visitors to be aware of these deceptive practices to avoid disappointment and potential financial issues.---

      • Jessica J.
        Camper-submitted photo from Starved Rock State Park Campground
        Jun. 10, 2024

        Starved Rock State Park Campground

        It is excellent

        I recently had the pleasure of visiting Starved Rock State Park, nestled on the Illinois River bluff in La Salle County, and it truly is one of Illinois' most breathtaking destinations. The park's unique geological formations, lush landscapes, and abundant recreational activities make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Scenic Beauty and Trails The park is renowned for its 18 canyons, with their vertical walls of moss-covered stone, formed by glacial meltwater. These canyons slice dramatically through tree-covered sandstone bluffs, creating a stunning backdrop for exploration. I spent hours hiking the more than 13 miles of trails, which offer access to beautiful waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and spectacular overlooks. The trails vary in difficulty, making them accessible for both casual walkers and avid hikers. My entire team of Student Life Saviour is planning to visit the part at: https://studentlifesaviour.com as they also loves outing.

      • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
        May. 10, 2024

        Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

        Bare Bones Primitive Camping Haven

        Located literally just a few stone’s throw due west of the tiny town of Wyanet, which is just a few miles west of better-known Princeton, you will access this little spec of undisturbed primitive camping bliss first via the major Highway 80, running east-west, and then, eventually via Route 6, which is more like a well-paved country backroad than anything else. While you will be hard pressed to find Hennepin Canal Lock 21 on your GPS, trust me, if you simply head west out of Wyanet, you will eventually find this jewel in the middle of nature.

        If you didn’t already know, the Hennepin Canal, and its series of locks & dams will eventually connect you with two of the most amazing rivers in the entirety of the US: the mighty Mississippi as well as the murky depths of the Illinois River – both of which are great for kayaking BTW. Should you choose to follow the canal in its entirety, you will be ushered through the minuscule townships of Mineral, Sheffield, Wyanet, Tiskilwa and Bureau – all of which are fairly emblematic of small Midwestern blue-collared towns that still to this day possess an equal amount of charm and hospitality, which the area is very well known for.

        Given that you can’t actually make a reservation here (or at any of the campgrounds along the Hennepin Canal for that matter) as this spot and the 5 others that make up the Hennepin Canal Lock camping options are only offered on a first-come, first-served basis, one thing is for certain: if you planned to truly ‘get away from it all’ you really can ‘have your cake and eat here too’ at Hennepin Canal Lock 21. While there is no actual check-in or check-out time, occasionally there is a park ranger that will come by to check on the location and collect those $8 nightly fares, although we never came across a ranger during our entire canal-navigating weeklong journey. You should also note that all of the campgrounds up and down the canal are class C camping, meaning that these primitive camping sites do not have showers or electricity, so either bring your own or, better yet, learn to live without these conveniences for a few days and actually embrace the opportunity to connect with nature.

        As you arrive, ultimately via Route 6 & Route 34, you will need to hang a left (coming westbound from Wyanet), where after just a short jig heading due south, you will find the first of 5 camping areas on either side of the main road you are driving down. On the right, in addition to the camping area, you will discover the first of 3 restrooms and just slightly beyond that, the boat launch. If instead of turning right to follow this first encampment, you head left, following the Hennepin Canal, you will see a small camping area on your immediate left, followed by a water spigot, after which you will come across another much larger camping area that has the second restroom facility. Opposite of these 2 camping areas on the other side of the road, there are 2 small camping areas that run right along the canal. If you go back to to the main road, from which you just came, and continued south across the little land bridge and hang another left, you will go around a small pond that will eventually present the third and final restroom facility as you go up a slight incline, where on your immediate right will be the sixth and final camping area that has been reserved for equestrian campers, of which there’s about 4-5 individual sites complete with a wooden hitching post to tie your horses down.

        Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Of all the camping options up and down the Hennepin Canal, while Canal Lock 21 is likely the largest and has more campsite offerings, it is still very basic and primitive, apart from the restroom, boat launch, picnic tables and fire rings that you will find. If that bothers you or you are simply looking for a spot with more space to explore, then likely the Hennepin Canal camping options aren’t for you, and instead, you may want to look just a bit further afield to another amazing place called Johnson-Sauk SP; (2) Should you grow weary of fixing ‘franks & beans’ again for dinner over your roaring fire, while there isn’t much out in these parts, if you are looking for some local fare, over in nearby Wyanet, you’ll find an abundance of just 3 options: Casey’s for well-made, fresh pizza; Harley-K’s Filipino Restaurant, which might actually just shock you!; or Ecky’s Tap, which is fairly darn amazing actually, but only serves up booze. For anything else, head on into Princeton, where there’s tons of options; (3) There is no potable drinking water anywhere at any of these locks up and down the Hennepin Canal apart from at the Visitors Center, so ensure you bring your own water or a filtration system; (4) Should you have your own kayak or canoe, the Hennepin Canal is very nice to explore, although at times difficult to navigate, especially when you come to each of the sets of locks and dams. If that is bothersome and you simply want to get some oaring in without having to take your watercraft in and out of the water every 30 minutes or so, then head on over to Goose Lake just southwest of Hennepin, which is a fantastic lake to explore and has some decent fishing as well; and (5) If you are on the look-out for simply amazingly fresh meats to ‘slap on the Barby’ then head on over to Wyanet Meat Locker, which has fresh venison, pheasant and of course, all of the typical Midwestern carnivore fare like brats, Ribeyes, burgers and pork chops, which all would be DELISH on that flip-open BBQ grill you have back at Canal Lock 21.

        Happy Camping!

      • K
        Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
        Mar. 14, 2024

        Rock Cut state park

        So close to home

        We camp here at least 5 times a year. It’s only 8 miles from our home. Many trails and not to expensive. They have sites with electric and sites just for tents. The only negative is no drinkable water. Tons of trails, fishing and even a swimming pond.

      • Joel K.
        Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Park
        Mar. 14, 2024

        Shabbona Lake State Park

        Really nice state park

        My daughter and I stayed here twice.  Oct 2019 and Aug 2020.  We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting.

        The store is very nice and well stocked.  Never left the park so not sure how far to “town”.

      • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from The Waller Events & Camping
        Jan. 1, 2024

        The Waller Events & Camping

        Small Town Camping Hideout

        If you are driving just a smidge over the speed limit as you approach Earlville, you’ll definitely miss this nondescript roadside camping outpost. Completely shrouded in thick trees and hidden by sight by the Midwest shrubbery, you’ll discover Waller Campground just a stone’s throw south of 34. So if you’re driving about 45 MPH, you should see a solo road sign with the universal sign for camping – just take an immediate right (that’s heading eastbound, mind you) at the first road you come across, which is gravel, so slow WAY down and then you’ll slightly descend, wherein you’ll pass a big nice house on the right before coming to Waller Campground, which has its main office on the left. 

        What I was most impressed by when I first discovered this place is that the actual campground, which is by my reckoning, a bit smaller than a regular football field, but completely encircled by God’s green nature, which out here in the boondocks means old Oaks, mixed with some weeping Willows, tall grass and tons of traditional shrubbery. Net-net, you’ll feel a million miles from that busy life you were trying to leave behind. In all, there’s about 18 or so proper spaces here, mostly for RV'ers and 5th Wheelers, but you can also pitch a tent here – as I discovered, the good folks at The Waller Campground are equal opportunity outdoors enthusiasts. Because this is Illinois, all of the land is fairly flat, making for incredibly easy set-up along with water and electric hook-ups. 

        Back towards the main office, you’ll discover a man-made lagoon awaiting you, complete with a faux beachhead and all of the aquatic toys and watercraft you could possibly think of to have fun on this oversized pond that is perfect for swimming in the midst of a hot, humid north central Illinois summer. Just don’t forget your mosquito repellant and SPF 50 sunscreen! Beyond the swimming area there is a larger complex that is used to host large-scaled events like weddings and anniversary parties, as when we were there, the team were busy erecting the next event, but for the 2 nights of our stay, there weren’t any events that took place. As I heard from a fellow camper, Waller either informs campers that an event will be taking place during their stay, or they simply close the campground down for the event. 

        Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’ve never made it to a drive-in movie theater, then you are in luck as one of the area’s prized summer experiences is heading on over to The Drive In @ Earlville, where they have those age-old speakers that clasp to your windows blaring audio into your car; (2) While you’ll have to drive further afield to get to a great restaurant (and trust me, there are some great restaurants in these parts), just in town, you’ll find a few decent places, such as G-Lisa’s Pizza & More as well as Los Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant for some amazing chimichangas; (3) Should you be traveling with a kayak or canoe, you’ll be hard-pressed in the near vicinity to do any serious paddling, but if you don’t mind a short drive, head due south to the Illinois River where near Starved Rock State Park, you’ll find some really great currents to dip your paddle in along with teaming wildlife to keep you company; (4) Don’t find what you are looking for in the way of restaurants in Earlville, and don’t mind a slight drive to grab some great grub, I HIGHLY recommend the Lone Buffalo over in Ottawa, which operates both as a brewery as well as gastro-pub, wherein I sugggest either the pork chops or the fish & chips; and (5) If you’re looking for a place to 'whet your whistle' after a hard day of hiking, then kick up those boots over at R’s All In, for some basic cocktails and cold tall boys! 

        Happy Camping!

      • Napunani
        Camper-submitted photo from Prophetstown State Park
        Dec. 1, 2023

        Prophetstown State Park

        Pit (Vault) Toilet in Campground

        This fairly new State Park would of merited "5 stars", but the pit (aka vault) toilet smell was just tooooooo much and we weren't even close! 

        PROS 

        Park beautifully maintained and mowed throughout S

        Site 109 shady 

        Site 109 gravel parking pad level 

        Moveable wooden picnic table 

        Metal campfire ring with cooking grate 

        Roadways easy to maneuver without obstacles 

        Quite except for train whistle close by 

        Partial privacy from neighbors 

        Toilet/shower facility in next campground (Savanna) very clean and sufficiently stocked

         Very nice 12 ft wide asphalt bike trails 

        Night sky friendly as no street lights in campground 

        Firewood for sale at entrance gate 

        Frequent park ranger campground drive throughs 

        Double lane dump station 

        Double lane portable water fill stations 

        CONS 

        The aroma of the pit toilet between Spruce and Savanna Campgrounds could be smelled throughout both campgrounds. Disgusting!!! No hand wash station at pit toilet 

        Modern toilet/shower facility only in Savanna Campground 

        No security gate closure overnight 

        All trash dumpsters near campground entrance gatehouse 

        5pm checkin 

        No interpretive programs Monday thru Thursday

      • T
        Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
        Oct. 29, 2023

        Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook

        Perfect for the kids

        I’ve been to this site a handful of times growing up and it’s a good campsite for the kids. Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day. RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay. 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. Might come here when I have kids of my own, but I know there are better camp sites out there!



      Guide to Nachusa

      Camping near Nachusa, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

      What to do:

      • Kayaking and Fishing: Enjoy the calm waters at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area. One visitor shared, “We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting.” This spot is perfect for fishing too, as it’s known for its bluegill and walleye.
      • Hiking: Explore the trails at Morrison-Rockwood State Park. A camper noted, “The hiking trails were well maintained and there were lots of beautiful flowers, birds, and butterflies.” It’s a great way to connect with nature.
      • Swimming and Water Activities: At Mendota Hills Campground, you can enjoy swimming in their pond. One family mentioned, “The swimming lake with all of the inflatables and beach slide was a hit with the kids.”

      What campers like:

      • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Blackhawk Valley Campground. A visitor said, “Camp facilities were clean, and while it was busy, we didn't get any of the late-night overly loud campsites.”
      • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy the activities available at Green River Oaks Camping Resort. One reviewer stated, “Plenty of stuff for our kids to do. Pools, activities, playgrounds, fishing, etc.”
      • Secluded Campsites: Campers at Morrison-Rockwood State Park love the privacy. A camper noted, “Most of the camp sites are fairly secluded from one another by distance and from surrounding foliage.”

      What you should know:

      • No Alcohol Policy: Some campgrounds, like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, enforce a strict no alcohol policy. One camper mentioned, “This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer.”
      • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy weekends, especially in summer. A visitor at Mendota Hills Campground said, “The spots are very tight. There is a store that's very organized and they do sell ice.”
      • Limited Amenities at Some Sites: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A camper at White Pines Forest State Park Campground noted, “Many of the campsites are sloped and some are sloped A LOT.”

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Green River Oaks Camping Resort that offer plenty of activities for kids. One parent said, “Great family-owned campground with clean bathrooms and showers.”
      • Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise levels, especially at campgrounds like O'Connell's RV Campground. A visitor warned, “It’s a ridiculous drunk fest mad house.”
      • Pack for Mosquitoes: Some sites can be damp, leading to mosquitoes. A camper at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, “The campsite itself was at the bottom of two hills and much damper than the surrounding areas.”

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of RV sites before booking. A reviewer at Mendota Hills Campground said, “Had a pull-through site with full hook up. Very quiet when we were there.”
      • Utilize Dump Stations: Many campgrounds, like Blackhawk Valley Campground, have dump stations available. A visitor noted, “The bathroom, shower, and laundry facilities are quite good and clean.”
      • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds are remote, so bring what you need. A camper at Mendota Hills Campground advised, “There’s not a lot to do or access in these parts, so be prepared to bring with you whatever you might need.”

      Camping near Nachusa, Illinois, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nachusa, IL?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nachusa, IL is Castle Rock State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 7 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Nachusa, IL?

        TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Nachusa, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.