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Campgrounds near Newark, Illinois range from state parks to private RV resorts, with most facilities concentrated along the Fox and Illinois Rivers. Starved Rock State Park Campground, located about 20 miles southwest of Newark, offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations in a wooded setting. Other nearby options include Rolling Oaks Campground along the Fox River, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area to the north, and several family-owned campgrounds like Hi-Tide Recreation that cater to both overnight and seasonal campers.
Access to most campgrounds in the area remains available year-round, though amenities and activities vary seasonally. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer holidays when sites fill quickly. "This is a typical Illinois state park. Run down and not well taken care of. Positive is the lake," noted one visitor about Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, highlighting the mixed experiences campers might encounter. Winter camping is available at several locations including Starved Rock, though water systems may be winterized and fewer amenities available. The relatively flat terrain of northern Illinois makes most campgrounds accessible without specialized vehicles, though spring rains can create muddy conditions at primitive sites.
Developed campgrounds in the region typically feature electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities, with many offering fishing access to nearby waterways. A camper described Starved Rock as "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." Several campgrounds provide both wooded and open sites, with shade being a valued commodity during hot summer months. Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and swimming pools are common at private campgrounds such as Jellystone Park in Millbrook. The proximity to Chicago (about 60-70 miles) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations, with many visitors appreciating the natural surroundings that contrast with the nearby urban environment. Fishing opportunities, particularly at Shabbona Lake, known as the "Muskie Capitol of Illinois," represent a significant draw for many campers.
"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!"
"Beautiful Starved Rock is Illinois's favorite state park. Hiking through forests along the Illinois River to canyons and waterfalls with eagles soaring overhead."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view."
"Spent a couple nights here (site 3) for Vintage Illinois at a nearby park. Quiet, fairly level, gravel sites. Electric worn but fully functional. Lots of trees and shade."
from $12 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi"
"Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply"
from $18 - $35 / night
Check Availability"If you find yourself out in these parts near Shabbona in north central Illinois it is because of either one of two reasons - you are incredibly lost and stumbled across this hidden natural preserve gem"
"All within easy walking distance to the lake. Camp store and two boat rental spots allow for flexiblity on busier weekends."
from $25 / night
Check Availability"This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest! We will continue to go there for as long as we live in this area."
"You get to see tugboats and barges go up and down the Illinois river right from your campsite."
"Small and hidden right on the Illinois River. Received a free night of camping with a whole day of kayaking which is absolutely recommended."
from $29 / night
Check Availability"bordering Lake Michigan, right?"
"We camp here every year around my daughters birthday and celebrate her birthday out here...there is a lake stocked with fish and also a creek behind the campground as well...we love coming back here year"
"Located just 7 miles south of nearby Sandwich, which is by no means a roaring metropolis mind you, but certainly a nice quaint Midwestern town that will offer up a small bit of refuge and resource, should"
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability"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."
"Like most campgrounds in Illinois, Mallard Bend Resort, which is located just outside of Sheridan, completely in the boondocks, by the way, is a seasonal campground (open April 15 until October 15) that"
RangerWe had a truly enjoyable stay and would’ve stayed an extra day if our travel schedule would’ve allowed. David was a wonderful host. Greeted us with a smile and escorted us to our site. We had our choice of 2 spots, both lovely. Picnic table and plenty of FREE firewood to keep us cozy. Wild turkeys roamed the grounds as well as the friendly ducks. All in all, a very peaceful evening and a special place.
ScoutStayed with Thousand Trails. It's mostly an annual park, but they've got about 20 TT sites. They've got a clean pool, good size. And a clubhouse that's open til 9pm. Laundry & trash dumpsters nearby. Full hook ups. We enjoyed our stay.
LegendCanvasback Cove quickly felt like the liveliest corner of Shabbona Lake State Park, and it's EZ to see why so many families gravitate here. While one of three campgrounds within the park, Canvasback Cove sits closest to the playground, camp store, boat launch, fishing pond and lakeshore, making it wonderfully convenient for families with younger children who love having something to explore just a short walk from their campsite. The campsites offer electric and water hookups, picnic tables and fire rings, while the surrounding prairie, woodlands and sparkling lake create a peaceful backdrop that somehow balances activity with nature. One of my favorite memories was watching children race from the playground to the fishing pond with fishing poles nearly as tall as they were before proudly returning to camp to tell everyone about 'the one that almost got away.' Some campgrounds are designed around campsites; this one feels designed around childhood. From what we saw, lakefront Sites 117 and 125 are especially desirable thanks to their beautiful water views, while families wanting to stay close to the playground, camp store and boat launch will appreciate the heart of Canvasback Cove. We would absolutely recommend this campground for families because of its kid-friendly layout, outstanding park amenities and the countless opportunities to spend the day outdoors together.
GuideWe had an easy after-hours first come first serve check in experience. Directions were easy to follow and the campground itself was well-kept. Having a power hook-up for a night was a huge plus.
The state park trails aren't really accessible from the campground but are a short drive away. They are doing A LOT of work on the trail system so not all trails are open at this time. Definitely check out some of the canyons and overlooks if you are staying in the campground.
LegendIf your family enjoys spending more time on the trail than sitting around the campsite, Starved Rock Campground makes a wonderful home base for exploring one of Illinois' most beautiful state parks. Located just outside Starved Rock State Park, the campground offers spacious sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, mature shade trees and just enough modern comforts, including shower facilities and flush restrooms, to make returning after a full day of hiking especially rewarding. One of my favorite memories was watching families head out early with hiking boots and backpacks, then return later that afternoon tired, a little muddy and smiling as they swapped stories about waterfalls, canyons and wildlife around their campfires. The best souvenirs here aren't the photos you take, but the adventures your family shares along the trail. From what we experienced, the more shaded campsites offer the nicest combination of privacy and a peaceful setting, especially during the warmer months. We would gladly recommend Starved Rock Campground for families because it provides comfortable camping, EZ access to one of the Midwest's premier hiking destinations and countless opportunities to spend meaningful time together outdoors. Just remember that you'll need to drive a few minutes into the state park itself to reach the main trailheads, lodge and canyon system.
ScoutNice, clean, quiet, simple state park set up. Many miles of paved and crushed limestone trails. The actual Kankakee River access is sort of outside of the campground- that would be my only complaint. You have to walk or bike a little distance to be near the river. Seemed very well maintained and we loved it!
ScoutWhat a find! Beautiful CG. So green; so quiet. Very nicely organized with children placed near the very appealing playground and volleyball facilities, campers with pets near the wonderful dog park. The WiFi is very functional. There is a laundry facility in the camper services building. There’s a lovely community fire pit with the most pleasant rocky fountain. The sites are spacious and offer a nice mix of sun/shade. Best of all, the grounds are spotless. No wait, the best part is how nice the staff is. Or maybe it’s how lush the foliage looks. I don’t know. Go check it out yourself and see if you can decide.
LegendAs the name suggests, Creekside Campground borders a tributary of the Vermillion River, which is really just a creek in these parts, and it sits as the lowest point of all the campgrounds here at Pleasant Creek. This campground is not for those driving an RV or hauling a 5th wheel - Creekside is really just for primitive tent campers, who enjoy being connected to nature with only the most basic of comforts. The vibe here at Creekside is definitely communal, offering up less privacy than most primitive campsites I have ever been to. After entering Pleasant Creek, you’ll pass the Office, Camp Store and Arcade on the left, where you’ll also notice a small basketball court on the right, passing by the primary community bathhouses, you’ll immediately veer to the left where you’ll cross the lone bridge where you’ll turn hard right and downwards along the ravine to arrive at the Creekside Campground. Down here and along the Vermillion River there are 32 primitive campsites available numbered #101– 106 and #108– 128 on the lower edge, with a small number of sites raised slightly above, but still downhill from the Highlands with sites numbered #130– 134. Apart from a water spigot and a single porta-potty, there are no other amenities here. As Creekside is carved from the curve of the property that follows the Vermillion River along with the thick tree line, which creates a completely separate feel from the rest of Pleasant Creek, preserving a uniquely festive community vibe. The sites here have full visibility between each other, so if privacy and space are of concern, I would suggest one of the other 2 campgrounds earmarked for tent campers.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you need anything, and I mean anything at all, the very great father and son duo of Dan& Dan, will work tirelessly to ensure that your experience here at this campground is nothing short of amazing, so if you need anything, just ask either of them; (2) While the Vermillion River is merely a creek in these parts, if you head due west, and search a little, you’ll find a couple decent natural launches where you can access the wider river OR you can access a great kayak launch site either at the lower dells in Starved Rock SP or by contacting Starved Rock Kayak Company (who have their own, very amazing riverfront primitive campsite, BTW and that you can search up here on TheDyrt), who will let you launch from either one of their sites on either side of the Illinois River; and (3) While there’s not a whole lot of restaurants in this area, if you do want to get out to try some of the local fare, I would recommend you check out nearby Utica, where I would recommend either Lodi Tap House or Año del Gallo, which is a nice stand-alone Mexican joint serving up some decent fare along with Margaritas.
Happy Camping!
TravelerDid not stay because was planning on staying in my car in the lot but the gate says it closes at sunset, not sure if that's true as there is tent camping.
Camping sites near Newark, Illinois occupy the relatively flat terrain of northeastern Illinois where altitudes range between 500-700 feet above sea level. Located along the Fox and Illinois River watersheds, this region experiences seasonal temperature swings with winter lows often dropping below freezing and summer highs regularly exceeding 85°F. Most campgrounds remain accessible from April through October, though seasonal restrictions on water systems apply during colder months.
Kayaking opportunities: At Kayak Morris, visitors can launch directly from their campsites. "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap if you don't have your own," notes a camper. Water access makes this location popular for paddlers seeking calm waters.
Fishing experiences: The region offers multiple fishing locations, particularly at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, known for trophy catches. "The lake has produced a lot of trophy fish, if that's your thing. Otherwise it's quiet and peaceful. We like to go just to chill and read out out in the woods," explains a regular visitor. Boat rentals and bait shops are available at most waterfront locations.
Trail exploration: Hiking opportunities exist throughout the area with varying difficulty levels. One visitor to Big Rock Forest Preserve explains, "Lovely grasslands, ponds, hiking trails, but the lack of trees and privacy isn't my preference. Still great option not far from Chicago." The relatively flat terrain makes most trails accessible for beginners and families.
Waterfront sites: Riverside camping creates popular spots during summer months. A camper at Illini State Park reports, "Definitely a very relaxed and clean campground that isn't busy and has really cheap rates for off-season camping. $18 a night for walk-in and we got a 50amp spot right in front of the Illinois river." Most waterfront sites require advance reservations.
Swimming facilities: Many campgrounds offer swimming options beyond natural waterways. "Nice clean place. Activities for the kids and adults," notes a visitor to Hi-Tide Recreation, where water amenities include "huge inflatables and a trampoline so it's unique and fun."
Seasonal activities: Themed weekends and special events create different experiences throughout camping season. "My family never misses the Halloween camping season at Millbrook. This is an activity packed weekend which is amazing. Good for kids of all ages including the adults," explains a regular visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook. Most special events occur on holiday weekends and require advance booking.
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Book early- reservations open online 6 months in advance and book up quickly. Most summer weekends are completely full," advises a camper at Starved Rock. Some facilities operate on first-come systems with limited availability.
Facility conditions: Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. According to one visitor at Illini State Park, "The facilities on site are terrible. The showers on site TRICKLED, not even enough to wash your hair. The sinks constantly run, they don't shut off." Bringing additional water for personal use is recommended at some locations.
Site spacing: Privacy levels differ dramatically between campgrounds. A visitor to Mallard Bend RV Resort notes the positive side: "All available with full hook-ups (30/50 amp electric, water and sewage) with nearly every site I saw completely shrouded in thick wooded forest cover." Meanwhile, at other facilities, campers report sites being "packed together so close you can see in your neighbors camper."
Water recreation priorities: When camping with children, water access creates significant entertainment value. A visitor to Rolling Oaks Campground explains: "Bring your boat or kayak as they have a boat ramp to the fox river. You can fish or swim in the river. There are also two pools if you'd prefer to cool off in a pool."
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer scheduled programming for younger visitors. "We loved seeing all of the waterfalls and checking out the lodge and restaurant. There were amazing views and plenty of trails to keep us busy," notes a visitor to Starved Rock. Most organized activities occur on weekends.
Off-season advantages: For families seeking quieter experiences, consider non-peak timing. "Gets really busy in the summer season, look to go in fall/spring when it's chillier or when it's raining," suggests a camper. Shoulder seasons often provide similar amenities with fewer crowds and lower rates.
Hookup limitations: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. According to a Big Rock Forest Preserve visitor, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" Many sites require additional hose lengths exceeding standard equipment.
Leveling requirements: Despite the region's generally flat terrain, individual sites may require adjustment. "The spaces are pretty level. The trees will be terrific in about 20 years," notes a visitor to Big Rock, highlighting both the current advantage and long-term development of newer facilities.
Seasonal restrictions: RVers should confirm which services remain available during shoulder seasons. "Winter camping is available at several locations though water systems may be winterized and fewer amenities available," reports a regular camper, with most full-service options limited to April through October.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Newark, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Newark, IL is Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 103 reviews.
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