1 campground with availability this weekend
Several cabin options exist within an hour's drive of Newark, Illinois, including Starved Rock Campground and Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area. Most cabins provide basic furnishings with beds, electricity, and heating/cooling systems, while kitchen facilities vary by location. "Beautiful shady campground with large private sites. The shower houses were clean and large, in good repair," noted one visitor about Shabbona Lake. Kishauwau Cabins offers more upscale accommodations with full kitchens equipped with cooking utensils, silverware, glassware, and dishware, plus flat-screen TVs with DVD players. Cabins at Starved Rock State Park feature picnic tables and fire rings outside, providing a balance between wilderness experience and basic comfort.
Rustic and deluxe cabins are both available, depending on the location. Jellystone Park in Millbrook offers family-friendly cabin accommodations with amenities geared toward children, while KOA cabins near Utica provide standardized accommodations with predictable amenities. Most cabins require advance reservations, especially during summer months when availability becomes limited. A camper wrote, "The cabins at Kishauwau come with brand new Weber BBQ charcoal grills, bed linens, heating and A/C as well as a mighty sized front porch complete with either swinging bench or patio chairs." Pet policies vary by location, with some cabins allowing dogs for an additional fee while others prohibit pets entirely.
Most cabins include beds but require visitors to bring their own linens, towels, and toiletries unless specifically noted otherwise. Kitchen facilities range from fully equipped at premium locations to minimal at more rustic sites. Camp stores at locations like Starved Rock and Shabbona Lake offer basic provisions, firewood, and camping supplies. Hi-Tide Recreation and Pleasant Creek Campground maintain on-site markets for essential items. Visitors staying at cabins near Starved Rock have access to dining options at the Starved Rock Lodge main dining room, which serves traditional continental cuisine including fried walleye and blackened catfish. Cabin guests should check specific amenity lists when booking as furnishing levels vary significantly between properties.
"If 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."
"With the car in the drive blocking the road, I had complete privacy. There was a short walk to porta potties and a nice walk to the modern, clean bath house."
from $25 - $35 / night
"We bought fire wood from a locals front lawn at the entrance to the state park. Put 5$ in the bin and take a bundle. Its 30 mins away from Starved Rock and Matthiesson State Park. Good hiking."
"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
"RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay. Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful."
"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."
"bordering Lake Michigan, right?"
"The camping is not the best but the lake is amazing! Campsites are really cramped, no privacy at all. The lake has huge inflatables and a trampoline so it’s unique and fun."
"bordering Lake Michigan – other than this, finding a proper beachhead is impossible."
"Tent sites are right across from a park with a back drop creek that runs through the camp. Fish are very abundant. When the lake is open it’s great to bring kids for the water sports."
"And about an hour and a half from central Chicago is Illini State Park, a comfortable slice of wilderness."
"While both campgrounds offer close proximity to the Illinois River, you will be challenged to actually see the river from Whitetail, unless you head far west on Hawk Road where there is a separate picnic"
from $10 - $45 / night
"The largest and most open area is on top of the hill (the Highlands) but there are other areas that are shadier and more close to nature (Alcove way, Creekside, Oak Grove, the Glades). "
"This is very close to Starved Rock & Matthiessen State Parks, both of which are absolutely breathtaking! The campground is decent; lots of tents."
"The front of this park is the typical KOA. Trailer spots, pool, general store. Showers and bathroom are VERY clean and the staff is on top of things."
"Heaven for tenters as you can be in the larger groups or some very secluded areas as well. RV/Trailers are a little tight on space but we tend to be away from the site when we are there."
"Quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities"
from $37 / night
"We stayed in the primitive tent area near the back of the park. It is walk in. There was a pole for a lantern, a picnic table, a fire ring and tent pad."
"The tent sites are right next to the water which is beautiful but can get very windy. There is no privacy between the sites (no trees, etc)."
from $20 - $138 / night
ScoutTook my daughter for the weekend. Camp host were wonderful and even worked with us when I arrived later then planned. Full hookup was perfect and location was great.
Location is close to Utica so we were able to enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
Wonderful spot and we will definitely be back.
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.
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!
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.
LegendThe first thing that struck us about Woodhaven Lakes was that it didn't feel like a campground at all - it felt like a small town built entirely around family camping. Spread across nearly 1,800 acres of woodlands, lakes and prairie in north-central Illinois, this membership campground somehow manages to offer seven lakes, swimming pools, sandy beaches (yes, even though you are in the middle of a land-locked state), miles of trails, playgrounds, mini golf, restaurants, a well-stocked camp store, spotless bathhouses and more family activities than we could possibly fit into one trip without losing its relaxed, welcoming feel. My favorite memory was watching families gather along the beach as the kids bounced between building sandcastles, splashing in the water and making brand-new friends before racing back to camp for dinner. Some places are measured in acres; this one is measured in smiles, laughs and conversations. From what we saw, the waterfront campsites in Zones 1-5, 7, 10-11, 16, 21, 23 and 24 offer the nicest combination of peaceful lake views and convenient access to many of the campground's amenities. We would absolutely recommend Woodhaven Lakes for families looking to create lasting memories because of its incredible variety of activities, beautifully maintained facilities and endless opportunities to simply enjoy being together outdoors.
GuideIt was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
Cabin rentals near Newark, Illinois vary from standard to deluxe options within state parks and private campgrounds. Most state park cabins provide electricity and basic furnishings with seasonal availability from April through October, while private resorts offer year-round accommodations. The region sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with a temperate Midwest climate that brings hot, humid summers and freezing winters with occasional snowfall.
Hiking at Starved Rock State Park: Located about 20 minutes from Newark, the park offers extensive trail systems with unique geological features. "If you want all of your typical creature comforts but still want to be within arms reach of natures beauty, this is the place for you. It's probably the best and most advertised site in Illinois though so be prepared to see lots of people," notes Carrie J. from Starved Rock Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Shabbona Lake provides excellent fishing conditions with various species. "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," says Scott C. from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area.
Water recreation: For families seeking water activities beyond just fishing, Hi-Tide Recreation offers multiple options. "The lake has huge inflatables and a trampoline so it's unique and fun. They do have a very poor mini golf course but the kids still enjoyed it. They are always hosting movie nights and fun events," according to Amanda W. from Hi-Tide Recreation.
Off-season tranquility: Fall and spring bookings offer more seclusion and better availability for cabin rentals. "Gets really busy in the summer season, look to go in fall/spring when it's chillier or when it's raining," suggests Amber A. from Starved Rock Campground.
Budget-friendly options: Some cabin accommodations near Newark are surprisingly affordable. "At $10 per night for type 'C' primitive camping and $20 per night for the deluxe well-paved and connected accommodations, either campground here at Illini SP are some of the most inexpensive campgrounds you'll come across," shares Stuart K. from Illini State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities at area campgrounds. "Bath/showers are very clean with hot water. Nicely kept grounds with a beautiful lake for dock and boat fishing. You can rent boats and they have a nice camping store," mentions Meg K. from Shabbona Lake.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially for summer weekends. "Book early- reservations open online 6 months in advance and book up quickly. Most summer weekends are completely full," advises Kim L. from Starved Rock.
Variable amenity levels: Cabin furnishings and facilities differ significantly between locations. "The sites are full hookup, but several times we have been at sites where the sewer dump pipe sticks up over 8" above the ground. Higher than the outlet of my trailer," reports Jeff G. from Pleasant Creek Campground.
Weather considerations: Spring brings potential flooding issues at some sites. "The campsites are down in a valley and ours was along the creek. A heavy downpour resulted in water up over our ankles all through the site! Thank goodness the tents floated while we hunkered down in our vehicles," warns Jackie S. from Pleasant Creek.
Theme weekends: Family-oriented campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "My family and I have been going to Jellystone in Millbrook for the past 4 years now. The last 2 years have been the best out of the 4. This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest!" shares Chad C. from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook.
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to play areas. "Spent two nights in Great Falls Campground on site#30. Beautiful spot, but it was directly across from a playground, which I failed to read about when booking. If you have kids, this is perfect for you," notes Lola K. from Illini State Park.
Off-peak visits: School-year weekends often mean fewer crowds and more space for family activities. "We 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!" says Tori P. from Jellystone Park.
Site selection strategy: Look for specific site numbers mentioned in reviews. "Our site was wooded which we loved. Neighbors all around but still secluded. Lake was beautiful! Boat rentals available," recommends Nikki O. from Shabbona Lake.
Utility considerations: Many cabins near Newark share utilities between sites. "I stayed in site 63, a back-in site with electricity that is shared with another campsite. This required some re-adjustment to my rig to reach it with the 30-foot cord that I have," explains Inez W. from Illini State Park.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult navigation for larger rigs. "The narrow road up the hill, I would hate to be half way up and meet another camper coming down," cautions Rodney D. from LaSalle/Peru KOA regarding maneuvering larger vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Newark, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Newark, IL is Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 103 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near Newark, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 27 cabin camping locations near Newark, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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