Rv parks near Normal, Illinois extend beyond the major interstate hubs, with additional camping options situated in wooded, natural settings within a 45-minute drive. Local campgrounds experience peak occupancy from June through August when daytime temperatures average 85-90°F, with limited availability for last-minute bookings during summer weekends. Fall camping from September through mid-October offers more site availability with cooler temperatures and fewer insects.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Millpoint Park in East Peoria, campers can fish directly from their waterfront sites on the Illinois River. "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. In fact, you don't even need to get into a boat, by accessing one of 2 small little lakes where you can simply cast a line in from the dock or around the perimeter," noted one visitor.
Nature exploration: Evergreen Lake at Comlara County Park offers multiple hiking trails and secluded camping areas. "There are more hike in tent sites that would provide more rustic experience," one camper reported, while another mentioned, "The rustic tent sites are located on the opposite side of the lake from the RV's in an area called White Oak. These sites are the way to go for privacy."
Water recreation: Swimming and boating options exist within 30 minutes of Normal. "We got a beautiful spot right on the lake," wrote one Comlara County Park visitor, while another camper at D & W Lake RV Park mentioned the "Beautiful lake view from our site" with "plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park."
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Kamp Komfort RV Park receives consistent praise for its tree cover. "Sites are spacious, incredibly level, well-shaded and this feels like a camping oasis in the middle of corn country," one camper observed. Another visitor commented, "Mature trees on almost all spots. Quiet respectful campers."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers at the better RV parks. A D & W Lake camper noted, "Very clean shower and toilet facilities, beautiful pond, the people are very friendly, and close to freeway exit." At Kamp Komfort, visitors appreciated the "VERY nice shower house and restroom" and that staff "pick up your trash daily for you."
Pool access: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools for summer visitors. A reviewer at Hickory Hills Campground highlighted its "in-ground pool opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day" along with "basketball court, mini golf, shuffleboard, pool table, ping pong and various soda and snack vending machines and games in the recreation center."
What you should know
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds report mineral-heavy water. At Millpoint Park, "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, so I would encourage you to bring a decent amount of bottled water with you." Another camper confirmed: "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird."
Reservation policies: Last-minute changes can affect stays at certain rv parks near Normal, Illinois. At Tin Cup RV Park, one visitor reported: "We reserved a one-night stay 6 weeks in advance for the Friday night of Memorial Day Weekend. We received a call 2 weeks before our stay telling us they won't honor the reservation because they've decided to impose a three-night minimum for the holiday weekend."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby interstates. One Love's RV Stop reviewer mentioned, "As you are literally on the corner of one of the busiest highway intersections in the entire Land 'O Lincoln, there is no escaping where you are at," while a Kamp Komfort camper noted "Closely located to I74 so noise is a negative."
Tips for camping with families
Best playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. One family camping at Hickory Hills Campground appreciated that there were "Lots of kids and activities for them. Nice pool," while a Kamp Komfort visitor mentioned "Smallish campground and good areas for kids to ride bikes and play. Nice Little swingset."
Swimming considerations: Pool and beach access vary by location and season. At Comlara County Park, one camper noted "The swimming beach is apparently only open on the weekends but there are plenty of places to get in the water so it wasn't a big deal," while Hickory Hills Campground offers an in-ground pool between Memorial and Labor Day.
Budget-friendly camping: Gibson City South Park Municipal Campground offers affordable rates close to Normal. "This is a great city run campground attached to a block sized city park. 30 amp and water at each site. The park has restrooms, with showers. You only need to grab a key from the police department. There is a dump station on site and large dumpster. Supermarket, restaurants and gas station with in a few blocks. An American Legion post/bar just down main street. All for $10 a night."
Tips from RVers
Online booking systems: Several RV parks near Normal have implemented digital check-in processes with mixed results. At Love's RV Stop, a camper reported: "You'll find the convenient app-managed reservation system is seamless and provides for an incredibly simple, remote check-in and payment process."
Best sites for privacy: RV campers recommend specific areas for more seclusion. At Comlara County Park, "If you are looking for something more than the stale coffee or the Bojangle's food they are serving up at the truck stop, there are endless chain options like Starbucks, Dunkin', Moe's Southwest Grill nearby as well as further afield."
Seasonal considerations: Late fall offers less crowded camping. "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. The campground is very big with lots of sites and since we were there at the end of October, there were not many other people around," reported one Comlara County Park visitor.