Best Dog-Friendly Camping near North Utica, IL

Starved Rock Family Campground features a small fenced dog area alongside multiple pet-friendly accommodation options including tent sites, RV spaces, and cabins with full hookups. The enclosed pet area provides a safe space for dogs to exercise off-leash, though campers note the fencing may not contain escape artists. Pets must remain leashed throughout the rest of the property. Camping areas are well-spaced with grassy sites offering shade trees and fire rings. The main campground is organized into several sections with the primitive tent sites located in a quieter, more private area away from the RV loops. Numerous reviewers appreciate the clean facilities and peaceful atmosphere. The campground store sells basic pet supplies and camping necessities, while potable water is available throughout the grounds.

Nearby LaSalle/Peru KOA (now Nature's Way RV Park) accommodates pets at its tent sites, RV spaces and cabin rentals. This family-friendly park features creek-side camping with a small stream running through the property, creating a pleasant environment for dog walks. The campground provides convenient access to Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks, both allowing leashed pets on designated trails. Hiking paths wind through canyons and along the Illinois River, offering dogs and owners varied terrain for exercise. Primitive camping at Buffalo Rock State Park also welcomes pets with picnic tables and basic facilities. Campers should note the significant rainfall in spring and early summer can create muddy conditions at creekside sites. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours to minimize pet disturbances, with nearby Utica offering veterinary services and pet supplies if needed.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near North Utica, Illinois (79)

    1. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    99 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4726

    $25 - $35 / night

    "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."

    2. Pleasant Creek Campground

    27 Reviews
    Oglesby, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 431-0936

    "Within LaSalle County or for that matter, the whole of north central Illinois, I don’t know of any other privately run, multi-campground locations like Pleasant Creek that offers a total of 6 separate,"

    "There is a nice pavilion, a game room/club house, basketball court, fishing pond, firewood for sale, and a few short trails."

    3. Lasalle/Peru KOA

    14 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4988

    "Park was well kept, with lots of green around RV and tent sites. Nice pool, dog park, store, and even a stream system that wanders through the park (no swimming in the stream)."

    "Stayed here in early June during a trip to Starved Rock, which is a quick 10-15 minute drive. Camp hosts are very nice and the the grounds well maintained."

    4. Starved Rock Family Campground

    11 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 202-2088

    "Located here in the heart of north central Illinois, where you can very easily get lost in the golden hue of sweet corn or the dizzying amounts of drilled bean fields, there’s a special quiet that exists"

    "While this location is much newer, it checked everything off my box."

    5. Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park

    30 Reviews
    Marseilles, IL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 795-2448

    $12 - $55 / night

    "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."

    6. Kayak Starved Rock Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 567-4653

    $29 / night

    "So we took the dog and hiked Matthesion state park, which was beautiful and only a mile or so passed the starved rock state park entrance."

    "Before we begin, let me share 3 things with you: (1) I love camping, preferably primitive camping where I get to pitch my tent, leaving the comforts of modern civilization behind in the hopes of returning"

    7. Nature’s Way RV Park

    7 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4988

    $30 - $125 / night

    "Pet friendly. We want to come back when we can stay longer."

    "under this shaded forest and will feel a world away from the caravan camping types that, rest assured, are on the other side of the careening creek that cuts this campground nearly in half."

    8. Buffalo Rock State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ottawa, IL
    6 miles
    Website

    $6 / night

    "A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."

    "You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you’re looking for privacy this is it. There aren’t toilets tho or running water.."

    9. Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground — Matthiessen State Park

    3 Reviews
    Oglesby, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4726

    $10 / night

    "quite a bit of detail on this campground, I’m following up on that review by sharing more fotos as well as providing a topline update:

    Highlights: (1) Great hiking abounds in this particular Illinois"

    "to hike during the day and the friendly on-site ranger made a call over to nearby Starved Rock SP to secure me a camping spot over there, so not all was lost. "

    10. Kishauwau Cabins

    2 Reviews
    Oglesby, IL
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 442-8453

    $129 - $499 / night

    "Perfectly perched far away from traffic, noise and the routine drudgery of day-to-day life, Kishauwau is situated far back in a thick-forested pristine patch of land that places you very near two of the"

    "The owner of the facility definitely pays attention to details and keeps the location nice and updated."

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near North Utica, IL

545 Reviews of 79 North Utica Campgrounds


  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    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!

  • A
    Jul. 4, 2023

    Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park

    Closed Off Tent Camping

    Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view.

  • C
    Jun. 29, 2019

    Lasalle/Peru KOA

    Just what we needed after a day on the road

    Beautiful spot for our single overnight. Staff were great; friendly and helpful. Park was well kept, with lots of green around RV and tent sites. Nice pool, dog park, store, and even a stream system that wanders through the park (no swimming in the stream). Also close to Starved Rock State Park for some neat scenery and hiking. The only downside side is that some of the RV sites are a little close together - didn’t impact our stay though. Two thumbs up! :)

  • Iryna R.
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Leisure Lake Resort

    Ugh..

    We’ve been staying at this resort for several months now, and wanted to share some feedback based on our experience.

    The pool only opened mid-summer.

    Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day, and we’ve had to install a five-stage filtration system just to make it usable.

    We’ve also noticed that rules aren’t enforced consistently, and it sometimes feels like certain guests are treated unfairly. For example, while we were told that personal kiddie pools aren’t allowed, we’ve counted at least six others set up around the park.

    Package delivery is only permitted under special circumstances, and only if pre-approved by staff.

    Had an incident where a staff member criticized my swimsuit at the pool, despite it being modest and similar to what others were wearing. I wore this swimsuit to many pools for many years. Additionally, the beach area is often closed even during posted open hours, and pool hours or updates aren’t clearly communicated—you have to inquire to get any information.

    The storm shelter is typically locked, making it inaccessible in emergencies, which is a major concern.

    We’ve also had to fix the swing set at the playground ourselves multiple times, as it’s been broken for a while. Many of the park’s facilities and amenities are showing their age and could benefit from updates and maintenance.

    That said, there are aspects we’ve truly enjoyed, and they’re the main reasons we’ve continued our stay: the spacious layout of the RV park, a nice lake, beach, pool, gym, and a dog park.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2024

    Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859

    Easy & Convenient Roadside Pit Stop

    As we were driving eastbound on I80 that day, we spotted the Love’s RV Hookup, which is a new concept that this oversized fueling depot / travel store has been working on for the past year or so. Having checked out one of their other locations in Bloomington earlier in the year, which I have to admit, I was fairly impressed by, we decided to stop in here to have a look. Located just due east on the outskirts of little known Morris, Illinois just off I80, this little roadside stand isn’t the largest Love’s I’ve ever seen, but it sure does pack a punch. 

    If you do find yourself hustling and bustling east or west along the I80 corridor and are in need of a pit stop or an overnight stay, then the good folks at the Love’s RV Hookup have you covered. While the other Love’s I have stopped by seem enormous by comparison, this spot felt more like a corner convenience store that also had a fairly large fueling bay (4 double-sided pumps) in the front, primarily for cars and SUVs. 

    As you pull in, there’s 4 spots earmarked to the right of the entrance for RV’s. As you pull further along in front of the Love’s fueling bay, on the other side, an additional 6 or so slots exist for other RVs to park. In all, there’s 10 back-in RV slots available and inside you’ll find that there’s 7 individual shower stalls (all of which were in pristine, brand-new shape when we stopped by) along with a laundry facility, which we were happily surprised by, as well as a designated RV dump service, propane refill station and all of the typical hook-ups (water, 30 / 50 amp electric and sewage) along with WiFi. Inside, there’s of course the Love’s retail market, which was just decent, an ATM, Hardee’s and Naf-Naf (think Subway, but instead, Middle Eastern food). There’s even a small dog park here. As I hinted at, quite a lot here for such a small location. 

    If you would like something more substantial to eat, just head back west on I80 to the next exit, where if you head north there’s an IHOP, Chili’s, Bellacino’s Pizza or you can head on back to the TA Travel Center where they actually have a proper sit-down 24 hour restaurant called R-Place. If instead of heading north, you drive south on the main drag (Road 47), there’s a Buffalo Wild Wings, Pizza Hut, Starbuck’s, Wendy’s, Culver’s, Dunkin' and Burger King. But if you want something a bit more memorable, I would recommend either Morris Diner & Pancake House or La Casa Michoacana. And if you don’t mind a slightly longer drive back towards Ottawa, there’s 2 amazing places I would recommend that you won’t soon forget: Hank’s and Lone Buffalo. 

    Should you want to actually enjoy a bit of the nature around these parts, you can continue to head south on N. Division Street / Road 47 where you’ll come to 2 parks: Goold and Chapin, where either would make for a great place to stretch your legs, walk the dog or grab a picnic. If you’d like something a bit more splendid, then head on over to William G. Stratton SP or Gebhard Woods SP where you will be able to hike the I&M Canal State Trail. 

    While scoring criteria may vary from one person to the next, here are the 5 most important criteria that informed my rating of this overnight location: convenience (EZ on- and off-access), safety & security, quality (of facilities), peace & quiet and amenities (either on-site or nearby). Here’s how I ranked this particular overnight spot: 

    Convenience: 5 

    Safety & Security: 4 

    Quality: 5 

    Peace & Quiet: 4 

    Amenities: 3 

    Overall, I scored this location a 4.

    Happy Overnighting!

  • L
    Jul. 1, 2019

    Lasalle/Peru KOA

    Tight Squeeze!

    Stayed here in early June during a trip to Starved Rock, which is a quick 10-15 minute drive. Camp hosts are very nice and the the grounds well maintained. I stayed on site 5 which is a full hookup but best for a small camper. I have a 14 foot travel trailer and it just fit with my SUV in front. The spots are very tight and you have very little room between you and your neighbor. With all the rain this year, many sites flooded during a storm while we camped and they had to be moved to other areas that were not actual sites so it was a bit crazy...hosts did a great job taking care of everyone effected. Campground has a cute dog park and a beautiful stream that runs through it. I would stay here again!!

  • T
    Oct. 4, 2020

    Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort

    Great First Experience

    Friendly staff who were quick to respond to any issues. Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot. Pet-friendly. Pleasant park with good pad. Near busy road and shipping plant. No wi-fi found except at hotel. Good phone connection. Garbage cans throughout park. Minutes from I & M Canal entrance on Houbolt and from JJC and I-80.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2025

    Millpoint Park

    Waterfront Camping Bliss @ Family-Friendly CG

    Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing a sublime encounter with nature on top of offering direct waterfront sites that will frame one of the most beautiful sunsets as you look west to Peoria during Happy Hour. In all, there’s about 80 sites – all of which are incredibly spacious, unlike a lot of other RV parks – to choose from at Millpoint, where a slow meandering gravel lane will have you navigating around the campground where you’ll take good note of the excellent shade that is provided everywhere.

    From an amenity standpoint, Millpoint Park packs a punch with a combination of back-in and pull-thru sites offering up standard water, sewage and electric hook-ups, relatively new picnic tables and in-ground fire rings as well as a designated dumpster upon exiting the grounds. There’s 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. The meticulously clean restroom / bath house facility is located near the front adjacent to the main office, where next to this are 3 cabins that can be rented, just in case you forgot your tent or RV. Additionally, there’s decent hiking paths to explore both north and south of the property, with the latter offering up a small beachhead at Funks Run. The place also sells firewood, but if you need anything else, you’ll need to head south towards town where there’s no shortage of shops and restaurants.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you are a tent camper, there’s 3-4 designated areas for primitive camping, but if you’d like something less primitive and with access to water and electricity, then book yourself into one of the 5 designated tent sites: #233-#237, of which I recommend #236 and #237 as they have a small waterfront area flanking the southern perimeter; (2) 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; (3) If you haven’t camped out here in central Illinois during the summer, you will want to bring good DEET spray to keep the ticks away as well as hard-core smoke or scent-fused candles that are peppermint, eucalyptus or lavender-scented to keep the gnats at bay; and (4) The owner, Don, is quite possibly one of the most accommodating and friendly campground owners I have ever met– so don’t be shy if you need anything at all during your stay, including a discount to his pizza restaurant.

    Happy Camping!

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Nature’s Way RV Park

    Relaxing

    Clean and well maintained facility. Staff was organized and friendly. Pet friendly. We want to come back when we can stay longer.


Guide to North Utica

Starved Rock State Park and surrounding areas near North Utica, Illinois offer diverse camping experiences in a region known for its unique sandstone canyons and limestone formations. Situated along the Illinois River at approximately 600 feet elevation, the area experiences distinct seasonal changes with humid summers reaching 85°F and winters dipping below freezing. Spring brings frequent rainfall that transforms the normally small streams into flowing waterfalls through the eroded sandstone canyons.

What to do

Hiking canyons and waterfalls: At Starved Rock State Park, trails range from easy to challenging through wooded areas and canyons. "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.

Kayaking the Illinois River: Located directly across from Starved Rock, Kayak Starved Rock Campground offers river access with rentals available. "We took advantage of that for some steaks. Yum. One of the best attributes of this campground is its natural beauty. It's right on the river and most all of the campsites are either river front or river view," writes Paul R.

Explore local wildlife viewing: Buffalo Rock State Park provides opportunities to see actual bison. "This little gem is across the river from Starved Rock State Park. So, you can appreciate the bluff overlooks of the river without dealing with the crowds. Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers," according to Bill M.

What campers like

Peaceful riverside sites: Many campgrounds offer spaces along the Illinois River. At Illini State Park, "We did take a morning walk along the river and we enjoyed MANY different birdsongs," reports Karla J.B.

Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide access to good fishing spots. "This place has a boat dock and lots of good fishing! Lots of wildlife too. We met a super cute raccoon. Really nice big place to tent," shares Mike T. about Illini State Park.

Secluded primitive sites: For those seeking more solitude, Buffalo Rock State Park offers hike-in camping. "Camp sites aren't actually in buffalo rock, they're across the street at I&M canal. You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you're looking for privacy this is it," advises Amanda P.

What you should know

Weather and flooding concerns: Spring rains can create water issues at many sites. At Pleasant Creek Campground, "the bulk of 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," cautions Jackie S.

Site spacing varies widely: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. At Pleasant Creek, "The sites up on the hill are nicely spaced out and deep. We will definitely be back. The only issue we had was the narrow road up the hill, I would hat to be half way up and meet another camper coming down," notes Rodney D.

Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book early- reservations open online 6 months in advance and book up quickly. Most summer weekends are completely full. Spring and fall camping is great here," advises Kim L.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Some campgrounds offer better facilities for children. Starved Rock Family Campground has "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," according to Tony K.

Avoiding crowds with kids: Consider timing your visit to avoid peak periods. "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.

Trail difficulty planning: Not all trails are suitable for young children. "People get down on Illinois. And I get it. It's a typical Midwest state and it's mostly pretty flat. But...then there's Starved Rock! Easily accessible to most of IL residents, Starved Rock is a great half-day for anyone looking for hiking, waterfalls, and views, views, views!" shares Brannon M.

Tips from RVers

Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have limited maneuverability for larger rigs. At Lasalle/Peru KOA (now Nature's Way RV Park), "You can't go wrong with KOA. Great one night stopover. Sites very close together; no privacy, but no surprises, either," notes Georgeann D.

Pet-friendly RV options: Most campgrounds in the area welcome pets with various accommodations. "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. There's even a small creek that runs through the property giving it more appeal," writes Jason about Nature's Way RV Park.

Hookup availability: Check specific sites for the utilities you need. "For $25-35 per night, you can get a site with electrical hookup. The east loop has better tree coverage and more privacy. The west loop has more site in a large open space, maybe better for groups," explains Kim L. about Starved Rock State Park Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed at Starved Rock State Park near North Utica?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 10 feet at all times. While pets are welcome in the campground and most outdoor areas, they are not permitted on the hiking trails within the park or in any park buildings. There are designated pet walking areas within the campground where you can exercise your dog. Remember to clean up after your pet and never leave them unattended at your campsite.

What pet-friendly cabins are available near Starved Rock in North Utica?

Kishauwau Cabins offers pet-friendly accommodations just a short drive from Starved Rock, with several cabin options that welcome four-legged companions for an additional fee. Each cabin provides a rustic yet comfortable experience with modern amenities. Another excellent option is the Lasalle/Peru KOA, located only 10-15 minutes from Starved Rock State Park. They offer pet-friendly cabins with various amenities and a dedicated dog park where your pet can play off-leash. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

What are the best pet-friendly camping options in North Utica, Illinois?

For pet-friendly camping near North Utica, Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort offers excellent accommodations for RVers with pets, featuring pull-through spots at reasonable rates. The resort maintains pet-friendly policies throughout the property. Another great option is Millpoint Park, which welcomes pets and offers waterfront sites surrounded by the Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve. This park provides a perfect natural setting for walking your dog while enjoying scenic views. Both locations offer clean facilities and easy access to area attractions.