Best Campgrounds near Oglesby, IL

Campgrounds near Oglesby, Illinois range from state park facilities to private RV parks and cabin rentals, concentrated along the Illinois River valley. Starved Rock State Park Campground serves as the primary public camping area with tent and RV sites featuring electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities. The region includes several developed campgrounds like Pleasant Creek Campground and Starved Rock Family Campground that accommodate various camping styles. Kishauwau Cabins provides dedicated cabin lodging with 17 separate units for visitors seeking more comfort. Many sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails that connect to the area's distinct sandstone canyons and forested ravines.

Camping availability in the Oglesby area follows seasonal patterns, with several campgrounds operating from April through October. Starved Rock and Illini State Park campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation. As one visitor noted, "Sites are spacious and nicely shaded, but the facilities are basic-to-bad, so lower your expectations and bring your own sanitary wipes." Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during summer weekends and fall color season when the parks reach capacity. The terrain features unusual sandstone formations and multiple canyons with varying degrees of trail difficulty. Some campgrounds are separated from the main hiking areas of the state parks, requiring short drives to access trailheads.

The camping experience varies significantly between the public and private options near Oglesby. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities including restrooms, showers, and fire rings, though the quality varies. Campers report that the east loop at Starved Rock offers better privacy: "Decent pines and brush separating sites on both sides. Didn't feel like the sites were on top of each other." Wildlife sightings, particularly white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally bald eagles, enhance the outdoor experience in this region. Water features include small waterfalls within the canyons and access to the Illinois River for fishing and boating. During peak summer weekends and fall foliage season, visitors should anticipate crowds at popular trails and viewpoints, while the campgrounds themselves generally maintain a quieter atmosphere, especially during weekdays.

Best Camping Sites Near Oglesby, Illinois (91)

    1. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    99 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    5 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!"

    "We headed south to Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, Illinois. Boy was it HOT HOT HOT and HUMID HUMID HUMID. We were running on 30 amps and one air conditioner."

    2. Pleasant Creek Campground

    27 Reviews
    Oglesby, IL
    5 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
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4988

    "Everything in the campground is within walking distance. They have a dishwashing sink and garbage cans every 30-50 feet. Convenient. Bathrooms and showers are super clean. Recommend for sure."

    "It’s adjacent a large field so you do get some wind and the occasional sound of farm equipment…but there’s a lot of nice spots."

    4. Starved Rock Family Campground

    11 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    6 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"

    "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."

    5. Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park

    30 Reviews
    Marseilles, IL
    19 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
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 567-4653

    $29 / night

    "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"

    "One such place, an oasis of tranquility and beauty nestled in the Illinois wilderness, is the Kayak Starved Rock Campground."

    7. Nature’s Way RV Park

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

    $30 - $125 / night

    "Just outside and behind this main building, you’ll discover a rather large, covered pavilion which is great for larger groups or for anyone wanting to picnic under some shade. "

    8. Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground — Matthiessen State Park

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

    $10 / night

    "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. "

    "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"

    9. Buffalo Rock State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ottawa, IL
    9 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.."

    10. Kishauwau Cabins

    2 Reviews
    Oglesby, IL
    6 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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Recent Reviews near Oglesby, IL

534 Reviews of 91 Oglesby Campgrounds


  • Kimberly L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Comlara County Park

    Beautiful, hidden gem

    Beautiful, quiet, and clean park. I stopped for a quick overnight but will definitely be back to stay when I have more time.

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

    Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    Trails, Tales & a Big Round Barn at Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    If you like your camping served with a side of quirk, Johnson Sauk Trail State Park near Kewanee, Illinois, delivers in spades. First impressions are of rolling hills, shady hardwoods, and wide-open prairie that feels like someone took a painter’s brush to the Midwest and got carried away. It’s big, it’s woodsy, and it has just enough old-fashioned charm to make you think you’ve stumbled into a summer postcard here in the heart of the Prairie State. Families and weekend wanderers flock here, but the atmosphere stays laid-back and the kind of place where you can still hear the wind in the trees over the laughter and screaming of kids chasing fireflies.

    The campground itself is no slouch, with more than 70 sites ranging from rustic tent pads (25 in total) to electric hook-up spots that keep RVs humming happily. Sites are generally roomy and shaded, each with picnic tables and fire rings that dare you to try out your best s’mores engineering skills. Bathhouses are clean and close, with flush toilets and showers that (miracle of miracles) actually have good water pressure. Roads are paved and very easy to navigate, though keep an eye on turns if you’re wrangling a bigger rig. Pets are welcome, kids have plenty of room to roam, and the general feel is safe and easygoing.

    And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who ‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.

    Outside the campground, Johnson Lake offers paddleboat rentals, fishing piers, and calm waters for paddling, which is ideal for wearing out the kids while you pretend you’re training for a kayak marathon! Trails wind through forest and prairie with wildlife sightings being frequent enough that you’ll start feeling like you’re starring in your own nature documentary. When hunger hits, Kewanee is just down the road, with options ranging from old-school diners to pizza joints. And don’t skip The Coop, a local gem in the hamlet of Annawan with an ice cream parlor and baked goods like cinnamon rolls, iced cookies and chocolate chunk brownies so good you’ll briefly consider moving to town just to live closer.

    Insider tips? Yep, here’s a handful: (1) Book a site in the lake loop(of which there’s some 7 or slots to choose from) for quick access to Johnson Lake, where despite a short trek to the water’s edge, you’ll get fewer complaints from the kids when it’s time to haul gear to the water and you’ll also be treated to unbeatable sunset views from one of the scattered benches along the lakefront; (2) For food, check out Cerno’s Bar & Grill in Kewanee, which was established in 1898 BTW and feels like you’re stepping back in time for massive burgers and a family-friendly vibe, Good’s Furniture for surprisingly solid sit-down meals (yes, furniture and food under one roof), and The Coop for ice cream and baked goods that will tempt you back two days in a row; (3) Don’t miss touring the Ryan Round Barn with it’s four stories of history, architecture and oddball charm that kids and adults alike will find fascinating. Just remember: it’s round, so if you get lost inside, maybe camping isn’t your sport; and (4) Bring a kayak or canoe for Johnson Lake as the calm water is great for families, fishing will likely net some channel catfish, largemouth bass and white crappie and you’ll likely spot turtles, herons and maybe even a beaver supervising your paddling skills.

    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.

  • Jessica T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Starved Rock Family Campground

    Nice little campsite!

    Well maintained and large campground. Sites aren’t stacked on top of each other and seem fairly level. I will say the grounds by our site seemed to have a fly/other sewer fly problem in the ground? I don’t know. Seemed to need a treatment of some sort. L7 is more in a wide open area so if you want more trees, book more in the middle of the campground. Bathrooms are well maintained and cleaned. Laundry facility easy. Bummed our trip got cut short by a RV maintenance issue.

  • D
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Big Rock Campground

    Needs some shade

    This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade.

    The flush toilet building was very clean, but there was no TP in the ladies' room. And I have to wonder why you would build a new campground without showers?

    It is very close to the cities so we will stay here again.

  • Jeff and Linda L.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    Unique Park

    No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table. Water available a couple of places along the canal. No reservations. We only saw two other campers, so lots of spaces. Pit toilets along the canal. Well kept. Small gravel bike trail along most of the canal. Nice place to kayak and canoe. Very nice visitor center open until 3 during the week, no weekends. Only $8 We saw a class A, so they do fit.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Hickory Grove Campground

    Midwest Pasture Camping @ Its Finest

    Located just due north of Sheffield, right off I80 (2 miles to be exact), and due west of Princeton by about 20 minutes, Hickory Grove Campground, on the one hand, is so far off the grid that you will really feel as though you are truly ‘getting away from it all,’ yet on other hand, this place is just a couple stone’s throw from one of the busiest highways that runs through the great state of Illinois, making it incredibly accessible. What I love most about Hickory Grove Campground is that it is run by good folks (husband and wife duo, Dave & Joan) that have been in this particular area of north central Illinois for a very long time. On your way to Hickory Grove, you won’t help but notice that there is a supreme amount of gorgeous farmland that you will bear witness to, complete with golden rows of sweet corn or fields of drilled beans. Any way you look at it, enroute to Hickory Grove, you will feel right at home here in the heartland of the Midwest, where we take great pride in our hospitality.

    As for this pet-friendly campground itself, upon entry, you will discover that there is a main house, immediately followed by the main office, which is where you will check in. Once doing so, you’ll be able to access your slot, depending upon which one you have selected (and there is nearly 100 to choose from), whether that be an RV or 5th Wheeler slab, deluxe cabin rental or primitive camping site. There are 15 pull-through sites (all with 50 amp electric) with all RV and Trailer sites offering full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) most with shaded lots. Other amenities include a doggie park, ice for sale, scattered picnic tables, designated trash dumpsters, BBQ grills, boat launch, pedal cart rental, restroom and shower facilities, ramp and dock on the Hennepin Canal horseshoe pit and 3 miles of hiking trails.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re a biker like me, you better come bringing the cycles as from this vantage point, you’ll be able to access the 80 mile long bike trail that you’ll find is easy to access from Hickory Grove Campground; (2) As a fellow kayak enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the nearby access at Hennepin Canal; (3) After a good day of hiking, biking and kayaking, likely you’ll want to ‘whet that whistle’ and if so, nearby Psycho Silo Saloon has you covered in spades (April until October that is) with a full stocked bar of spirits, live music and some nice iced tall boys, but be sure to bring cash because this watering hole doesn’t know how to make credit cards work yet; (4) For those looking for a nice, easy and economical seasonal rental, Hickory Grove is quite affordable offering up sites for as little as $1,400 / season; (5) Specific sites that I recommend include: (a) those on the river’s edge of the Hennepin Canal: #30A, #30B, #34 – 39, #80R; (b) those on the western edge of the property: #12A – B, #13, #16 –19, #30A – B, #34 – 39; as well as (c) those sites that fall against the eastern treeline: #80, #82, #86A – C, #97 – 99; (6) When I head out camping, I like to bring 2-3 choice cuts of rare, sometimes exotic meats and whatever you might be into, should you want some fresh cut meats, check out nearby Wyanet Meat Locker, which will have the standards (NY Strip, Ribeye, hamburger patties) as well as some nice cuts from the top-shelf, including: buffalo, lamb chops and duck; and (7) For a slice of pure Midwestern joy, check out Myrtle’s Pie, which have some amazing selections including banana cream, salted caramel, lemon meringue, carrot cake cheesecake and my favorite, the coconut cream – but everyday Myrtle runs out of pies by early-to-mid-afternoon, so call ahead to order your pie or just get in there as soon as she opens for some freshly baked cinnamon roles and brewed coffee.

    Happy Camping!

  • Rick K.
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Four Star Campground

    4 STAR CAMPGROUND IS A VERY BAD SPOT TO GO

    I HAD PURCHASED A BRAND NEW CAMPER AND THEY HAVE DRUGGYS FOR EMPLOYEES AND DRUNKS PASS OUT IN YOUR LOT AND I HAD TOLD OWNERS ABOUT THE WORKER HARRASSING ME THEY DID NOTHING I TOLD THEM OWNERS 3 TIMES ABOUT THE GUY HARRASING ME WELL HE BE UP MY CAMPER 20 THOUSAND DOLLAR CAMPER HE DESTRYED CUZZ HE WAS INTOXICATED AND DRUGGED UP SO I HAD TO CALL THE COPS AFTER 3 TIME WARNING THEM OWNERS SO NOW I HAVE TO GO TO OURT FOR THSES NEGLEGENCE AND SAID OH WELL TO ME


Guide to Oglesby

Camping near Oglesby, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Starved Rock Campground. One visitor mentioned, "I spent hours hiking the more than 13 miles of trails, which offer access to beautiful waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and spectacular overlooks."
  • Fishing: Head to Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area for some fishing. A camper shared, "The lake was beautiful and we hiked a few of the trails that go near/around it."
  • Boating: Rent a kayak or canoe at Comlara County Park. One reviewer said, "There are simply tons of little nooks and crannies all around the lake to get some decent fishing in."

What campers like:

  • Natural beauty: Campers appreciate the lush landscapes. A review from Starved Rock Campground noted, "Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"
  • Quiet atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One visitor at Illinois Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area remarked, "During the week there were just enough people for it not to feel creepily lonely."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A review for Blackwell Family Campground stated, "The campground and the whole park are very well maintained, and the people working there, kind and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds have basic facilities. A camper at Pleasant Creek Campground said, "Bathrooms are old, not much space to help kids in toilet or shower area."
  • Noise from nearby roads: Some sites are close to busy roads. A visitor at Lowden State Park Campground mentioned, "Somewhat close to the road so not ideal if you want something more off the beaten path."
  • Crowded sites: Certain campgrounds can feel packed. A review for White Pines Forest State Park Campground noted, "They really crammed them wherever they could."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose quieter campgrounds: Look for sites that are less crowded. One parent at Chief Keokuk Campground said, "Had the tent section nearest the lake to ourselves... perfect!"
  • Bring games: Pack outdoor games like corn hole or badminton. A reviewer at Jubilee College State Park Campground suggested, "Not a lot of amenities for families with young kids but bring your own corn hole bags and badminton."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of things to do. A camper at Illinois Illini State Park mentioned, "If you have time, I highly recommend heading westward towards Buffalo Rock SP."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Comlara County Park noted, "Tight getting into the spot for Class As but spots are spaced nicely."
  • Use electric hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric options. A visitor at Starved Rock Campground appreciated, "All of these sites have standard 20 amp electric plug-ins."
  • Be prepared for limited privacy: Some sites are close together. A camper at Pleasant Creek Campground said, "Our fire ring was 10 feet from the table in the site next to us."

Camping near Oglesby, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there campgrounds near Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, Illinois?

Yes, there are several campgrounds near Starved Rock State Park. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park offers a quiet, wooded setting not far from the highway with friendly hosts and a picturesque environment. Just across from Matthiessen State Park, you'll find Cozy Corners Campground, which provides convenient access to both state parks. For additional options, Illini State Park is nearby, and there are several private RV parks in the surrounding area, all within a short drive of Starved Rock's hiking trails and scenic canyons.

What camping facilities and amenities are available in Oglesby, IL?

Oglesby and the surrounding area offer diverse camping facilities with various amenities. Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park provides clean bathrooms, plenty of trees for hammocking, and beautiful river views. Just a short drive away, Pleasant Creek Campground is part of a unique multi-campground complex with six interconnected camping areas, each with its own distinct features and elevation differences. Many campgrounds in the area offer water hookups, toilets, and some provide full RV hookups. The region's campgrounds typically feature wooded sites, river access, and proximity to hiking trails in the state parks.

Can I rent an RV in Oglesby for camping at local state parks?

While there aren't dedicated RV rental services directly in Oglesby, there are options in the surrounding area. Glenwood RV Resort, located just 5 minutes south of I-80 near Marseilles, caters to RV campers and may have information about local rental services. Another option is Millpoint Park, which sits along the Illinois River with spacious campsites that accommodate RVs. For overnight RV parking without rentals, Love's Travel Stop - Oglesby offers basic facilities. Many campers rent RVs in Chicago or other larger cities before traveling to the Oglesby area.