Camping near Oglesby, Illinois offers access to the distinctive limestone formations and deep sandstone canyons found throughout the area's state parks. At an elevation of 600 feet above sea level, the region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures typically exceeding 85°F in July and August, while spring brings seasonal flooding along the Illinois River. Fall camping provides cooler temperatures around 60-70°F with vibrant foliage displays.
What to do
Kayaking access points: 10 minutes from camp. Kayak Starved Rock Campground sits directly across from the main park, providing excellent water access. "The campground, being on the Illinois river, provides fantastic opportunities for kayaking. The calm, clear water is suitable for both beginners and experienced kayakers," notes camper Tracy E.
Hiking for various skill levels: 13+ miles of trails. Starved Rock Family Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the region's canyons. "We did feel a little exposed being right off the trail. I was nervous leaving all my gear behind when I went for a hike. Nobody messed with my stuff though and everyone I saw was very friendly," reports Scott N., highlighting the security concerns when leaving camp for hiking.
Swimming options: seasonal availability. The region offers swimming opportunities beyond hiking trails. "There is no parking for it but there's a nice sandy beach along the road before the dam we pulled over to swim in!" mentions Caitlin C., describing an impromptu swimming spot near Pleasant Creek Campground.
What campers like
Private riverfront sites: limited availability. At Buffalo Rock State Park Campground, primitive camping offers seclusion. "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," explains Amanda P., noting the trade-off between privacy and amenities.
Dog-friendly trails: multiple difficulty options. Dog friendly campgrounds near Oglesby include Buffalo Rock State Park, where pets can enjoy less crowded trail systems. "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," writes Bill M., highlighting the benefit for those seeking quieter experiences with pets.
Campsite layout variations: tree coverage differences. Pleasant Creek Campground offers diverse site settings. "Because of its layout, you never get a true sense of how big the whole campground is (50 acres). 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)," explains Brian O.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: spring camping challenges. Several campgrounds experience water issues during wet periods. "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. from Pleasant Creek Campground.
Weekday vs. weekend crowds: plan accordingly. Visiting midweek can provide a dramatically different experience. "We stopped for a night on our way through. Had a nice quiet spot right on the river. With the locks closed this year, the traffic on the river was way down. It would have been fun to watch the boats but oh well. Easy in and out right off the interstate. Not busy at all mid week," notes Doug W. from Illini State Park.
Campground-specific restrictions: equestrian requirements. Matthiessen State Park maintains strict rules about who can camp. "Got kicked out cause I didn't have a horse. Even though it was completely empty. Gave me my $8 back though," reports Amanda C., highlighting the enforcement of equestrian-only camping rules regardless of availability.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: location considerations. LaSalle/Peru KOA offers family-friendly amenities. "Very quiet. Lost of space," writes Chris J., while another visitor adds, "This place really shines in the primitive spots in the back of the campground... Good trees, some nice shaded sites and some really good locations for privacy. Great site spacing."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: morning/evening timing. Pet-friendly campgrounds near Oglesby offer wildlife viewing as a family activity. "Saw lots of wild life. Walk to Ottawa is very magical," shares Jess about Buffalo Rock State Park, highlighting the pedestrian-friendly nature trails suitable for families with pets.
Site selection for flooding prevention: choose elevated spots. Families should consider weather patterns and site elevation. "This is a nice, quiet little campground. 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," explains Rodney D. from Pleasant Creek, emphasizing the benefits of hillside sites during rainy periods.
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: tight turns noted. Pleasant Creek Campground presents navigation difficulties for larger vehicles. "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., highlighting a common access concern for RV drivers.
Campsite size limitations: length restrictions. Kishauwau Cabins offers alternatives for RVers struggling with size limitations at traditional campgrounds. "Generally, the closer to an interstate highway, from a camping perspective at least, the worse you get, right? I mean, how can you possibly relax and forget the busy world that you are trying to escape with all of the noise and swooshing by of traffic?" asks Stuart K., pointing out the benefit of cabin options for those tired of RV challenges.
Dump station considerations: timing important. Strategic planning for RV services prevents delays. "Took about 45 min for us to dump being 5th in line at 10:30am," reports a camper at Starved Rock State Park, highlighting the need to plan dump station usage during off-peak times.
