88 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near Ottawa, Illinois ranges from developed RV parks with full hookups to primitive tent sites, spanning a compact stretch of the Illinois River Valley. Starved Rock State Park, located about 10 miles southwest of Ottawa, anchors the region with its popular campground offering electric hookups and shower facilities amid wooded sites. Buffalo Rock State Park provides more primitive tent camping options with boat-in access directly in Ottawa, while nearby Illini State Park in Marseilles offers year-round camping with full hookups. The area's camping landscape includes both state-managed facilities and private operations like Starved Rock Family Campground and Kayak Starved Rock Campground, which provide riverfront sites with varying levels of amenities.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region, with summer humidity and occasional heavy rainfall requiring proper preparation. Many campgrounds operate year-round, though amenities may be limited during winter months. As one camper noted, "Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view." Reservations become essential during peak summer weekends and holidays, particularly at Starved Rock State Park. The relatively flat terrain throughout the area makes for easy site access, though some private campgrounds near Interstate 80 experience traffic noise that can detract from the outdoor experience.
River access represents a major draw for campers in the Ottawa area, with multiple sites offering views of or direct access to the Illinois River. Visitors frequently mention the unexpected natural beauty, with one camper remarking, "Didn't expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!" The region's campgrounds provide good proximity to hiking trails, particularly the canyon systems of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Fishing opportunities abound along the river, while the I&M Canal Trail offers cycling possibilities for active campers. Wildlife viewing includes opportunities to spot bald eagles along the Illinois River, especially during spring and fall migrations.
"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!"
"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."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $12 - $55 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"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.""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"
"We had an enjoyable weekend here relaxing and getting away from the city. We booked site 152 right from the website. The previsit instructions and tips were very helpful."
"more than two years ago provided 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) Closely located"
from $29 / night
Check Availability"or Illini) native American Indian tribe, who were one of the most prolific and important native American Indian tribes to have settled in the Mississippi River valley, of which large sections of Illinois"
"It’s pretty close to Chicago so it works for weekend getaways. We stayed in the wooded loop. It’s rustic without electric/water hookups. The other loop looked more set up for rvs. "
from $10 - $45 / night
Check Availability"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.."
from $6 / night
Check Availability"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. "
"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."
from $30 - $125 / night
Check Availability
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.
LegendCanvasback Cove quickly felt like the liveliest corner of Shabbona Lake State Park, and it's EZ to see why so many families gravitate here. While one of three campgrounds within the park, Canvasback Cove sits closest to the playground, camp store, boat launch, fishing pond and lakeshore, making it wonderfully convenient for families with younger children who love having something to explore just a short walk from their campsite. The campsites offer electric and water hookups, picnic tables and fire rings, while the surrounding prairie, woodlands and sparkling lake create a peaceful backdrop that somehow balances activity with nature. One of my favorite memories was watching children race from the playground to the fishing pond with fishing poles nearly as tall as they were before proudly returning to camp to tell everyone about 'the one that almost got away.' Some campgrounds are designed around campsites; this one feels designed around childhood. From what we saw, lakefront Sites 117 and 125 are especially desirable thanks to their beautiful water views, while families wanting to stay close to the playground, camp store and boat launch will appreciate the heart of Canvasback Cove. We would absolutely recommend this campground for families because of its kid-friendly layout, outstanding park amenities and the countless opportunities to spend the day outdoors together.
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!
ScoutWhat a find! Beautiful CG. So green; so quiet. Very nicely organized with children placed near the very appealing playground and volleyball facilities, campers with pets near the wonderful dog park. The WiFi is very functional. There is a laundry facility in the camper services building. There’s a lovely community fire pit with the most pleasant rocky fountain. The sites are spacious and offer a nice mix of sun/shade. Best of all, the grounds are spotless. No wait, the best part is how nice the staff is. Or maybe it’s how lush the foliage looks. I don’t know. Go check it out yourself and see if you can decide.
LegendAs the name suggests, Creekside Campground borders a tributary of the Vermillion River, which is really just a creek in these parts, and it sits as the lowest point of all the campgrounds here at Pleasant Creek. This campground is not for those driving an RV or hauling a 5th wheel - Creekside is really just for primitive tent campers, who enjoy being connected to nature with only the most basic of comforts. The vibe here at Creekside is definitely communal, offering up less privacy than most primitive campsites I have ever been to. After entering Pleasant Creek, you’ll pass the Office, Camp Store and Arcade on the left, where you’ll also notice a small basketball court on the right, passing by the primary community bathhouses, you’ll immediately veer to the left where you’ll cross the lone bridge where you’ll turn hard right and downwards along the ravine to arrive at the Creekside Campground. Down here and along the Vermillion River there are 32 primitive campsites available numbered #101– 106 and #108– 128 on the lower edge, with a small number of sites raised slightly above, but still downhill from the Highlands with sites numbered #130– 134. Apart from a water spigot and a single porta-potty, there are no other amenities here. As Creekside is carved from the curve of the property that follows the Vermillion River along with the thick tree line, which creates a completely separate feel from the rest of Pleasant Creek, preserving a uniquely festive community vibe. The sites here have full visibility between each other, so if privacy and space are of concern, I would suggest one of the other 2 campgrounds earmarked for tent campers.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you need anything, and I mean anything at all, the very great father and son duo of Dan& Dan, will work tirelessly to ensure that your experience here at this campground is nothing short of amazing, so if you need anything, just ask either of them; (2) While the Vermillion River is merely a creek in these parts, if you head due west, and search a little, you’ll find a couple decent natural launches where you can access the wider river OR you can access a great kayak launch site either at the lower dells in Starved Rock SP or by contacting Starved Rock Kayak Company (who have their own, very amazing riverfront primitive campsite, BTW and that you can search up here on TheDyrt), who will let you launch from either one of their sites on either side of the Illinois River; and (3) While there’s not a whole lot of restaurants in this area, if you do want to get out to try some of the local fare, I would recommend you check out nearby Utica, where I would recommend either Lodi Tap House or Año del Gallo, which is a nice stand-alone Mexican joint serving up some decent fare along with Margaritas.
Happy Camping!
TravelerDid not stay because was planning on staying in my car in the lot but the gate says it closes at sunset, not sure if that's true as there is tent camping.
LegendThis is not a campground but if you need an overnight quick stop this was great! Rating as a truck stop/overnight and not campground rating
We pulled in around 10pm, easily backed in with no obstacles, hook ups were all easy and convienent and we were on I80 again before 7
You check in online once your there and process was great
It is a travel stop so there are bright lights and truck noise - but we were tired and had no issues sleeping through night!
The staff were very kind, bathrooms inside were clean
Campsites near Ottawa, Illinois range from 580 to 600 feet in elevation, sitting along the Illinois River which carves through sandstone formations that formed 425 million years ago. The terrain features unique St. Peter sandstone bluffs and canyons that remain 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas during summer months. Most campsites in the region stay open year-round but experience peak visitation between May and October.
Kayaking the Illinois River: Launch directly from Kayak Starved Rock Campground where sites provide immediate river access. "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."
Bird watching along migration routes: Set up at waterfront sites at Illini State Park where diverse habitats attract seasonal birds. "We did take a morning walk along the river and we enjoyed MANY different birdsongs," reports one camper who stayed during spring migration.
Mountain biking the I&M Canal Trail: Access the historic trail directly from Buffalo Rock State Park campsites. "The trail is wide and mowed at least two feet on either side. Very little elevation changes and none that were steep. There are a couple of overlooks that offer beautiful views of Illinois River."
Fishing at multiple locations: Find fishing spots at both ends of the region with stocked ponds and river access. "The fishing pond is subpar" at Pleasant Creek, but Illini State Park offers "good fishing spots and boat dock down the road" according to recent visitors.
River views and waterfront access: Many campers prize Kayak Starved Rock Campground for its positioning. "Our campsite was wonderful and was on a point on the river that has a 180 degree view of the river. There is a picnic table and fire pit at the site."
Natural surroundings: Campers frequently mention appreciating the wooded settings at Pleasant Creek Campground. "Because of it's 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."
Clean facilities: Many Ottawa-area campgrounds maintain better-than-expected bathrooms. At Starved Rock Family Campground, "Bathrooms are well maintained and cleaned. Laundry facility easy."
Affordability: State parks in the region offer excellent value with basic amenities. "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."
Reservation timing: The most popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Starved Rock Campground, "Book early- reservations open online 6 months in advance and book up quickly. Most summer weekends are completely full."
Bathroom and shower facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Illini State Park, one camper warned "The showers on site TRICKLED, not even enough to wash your hair. The sinks constantly run, they don't shut off."
Site privacy considerations: Many campgrounds feature closely-spaced sites. At Kayak Starved Rock Campground, "The biggest thing we disliked about this place is how close the campsites are to one another. With a tent at every site, you're almost right on top of the next site."
Weather impacts: Low-lying areas can flood during heavy rain. At Pleasant Creek Campground, one visitor warned, "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!"
Playground proximity: Choose sites at LaSalle/Peru KOA with children's activities. "Great one for kids. A creek runs through it so you have to check for flooding. Close to all the state parks," and "Great site spacing. Good trees, some nice shaded sites."
Family-friendly campground layout: Starved Rock Family Campground offers "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."
Educational opportunities: Buffalo Rock State Park offers unique wildlife viewing. "Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers. A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with pools during summer heat. "Staff were great and the the grounds well maintained. I stayed on site 5 which is a full hookup but best for a small camper. Campground has a cute dog park and a beautiful stream that runs through it."
Dump station access: Plan carefully for departure at busy campgrounds. "The dump station was also up a one way in/out hill. You had to make a tight U-turn coming down from your site to get up to it. Plan on going early otherwise you're going to get stuck on the hill waiting."
Site selection for large rigs: At Nature's Way RV Park, "For the RV driving / 5th Wheel toting crowd, Nature's Way has spots reserved on its front porch lawn that you will encounter upon first arriving to the entrance. There's about 20 or so designated RV spots here that offer full hook-ups including 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage."
Electric hookup configurations: Watch for shared utilities at some parks. "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."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging at some locations. "The pull through was plenty long enough for our 40' 5th wheel and F450. The utilities were centered on the pad so that was nice as I was able to dump both black tanks with a 10' hose."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Ottawa, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ottawa, IL is Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 103 reviews.
Keep Exploring
