Best Campgrounds near Peoria, IL

The Illinois River valley shapes the camping landscape around Peoria, with established campgrounds like Millpoint Park and Carl Spindler Campground offering riverside camping experiences. The region includes a mix of state-managed areas and private RV parks, with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities and cabin rentals. Several campgrounds provide direct river access for fishing and boating, while others are situated in more wooded settings within 20-30 minutes of downtown Peoria.

Campgrounds in the Peoria area typically operate from spring through fall, with some facilities like Comlara County Park and Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area remaining open year-round. Summer brings higher temperatures and humidity, making waterfront sites particularly desirable. "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," noted one visitor to Millpoint Park, highlighting the importance of bringing bottled water. Many campgrounds require reservations during peak summer weekends, while spring and fall offer more availability and milder temperatures. Sites with electric hookups are common throughout the area, though primitive tent camping options are more limited.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Peoria area, particularly along the Illinois River and Peoria Lake. Sites featuring shade from mature trees receive consistently high ratings, with campers appreciating spacious sites that offer privacy. A recent review of Millpoint Park described it as having "wide sites, full hookups, right on the water, level sites, and lots and lots of trees," emphasizing the natural setting despite being relatively close to urban amenities. Public campgrounds like Jubilee College State Park provide more rustic experiences with fewer amenities but greater immersion in nature. Most campgrounds near Peoria accommodate both tent and RV camping, though amenities vary considerably between facilities, with private campgrounds typically offering more comprehensive services including showers, dump stations, and in some cases, Wi-Fi access.

Best Camping Sites Near Peoria, Illinois (65)

    1. Millpoint Park

    16 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 231-6497

    $18 - $100 / night

    "If you’re looking to stay close to Peoria and enjoy beautiful sunsets and the water this place has it. Big trees, deep shade and it’s right on the Peoria Lake on the Illinois River."

    "Peaceful campground, well maintained, beautiful views of the Upper Peoria Lake/Illinois River. We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling."

    2. Carl Spindler Campground

    11 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 699-3549

    "This campground is very well maintained and right on the Illinois river. The view of Peoria at night is beautiful"

    "This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water that"

    3. Jubilee College State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Brimfield, IL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 446-3758

    "Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies.

    The campsite has three main loops with RV pads and electric goo ups."

    "The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."

    4. Walmart - Peoria Supercenter

    1 Review
    Peoria, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 694-0513

    5. Sankoty Lakes

    2 Reviews
    Mossville, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 570-1111

    $59 - $89 / night

    6. Woodford State Conservation Area

    2 Reviews
    Chillicothe, IL
    13 miles
    Website

    $8 - $12 / night

    "They also warned us of an upcoming storm - this location can flood when the river rises. They also said to let them know if others were too loud."

    7. Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area

    6 Reviews
    Chillicothe, IL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 246-8351

    8. Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    Chillicothe, IL
    13 miles
    Website

    "This is a beautiful, off-the-beaten path ‘no frills’ campground that comes very close to being called primitive, yet offers water pit privies and a designated sanitary dump station in addition to in-ground"

    9. Comlara County Park

    34 Reviews
    Hudson, IL
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 434-6770

    "Comlara is a beautifully laid out hidden gem in Illinois. Evergreen Lake is the perfect back drop to the campground."

    "Located just northwest of Bloomington, which is located absolutely smack-dab in the middle of the state of Illinois, you’ll discover a nature wonderland over here nearly hidden from plain site."

    10. Kentuckiana Campground

    7 Reviews
    Mackinaw, IL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 449-3274

    "When Unhitching if there is anyone waiting to drive by, you feel kind of rushed. Don’t let it make you forget wheel chocks or something important. They have a nice pond."

    "We stayed here last year and will likely stay there again this year when we are back in Illinois. The park has two sides, one side closer to the stage."

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Recent Reviews near Peoria, IL

278 Reviews of 65 Peoria 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. Sites could use more space as there is no privacy at all but that's the only thing that needs improvement.

  • 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!

  • T
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Love's RV Stop-Normal IL 867

    A trickster with premium luxury pricing.

    We decided to not stay here. We stopped, did the online reservation (Loves now uses Camplife website). Made the reservation for a single night and it's $70+ tax and fees.  We paid less per night at luxury campgrounds with waterparks and entertainment. This is a truck stop. Needless to say, we won't be using Love's anymore for our single night stays when traveling.

  • 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!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 15, 2025

    Walmart - Peoria Supercenter

    Bumper Car Parking Lot

    This is one of the larger Walmart stores that I have across in my travels and is conveniently located right off of I74 just due south of Peoria and across the Illinois River. You will immediately discover that this Walmart is easily accessible from just about any entrance point that completely surrounds this blue big box retailer. And even though this retail outlet is massive, as is its accompanying oversized parking pad, the place was very frenetic, and jam-packed with lots of traffic zipping around in multiple directions.

    But hey, if lots of ping-pong match-style traffic doesn’t dissuade you from parking here, then you’ll be treated to a decent ton of amenities as you are situated within a massive retail complex that is surrounded by other big box retailers like Lowe’s and Bass Pro Shop, a number of gas stations as well as a decent assortment of smart restaurants, like Texas Roadhouse, Childer’s Eatery and Godfather’s Pizza. Of course, there’s no shortage of drive-by fast food joints nearby like McDonald’s, IHOP, Bob Evans, Chick-fil-A and Taco Bell, but take it from me, you’d be better off crossing the Illinois River into Peoria to check out some better haunts like Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery or Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer.

    Should you decide to park at this oversized discount retailer parking haven, I would suggest parking either on the southern or northern perimeters as while they are next to their own respective inner 2-lane roads, the traffic is slow-moving and isn’t stopped for any lights around those areas, making for less noise pollution. You’ll find that the lot is very flat and level, well-paved albeit dated as well as offering really great lighting at night along with very good rotating security that remain constantly vigilant in this overgrown shopping mecca.

    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: 3 

    Safety & Security: 2 

    Quality: 3 

    Peace & Quiet: 2 

    Amenities: 3 

    Overall, I scored this location a 3 

    Happy Overnighting!

  • Jessica H.
    May. 25, 2025

    Love's RV Stop-Normal IL 867

    Perfect Pit Stop

    The campground was easy to book, easy to park, spots are pretty big and very clean. It was perfect for our short stay.

  • J
    May. 15, 2025

    Hennepin Canal Lock 22 Campground

    Very Quite 👍

    The Road there is paved, not really big but not gravel. The place is pretty small, no water, or dump station. We used the Loves T/S at Atkinson. The place needed mowed badly. We stayed during the week (it’s free then to IL residents over 65, otherwise it’s $8). It was super quiet, a few farmers and some people stop in to go fishing. We had our camper and barriers are in place to keep vehicles out of the tent camping area so had to camp in the parking lot


Guide to Peoria

Camping near Peoria, IL, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there’s something for everyone.

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."
  • Fishing: Head to Comlara County Park for some great fishing opportunities. A reviewer noted, "There are simply tons of little nooks and crannies all around the lake to get some decent fishing in."
  • Kayaking: Enjoy kayaking at Chief Keokuk Campground. One camper shared, "Had fun kayaking on the lake, caught a catfish!"

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the stunning landscapes. One reviewer at Moraine View State Recreational Area said, "This is a beautiful state park, lovely camping."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment. A visitor at Weldon Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "Even being small and on top of each other, the campground was quiet and still at night."
  • Family-Friendly: Campgrounds like Clinton Lake State Recreation Area are great for families. One family shared, "We couldn’t have asked for a better location for our family and our interests."

What you should know:

  • Facilities: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. A camper at Moraine View State Recreational Area noted, "The outhouse was in really rough shape—looked like it hadn't been swept out or hosed down for a while."
  • Privacy Concerns: Campers at Pleasant Creek Campground mentioned that sites can be close together. One reviewer said, "Our fire ring was 10 feet from the table in the site next to us."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A visitor at Weldon Springs State Park Campground warned, "The raccoons were so bad...the couple a few sites down had their tent destroyed."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, which offers a beach and playground. A family shared, "Sites were spacious but wasn’t much privacy, which didn’t bother us because it allowed for our kids to play with the other kids easily."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities ready. One camper at Starved Rock Campground suggested, "If you time your visit carefully, you’ll be greeted by fresh, seasonal waterfalls."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some campgrounds have limited supplies. A visitor at Comlara County Park mentioned, "The campground is very well organized, kept impeccably clean."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure the site can accommodate your RV. A camper at Weldon Springs State Park Campground noted, "A 40-foot site might only be 20 feet."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups. A reviewer at Chief Keokuk Campground mentioned, "There’s plenty of picnic tables and in-ground fire rings."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss out on local attractions. A visitor at Pleasant Creek Campground suggested, "You’ll be located just 5 miles from two of the best state parks that Illinois has to offer."

Camping near Peoria, IL, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Peoria, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Peoria, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 65 campgrounds and RV parks near Peoria, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Peoria, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Peoria, IL is Millpoint Park with a 4.1-star rating from 16 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Peoria, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Peoria, IL.