Best Campgrounds near Peru, IL
Campgrounds surrounding Peru, Illinois cluster along the Illinois River Valley, offering varied camping experiences within 15 miles of town. The region includes established sites like Starved Rock State Park Campground with tent, RV, and cabin options, plus the highly-rated Starved Rock Family Campground where wooded sites provide natural separation between campers. Visitors seeking additional accommodations can explore Lasalle/Peru KOA which offers boat-in access alongside traditional drive-in sites, or Pleasant Creek Campground featuring tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping yurts.
Most campgrounds in the area remain open from spring through fall, though seasonal availability varies. Starved Rock Campground operates year-round while nearby Pleasant Creek Campground typically opens from April 15 to October. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when Illinois River Valley attractions draw significant tourism. Many sites feature full hookups with 50-amp electric service, water connections, and dump stations for RVs, while tent campers will find designated areas with fire rings and picnic tables. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though coverage may diminish in some canyon areas. According to one visitor, Starved Rock State Park provides "nicely wooded and picturesque" sites "similar to northern Wisconsin" despite being "not far off the highway."
The Illinois River shapes the camping experience throughout the region, with several locations offering river views or direct water access. Campgrounds near Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks provide convenient bases for exploring their hiking trails, canyons, and waterfalls. Review insights highlight the contrast between busier campgrounds near major attractions and more secluded options. Campers frequently mention the ability to access hiking trails directly from campsites, particularly along the I&M Canal corridor that parallels the Illinois River. The proximity to small towns like Utica offers additional amenities while maintaining a rural atmosphere. One reviewer noted that Illini State Park campground provides "a great river view" along with "clean bathrooms" and "plenty of trees to hammock" despite occasional weather challenges.