Are you planning a tent camping trip to Peru? We've got you covered. The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Peru's most popular destinations.
1170 N. 27th Road
Ottawa, IL 61350
630-567-4653
Open mid April thru mid October
Waterfront Primitive camping directly across from Starved Rock State Park. Less than 1.5 hour from Chicago! Featuring high end kayak rentals, Guided Kayak tours and riverside primitive camping right on the beautiful shores of the Illinois River. Come see Towering St. Peters Sandstone bluffs, soaring bald eagles and beautiful lotus flowers.
$29 / night
Welcome to Chief Keokuk Campground, nestled within the Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area in Illinois. This spot is a favorite among campers for its serene environment and abundance of activities. The campground is surrounded by a dense forest of pencil-thin trees, creating a unique and peaceful atmosphere.
The campground offers a mix of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, and cabins. There are 71 Class A sites with electric hookups and 25 Class C tent sites. While there are no sewer or water hookups for RVs, the campground does provide drinking water, showers, and toilets. Pets are welcome, and you can enjoy a campfire at your site, making it a great place for family gatherings or a quiet retreat.
One of the highlights here is the proximity to Lake Johnson. It's perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or fishing. If you don't have your own gear, the marina rents out boats, and only electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake, ensuring a peaceful experience. The lake is just a short walk from the campsites, but you can also drive down if you prefer.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are about 12 miles of trails winding through seasoned pine and oak forests. The trails offer great sightseeing opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
If you're planning a picnic, there are plenty of spots to choose from, including lakeside tables and covered pavilions. And don't miss out on visiting Ryan’s Round Barn, a local landmark with a fascinating history.
Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Chief Keokuk Campground offers a tranquil setting with plenty to do. Enjoy your stay and happy camping!
$6 / night
The Youth Group Camping area is only reservable for approved youth groups (youth 18 years of age and younger with adult chaperones) such as scout packs and church youth group organizations.
Located only 1 hour from Chicago! Our private Campground is PERFECT for the BEGINNER camper! Camp with your vehicle just steps from your tent. WE are right on the water! All sites are Fully wooded Sandy Beach camping.
Forget Something? Downtown Morris is just steps away, or Walmart/Jewel(5min). Need a shower? No problem! Morris Community Swimming pool (1mile away) features a shower/locker room facility and swimming pool. KayakMorris Outdoor Learning Campground is a new concept in recreational fun for all. KayakMorris' Campground was created out of a need to connect a variety of people and groups to recreational land and outdoor experiential learning programs and features GLAMPING!
We are combining easy access to kayaking, biking, canoeing, fishing, geocaching and hiking all in one great place! We make it FUN! We are even just steps away from historic downtown Morris, which features antique shops, novelty stores and great restaurants. We feature full sand beaches on the Illinois River and we are adjacent to the historic I & M canal and towpath featuring fishing, hiking, biking and geocaching.
Our Campground is specifically for families, youth and those with the utmost respect for the Great Outdoors! We cater to those that seek to escape to the wilderness and spend relaxing time with their friends and family. We pride ourselves in limiting camping privileges to families, youth and those that are truly outdoor enthusiasts.
All camping is online reservation only(unless you have camped with us before). You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation.
$29 / night
The Hennepin Canal State Park is not enrolled in the ReserveAmerica camping reservation system and DOES NOT take camping reservations. Camping at the Canal is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are no set check-in or check-out times. The Canal’s site security officer makes rounds to each campsite to collect camping fees, in-person. Campers can pay by cash or check.
Camping along the Hennepin Canal towpath is PROHIBITED – camping is only allowed in the designated campsites. Fires are only allowed in the state designated fire pits at the campgrounds. Camping is not permitted in the main complex area (the area around the visitor center).
Currently, the ONLY DRINKING WATER available on the ENTIRE canal is located at the main parking lot in front of the visitor center at the large shelter. There is also a faucet on the side of the visitor center, just to the left of the main entrance. There are no operable drinking water fountains along the rest of the canal so bring your own water for your hike or camping trip.
Campgrounds with multiple campsites along the canal can be found at Lock 21, North Day Use Area
Equestrian camping is restricted to the south side of the Lock 21 area. Equestrian campers are asked to bring a shovel to clear their own horse droppings, which may be pushed off to the side of the trail. There is no tethering to trees.
If you are not familiar with the canal it may be confusing trying to find the campsites. Stop by the Hennepin Canal Visitor Center to pick up a detailed map of the canal, which shows all of the country crossroads. You can also call the visitor center and ask to be mailed a copy: 815-454-2328. I
$8 / night
Camp Tuckabatchee is located 90 miles west of Chicago on Route 80 North of Ottawa, Illinois on Route 23. The camp covers 210 acres of wooded hills and valleys with trails running throughout. There are rustic cabins for sleeping in the main camp area. The main lodge features a dining area with a huge stone hearth and a modern kitchen. Volc Lodge provides year-round camping with indoor restrooms, 2 fireplaces, a furnace, and a kitchen. Crooked Leg Creek provides a natural play area and lulls campers to sleep at night.
In addition to our summer youth camp program, the camp is available for use by organizations, clubs, church groups, and private groups.
Camp Tuckabatchee Inc. is a day and resident camp established in 1927. Camp Tuckabatchee is a community of camp professionals and is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults through the camp experience.
Camp Tuckabatchee provides a safe, secure, environment where each individual can develop an understanding of and an appreciation for nature. We are constantly striving to keep our facilities and programs current while maintaining strong traditional ties to the past.
Camp Tuckabatchee provides an environment free of technology. Campers interact with staff and others and enjoy the opportunity of a break from screen-time.
Primitive Camping!
Opening April 1, 2021
Site rate : $25 (for 2 people)
Additional people per site: $10 each (Maximum 4 per site)
Enter and register at Red’s City Limits
“On the curve, at the Creek”
Firewood, water, basic supplies available on site
Castle Rock State Park is located along the west bank of the Rock River in Ogle County, three miles south of Oregon, on Ill. Rt. 2. Castle Rock camping is centrally located in the Rock River Hills region of Illinois, and its rolling topography is drained by the Rock River. The park is representative of the Rock River Hills area with rock formations, ravines and unique northern plant associations. A sandstone bluff, adjacent to the river, has given the park its name.
$6 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Peru, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Peru, IL is Kayak Starved Rock Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Peru, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Peru, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
