Top Glamping near Princeton, IL

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Princeton, IL is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Glamping Sites Near Princeton, IL (17)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground

    1. Pleasant Creek Campground

    26 Reviews
    58 Photos
    65 Saves

    Pleasant Creek Campground is nestled in a wooded setting along a tributary of the Vermillion River, surrounded by rolling hills and mature trees. We are located 5 miles from the entrance of Starved Rock State Park in the gateway town of Oglesby, Illinois. Pleasant Creek Campground is quietly tucked away in the heart of the Illinois Valley and just minutes from unique shops, historical sites, recreational activities, and amazing dining!

    Campground Amenities: Spring-fed, stocked fishing pond Well supplied general store Creekside campsites

    On-site Trailers for rent New bathhouse and showers Basketball, Volleyball, and Tetherball Variety of sites available for RVs and tents

    Water & Electric available at most sites

    Game Room with ping pong, arcade games & more

    Dump Station on site and pump outs available

    Playground and an array of outdoor games Minutes from Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Green River Oaks Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Green River Oaks Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Green River Oaks Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Green River Oaks Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Green River Oaks Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Green River Oaks Camping Resort

    2. Green River Oaks Camping Resort

    9 Reviews
    22 Photos
    23 Saves

    Family owned and operated, we pride ourselves on being an affordable FUN destination for families of all sizes. You will never be charged additional daily fees for your own dependent children, nor will you incur any "resort fees" typical of our industry. Your nightly site rental fee or annual Seasonal fee is all you pay to enjoy most of the amenities and services that we have to offer! Our planned activities and themed weekends will keep your group entertained for the entirety of your stay! You are welcome to participate in all of our activities or just sit back and RELAX, while taking in the beautiful scenery and serenity of our remote setting on 130 acres.

    We offer annual Seasonal sites and overnight, weekly and monthly site rentals for tents and campers. For those that desire the comforts of home, we offer rental options including park models, cabins and travel trailer rentals. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of your every day life, and escape to Green River Oaks Resort for a few days, a weekend, a month or join us for the whole season! We welcome reunions and camping groups of all sizes.

    Come see what you've been missing!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Condits Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Condits Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Condits Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Condits Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Condits Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Condits Ranch

    3. Condits Ranch

    4 Reviews
    8 Photos
    34 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Grove Campground

    4. Hickory Grove Campground

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    28 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from White Pines Forest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Pines Forest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Pines Forest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Pines Forest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Pines Forest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Pines Forest State Park Campground

    5. White Pines Forest State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    32 Photos
    80 Saves

    Rock River Valley is home to 385 acres of paradisiacal forest, perfect for weekend getaways and family recreation. White Pines Forest State Park offers a serene backdrop for an ideal camping trip, smack dab in the heart of the vast rolling forest and dramatic Illinois bluffs. Featuring modern camp facilities, as well as up-to-date lodging, it’s easy to see why one might consider taking a voyage here. Not only are the amenities plentiful, the local geography is pretty stunning too. Gentle creek beds run against rich earthy banks through the park’s mossy cliffs and dangling vines. During the spring, wildflowers become plentiful, as trout lily, bloodroot, spring beauty, hepatica, and more all blossom into full bloom.

    One of the most notable features of the park is a concrete ford which spans across the creeks. This enables drivers to pull directly up to the creek bed, and drive through the various streams. There’s even an accessible path leading straight to the bank for those interested in checking out the wildlife or taking advantage of the fishing nearby.

    It goes without saying that picnicking is extremely popular here. In fact, there are over 100 campsites that feature their own picnic area, as well as various benches and clearings placed strategically throughout the park.

    Thanks to the variety of campsite options, it’s really easy to find camping here at any time of year. White Pines is unique in that it boasts Class B/S Campsites vehicle access and spacious shower/flush buildings nearby. There are also 3 electric sites, however they are non-reservable. Likewise, group campgrounds cannot be reserved so be sure to wake up early for priority camping!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground

    6. Geneseo Campground

    12 Reviews
    22 Photos
    30 Saves

    Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests.

    If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi.

    Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground!

    For more camping options - including group reservations - please visit our website at https://rol.camp/geneseo-campground or call 309-442-2662.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 - $95 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground

    7. Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    18 Photos
    7 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Prophetstown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prophetstown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prophetstown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prophetstown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prophetstown State Park Campground

    8. Prophetstown State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    5 Photos
    36 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park

    9. Millpoint Park

    14 Reviews
    38 Photos
    105 Saves

    On the picturesque Upper Peoria Lake on the Illinois River, MillPoint RV Park offers 80 shaded full hookup sites on well-maintained gravel roads. Many of our sites are spacious pull-thrus designed for the biggest of big rigs. We also offer a cluster of cabin rentals, a designated tenting area, and several primitive camping areas for those who want to get as close as possible to nature. Nature literally surrounds us, including the Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve that directly adjoins the campground. There are acres of beauty for hiking, fishing, and boating – including access to the river and beach at Funks Run, along with a private spring-fed lake that is just waiting for you to cast your line to hook a potential trophy catch!

    Daily, weekly and monthly rates are available from March through November. The park is conveniently accessible to the nightlife, dining and casinos of Peoria and the surrounding area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park

    10. Morrison-Rockwood State Park

    10 Reviews
    28 Photos
    36 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews In Princeton

140 Reviews of 17 Princeton Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Grove Campground
    October 14, 2024

    Hickory Grove Campground

    Definitely worth a stop!

    This a really nice campground with a lot of recent upgrades. Great location, excellent piece of land, and the owners are super friendly. Sites give you TONS of room and they are all FHU.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    June 28, 2024

    Millpoint Park

    Peaceful, Clean, Beautiful River Views

    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. Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Prophetstown State Park Campground
    December 1, 2023

    Prophetstown State Park Campground

    Pit (Vault) Toilet in Campground

    This fairly new State Park would of merited "5 stars", but the pit (aka vault) toilet smell was just tooooooo much and we weren't even close! 

    PROS 

    Park beautifully maintained and mowed throughout S

    Site 109 shady 

    Site 109 gravel parking pad level 

    Moveable wooden picnic table 

    Metal campfire ring with cooking grate 

    Roadways easy to maneuver without obstacles 

    Quite except for train whistle close by 

    Partial privacy from neighbors 

    Toilet/shower facility in next campground (Savanna) very clean and sufficiently stocked

     Very nice 12 ft wide asphalt bike trails 

    Night sky friendly as no street lights in campground 

    Firewood for sale at entrance gate 

    Frequent park ranger campground drive throughs 

    Double lane dump station 

    Double lane portable water fill stations 

    CONS 

    The aroma of the pit toilet between Spruce and Savanna Campgrounds could be smelled throughout both campgrounds. Disgusting!!! No hand wash station at pit toilet 

    Modern toilet/shower facility only in Savanna Campground 

    No security gate closure overnight 

    All trash dumpsters near campground entrance gatehouse 

    5pm checkin 

    No interpretive programs Monday thru Thursday

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cozy Corners Campground
    October 18, 2023

    Cozy Corners Campground

    Family-Run RV Front-Yard Outpost

    Located here in the north central part of Land O’ Lincoln just due south of the Illinois River Valley, Cozy Corners gets its descriptor because it sits right on an intersection where N. 25th Road meets Route 178 that is literally across the street from the entrance of Matthiessen State Park, likely the main reason you are here in the first place. And while its very close proximity to this pretty amazing nature destination makes it quite an attractive spot for those looking to access the best of what the Illinois River and surroundings have in store for them, the place itself feels more like a farmer’s front yard that got repurposed as an RV grass parking lot. 

    So, if you ask me, the first thing I would tell you about Cozy Corners Campground is that this likely is not going to be at the top of your list in terms of campgrounds to choose from in the area, especially if you’re a tent camper who doesn’t want to pretend they are out in nature surrounded by a bunch of RVs on what is glaringly obvious is simply someone’s farm. There’s tons of options to pitch your tent, most notably, is Matthiessen SP itself, which has some pretty amazing land to drop anchor for the night. That said, this is one of the few ‘off-the-radar’ choices you might want to consider when visiting the Illinois River Valley area, particularly during the major summer holidays (Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day), where if you haven’t booked up something WELL IN ADVANCE of arriving here, especially at nearby Starved Rock State Park, then Cozy Corners likely will have some vacancy. 

    With this campground in mind, there’s about 10–12 slots available with what looks to be sewer, water and electric hook-ups along with aging fire rings. If there were other amenities like BBQ grills, picnic tables or pavilions, they certainly weren’t available when we paid a visit. And at this time, to provide a visual, it’s early Spring, so what that means in Illinois out in the farmland is that all of the area surrounding this place is barren, so while I am sure the fall provides for a much better sense of privacy, at this time of year, one feels quite exposed without any degree of privacy, save the few barren trees that are on this Midwestern ranch. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While Cozy Corners can most certainly not be classified as a destination, if you are looking for a place to drop anchor for the night because you are just passing through, then this place is flat, simple and pretty cheap, but I would still recommend a number of other places for those toting RVs, like nearby Pleasant Creek Campground, which has a ton more to offer albeit at slightly higher prices. But what do they say about ‘you get what you pay for?’; (2) No doubt being this close to both Matthiessen and Starved Rock SPs, you’ll have no shortage of great trails to go hiking on with 5 miles of trails at Matthiessen and the 13+ miles of hiking trails that form snake-like patterns throughout, across and over the nearly 20 or so canyons that make up Starved Rock: (3) If you come hauling watercraft, you’ll definitely want to hit up the Illinois River, which is just down the street from here at Cozy Corners wherein my recommendation is to swing by the lower dells area of Starved Rock, where you can park and launch your kayak, canoe or boat from; (4) The three nearest towns that have any form of civilization around these parts are Oglesby, Utica or Tonica, wherein I would recommend a visit to either long-time favorite Garzanelli’s Supper Club, which has a pretty amazing Midwestern take on Italian food or Starved Rock Lodge, just due south of Utica; (5) Looking for a place to ‘whet your whistle’? Then head on over to Aces & Eights in Tonica for glorified bar food and cheap tall boys OR head into Utica and check out Obscurity Brewing Bier Garten for some unusual draft brews or August Hill Winery for some fairly mediocre wine from Illinois; and (6) Finish off your entire camping experience by visiting Two Girls and a Cupcake for some sweet, albeit overpriced, desserts and treats. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    October 15, 2023

    Pleasant Creek Campground

    Hilltop Tree-Lined Plateau w/ Scenic Views

    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, yet interconnected set of campgrounds, each with their own name, distinct culture, elevation (yes, I just said elevation in a state that is relatively flat, more on this later), price range, # and type of accommodations, amenities as well as access to them. This review highlights the Highlands Campground, but if you want to learn about Pleasant Creek more broadly, just keep reading further down. 

    While not in Scotland, this campground does sit highest of all the potential spots you could pick here at any one of the campgrounds you'll find here at Pleasant Creek. Unlike many of the other options, the Highlands are really just for RVs and 5th Wheelers, so if you are a tent camper, you will want to look at some of the other campgrounds like Outback, Creekside or Glades. If you do have an oversized or rather large RV / 5th Wheeler to contend with and are concerned about making the incline up to the Highlands, you might want to look at some of the other easier to access options. That said, after entering Pleasant Creek, you’ll pass the Office, Camp Store and Arcade on the left, where you’ll also notice a small (single hoop) basketball court on the right, passing by the primary community bathhouses, you’ll veer to the left where you’ll cross the lone bridge where you’ll proceed straight and upwards to arrive at the Highlands Campground. 

    Up here on this plateau overlooking the expanse of the entirety of Pleasant Creek multi-campground campus, there are 55 premium and deluxe RV slots available numbered #201– 228 and #253– 258 on the exterior of the single loop, and #229–#244 on the interior upper loop with #246– 252 on the interior lower loop, all with the traditional hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage). You’ll discover the lone playground that exists here at Pleasant Creek is in the center of the loop sitting atop this elevated ledge, while there is a temporary makeshift his / her bathroom but no shower facilities (you'll have to head down from whence you came to the valley where you'll find this amenity). Both the altitude up here along with the thick treeline creates a completely separate feel from the rest of Pleasant Creek, preserving a unique community vibe. 

    The biggest tip I could give you about staying at any of the campgrounds here at Pleasant Creek is that no matter which campground you select, you will be located just 5 miles from two of the best state parks that Illinois has to offer: Starved Rock SP and Matthiessen SP. Whether you are seeking a primitive tent camping experience in a deeply wooded forest or the perfect highly elevated RV outpost, like you will discover up here in the Highlands Campground, with all of the amenities (and more) that you are usually afforded or you are simply looking for deluxe cabin, porch chair swinging accommodations with all the creature comforts of home, Pleasant Creek has an option for you that will have you loving the best of the outdoors here in north central Illinois. 

    On the outskirts of the Illinois River Valley amongst thick, verdant forests of old Oaks, tall Pines and even weeping Willows, you’ll discover a tributary of the Vermillion River that carves through the Pleasant Creek campus, which is beset by rolling hills one moment and open grass prairie meadows the next, completely surrounded by some of the richest farmland in the country with endless rows of glistening golden sweet corn. And within just a short drive from Pleasant Creek, you’ll be able to access the best of 5+ miles of easy-to-moderate trail hiking at Matthiessen SP or the 13+ miles of easy-to-difficult trails and 18 canyons of Starved Rock SP. Want to kayak or canoe? Then you’ll have easy access to the mighty Illinois River. Horseback riding? Sure, in just about any direction, you’ll be able to rent a noble steed to take you through pristine grassy pastures. Archery? Tick! Really, there’s just about everything here for you to enjoy out here in nature in the middle of the Midwest. During the winter months, there’s even ice fishing, tobogganing and snow mobile trails to enjoy. 

    No matter what unique campground setting you find yourself in here at Pleasant Creek, there’s a bounty of amenities and options to enjoy: from newly renovated his / hers community bathroom and shower facilities, catch & release pond, camp store with a wide selection of dry goods, camping supplies and sundries, kid’s playground, elevated gazebo, water spigots, recreation room with community deck featuring chairs, tables & umbrellas, basketball court, volleyball court, wading pond, designated dump site, BBQ grills, covered pavilions and scattered picnic tables. One of the most noticeable improvements to Pleasant Creek is that they have recently upgraded the winding main entrance gravel road as well as widened a number of the road pathways reaching each of the individual campgrounds. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Should you find yourself in need of anything, the amazing father and son duo of Dan & Dan, are at your 'beck & call' and will work tirelessly to ensure that your experience here at any one of the campgrounds you are staying at is nothing short of amazing, so if you need anything, just ask either of them; (2) While there isn’t much to access along the Vermillion River in these parts, heading due west, you’ll find a couple of 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), who will let you launch from either one of their sites on either side of the Illinois River; (3) While there’s not a whole lot of restaurants in this area (which would be a great idea for Pleasant Creek to install its own eatery), if you do want to get out to try some of the local fare, you’re either going to have to hightail it to nearby Tonica, where I would recommend Ace & Eights or Garzanelli’s Super Club in Oglesby and if you don’t mind a slightly further afield drive, head on over to Captain’s Cove for some great seafood with a brilliant view of the Illinois River; (4) For the cyclists out there, you’ll be stoked to find miles and miles to bike along the I&M Canal that parallels the Illinois River; and (5) Rappelers will enjoy bouncing off the cliffs and sharp jutting limestone crevices that are present in both Matthiessen and Starved Rock SPs. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    October 9, 2023

    Pleasant Creek Campground

    Really Close “Camping”

    If you want to meet new folks, stay here. Our fire ring was 10 feet from the table in the site next to us. We stayed in site 305, which was not all that level for a tent, but one of the most level in the Glades area. Our first assigned site 109, was full of dog poop. Bathrooms are old, not much space to help kids in toilet or shower area. We spent $60 on firewood for two nights burning from 5-9 pm. Only positive was that it is close to state parks.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    October 8, 2023

    Pleasant Creek Campground

    Denali lifestyle

    Great little spot. 5min from Starved Rock and Matheson park. Quite and cozi with all the amenities you could ask for.well, keep coming back for our kidless weekends. Highly recommend camping during the week.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    October 5, 2023

    Pleasant Creek Campground

    Overpriced and Petty

    $45 for primitive camping is BONKERS. Plus you can only have one tent per site or else they charge you ANOTHER $45 - even if it’s two small tents - combined smaller than a large family tent. They will not tell you this they will just charge your card. Firewood does not burn, just smokes, bring your own.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    October 1, 2023

    Pleasant Creek Campground

    Dishonestly operated

    Dishonest management, no one ever in office to talk to before checkout (office hours start after checkout); when we found an employee to talk to she told us slightly late checkout was fine! A week later she charged our credit card for an additional night for TWO sites. I will not even tell you what they said when I called after receiving no response to emails except one excerpt from their policy. Suffice it to say they are dishonest and if they tell you something is fine, don't believe them! Suspend the card you paid on.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    August 19, 2023

    Morrison-Rockwood State Park

    A lovely campground with the CLEANEST bathrooms and showerhouse!

    This campground is a lovely gem! Most of the camp sites are fairly secluded from one another by distance and from surrounding foliage (see pic). The exceptions would be sites 55-64 that loop around the playground. We, unfortunately, didn't know this and so had site 61. It was nice little spot with plenty of shade but I was a bit jealous of those with more secluded spots, especially since we are tent campers and all of the others on the loop were big RVs.

    The pros:

    - The campground hosts were lovely. Friendly but not overbearing, as some can be.

    - The on site restaurant/bait shop/ boat rental was very convenient! Husband forgot to pack something and the little bait shop had what we needed. Plus, we were able to buy firewood there, too.

    - Lovely scenery! The hiking trails were well maintained and there were lots of beautiful flowers, bird, and butterflies. We even saw a raccoon!

    - The (and I cannot emphasize this enough) CLEANEST campground bathrooms I've ever seen! I'm not squeamish and have been camping for years so my expectations for campground bathroom cleanliness is well calibrated but these bathrooms (even the vault toilets!) were amazingly clean! There weren't even spiderwebs on the ceiling of the shower house. Just *chef's kiss*

    - The water from the pump was very clean.

    The cons:

    -  Lack of privacy/seclusion for the 55-64 sites along the loop.

    - For that same loop, since it circles the playground, if kids playing noises bother you, might want to choose a different site.

    - The food at the restaurant was meh. It was fine- it was sustenance. Nothing to write home about.

    - LOTS of big RVs. It wasn't an issue for us on this trip, but on other camping trips sometimes being surrounded by big RVs just isn't a great vibe.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    July 27, 2023

    Millpoint Park

    Excellent campground and value

    Beautiful views. Great sites. Excellent communication from the manager. We got a pull-through site in the middle. We brought our two dogs and they loved this place. Our kids did too. No there's no playground, but our 7 and 8 year old girls loved this place. No there's no pool. It was very quiet and peaceful. Every day the manager and his crew were working on maintaining the grounds. The only complaint - there's no sign on the bathroom/shower house! Please put up a sign! (It's right next to the office, but you cannot tell it's a bath house because it looks just like the cabins next to it. There's no signs to tell you where the dumpster is either. Ask Don - he's very friendly and accommodating. Oh, the water. Like the other reviewers stated, the water is not for drinking. Bring cases of bottled water. But the water is fine for showering or other things. Even with water filters, it is still brown. I'm guessing that is because of the river. Good luck finding a site with no shade. There's mature trees everywhere! Also, it was very quiet and peaceful. The showers and bathrooms are amazing! Very clean. We'll be back!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Carl Spindler
    July 9, 2023

    Carl Spindler

    Only the basics, but perfect for certain needs

    I came to this campground because of a local event where I knew I was going to be gone a decent amount of time, but also have some down time. This place was perfect for my needs. I got a full hookup site, easy access, extremely quiet. Great views at the opposite side of the campground from where I was. Looks like lots of "permanent" sites mixed with regular turnover. Also looked like a lot of sites were occupied by people working in "traveling" industries, where this place was their temporary home. I would come back again for a similar situation, but the playground is very minimal, so I wouldn't come back with my kid.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds
    June 4, 2023

    Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds

    Great family place

    We go every year with another family. We have had sites 105-103 and 123-125 and 29/36. We love it. Tons of activities for kids and pretty chill for adults. Sometimes other people suck and you have to deal with that but that’s at every camping place I’ve ever been to. Love this place and we will be going back every year.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kings Camp
    June 1, 2023

    Kings Camp

    Excellent Family Park

    We stumbled upon this campground after a last minute change in plans and were very pleasantly surprised. It is a privately owned campground by a Christian owned campground. If you are not religious, don't let the fact that it's a Christian park, scare you away. There is a lake for swimming and fishing (with paddle boats and kayaks available to use for free, a very nice playground and the camp hosts kid/family activities on most weekends. The sites are a little tight but are very shaded and well maintained. The shower houses were some of the best we've seen and its very affordable at $35/night. The only downside is they don't allow alcohol. This can also be a benefit as there wasn't anyone up partying all night and the park was very quiet.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    May 21, 2023

    Geneseo Campground

    Portable toilet-No TP

    Great staff! Helpful. Pulled out privacy tent to remedy toilet concerns. Small flies or gnats quite annoying. Pretty, quiet, lush. Would worry about mosquitoes in late summer.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    May 19, 2023

    Morrison-Rockwood State Park

    A nice state park that makes a nice base

    We saw an article about "Dutch Days" in nearby Fulton on www.OnlyInYourState.com, (first weekend in May) and thought it looked like fun. The nearest campground at Thomson causeway recreational area was closed both for repairs and for flooding so this was our best choice.
    It was not crowded this early in the season, though most of the sites are pretty private and that wasn't an issue. We stayed in the 60's loop which is more open than most since it has the playground. There's only one shower building, which is clean and well-kept, and it is on the 80's loop, though there are paths to it from the others.
    There are a few pull-through sites, but I'm not sure they're indicated. The ADA sites are large and well paved, though the tables do not have wheelchair overhangs.
    Fire rings are hit and miss, our site had a low square pit with a non-adjustable flip-over grill, other sites had taller, circular rings, check site photos.
    There are two trails downhill to the lake from the 60's loop, no lakeside campsites.
    The lake is small but pleasant and stocked with fish. There are boat rentals available and a small restaurant and general store.
    We went on day trips to Fulton and Clinton, IA. Eagle point park has a good view of the Mississippi, but  more spectacular views are at Mississippi Palisades State Park, a 50 min drive.
    If you don't feel like cooking, a great choice is the Candlelight Inn(s), half an hour to the east or west in Clinton, Sterling or Rock Falls. A great family restaurant/ steakhouse famous for it's "Chicken George" (they'll give you a free sample to get you hooked)

  • Camper-submitted photo from Morrison-Rockwood State Park
    May 8, 2023

    Morrison-Rockwood State Park

    Woodsy and cozy camping

    We enjoyed the beautiful lake and cute restaurant/gift shop. We liked the different loops of campsites with pit toilets every where and a nice modern bathroom/shower house also. There were several camp hosts scattered among the camp site loops. Our campsite had a more open feel than some of the others. It wasn’t as heavily treed and we liked that. The sites were very well spaced apart. There were many well worn paths that lead to the lake, but it was too wet from previous rain for us to explore those. We did enjoy walking along the various loops among the trees. We will definitely return and bring some friends with us next time.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Green River Oaks Camping Resort
    April 28, 2023

    Green River Oaks Camping Resort

    Gargantuan Camping Experience @ Green River Oaks

    Wow!  This place is massive!  That was my first impression when visiting this family-owned and operated campground located just outside of Amboy, here in northern Illinois, where the sheer veracity of this place (some 130 acres in total) is simply enormous. While when I think of anything too oversized (big trucks, big houses, big buffet lines), I tend to cringe, because, you know, oversized anything comes with pretty big drawbacks, right?  But somehow, the concept of oversized here isn’t terribly bad – there’s space, and very good distance between you and the folks that would be your neighbors. These grounds are pretty well taken care of and very well organized. 

    As for the campground, there’s a number of snaking gravel roadways that will have you navigate the entire property, which by my count, takes up about 4-5 football fields – sometimes hilly, sometimes flat – of cleared north central Illinois farmland. Surrounding the campground is a fairly good wall of brush, ancient Oak and Walnut trees, and of course, the ever-present, and now in late Autumn, completely barren corn fields. 

    Amenities?  Yeah, this place has more amenities than Disneyland! The basic hook-ups for RVs can be found here (30 / 50 amp electrical, water and sewage) along with 2 heated swimming pools (although they shut off the heat towards the end of the season in late October), 2 playgrounds, ball pits, carpet ball tables (don’t ask), great fishing on nearby Lake St. George where you’ll catch blue gill, bass and even some catfish as well as Green River – which is truly the gem of this place – where you can fish, canoe, kayak, inner-tube and otherwise float down this small stream), free arts & crafts for the kiddos, kayak rentals, free WiFi in select spots (trust me, the signal is not terribly great), a cost-free bike exchange program, community library, courts of all kinds (volleyball, tennis and basketball), shuffleboard, horseshoe pits, mini-golf course (I know, I can’t believe it either!), rec room with foosball, billiards (or pool as it’s called around here), air hockey, video games, card tables, etc. There’s even a baseball diamond here! You’ll discover a laundry room, folding area, general store with snack bar, proper dump station as well as even a propane filling station. Geez, this is one long list of amenities! 

    This place is family owned and operated by Dennis and Nanette Gillan – who are two of the nicest people I’ve ever met – and offers pricing by the night, week, month or by the season. Truth be told, you can drop anchor here for the whole year if you’d like, although it’s fairly desolate and deserted during the winter months. Best part? Even if you don’t have a tent or RV of your own, this place has you covered by offering affordable leasing options for both RV’s and some pretty sweet cabins. 

    Here’s something noteworthy – while I didn’t get to enjoy with my family when we were visiting during the Fall, apparently, during the summer, each week has a theme attached to it (e.g. Barnyard Palooza), and subsequent activities organized around it, so if you’ve got kids that you are thinking about putting in a camp during the summer, this might be a really good option for you. Did I fail to mention that there’s even a free arts & crafts class for the kiddos every weekend? This place is truly VERY family-friendly. 

    Insider’s tip? Here’s a few: (1) If you get tired of eating beans and dogs fireside, fret not, just a short drive from Green River Oaks to nearby Amboy, where I recommend the fried chicken over at Long Branch Saloon (although their family-style pasta offering is pretty good too); (2) If it’s your thirst that needs quenching, then just head on over for a tall boy at Depot Tap or Last Alarm for daily drink specials and some seriously bad Karaoke; (3) If you come bearing any sort of watercraft, while the Green River is nice, for more challenging waters to navigate, head due north to Dixon for some pretty gnarly currents on the Rock River; and (4) For a truly amazing outdoor immersion, head a bit further north to Lorado Taft, where you’ll have plenty of trails to explore, all from a scenic overlook where there’s a towering statue of the great Indian chief, Black Hawk.  

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Carl Spindler
    April 11, 2023

    Carl Spindler

    Carl Spindler

    The shower houses are amazing! This campground is very well maintained and right on the Illinois river. The view of Peoria at night is beautiful

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Creek Campground
    October 18, 2022

    Pleasant Creek Campground

    Keep Your Expectations in Check

    A beautiful hilly area, surrounded by large trees, with a small stream. If you want to camp this is a great place. Glamping - no. Most of the sites are grass, with some gravel. Only one full hookup. Getting to the dump station from the camp sites is incredibly difficult. WiFi is pay as you go - and not very good. Cell service is limited (one/two bars) at best. Restrooms (mostly portapotty style) are few and far between. One central shower/restroom was clean and warm (October visit)

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sankoty Lakes
    August 17, 2022

    Sankoty Lakes

    Not our vibe

    Sankoty Lakes is nice, but seems more or less like the RV equivalent of a gated community with a strict HOA or a country club. People were frequently circling the area on golf carts, and someone stopped to interrogate us about our trailer and whether we had told the reservation department that we had a trailer when we booked. Sites are good, level with full hookups, but the RV area is only accessible by driving around the side of the complex and through a neighborhood, and then you have to wait for someone to come open the gate. Might be great for some folks, but we just didn't feel welcome.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    August 6, 2022

    Geneseo Campground

    1 night tenting

    Great little campground with nice staff/owners. The tent sites are nicely tucked away from the RVs, with a row of bushes to separate you from your neighbor. Nice shade. I didn't check out the Porta potty set up for the tenters but hiked up to the building instead. Very clean! I wouldn't mind coming back to enjoy the activities in the area along the Hennepin canal but we had a family wedding to attend in Michigan the next day.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Millpoint Park
    July 27, 2022

    Millpoint Park

    Millpoint a nice campground

    Millpoint is a nice campground again not a lot of internet, but since there are not a lot of folks it is not bad. Great TV.

    Loved the water.  We went in Fall so not that many people camping.  It was nice.



Guide to Princeton

Camping near Princeton, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Starved Rock Campground. One visitor shared, "I spent hours hiking the more than 13 miles of trails, which offer access to beautiful waterfalls and spectacular overlooks."
  • Fishing: Head to Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area for some great fishing. A camper noted, "This is the Muskie Capitol of Illinois, where you’ll find no shortage of bluegill, walleye, perch, and many other fish."
  • Kayaking: Rent a kayak at Comlara County Park and enjoy the serene waters. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake was beautiful, and we hiked a few of the trails that go near/around it."

What campers like:

  • Natural beauty: Campers appreciate the picturesque landscapes at White Pines Forest State Park Campground. A visitor said, "The park is beautiful. Lovely trees, lots of shade."
  • Clean facilities: Many campers have noted the cleanliness of the facilities at Illinois Illini State Park. One camper remarked, "The shower was hot and clean."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peaceful environment at Jubilee College State Park Campground. A reviewer stated, "Excellent campground for those who want to relax and have quiet time."

What you should know:

  • Limited privacy: Some campgrounds, like Pleasant Creek Campground, have sites that are close together. One camper mentioned, "Our fire ring was 10 feet from the table in the site next to us."
  • No alcohol allowed: If you’re planning to enjoy a drink while camping, be aware that places like Lowden State Park Campground have a strict no-alcohol policy.
  • Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds, such as Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River, are only open from early April to mid-October. A visitor noted, "Place was calm, relaxing, and even quiet, despite the holiday weekend."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds like Starved Rock Campground that offer amenities for kids. One parent shared, "The kids loved the playground and the trails were perfect for family hikes."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained. A camper at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area suggested, "Bring your own corn hole bags and badminton."
  • Pack snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Illinois Comlara County Park mentioned, "The store has all the essentials one would need."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Chief Keokuk Campground noted, "The sites are spread out enough that you don't feel like you are on top of other campers."
  • Electric hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Illinois Illini State Park, which offers 30/50 amp connections. One camper said, "The sites were very clean and had all the necessary hookups."
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds, such as Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River, are near train tracks. A visitor mentioned, "The train tracks are right next to the sites. It would wake us up in the middle of the night."

Camping near Princeton, Illinois, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Princeton, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Princeton, IL is Pleasant Creek Campground with a 3.1-star rating from 26 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find glamping camping near Princeton, IL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 17 glamping camping locations near Princeton, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.