Tent campsites near Princeton, Illinois sit along the Illinois River valley, approximately 100 miles southwest of Chicago. The area features a mix of prairie grasslands and forested sections with limestone bluffs rising above waterways. Primitive camping sites generally rest on flat terrain with elevations ranging between 450-650 feet above sea level, creating accessible camping conditions throughout the spring to fall seasons when temperatures typically range from 40°F to 85°F.
What to do
Kayaking the Illinois River: At Kayak Starved Rock Campground, campers can launch directly from riverfront sites. "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," notes Paul R.
Hiking canyon trails: The tent camping areas provide access to canyon exploration with varying difficulty levels. "You'll be greeted by fresh, seasonal waterfalls that make for quite the refresher after a few good hours of hiking this fantastic spot that offers fishing, dining, boating, picnicking and no extraordinary views of Illinois' finest natural outcrop," explains a visitor to Starved Rock State Park Youth Campground.
Boat-in camping experience: For a unique overnight stay, Castle Rock State Park Campground offers boat-access only sites. "I took out an inflatable kayak to test it out, and loooved the rock formations on the river. Definitely a special sight because I usually stay closer to Chicago, where I haven't found such impressive geology," shares Rosa G., who notes the campsites cost $6 per night.
What campers like
Off-grid privacy: Tent campers seeking seclusion appreciate the walk-in sites at Buffalo Rock State Park. One camper noted, "Camp sites aren't actually in buffalo rock, they're across the street at I&M canal. You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you're looking for privacy this is it."
Affordable primitive camping: The minimal fee structure appeals to budget-conscious campers. A visitor to Hennepin Canal Lock 11 explains, "Camping is only allowed in the designated campsites. Fires are only allowed in the state designated fire pits at the campgrounds... The canal offers class 'C' (primitive camping without showers or electricity) for $8.00 per family/per night."
Waterfront views: Most campers mention the river views as a highlight. "This small campground has separate space for equestrian campers and those without horses. There are picnic tables, vault toilets and water. The campsites are all on grassy areas with trees at the edges. This gives you some shade depending on the time of day," shares a camper who stayed at one of the Princeton area tent sites.
What you should know
First-come tent site selection: Most camping areas operate without reservation systems. At Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground, "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," notes Jeff and Linda L.
Limited facilities: Prepare for minimal amenities at most tent sites. "There aren't toilets tho or running water," points out a Buffalo Rock camper, while others note that many sites offer only vault toilets and no showers.
Seasonal closures: Water availability changes seasonally at many campgrounds. "Water was available on my visit 10-7 thru 10-10. The place is clean and well kept, including the pit toilets," shares Jeff F. about his fall camping experience, indicating that water access may be shut off during colder months.
Tips for camping with families
Equestrian-friendly options: For families with horses, Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground offers specialized facilities. "If you need a post to tie up your horse, a round-about where they can go for countless circle walks along with plenty of hay to keep them fed, then this location might just be ideal for you," notes a visitor who adds that kids will enjoy "a very nice stream here that the kids will love jumping across and/or wading in searching for crawdads or small fish."
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Starved Rock Youth Campground, families can find "a covered pavilion as well as a playground" near the camping meadows.
Educational opportunities: The historical features near camping areas provide learning experiences. "On weekends, you can actually take the kids to this site, located just 70 yards west of the Equestrian Campground for a super-cool interactive exhibition," mentions a camper describing the fully functioning grist mill at Franklin Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility limitations: Many tent sites near Princeton have terrain challenges for larger vehicles. A visitor to Woodford State Conservation Area notes, "The hosts are kind and friendly. They were willing to help bring picnic tables to a site if they weren't already there... Entry road needs repairs."
Flood concerns: RVers should check weather forecasts before committing to sites. "This location can flood when the river rises," warns a Woodford visitor, while another mentions, "It floods out when it storms."
Limited hookups: Virtually no electric or water connections exist at tent-focused sites. "This rustic yet charming place was a welcoming respite for the weekend... We choose a site away from the others - but it is just one stretched loop," explains an RVer who camped at Woodford, describing the primitive setup that accommodates both tents and small RVs without hookups.
