RV camping near Richmond, Illinois offers a mix of resort-style amenities and rustic lakeside options across northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Sites range from large fields with minimal shade to wooded areas with private tent sites, with most locations operating between April and October. Several campgrounds feature fishing ponds, swimming beaches, and recreational facilities for campers seeking outdoor activities beyond their site.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Clear Lake at Blackhawk Camping Resort combines three connected water bodies: Mud Lake, Clear Lake, and Duck Lake, providing extensive fishing opportunities. "The biggest attraction here though hasn't changed, which is the quick and EZ access to Clear Lake... which basically surrounds the entirety of Blackhawk Camping Resort and offers up endless fishing, kayaking and boating opportunities," explains one visitor.
Beach access: Naga-Waukee Park offers a maintained beach area with lifeguards during summer months. "The beach on the shores of Lake Nagawicka is well-groomed, clean, has a seasonal lifeguard and a playground within earshot," notes a camper who visited the park. The beach includes a designated dog swimming area and can be reached via hiking trails.
Recreational amenities: Campgrounds in the region often provide structured activities and sports facilities. "Golf cart parade, DJ, band, BINGO," lists one visitor about entertainment options at Blackhawk Camping Resort. Multiple locations feature playgrounds, sports courts, mini-golf, and planned weekend activities particularly during peak summer season.
What campers like
Lake views: Campers appreciate waterfront sites at many locations near Richmond. Lakeland Camping Resort in Milton sits along Lake Koshkonong with direct water access. "Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites," reports one visitor who appreciated the lake access.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses receive positive mentions at several campgrounds. At Sycamore RV Resort, visitors note "Reliable full hookups. Very clean and well cared for property; especially the laundry and bathroom/shower areas." Another camper states, "Very nice shower house and restrooms if there were no Covid 19."
Resort amenities: Multiple properties offer amenities beyond basic camping. "2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends," lists one Lakeland Camping Resort visitor. Family-friendly facilities frequently include camp stores, laundry services, and recreational options beyond simple camping.
What you should know
Site layout variations: Camping areas range from open fields to more private wooded settings. At Wisconsin State Fair RV Park, "it is basically a large parking lot with a band of grass on the far right as you enter." This contrasts with Naga-Waukee Park where "The campground area is nice and wooded. Provides ample privacy from other campers."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Richmond area operate April through October with limited year-round options. Water access and recreational facilities typically close during off-season months. Peak occupancy occurs between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends when advance reservations become essential at popular locations.
Proximity to urban areas: Some campgrounds serve as convenient bases for city exploration rather than nature retreats. Wisconsin State Fair RV Park provides "Perfect campground for what it is! Big paved parking lot with full hookups. Very close to downtown, right off of interstate. Clean facilities. We were visiting family downtown and it was very convenient."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas for children. Pine Country RV offers "nice good size pool, no jacuzzi, small play ground with a jumping pad. Pond for catch and release fishing." Multiple properties feature beaches, pools, or both for family water activities.
Activity planning: Many campgrounds schedule organized activities for children during summer weekends. "When I visited, half of what I saw was being renovated, while the other half look like it desperately needed it. There's all of the typical hook-ups and a number of diversions like horse shoes, basketball, swimming pool, etc. to keep everyone pretty active, especially the kids," notes a visitor to Blackhawk Camping Resort.
Site selection: For families seeking more peaceful camping, choose sites away from main roads and facilities. At Naga-Waukee Park, "Nestled in the heart of lake country (Waukesha County) and accessible from the Lake Country Trail and Ice Age Trail, this county park is perfect for those just passing through or families looking for a quick and easy weekend camping adventure."
Tips from RVers
Long-term parking: Some campgrounds accommodate extended stays with monthly rates. Grass Lake Marina offers longer-term options: "This is a no frills campground with super nice people and great place to let the pups run, play, swim, and walk. The bald eagles nests are also amazing. We had water and 50amp, with a black water dump once or twice a week at your RV's site."
RV site surfaces: Most RV sites in the area feature gravel pads rather than concrete or asphalt surfaces. At Sycamore RV Resort, "Postage stamp space on gravel but we had things to do outside the resort" and "Because of being right on top of other campers. Also, almost everything is gravel."
Utility reliability: Electric service varies between campgrounds, with inconsistent amp options. A visitor to Wisconsin State Fair RV Park notes "We didn't know it, but our site was 15 amp. On the same pole were two 30 amps. So we just use that because no one was there." Check specific sites when booking as not all offer full hookups or consistent power options.
