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Best Campgrounds near Rochelle, IL

673 Reviews

Campgrounds near Rochelle, Illinois range from state recreation areas to private RV resorts, with most facilities located within a 30-mile radius of the city. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with electric hookups, showers, and drinking water in a wooded setting around a lake. Other established options include Lowden State Park Campground near Oregon and Rock Cut State Park's Staghorn Campground, both providing similar amenities with access to hiking trails and water recreation. Several private campgrounds like O'Connell's RV Campground supplement the public options with more extensive hookups and seasonal availability.

Access to most campgrounds in the region remains open year-round, though facilities and water availability may be limited during winter months. Many sites require reservations, especially during summer weekends when occupancy rates peak. The terrain throughout the area is predominantly flat with some wooded areas, making most campgrounds accessible without specialized vehicles. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with humid summers and cold winters affecting camping comfort. Campgrounds like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area may experience high demand during fishing season, as the lake is known for muskie fishing. According to one visitor, "This is a typical Illinois state park. Run down and not well taken care of. Positive is the lake."

Campers consistently mention the contrast between the surrounding agricultural landscape and the wooded oases that most campgrounds provide. MacQueen Forest Preserve stands out for tent campers seeking a more primitive experience, with walk-in sites and basic amenities. Several reviewers note the relative quiet of the region's campgrounds despite their proximity to highways, particularly at sites further from main roads. Water features represent a significant draw, with fishing opportunities at several locations including Shabbona Lake and Rock Cut State Park. Facilities vary considerably across campgrounds, with state parks generally offering more basic amenities while private campgrounds provide additional services like camp stores and recreational facilities. Winter camping options exist but are limited, with some campgrounds reducing services during the off-season.

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Best Camping Sites Near Rochelle, Illinois (97)

    1. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Shabbona, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 824-2565

    $25 / night

    "If you find yourself out in these parts near Shabbona in north central Illinois it is because of either one of two reasons - you are incredibly lost and stumbled across this hidden natural preserve gem"

    "All within easy walking distance to the lake. Camp store and two boat rental spots allow for flexiblity on busier weekends."

    2. Lowden State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Oregon, IL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 732-6828

    $10 - $20 / night

    "I found spot 70 that was away from most of the others. We heard no main road noise but did hear people passing us by. Even though someone camped right across from me, we really didn't see each other."

    "Lots of good trees around for hammocking, especially at B38. Short walk to the shower and stall building."

    3. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

    81 Reviews
    Machesney Park, IL
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 885-3311

    $12 - $50 / night

    "Normal Illinois state park. Not a lot of services but good size sites and peaceful. Lake with canoe rentals and fishing. Nice walking trails."

    ", with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east."

    4. O'Connell's RV Campground

    14 Reviews
    Nachusa, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    $60 - $90 / night

    "Great campground close to home. A ton of activities for the kids, plus daily Yogi sightings! We picked two great sites on the end of the row that were spacious, but I saw others were pretty cramped."

    "During the week wasn’t completely full but once Friday rolled around wow all the people. We rented a golf cart was riding around all night. Great time."

    5. White Pines Forest State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mount Morris, IL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 946-3717

    "Easy drive up style. Picnic tables and fire pits on site. Bathrooms and dumpster close by. River that is walk and drive through!"

    "Much quieter and more peaceful than the more crowded counterparts and perfect for camping with small children because the bathrooms are always close by and it’s actually quiet at night when they need to"

    6. MacQueen Forest Preserve

    6 Reviews
    Kirkland, IL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 522-6254

    "You have to walk up to the sites. There's a wagon and a dolly to take your things.

    There isn't much in terms of hiking trails."

    "I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground."

    7. Blackhawk Valley Campground

    9 Reviews
    Rockford, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 671-1125

    "Although a 15 minute drive from the main highway, this campground makes it worth it. Beautiful green common areas and a creek with small Sandy area below."

    "Active tent campers next to us and a lot (a lot) of seasonal permanent RV’s all very nicely appointed."

    8. Castle Rock State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Oregon, IL
    17 miles
    Website

    $6 / night

    "Someone came fairly early in the morning to check and make sure everyone paid and that we actually canoed in and didn’t park off a road somewhere and walk in."

    "Located about 100 miles West of Chicago, Castle Rock State Park features one of the ONLY campgrounds that I've visited this close to the city in which I was completely alone."

    9. Kings Camp

    1 Review
    Stillman Valley, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 645-8277

    $35 / night

    "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."

    10. Sycamore RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Sycamore, IL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 895-5590

    "Postage stamp space on gravel but we had things to do outside the resort. Nice walking path around the two ponds. The ponds are very low due to drought this summer."

    "Stayed here for a week, nice clean campground, quiet and beautiful lake for fishing, close to town, but yet just far enough out."

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Recent Camping Photos near Rochelle, IL

250 Photos of 97 Rochelle Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Rochelle, IL

673 Reviews of 97 Rochelle Campgrounds

  • Tim L.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Chicago Northwest KOA

    Chill Vibes, quick get away from the city

    Far enough from the city lights, close enough to civilization. Cozy, small park with friendly staff and plenty of amenities. You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!

  • Ron D.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Pearl Lake

    Low Class Trailer Trashy Park

    Horrible customer service from the start. We registered online with a 35" 5th wheel for 2 nights. On checking in, we wouldn't fit in the site so the girl at the desk put us in a different site saying she couldn't escort us to our site. This was our first time being there and her excuse was they were short staffed. The street signage was very small and hard to read. Site numbers were said to be on every pedestal but they were not visible from any drive. After only a few minutes of driving around, we were astonished by all the trash and junky trailers on site. Note that if your camper is more than 10 years old, they want to first see a picture of it so as to keep their place classy. Not the case here once you have paid and are here. We call back to the office for assistance finding our site and the girl said she would have to lock the office and was hesitant about doing so but she would come out to hep us find our place. We simply asked for a refund saying we were very disappointed with the situation so far. When she told us they don't give refunds, we asked for a manager to call us back. At this point we left to find another place which we did and were at in about 30 minutes. The manager called us back offering us drinks at the bar, a premium site, tickets for kids in the bounce house, and free water craft but I and the wife were only there for 2 nights. We were not going back to that dump. She said she would have to speak with the owners about a refund but never called us back. Five days later I called several times to speak with the manager again but no call back. She did however text us saying they will not issue a refund saying the girl in the office could not leave the desk because her coworker was using the restroom. Then why did she say she couldn't leave because they were short handed? Long story short, think long and hard before you visit this trashy place. Showers were dark and dingy and smelled. The beach looked more like gravel and not pleasing. Just walking around, I couldn't get away from the awful smell of people smoking and vaping and a strong smell of pot smokers everywhere. Not at all the place we would take our grand kids ever.

  • D
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Big Rock Campground

    Needs some shade

    This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade.

    The flush toilet building was very clean, but there was no TP in the ladies' room. And I have to wonder why you would build a new campground without showers?

    It is very close to the cities so we will stay here again.

  • Jeff and Linda L.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    Unique Park

    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. Pit toilets along the canal. Well kept. Small gravel bike trail along most of the canal. Nice place to kayak and canoe. Very nice visitor center open until 3 during the week, no weekends. Only $8 We saw a class A, so they do fit.

  • D
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Paul Wolff Campground

    No showers

    We would gladly stay here again!

    Great campsite with the best staff ever! The sites are clean and very well maintained. We loved the staff patrolling the grounds. The trail system is great for walking the dogs. And I even grew to like the no alcohol in the preserve rule.

    The vault toilets are clean but smell like vault toilets at 95 degrees. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers. They don't advertise showers, but this is the newest and nicest campsite I have seen without showers. There is some shade, but you have to search for it.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Hickory Grove Campground

    Midwest Pasture Camping @ Its Finest

    Located just due north of Sheffield, right off I80 (2 miles to be exact), and due west of Princeton by about 20 minutes, Hickory Grove Campground, on the one hand, is so far off the grid that you will really feel as though you are truly ‘getting away from it all,’ yet on other hand, this place is just a couple stone’s throw from one of the busiest highways that runs through the great state of Illinois, making it incredibly accessible. What I love most about Hickory Grove Campground is that it is run by good folks (husband and wife duo, Dave & Joan) that have been in this particular area of north central Illinois for a very long time. On your way to Hickory Grove, you won’t help but notice that there is a supreme amount of gorgeous farmland that you will bear witness to, complete with golden rows of sweet corn or fields of drilled beans. Any way you look at it, enroute to Hickory Grove, you will feel right at home here in the heartland of the Midwest, where we take great pride in our hospitality.

    As for this pet-friendly campground itself, upon entry, you will discover that there is a main house, immediately followed by the main office, which is where you will check in. Once doing so, you’ll be able to access your slot, depending upon which one you have selected (and there is nearly 100 to choose from), whether that be an RV or 5th Wheeler slab, deluxe cabin rental or primitive camping site. There are 15 pull-through sites (all with 50 amp electric) with all RV and Trailer sites offering full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) most with shaded lots. Other amenities include a doggie park, ice for sale, scattered picnic tables, designated trash dumpsters, BBQ grills, boat launch, pedal cart rental, restroom and shower facilities, ramp and dock on the Hennepin Canal horseshoe pit and 3 miles of hiking trails.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re a biker like me, you better come bringing the cycles as from this vantage point, you’ll be able to access the 80 mile long bike trail that you’ll find is easy to access from Hickory Grove Campground; (2) As a fellow kayak enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the nearby access at Hennepin Canal; (3) After a good day of hiking, biking and kayaking, likely you’ll want to ‘whet that whistle’ and if so, nearby Psycho Silo Saloon has you covered in spades (April until October that is) with a full stocked bar of spirits, live music and some nice iced tall boys, but be sure to bring cash because this watering hole doesn’t know how to make credit cards work yet; (4) For those looking for a nice, easy and economical seasonal rental, Hickory Grove is quite affordable offering up sites for as little as $1,400 / season; (5) Specific sites that I recommend include: (a) those on the river’s edge of the Hennepin Canal: #30A, #30B, #34 – 39, #80R; (b) those on the western edge of the property: #12A – B, #13, #16 –19, #30A – B, #34 – 39; as well as (c) those sites that fall against the eastern treeline: #80, #82, #86A – C, #97 – 99; (6) When I head out camping, I like to bring 2-3 choice cuts of rare, sometimes exotic meats and whatever you might be into, should you want some fresh cut meats, check out nearby Wyanet Meat Locker, which will have the standards (NY Strip, Ribeye, hamburger patties) as well as some nice cuts from the top-shelf, including: buffalo, lamb chops and duck; and (7) For a slice of pure Midwestern joy, check out Myrtle’s Pie, which have some amazing selections including banana cream, salted caramel, lemon meringue, carrot cake cheesecake and my favorite, the coconut cream – but everyday Myrtle runs out of pies by early-to-mid-afternoon, so call ahead to order your pie or just get in there as soon as she opens for some freshly baked cinnamon roles and brewed coffee.

    Happy Camping!

  • Rick K.
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Four Star Campground

    4 STAR CAMPGROUND IS A VERY BAD SPOT TO GO

    I HAD PURCHASED A BRAND NEW CAMPER AND THEY HAVE DRUGGYS FOR EMPLOYEES AND DRUNKS PASS OUT IN YOUR LOT AND I HAD TOLD OWNERS ABOUT THE WORKER HARRASSING ME THEY DID NOTHING I TOLD THEM OWNERS 3 TIMES ABOUT THE GUY HARRASING ME WELL HE BE UP MY CAMPER 20 THOUSAND DOLLAR CAMPER HE DESTRYED CUZZ HE WAS INTOXICATED AND DRUGGED UP SO I HAD TO CALL THE COPS AFTER 3 TIME WARNING THEM OWNERS SO NOW I HAVE TO GO TO OURT FOR THSES NEGLEGENCE AND SAID OH WELL TO ME

  • Fred R.
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    Summer trip week 2 the return home

    Picked this spot outta the air. What an amazing history and geological area. The campgrounds were large and dark with shade trees. Limited 50 Amp sites as it is old.

  • Kaitlin M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Quiet and friendly

    Busy campground in July. Smaller, mainly RVs. Friendly staff and friendly people staying on the grounds. This gets 4 stars because you cannot put down a mat outside.

Guide to Rochelle

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

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Scenic beauty: Campers appreciate the picturesque surroundings at Rock Cut State Park Campground. One visitor said, "It’s only 8 miles from our home. Many trails and not too expensive."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness at Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground. A camper shared, "I got a primitive tent site in an area all to myself, with a shower house just down the road, in a beautiful and quiet campground for $10 cash."
  • Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Blackwell Family Campground offer activities for kids. One parent noted, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos and during our stay, blew gigantic bubbles for the kids to chase around."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Pleasant Creek Campground, may have outdated facilities. A visitor mentioned, "Bathrooms are old, not much space to help kids in toilet or shower area."
  • Crowded sites: Campers at White Pines Forest State Park Campground noted that sites can be close together. One reviewer said, "The sites are close but as campers we work out our site to not interfere with others."
  • No alcohol policies: Some campgrounds, like Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground, have strict no alcohol rules. A camper mentioned, "No alcohol was allowed on the grounds but it didn’t seem like it would be enforced unless there was a campsite causing issues."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose quieter sites: Look for sites that are away from busy roads, like those at Starved Rock Campground. One parent shared, "It’s actually quiet at night when they need to sleep."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A camper at Rock Cut State Park Campground noted, "There are plenty of scenic photo opportunities especially during the fall season."
  • Pack snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One visitor at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "The store is very nice and well stocked."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check electrical hookups: Make sure your site has the right electrical connections. A camper at Illinois Rock Cut State Park said, "We had to rent a motel for the night because we couldn't even pull out the slide or anything."
  • Look for spacious sites: Choose sites that offer more room for your RV. One 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."
  • Plan for waste disposal: Be aware of dump station locations. A visitor at Rock Cut State Park Campground mentioned, "You will find the dump station just past the Ranger Station."

Camping near Rochelle, Illinois, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Rochelle, IL?

Within driving distance of Rochelle, you'll find several excellent camping options. Prophetstown State Park Campground offers clean facilities along the Rock River with easy water access and is suitable for both tents and RVs. For overnight parking directly in Rochelle, the Pilot Travel Center — Rochelle provides a convenient stop right in the 'Hub City.' Other quality options within a short drive include Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, White Pines Forest State Park, and Starved Rock State Park, all offering distinctive Illinois camping experiences with varying levels of amenities and natural surroundings.

Are there seasonal camping options in Rochelle, Illinois?

Seasonal camping options exist around Rochelle with varying availability throughout the year. Pearl Lake is particularly popular during hot summer months, offering a lakeside retreat when Illinois humidity is at its peak. Sycamore RV Resort offers extended-stay options with full hookups for seasonal campers. Many campgrounds in the region, including state parks like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, typically operate from April/May through October, with reduced services or closures during winter months. Weather in northern Illinois can significantly impact camping seasons, with most facilities reaching peak operation during summer and early fall. Always check with specific campgrounds for their seasonal schedules and reservation policies before planning your trip.

What amenities are available at Rochelle, IL camping facilities?

Camping facilities near Rochelle offer a range of amenities to accommodate different camping styles. Starved Rock Campground features a nicely wooded setting with friendly hosts and quiet surroundings while still being accessible from the highway. Great Falls Campground at Illini State Park provides clean bathrooms, river views, and plenty of trees for hammocking. Other nearby facilities like Pearl Lake and Glenwood RV Resort offer amenities such as lake access, RV hookups, and shower facilities. For those seeking more basic accommodations, Rochelle's Walmart Supercenter permits overnight parking for self-contained vehicles, though without traditional camping amenities.

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