Tent campsites near St. Anne, Illinois are primarily located within a 30-mile radius in a region marked by river systems including the Kankakee, Des Plaines, and Illinois Rivers. The area features a mix of prairie and riparian woodland environments with elevations averaging 600-650 feet above sea level. The camping season typically extends from April through October, with high summer temperatures averaging 85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing opportunities: At Kayak Morris, campers can launch directly from their sites. "Small and hidden right on the Illinois River. Received a free night of camping with a whole day of kayaking which is absolutely recommended," notes Taylor L. The river confluence creates excellent paddling conditions.
Fishing access: The region offers productive fishing spots throughout the connected waterway system. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M. about his experience at Kayak Morris.
Trail exploration: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail network connects multiple campsites. A camper at Channahon State Park Campground explains, "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride."
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Many campsites offer direct water access. Amanda W. writes about Kayak Morris: "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap if you don't have your own. There is a confluence across the river which is great to float on."
Evening wildlife viewing: The wooded areas around tent campsites offer opportunities for wildlife observation. Campers at McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove report hearing owls in the evening, though they note that "motorboats and jet-skis begin around 6:AM."
Spacious sites at select locations: Brian O. notes about McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, "The park is lovely, the sites are far apart... All sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs. Firepits are 3' across, the steel rim is a foot above the ground."
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas can flood during heavy rain. At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, Rita S. warns: "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up the fire pit."
Gate closure times: Parks in this region have strict gate closure policies. Jeffrey L. notes about Camp Shabbona Woods, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok."
Walk-in requirements: Several tent campgrounds require carrying equipment from parking areas. Brian O. mentions about McKinley Woods: "We didn't realize this was a walk-in campground, the details on the Will county site were vague... We ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay."
Tips for camping with families
Limited shade at newer sites: When choosing a family campsite, consider tree coverage. At Camp Shabbona Woods, Scott M. observes: "The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing." This can be important for summer camping with children.
Beginner-friendly options: Some locations are specifically designed for new campers. "Camp site is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping," notes Scott M. about Camp Shabbona Woods.
Urban proximity considerations: Family tent camping in this region often means some urban noise. Jeffrey L. states: "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background." This is worth considering when camping with light sleepers.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campsites in the region don't accommodate larger RVs or provide hookups. A camper at Davis Creek Campground notes, "This campground is open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept," but prospective campers should be aware that RV facilities are limited.
Water access for small trailers: Some sites can accommodate small trailers despite being primarily walk-in tent sites. Brian O. explains about McKinley Woods: "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem. Just be aware of it."
