Best Campgrounds in Illinois

Definitely a fishing oriented campground ! The sites have both cement pads and gravel depending on the site. Some of the sites are huge, most are nice size and more or less well maintained. Luck of the draw on being level and having shade. At the end of the circles there are some sites right on the lake and the boat ramp is nearby.

Nice latrines and showerhouses.

The Engineers were even nice enough to build in a gravel path to the lake on one circle.

Walmart is within 16 minutes. There’s a small store right outside the front gate.

We run a 28ft RV and we’re able to cross the first water wash without problem. We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading.

We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible. The further sights will require crossing several wash outs. The terrain is hard rock and any capable 4x4 should be able to navigate to the furthest sight’s. .

A run down KOA. Sites are mostly level. Nice staff. Appears cabins are going through some refurbishing efforts. In the middle of a commercial area. A little sketchy getting off east bound ramp then having to cross three lanes of traffic to make a left hand turn at the first light. Entrance to campground is tight, swing wide.

Booked a overnight stay while traveling through the area. Nice set up, but lots are tight with winding roads to sites. Many sites overlook small lake. Must be nice in summer and fall when leaves are on trees. Full hook up on lots but no cable. Park has nice store and commons area with games. A pizza place is operating on site. Had pizza and wings that were good. Enjoyed our stay. Staff was friendly

Camping is wonderful here. Lots of watersports and a Marina.

Backs up to lake. Short walk to clean restrooms. Will come back.

It’s a great area with the small beach nearby and garden of the gods so close, the only problem is the drinking water pump is broke so you must bring your own water. You can get firewood from the garden of the gods outpost and some really good shakes and icecream!!

We had an enjoyable weekend here relaxing and getting away from the city. We booked site 152 right from the website. The previsit instructions and tips were very helpful. We arrived and were greeted by a very friendly camp host and checkin went very smoothly. We found our site which was close to the Porta potties. The Porta potties were shockingly clean! The potties also have motion sensor lights in them for at night visits. They also have wipes, spray underarm deodorant, hand sanitizer and automatic air freshener. The potties smelled like bleach and it looked like they spray the inside down. Our campsite was wonderful and was on a point on the river that has a 180 degree view of the river. There is a picnic table and fire pit at the site and although the site was narrow the site was pretty deep so we could’ve put up multiple tents easily. We enjoyed cooking onsite with our Coleman stove but there is also a grill grate that folds over the fire pit as well. 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. We also of course took time out to hike at Starved Rock State Park. It’s a short 10minute drive away. The campground is actually situated directly across the river from starved rock. If you forget anything it’s also a short drive to either Ottawa or Utica for staples. All in all we enjoyed our visit and next time we visit we will definitely try out their kayak rentals.

We had a great time in this hidden gem.  It is run by the county and was much more than we expected from a county run facility.  We had a very nice cam site that allowed us to pull through with our pop up.  There are very tall trees around the entire campground giving you some respite from the sun and the heat.  The bath house is easily within walking distance from anywhere in the campground.  Many people that we met have been coming back for years (this was our first time there).  They have fire rings and picnic tables and firewood for sale at the entrance.  They allow dogs and the ranger is frequently visible throughout the day.  You are a short distance from the river and the surroundings are wonderful.  You are 20 minutes away from stores and restaurants if you happen to need them and also a short drive to Wisconsin.

Been going to this campground all my life. She's showing her age! This would be a great place for a mower! I use this campground as my initial trip out each year to shakedown the camper for the year. Lots of trails, fishing is bad, campground is overgrown.

Last year we went to Cruise America in a camper van, but it turned out that without proper equipment it wasn't a vacation, but survival. There wasn't a comfortable barbecue, a table, or proper lighting. This time I was prepared- I found a website with camping goods and ordered everything in advance. The difference is huge! Now we have coziness, comfort, and no fuss. If you like camping, I advise you to stock up in advance- it makes the trip much more enjoyable!

General: 40-site campground with three non-electric and the rest are either 30 or 50-amp electric. Several water spigots are sprinkled throughout the campground. 

Site quality: All sites are gravel and level. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. The sites are spaced a decent amount of distance apart and with the many trees, it did not feel crowded, despite being almost full when we were there. 

Bath/Shower: Very clean with soap, paper towels, and a shelf for toiletries. Did not use the shower but it looked clean as well. 

Activities/Amenities: There are two well-marked and well-maintained trails plus a playground and basketball hoop. There is also a historic schoolhouse, and guided tours are available by calling. Before leaving the next morning, I enjoyed a walk on the two trails. There is a dump station and potable water.

The campground was almost completely full on a Friday at the end of October yet very quiet.