Camping near Lena, Illinois offers distinctive outdoor experiences within the Driftless Area, an unglaciated region characterized by limestone bluffs, river valleys, and forested ridges. Northwestern Illinois camping sites are typically situated at elevations between 600-900 feet above sea level, with seasonal temperatures averaging 45-85°F during the May-October camping season. Most campgrounds in the region feature rolling terrain with drainage systems designed for the area's 35-40 inches of annual rainfall.
What to do
Hiking canyon trails: At Apple River Canyon, visitors can explore limestone formations along several interconnected trails. "We hiked down into the canyon along the river, and the bugs and spider webs we had to pass through were next level. Did see some deer, a big raccoon, and an eagle; and met a local photographer who showed me pictures he had taken of local fox kits and other cool wildlife," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple camping areas provide fishing access, though regulations and conditions vary by location. At Canyon Ridge Campground, "There's also several trails to explore and some beautiful scenery to enjoy and photograph. Lots of people wading in the river (very shallow) and fishing," according to one visitor.
Bicycle exploration: The terrain presents both challenges and rewards for cyclists. "Riding into this state park on my bicycle was a challenge. There are many steep hills but at least they aren't too long. There are some trails that will take you around some of the hills through open fields if you are interested in walking around the campground," explains a cyclist at Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the generous site sizing at Apple River Canyon State Park, where "most of the campsites are very spacious and not right on top of each other. We were in campsite #34 which had direct access to the Primrose trail, which is on top of one of the bluffs." Another visitor mentioned, "The sites a nice and big. We chose 2 sites that were connected and even then they were a good distance from one another."
Natural privacy: Many campsites offer separation from neighbors through natural features. At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, "We camped in a 'walk in' spot about 200 feet from where you can park the car. It is very secluded and tree cover allows you to be hidden from all others."
Freshwater access: Several campgrounds provide drinking water systems with positive reviews. Vel Terra receives praise for overall maintenance: "The grounds are impeccably kept. He provides wood for you to burn. The bathrooms and showers at the other end of camp are also very very clean."
What you should know
Road conditions: Internal roads at some campgrounds require attention when driving. At Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area, recent improvements have been made according to one camper: "All Roads are newly paved. New/Updated Dump station. Once you enter the park, there are some drastic hills to navigate."
Varying bathroom facilities: Toilet options range from modern facilities to vault toilets. "The bathrooms were clean, but are pit toilets. While there's no water or electric on the sites, there is several water spickets located around the campground," reports an Apple River Canyon visitor.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds operate on mixed reservation and walk-up systems. "There aren't signs within the park directing you to the campsite. I found it eventually but I'm glad I wasn't towing a camper because there was a lot of turning around. Some of the sites are able to be reserved."
Water quality considerations: Lake conditions can change seasonally. "We didn't go in the lake but we saw people fishing. We didn't get to use the lake. It was refilling, via letting nature fill the lake back up."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lena KOA receives consistent praise for its programs. "This campground is absolutely wonderful. Spots are spaced apart nicely. Many activities for kids and adults. Also, a pool, showers and if you just want a weekend getaway they have cabins as well," according to a recent visitor.
Swimming access: Water conditions affect swim opportunities at different times. "We had a lot of fun there playing in the water on the beach however my son who was five at the time got a really bad bacterial rash from the water. Other than that we had a really good time and the campground was very clean and everyone was really nice."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play structures. At Vel Terra, "The campground has a very nice playground (the favorite of the trip for one of my kids) and a lounge where anyone staying at the campground can rest with A/C, wifi, a phone charging area, and some board games."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple locations offer opportunities to observe native species. "Very friendly people! Campsites a little close to others and sound traveled. Trails were way nice and the scenery was beautiful-lots of deer!"
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: For RV camping, site leveling varies significantly. At Mississippi Palisades State Park, "Some sites are massive...as in .25 an acre that you drive over the grass to get too your site bc it is situated away from the road. Other sides are just simple drive through. We saw lots of families doing many different types of camping which was awesome."
Size restrictions: Some parks have limitations for larger vehicles. "I would not recommend this park for large campers. Our pop up did fine and we saw a few other tear drop campers, but the roads are pretty narrow for anything more than that."
Electrical hookups: Power availability differs by location. "For RV campers Hickory Hill was great! Paved roads, clean pump out area, and nice shower house. We were in site 148 which was quite nice. Great shade and dense woods separated us from the RV area."
Drainage considerations: Site conditions can be affected by recent weather. "It rained all week before we arrived the site we were on could have used some more gravel as it was little muddy for the first day."
