Tent campsites near Secor, Illinois sit at an average elevation of 750 feet above sea level in the central Illinois prairie region. The Illinois River Valley features scattered deciduous forest areas surrounding open meadows and fields, creating a mix of shaded and exposed camping terrain. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season, with evening lows dropping to 55-65°F.
What to do
Kayaking the Illinois River: Kayak Starved Rock Campground offers direct river access with rentals available. "Very nice to explore, although at times difficult to navigate, especially when you come to each of the sets of locks and dams," notes a visitor to Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground. The canal system connects to both the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.
Hiking nearby trails: Buffalo Rock State Park provides less crowded alternatives to Starved Rock. "This little gem is across the river from Starved Rock State Park. So, you can appreciate the bluff overlooks of the river without dealing with the crowds," states one reviewer. The park features trails around effigy mounds and buffalo viewing areas.
Fishing in conservation areas: Multiple access points for fishing exist throughout the region. At Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area, "There is lots of fishing opportunity here. Spring lake is long and shallow. They allow pole fishing. We saw people fishing from boats as well as from nicely designed pullouts along the road."
What campers like
Secluded riverside sites: The position directly on the water appeals to many tent campers. At Kayak Starved Rock Campground, "the sites were right on the water and the price was right," according to one camper. Another notes the campground offers "every site had its own fire pit with a cooking grate."
Equestrian camping options: Some areas cater specifically to those traveling with horses. Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground features "separate space for equestrian campers and those without horses. The campsites are all on grassy areas with trees at the edges. This gives you some shade depending on the time of day."
Budget-friendly primitive camping: The canal system offers affordable options. "Camping at the Canal is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are no set check-in or check-out times. The Canal's site security officer makes rounds to each campsite to collect camping fees, in-person. Campers can pay by cash or check," explains a reviewer of Hennepin Canal Lock 11.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many tent sites offer minimal amenities. At Woodford State Conservation Area, "A little rough, but is kept up as best as they can. Funding for the area is lacking. It floods out when it storms. Alot of gnats. Entry road needs repairs."
Water access considerations: Plan ahead for water needs. "There is no potable drinking water anywhere at any of these locks up and down the Hennepin Canal apart from at the Visitors Center, so ensure you bring your own water or a filtration system," advises one experienced camper.
Weather vulnerabilities: Some camping areas face flooding issues. Woodford State Conservation Area campers report that "the hosts are kind and friendly. They were willing to help bring picnic tables to a site if they weren't already there. They also warned us of an upcoming storm - this location can flood when the river rises."
Tips for camping with families
Check for youth group facilities: Starved Rock State Park Youth Campground offers dedicated spaces for organized groups. "If you are here with your girl/boy scout troop, church group or youth connection team, then you've just discovered a super amazing spot to lay down some tents and get busy with connecting with nature in a primitive camping experience."
Look for recreational amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional features for children. At Hickory Hill Campground, visitors note there are "Lots of nice amenities for families" including "an in-ground pool opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day, basketball court, mini golf, shuffleboard, pool table, ping pong and various soda and snack vending machines and games in the recreation center."
Consider security and privacy: Open camping areas might not suit all family situations. At Buffalo Rock State Park, a camper explains that "Camp sites aren't actually in buffalo rock, they're across the street at I&M canal. You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you're looking for privacy this is it."
Tips from RVers
Site size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Hickory Hill Campground, "We called in the afternoon and got a full hook up, pull through spot," but another camper notes "The sites are kind of tight. Gravel sites but mostly level."
Check for permanent residents: Some campgrounds host long-term campers. One reviewer observed that Hickory Hill Campground "seems to be more of a full time camping location. Lots of buildings and I was offered a lot for sale. Golf carts seem to be the most common mode of travel as there are plentiful."
RV hookup options: Availability varies significantly between locations. At Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground, expect "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table. Water available a couple of places along the canal. No reservations... Very nice visitor center open until 3 during the week, no weekends. Only $8."
