Best Campgrounds near Sheffield, IL

The landscape around Sheffield, Illinois features several established campgrounds along the Hennepin Canal corridor, offering a range of accommodation options from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots and rental cabins. Notable campgrounds include Hickory Grove Campground with its spacious sites and canal access, and several Hennepin Canal Parkway campgrounds that provide more rustic experiences. Chief Keokuk Campground at Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area lies southwest of Sheffield, while Starved Rock State Park Campground, though further away, remains a popular destination for campers seeking more developed facilities and scenic hiking opportunities.

Seasonal considerations strongly impact camping experiences in this region, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. "Very friendly host at the gate! Just what my wife and I were looking for. Quiet campground not far off the highway," noted one camper about Starved Rock State Park Campground. Many sites require advance reservations during summer weekends and holidays, especially at popular destinations like Hickory Grove, which one visitor described as "Midwest Pasture Camping at Its Finest." Winter camping options are limited, with most facilities closing due to freezing temperatures and potential snow conditions. Road access throughout the area remains generally good, with most campgrounds accessible via paved roads, though some primitive sites may require short drives on gravel roads.

The Illinois River and Hennepin Canal provide focal points for water-based recreation near Sheffield-area campgrounds. Campers particularly value waterfront sites, with reviews highlighting the peaceful setting and fishing opportunities. Several campgrounds feature boat launches or direct water access, making them popular with kayakers and anglers. Forest cover varies across the region, with some campgrounds offering dense shade while others provide more open settings with scattered trees. Amenities range from basic (vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings at primitive sites) to comprehensive facilities at developed campgrounds including shower houses, electric hookups, and dump stations. Proximity to Interstate 80 makes this area convenient for travelers, though some reviewers note highway noise can be noticeable at certain campgrounds located closer to major routes.

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Best Camping Sites Near Sheffield, Illinois (90)

    1. Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area

    24 Reviews
    Mineral, IL
    8 miles
    +1 (308) 853-2425

    "This campground is located just north of Kewanee, Illinois. It has a lake with seasonal canoe, kayak and paddle boat rentals and a cafe."

    "Had the tent section nearest the to the lake to ourselves (site 100). This was great since we had a reactive dog, so it being not crowded was perfect!"

    2. Hickory Grove Campground

    4 Reviews
    Sheffield, IL
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 454-2600

    "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"

    "Great bike path right out of campsite along the canal. Nice to get some exercise on a long road trip."

    3. Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    3 Reviews
    Sheffield, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 782-6302

    $8 / night

    "Located literally just a few stone’s throw due west of the tiny town of Wyanet, which is just a few miles west of better-known Princeton, you will access this little spec of undisturbed primitive camping"

    "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."

    4. Hennepin Canal Lock 22 Campground

    3 Reviews
    Mineral, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 454-2328

    $8 / night

    5. Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Sheffield, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 454-2328

    $8 / night

    "Shade trees, soft grass, a nice trail to walk & great views. The stars in the night sky are breathtaking! This isn't some posh camping for someone looking to get a resort-feel."

    6. Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground

    3 Reviews
    Mineral, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 782-6302

    $8 - $20 / night

    "Located just off of Route 80, you’ll be searching for the Annawan exit, where heading northbound, you’ll take a right upon exiting and immediately thereafter, turn left, crossing the median, which will"

    7. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    99 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4726

    $25 - $35 / night

    "Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn’t expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"

    "Beautiful Starved Rock is Illinois's favorite state park. Hiking through forests along the Illinois River to canyons and waterfalls with eagles soaring overhead."

    8. Francis City Park

    1 Review
    Kewanee, IL
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 852-0511

    "Another camper walked right over and said he loved it here. They were already going on 2 weeks at Francis Park. It's charm won us over quite quickly."

    9. Hennepin Canal Lock 11

    3 Reviews
    Princeton, IL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 454-2328

    "camping options are only offered on a first-come, first-served basis or the rustic elements you will find when camping at any one of these spots, one thing is for certain: if you planned to truly ‘get away from"

    10. Hennepin Canal Campground

    1 Review
    Princeton, IL
    9 miles

    "Public park restrooms near by."

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Recent Reviews near Sheffield, IL

577 Reviews of 90 Sheffield Campgrounds


  • Steven V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Geneseo Campground

    Nice campground

    Stayed one night. It is a nice place, easy to find canal for walking. Bathrooms were OK.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • Al K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    Clean and comfy

    Great overnight site. Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas. Plenty of eateries nearby. Well-shaded and manicured sites.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2025

    Geneseo Campground

    Hidden Gem Along Slow-Moving Canal

    This is an incredibly quaint, somewhat out-of-the-way (in a very good way) location that will treat you to a heavy dose of isolation and privacy wherein you’ll feel completely blessed by the nature you will be surrounded by. This incredibly friendly (pet-friendly as well BTW) operation does an excellent job in how it is set up, offering up a few distinct loops that are ear-marked pretty much exclusively for the wheel-toting camping variety (think RVs, rigs, trailers and 5th wheels) providing 59 pull-thru and 12 back-in slots, while also offering up a discreet space flanked towards the front of the property that is simply perfect for mi tent pitchin’ bredren, which is surrounded by mature Oaks. And, just in case you either forgot your tent or RV, Geneseo Campground has 4 super comfy cabins (each sleeps 4 and come with A/C) or an amazing yurt that sleeps 8 that they’ll gladly rent you.

    From an amenities standpoint, there’s an amazing kid’s playground, well-stocked camp store, propane refueling station, kayak & canoe rental, gas grill rental, e-bike, pedal carts & fat tire bike rental, full and partial hook-ups offering 30 / 50 electric amp, water & sewage hook-ups. There’s also a meeting room, WiFi everywhere, enclosed dog park, firewood & ice for sale, arcade games, RV dump station, coin-operated washers & dryers / laundr-O-mat, excellent showers & bathrooms, direct access to the Hennepin Canal and don’t forget the 60 or so miles worth of hiking trails!

    This place is spacious, very well organized, incredibly clean all the while within a short 10 minute drive into nearby Geneseo, which quite frankly, is one of the most idyllic small towns you’ll come across anywhere in Illinois that is both convivial and provincial, but also quite emblematic of a typical Norman Rockwell painting. What I loved most about this place is that while it doesn’t offer up EVERYTHING that you might be looking for while camping, you only need to head due south to Izaak Walton Park (further south of this spot) or to Geneseo Prairie Park, both of which offer up amazing hiking trails as well as good launch spots to access the Hennepin Canal via kayak and canoe.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re reeling, you should expect to catch blue gill, catfish, bass and crappie, and while you can throw your line from the Geneseo Campground property, I would highly recommend you cross the canal to Izaak Walton Park on its east side where there’s a large open canal / lake to cast in; (2) While there’s tons of hiking trails, you don’t want to forget your bikes – there’s 72 miles of biking trails as well as miles and miles of nicely paved empty country roads to pedal on; (3) Maybe you have a kayak or canoe, but in the case you don’t, do yourself a favor and rent one from the good people at Geneseo Campground in which to explore the Hennepin Canal - trust me, you won't be disappointed; and (4) Should you grow weary of eating franks & beans again from your campsite and want to try out some local cuisine, then get yourself over to nearby Geneseo where you can dine out at The Cellar, Sweet Peas Grill & Bar or Geneseo Brewing Company.

    Happy Camping!

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

    Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park

    Definitely The Most Nature-Shrouded Option Here at Scott County Park

    If you find yourself near the Quad Cities, you’ll definitely want to check out Scott County Park, which boasts 6 different CGs to choose from. Wilderness campground, as the name suggests, puts you smack-dab in the middle of the forest, and of all the campgrounds, is definitely one of my favorites as a tent pitchin’ outdoors enthusiast. Unlike either nearby Woodside or Bald Eagle campgrounds, which are more geared for the RV driving and 5th Wheel hauling camping community, Wilderness CG isn’t very level, has decent natural barriers like tree roots, forest boundaries like thick brush and space constraints to consider, yet this CG still offers near equal amenities as the other CGs.

    The surroundings here are thick and lush, providing you with a real authentic experience in nature and offers real amazing solitude, peace & quiet as well as substantial privacy, where you and your camping exploits won’t be on full display with the entire campground that you are surrounded by. This lone fact makes Wilderness unlike any of the other campgrounds here at Scott County Park. The individual camping sites are incredibly spacious, fairly uneven land with all spaces offering substantial shade, thick backdrop behind each spot and tons of foliage. Because of all the trees and brush, the grounds don’t feel as well-kept as some of the other CGs, but that’s really just a result of fallen leaves and branches – so not the worst outcome (and if it bothers you that much, just bring a rake). Like all of the other campgrounds here, you’ll experience impeccably clean bathroom / shower facilities with great HOT running water and decent – not great– space in the shower.

    Incredibly different from either Bald Eagle or Woodside campgrounds, there is no nearby lake here at Wilderness, so if you do want to get your oaring in, you’ll have to drive to one of the park’s lakes, which isn’t the most difficult thing to accomplish here. While there is no dedicated shelter in or near Wilderness CG, there is a designated picnic area just due west called Prairie Sun, which is great for a game of football, hosting a BBQ or playing cards on one of the several picnic tables you’ll find here. You’ll discover that there’s a total of 3 restroom facilities, but only one with shower capabilities – all of which are incredibly well-maintained. Lastly, one of the things that make Wilderness differentiated here in Scott County Park is that a ton of the best hiking trails converge at this CG, so if you’re tent camper and want to be located right in the thick of nature, while having direct access to prize hiking above just about anything else, then this is your haven.

    Scott County Park is easy to fall in love with, whether traveling solo or with a family as there is a lot that this park offers up: from fresh water catch & release lakes, combination of topographies, from woodlands, wetlands and prairie grasslands, beautiful 18-hole championship golf course, outdoor exercise areas, club house and concessions, stand-alone cabins for rent, designated dump stations and trash receptacles, numerous picnic areas, massive heated swimming pool complete with a snake-like water slide, volleyball court, ranger stations, seasonal on-site hosts, firewood available for purchase at entry stations, Walnut Grove Pioneer Village and St. Anne’s church at the park’s NW perimeter, 7 community shelters, designated picnic areas, a memorial park, equestrian area and an incredibly well-paved network of roads that allows you to easily access just about every corner of this park. The rangers here are incredibly friendly, professional and very helpful by constantly being on patrol and keeping this beautiful park in full working order.

    Happy Camping!

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2025

    Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    Nice COE cg along Mississippi River

    Sites are shaded, with services, fire pits, wood available, site volunteer. Access along river for fishing. Railroad runs nearby can be loud.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2025

    Illiniwek Campground

    Nice County CG along Mississippi River

    Sites include sites with service, fire rings, shower houses/rr, play areas, shelter for rent, river access for boating/paddling/fishing.


Guide to Sheffield

Camping near Sheffield, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park. "I spent hours hiking the more than 13 miles of trails, which offer access to beautiful waterfalls," shared a visitor.
  • Fishing: Head to Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area for some fishing. One camper noted, "This is the Muskie Capitol of Illinois, BTW!"
  • Kayaking: Rent a kayak at Comlara County Park and enjoy the serene waters. A visitor mentioned, "We had breakfast at Shabbona Cafe in town, and we received a great portion and oh so good as well."

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers appreciate the beautiful landscapes. One reviewer at Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground said, "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."
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds are noted for their cleanliness. A visitor at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River remarked, "Bathrooms were quite clean."
  • Friendly hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. One camper at Chief Keokuk Campground said, "The hosts were absolutely the best! They walk through the camp each night checking sites and are very easy and fun to talk to."

What you should know:

  • No alcohol allowed: Some campgrounds, like White Pines Forest State Park Campground, have strict no-alcohol policies. A camper noted, "The quiet hours and no alcohol policy are not enforced at all."
  • Limited amenities: Campgrounds like Pleasant Creek Campground may not have extensive amenities. One visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms are old, not much space to help kids in toilet or shower area."
  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can be busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Illinois Illini State Park said, "The campground is absolutely jammed with camp sites- it's ridiculous."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose quieter campgrounds: Look for spots like Jubilee College State Park Campground for a peaceful experience. A camper shared, "Excellent campground for those who want to relax and have quiet time."
  • Bring games: Pack outdoor games like corn hole or badminton to keep kids entertained. One visitor suggested, "Not a lot of amenities for families with young kids but bring your own corn hole bags and badminton."
  • Check site conditions: Before booking, check the site conditions. A camper at White Pines Forest State Park Campground noted, "Many of the campsites are sloped and some are sloped A LOT."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Starved Rock Campground offer electric hookups, which are great for RVs. A visitor mentioned, "All of these sites have standard 20 amp electric plug-ins."
  • Plan for space: Some sites can be close together. A reviewer at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River said, "Train tracks are right next to the sites."
  • Check for amenities: Make sure to check what amenities are available. A camper at Comlara County Park noted, "There’s only one dump station, which seemed odd considering that there’s at least 3 campgrounds."

Camping near Sheffield, Illinois, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Sheffield, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sheffield, IL is Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 24 reviews.