Camping options near Homer, Illinois center around several established recreation areas within an hour's drive. The terrain consists primarily of flat to gently rolling woodland and prairie landscapes at elevations around 650-700 feet. The area typically experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during camping months, while spring brings frequent rainfall that can affect trail conditions and access to primitive sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area offers multiple fishing spots in a serene setting. "This park has very nice hiking trails and a swimming beach. The kids had a great time, and I got to kick back and relax," notes one visitor to Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area.
Hiking trails: Forest Glen County Preserve features an 11-mile backpacking loop requiring advance permits from rangers. "The backcountry sites have trash cans and pit toilets for convenience. There is a nearby water source but it will need to be filtered," according to a camper at Forest Glen County Preserve.
Paddling options: Kickapoo State Recreation Area provides excellent water access for multiple activities. "Campground is super basic but the access to trails and paddling is amazing. This park is severely underfunded so don't expect much for amenities. That said it's a great place to setup for a weekend on the trails," shares a camper at Kickapoo.
Stargazing: The Middle Fork River Forest Preserve is designated as a dark sky park. "It's a dark sky park so you can get some nice views from the campground and surrounding areas. Hosts and forest preserve employees keep the grounds up nicely," notes a visitor to Harry L. Swartz Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Walnut Point State Park campers appreciate the room between sites. "The walk in tent sites are in a shady woody area and with lake views. Clean pit toilets, serene setting, and a really cool hike to an abandoned observatory," writes a reviewer at Walnut Point State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Prairie Pines Campground maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "Large very clean bathhouse. Several small playgrounds and swingsets scattered about. The grounds are meticulously maintained," shares a visitor to Prairie Pines Campground.
Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer vegetative screening between sites. "42 - 47 had a lot of vegetation between them and were very private. I believe sites 34 and 27 could be great buddy sites. Site 25 has a trail that leads to the back row of sites (and no one behind it)," notes a camper at Harry L. Swartz Campground.
Affordable rates: Most campgrounds in the area maintain reasonable pricing. "We paid only $20 for our one night stay. Big, beautiful and well maintained. We had electricity, free showers, topped off our water tank. It's a great deal," reports a camper at Kickapoo State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "We weren't able to make a reservation less than 5 days in advance online so we tried to call. No one in the office except Th-Sunday and it was Wednesday so we couldn't get in touch," reports a visitor to Harry L. Swartz Campground.
Terrain challenges: Some sites have uneven ground that can make setup difficult. "The site was huge but given the unevenness it would be difficult for tents," notes a camper at Turkey Run State Park.
Alcohol regulations: Rules vary by park regarding alcohol consumption. "No booze signs posted, take it serious! Watched a ranger evict and entire group late in the evening for drinking. They weren't being rowdy but we're breaking the rules," warns a Kickapoo State Recreation Area visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are common visitors to campsites. "One very persistent raccoon: hide your food!" advises a Harry L. Swartz Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas for families. "The park has always been very clean. The Rangers are very helpful and nice. Other things to do...walk in the prairie, hike, climb a tower, play at the playground, picnic, etc... it's a very nice place to visit," shares a Forest Glen visitor.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "There are a few hiking trails that leave from the campground as well. There is a swimming area with a beach, playground, mini library, and shower house," notes a visitor to Harry L. Swartz Campground.
Walking distances: Note which sites require longer walks from parking. "Have to walk to the site but if you want nonelectric/primitive that's what you get. Water pump at either side of the entry. Some outhouses available. Trails close as well as fishing areas," explains a Kickapoo camper about their primitive site experience.
Weekday visits: For quieter family camping, avoid weekends when possible. "Our first visit was in April before they turned the water on. The campground was mostly empty and I don't believe the hosts were there for the season yet, but it was very quiet and peaceful," shares a Harry L. Swartz visitor.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "The RV sites are great for either rv, van, or tent camping with a lot of level ground at most sites. There are some real diamonds of a campsite hidden here that you can basically be in the woods with clear ground for a level tent," advises a visitor to D & W Lake RV Park.
Site leveling: Be prepared for uneven sites at some parks. "It's is very close to the restroom but a distance from the camp store and dumpster. The site was clean and well equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. The site is very uneven. It definitely sloops to the back corner. It's was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end," reports a Turkey Run State Park camper.
Hookup limitations: Most campgrounds offer electric only. "Gave 4 stars instead of 5 because it was electric only. There is one dump station near the campground entrance, and water fill there or in a few locations in the campground. There is not water and sewer hookup at each pad," notes a Walnut Point visitor.
Quiet times: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours for all campers. "My only problem was that it was extremely busy when I visited and some of my neighbors were quite loud (although they quieted down by quiet hours)," shares a Harry L. Swartz Campground visitor.
