Silvis, Illinois camping areas sit at approximately 600 feet above sea level in the Mississippi River basin where the Rock River joins the Mississippi. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels near the river areas. Camping options include both private and county-managed sites with varying levels of amenities across Scott County in Iowa and Rock Island County in Illinois.
What to do
Water activities on Cedar River: Cedar River Campground provides direct river access for boating and paddling. "Recently under new ownership, you can tell they've been working hard getting the place going again. Yes, you hear traffic, but it didn't bother us. They had a great fireworks display for the fourth," notes Jenny about Cedar River Campground.
Hennepin Canal exploration: The 72-mile canal system offers extended paddling routes with multiple access points. "The tent sites are nicely tucked away from the RVs, with a row of bushes to separate you from your neighbor. Nice shade. I wouldn't mind coming back to enjoy the activities in the area along the Hennepin canal," shares Jackie S. about her stay at Geneseo Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Rock Creek County Marina and Campground features an educational center with live displays. "Nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore. Showers are open until October 14 this year," reports Jeff and Linda L. about the eco-center facilities.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Morrison-Rockwood State Park offers secluded camping spots with natural barriers. "We enjoyed the beautiful lake and cute restaurant/gift shop. Our campsite was spacious but some are open and too close together. Good for one night unless you have your own boat," notes Joanne I. about Morrison-Rockwood State Park.
Clean bathroom facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain exceptional sanitation standards. "The (and I cannot emphasize this enough) CLEANEST campground bathrooms I've ever seen! I'm not squeamish and have been camping for years so my expectations for campground bathroom cleanliness is well calibrated but these bathrooms (even the vault toilets!) were amazingly clean!" exclaims Stacie H. about her Morrison-Rockwood experience.
Family-friendly amenities: Camp Liberty provides structured activities for families. "Camp offers site for all tastes: primitive and modern cabins and lodges, tents for small or large groups and couples. Hard roads, fire pits, tables, water, showers, supplies. Surrounded by nature with forest, prairie, and lake. Trails, and even guided activities," explains James M. about Camp Liberty.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds close completely during winter months. "Campground is closed for the winter season. Campground offers host, nicely maintained heated showers and restrooms, play area, firewood, available on site, RV pads are hard surface, have fire rings, water, electric, tables," reports James M. about Woodside Campground.
Bug activity: Proximity to water means mosquitoes can be problematic. "Primitive tent site, fire ring/grill, cheap stay. Has small camp store and newer nature center, canoe/kayak rentals, shower house, wood for fee. Can be very buggy depending on season, right along backwaters, good fishing, wildlife viewing," warns James M. about Rock Creek Marina.
Site topography: Uneven ground can make tent setup challenging. "We camped the last weekend in April and we loved it. The pad was uneven but we got our pup leveled out. We couldn't hike as much due to some hunting still going on but we made due. We will be back to this camp ground," shares Pam O. about her Morrison-Rockwood experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreational areas for easier supervision. "We had site 57 which is in a loop which goes around a playground. It was great for the kids who could go play and the sites in this loop provide plenty of space and privacy," recommends Ben W. about Morrison-Rockwood State Park.
Educational opportunities: Schedule trips when nature programs are active. "Turn at quarry off Great River Road/Highway 67. Plenty of sites, boat landing, kayak/canoe rentals, naturalist programs, nature center with native animals including large fish aquarium, cabins, park store and kitchen, shower house, pontoon river cruises," details James M. about Rock Creek County Marina.
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer splash pads or pools. "Fantastic campground. Facilities were well maintained and the staff was great! Traveling with 3 younger kids and they enjoyed all the activities. We'll be back here again, for sure," shares Dan B. about the glamping options at Camelot Campground Quad Cities.
Tips for RVers
Utility hookups: Full-hookup sites are available at select locations. "This campground is pretty big lots of full time campers. Camp ground is open year round. Have lots of different options if your ten camping or have an rv. They do have very nice cabins on site and a decent sized pond where the campground goes around," explains Matthew K. about Camelot Campground.
Site leveling: Pack leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "If you want to spend a lot of your time just relaxing at camp, this is a great spot. Our site was huge, flat and private - no trouble finding flat ground to pitch the tent," advises Amy R. about her experience at Morrison-Rockwood.
Campground layout: Some areas are better suited for larger rigs. "We loved the helpful service from the owner as he helped us get settled in. It was our first time there and it was a great visit. The showers at the main lodge were AMAZING," notes chole C. about her glamping near Silvis experience at Haven Hills Campground.
