33 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Rustic log cabins near Somonauk provide overnight accommodations with varying levels of amenities. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area offers cabin rentals with electric hookups, heating, and air conditioning. Starved Rock State Park Campground includes cabins with picnic tables and fire rings. "Perfectly perched far away from traffic, noise and the routine drudgery of day-to-day life, Kishauwau is situated far back in a thick-forested pristine patch of land that places you very near two of the best state parks," according to one visitor. Hi-Tide Recreation and Jellystone Park Millbrook also feature cabin options with water and electric hookups.
Cabin accommodations range from basic structures to fully furnished units with kitchens. Nature's Way RV Park provides "4 cabins available for rent along with small porches complete with benches, brand new grills, fire pits and picnic tables." Most locations require advance reservations, especially during summer months when availability becomes limited. Pet policies vary by location, with most allowing pets but requiring them to be leashed. Seasonal availability differs between campgrounds, with some like Hi-Tide Recreation operating from April 15 to October 15, while others like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area remain open year-round.
Most cabins require visitors to bring their own bed linens, towels, and toiletries. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "If you do end up renting one of the cabins, be sure to remember to bring your own bed linens, towels, toiletries and anything you need to make use of the kitchen." Kitchen facilities vary significantly between locations, with some offering full kitchens including pots, pans, cooking utensils, and dishware, while others provide only basic amenities like a microwave or refrigerator. On-site camp stores at locations like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area stock essential items, firewood, and basic groceries, though selection is typically limited to camping necessities rather than full grocery options.
"If your family enjoys spending more time on the trail than sitting around the campsite, Starved Rock Campground makes a wonderful home base for exploring one of Illinois' most beautiful state parks."
"With the car in the drive blocking the road, I had complete privacy. There was a short walk to porta potties and a nice walk to the modern, clean bath house."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"bordering Lake Michigan, right?"
"The camping is not the best but the lake is amazing! Campsites are really cramped, no privacy at all. The lake has huge inflatables and a trampoline so it’s unique and fun."
"RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay. Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful."
"This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest! We will continue to go there for as long as we live in this area."
"bordering Lake Michigan – other than this, finding a proper beachhead is impossible."
"Tent sites are right across from a park with a back drop creek that runs through the camp. Fish are very abundant. When the lake is open it’s great to bring kids for the water sports."
"We bought fire wood from a locals front lawn at the entrance to the state park. Put 5$ in the bin and take a bundle. Its 30 mins away from Starved Rock and Matthiesson State Park. Good hiking."
"Spent a couple nights here (site 3) for Vintage Illinois at a nearby park. Quiet, fairly level, gravel sites. Electric worn but fully functional. Lots of trees and shade."
from $12 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP."
"The front of this park is the typical KOA. Trailer spots, pool, general store. Showers and bathroom are VERY clean and the staff is on top of things."
"Heaven for tenters as you can be in the larger groups or some very secluded areas as well. RV/Trailers are a little tight on space but we tend to be away from the site when we are there."
"The largest and most open area is on top of the hill (the Highlands) but there are other areas that are shadier and more close to nature (Alcove way, Creekside, Oak Grove, the Glades). "
"This is very close to Starved Rock & Matthiessen State Parks, both of which are absolutely breathtaking! The campground is decent; lots of tents."
"And about an hour and a half from central Chicago is Illini State Park, a comfortable slice of wilderness."
"While both campgrounds offer close proximity to the Illinois River, you will be challenged to actually see the river from Whitetail, unless you head far west on Hawk Road where there is a separate picnic"
from $10 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Over in these parts, just past the bridge that you would need to cross to reach this primitive camping area, there’s a K9 dog park as well as plenty of scattered picnic tables, in-ground raised BBQ pits"
"Pet friendly. We want to come back when we can stay longer."
from $30 - $125 / night
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ScoutTook my daughter for the weekend. Camp host were wonderful and even worked with us when I arrived later then planned. Full hookup was perfect and location was great.
Location is close to Utica so we were able to enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
Wonderful spot and we will definitely be back.
ScoutStayed with Thousand Trails. It's mostly an annual park, but they've got about 20 TT sites. They've got a clean pool, good size. And a clubhouse that's open til 9pm. Laundry & trash dumpsters nearby. Full hook ups. We enjoyed our stay.
GuideWe had an easy after-hours first come first serve check in experience. Directions were easy to follow and the campground itself was well-kept. Having a power hook-up for a night was a huge plus.
The state park trails aren't really accessible from the campground but are a short drive away. They are doing A LOT of work on the trail system so not all trails are open at this time. Definitely check out some of the canyons and overlooks if you are staying in the campground.
LegendIf your family enjoys spending more time on the trail than sitting around the campsite, Starved Rock Campground makes a wonderful home base for exploring one of Illinois' most beautiful state parks. Located just outside Starved Rock State Park, the campground offers spacious sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, mature shade trees and just enough modern comforts, including shower facilities and flush restrooms, to make returning after a full day of hiking especially rewarding. One of my favorite memories was watching families head out early with hiking boots and backpacks, then return later that afternoon tired, a little muddy and smiling as they swapped stories about waterfalls, canyons and wildlife around their campfires. The best souvenirs here aren't the photos you take, but the adventures your family shares along the trail. From what we experienced, the more shaded campsites offer the nicest combination of privacy and a peaceful setting, especially during the warmer months. We would gladly recommend Starved Rock Campground for families because it provides comfortable camping, EZ access to one of the Midwest's premier hiking destinations and countless opportunities to spend meaningful time together outdoors. Just remember that you'll need to drive a few minutes into the state park itself to reach the main trailheads, lodge and canyon system.
ScoutNice, clean, quiet, simple state park set up. Many miles of paved and crushed limestone trails. The actual Kankakee River access is sort of outside of the campground- that would be my only complaint. You have to walk or bike a little distance to be near the river. Seemed very well maintained and we loved it!
RangerWe added a day to our Starved Rock itinerary and couldn't get into Starved Rock State Park Campground that night, so quickly booked this from the road. Got into the Highlands, which was packed and super close quarters. Not what we love, but several sites looked like extended families/friends had booked together and they were having a blast, especially the kids. Looked like they had some activities available and we saw several kids with fishing poles heading somewhere fun. We didn't explore the rest of the grounds; perhaps other sections afforded more privacy. I thought it was a bit pricey for the amenities (one shower house very far away) and hemmed-in feel, but it served our purpose for one night.
RangerWe loved site 89 at Starved Rock State Campground, in the wooded area of the east loop. Felt enveloped by nature among the trees and birds. Nice privacy, with neighbors at a distance through the trees. The pit toilets weren’t far and were well-kept. The only disappointment was the shower house. The shower itself was excellent—hot and powerful—but one men's and one women's shower for more than 70 sites isn't sufficient, and those facilities felt neglected.
The location of this campground is perfect if you’re there to explore the canyons, as it’s an easy drive to so many trailheads. We hiked up to Starved Rock and also down into seven canyons over the four days there: Illinois, Ottawa, Kalkaskia, Council Bluffs, St Louis, French, and Wildcat. We enjoyed a riverboat cruise down the Illinois River among bluffs of sandstone. We had lunch in Ottawa one day and Utica another; both cool towns. We also loved our time just relaxing at the site in such a beautiful setting.
LegendThe first thing that struck us about Woodhaven Lakes was that it didn't feel like a campground at all - it felt like a small town built entirely around family camping. Spread across nearly 1,800 acres of woodlands, lakes and prairie in north-central Illinois, this membership campground somehow manages to offer seven lakes, swimming pools, sandy beaches (yes, even though you are in the middle of a land-locked state), miles of trails, playgrounds, mini golf, restaurants, a well-stocked camp store, spotless bathhouses and more family activities than we could possibly fit into one trip without losing its relaxed, welcoming feel. My favorite memory was watching families gather along the beach as the kids bounced between building sandcastles, splashing in the water and making brand-new friends before racing back to camp for dinner. Some places are measured in acres; this one is measured in smiles, laughs and conversations. From what we saw, the waterfront campsites in Zones 1-5, 7, 10-11, 16, 21, 23 and 24 offer the nicest combination of peaceful lake views and convenient access to many of the campground's amenities. We would absolutely recommend Woodhaven Lakes for families looking to create lasting memories because of its incredible variety of activities, beautifully maintained facilities and endless opportunities to simply enjoy being together outdoors.
GuideIt was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
Cabin accommodations near Somonauk, Illinois offer camping options within prairie landscapes at 700 feet elevation. This region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. The mix of wooded campgrounds and open recreation areas creates varied settings for overnight stays within a 30-mile radius of Somonauk.
**Creek exploration: Kids can wade through Little Indian Creek at Hi-Tide Recreation where a small waterway runs through the property. "There's also a picnic area back here, lakeside deck, fishing dock, further afield as well as an in-ground community heated pool and playground just in front of the main office," notes a visitor.
Kayaking nearby lakes: A short drive from camping cabins near Somonauk leads to Lake Holiday for water activities. "My daughter and I stayed here twice. Oct 2019 and Aug 2020. We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting," writes a camper about Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area.
Hiking at state parks: Several trails are accessible within a short drive. "The hiking in the general area is awesome!!! Lots of canyons, bluffs, and overlooks. Just be prepared to drive," explains a visitor who stayed at Starved Rock Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Many campers enjoy fishing at the stocked lakes. "The lake has produced a lot of trophy fish, if that's your thing. Otherwise it's quiet and peaceful. We like to go just to chill and read out out in the woods," shares a visitor to Shabbona Lake.
Water recreation: Summer visitors appreciate the swimming options. "The lake is amazing! Campsites are really cramped, no privacy at all. The lake has huge inflatables and a trampoline so it's unique and fun," according to a guest at Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "Love going to this campground. Always nice and clean. Bath/showers are very clean with hot water. Nicely kept grounds with a beautiful lake for dock and boat fishing," notes a visitor to Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area.
Seasonal operation: Several campgrounds near Somonauk close during winter months. "This state park is on a terrific fishing lake. It has first come camping as well as reserved spaces. Some reserved spots have a nice lake overlook," explains a camper about Shabbona Lake facilities.
Site selection matters: For cabin stays, location within the campground affects your experience. "The spaces are roomy and a mix of open grass as well as more private wooded spaces. At least half of the spaces will accommodate large RVs," mentions a Shabbona Lake visitor.
Limited supplies: While camp stores exist, selection varies significantly. "Due to it being close to some big towns it can fill up. It's close to a small town if you forget little things," notes a camper at Illini State Park.
Pool access: When booking camping cabins near Somonauk with children, consider locations with swimming facilities. "This campground is fun because it is the only one in the area with a pool. A creek runs through it so you have to check for flooding. Close to all the state parks," says a visitor to LaSalle/Peru KOA.
Playground proximity: Some cabin sites are positioned near play areas. "This is a typical KOA. Trailer spots, pool, general store. Showers and bathroom are VERY clean and the staff is on top of things," writes a KOA visitor.
Theme weekends: Several campgrounds offer scheduled activities for children. "My family and I have been going to Jellystone in Millbrook for the past 4 years now. Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day," shares a repeat visitor.
Hookup locations: Check the exact position of utilities when booking. "The sites are full hookup, but several times we have been at sites where the sewer dump pipe sticks up over 8" above the ground. Higher than the outlet of my trailer," warns a visitor to Jellystone Park Millbrook.
Site spacing: Many RV areas have limited privacy between units. "This is a campground campus that packs RVs in pretty snug, while feigning at offering tent campers some nice flat land to pitch a tent," explains a Hi-Tide visitor.
Road access: Some campgrounds have challenging internal roads. "To get up to the sites, it's a one way up and down road. Hopefully no one else is coming the opposite direction," cautions a visitor to Pleasant Creek Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Somonauk, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Somonauk, IL is Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 103 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near Somonauk, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 33 cabin camping locations near Somonauk, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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