Primitive camping opportunities near Somonauk, Illinois span across both forest preserves and riverside locations. The region sits within the Fox River watershed at approximately 700 feet elevation, with terrain characterized by rolling woodland and prairie interfaces. Most tent camping sites in this area require short hikes from parking areas, ranging from 100 yards to nearly 3 miles depending on the location.
What to do
Kayaking on the Illinois River: Kayak Morris offers riverside camping with easy water access. "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap if you don't have your own," notes Amanda W. The campground sits at the confluence, providing excellent paddling opportunities.
Fishing at multiple locations: Anglers find success at several waterfront campsites near Somonauk. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M. at Kayak Morris.
Hiking local trails: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail provides excellent access for cyclists and hikers. "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride," explains Art S.
Stargazing in open meadows: Several campgrounds feature open areas ideal for night sky viewing. "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing!" notes Amy G. about primitive tent camping options.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: MacQueen Forest Preserve offers exceptional campsite separation. "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you," notes Amy G. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings.
Affordability for tent camping: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the low fees at several preserves. "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4," reports a camper at MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Waterfront locations: Several sites offer direct water access for fishing or paddling. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site," explains Eric R. about Kayak Starved Rock Campground.
Secluded natural settings: Many campers praise the quiet atmosphere at tent sites near Somonauk. "I LOVED this experience. We did an overnight canoe trip through White Pelican rental which I highly recommend! It was a couple hour paddle, plus we made a pit stop at the castle rock overlook, before we got to the canoe in site," shares Kaitlin B. about her experience at Castle Rock State Park.
What you should know
Pack-in requirements: Many campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas. "You have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel road and mowed trail," explains a reviewer about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Limited water access: Most primitive sites lack potable water. "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable," emphasizes Amy G. Campers should bring all drinking water needed for their stay.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some riverside locations experience flooding during wet periods. "Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up the the fire pit," warns Rita S. about McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove.
Train noise at night: Several campgrounds experience railroad sounds. "Note: if you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground," reports a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites available: Some preserves offer ADA-compliant tent sites. "There is one wheelchair accessible tent site on a blacktop path in the forest canopy," notes Marisa A. about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy animal sightings at several locations. "A small park called Buffalo Rock State Park Campground is across the river from Starved Rock State Park. So, you can appreciate the bluff overlooks of the river without dealing with the crowds. Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers," explains Bill M.
Budget-friendly options: Family camping near Somonauk remains affordable compared to other regions. "Cost for tent sites is only $4 per tent or tent-like structure," notes a reviewer, making weekend outings accessible for families on a budget.
Consider weather contingencies: Flash flooding can occur at riverside locations. Families should check weather forecasts and have backup plans. "The sites are in a flood zone. Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone," warns one camper after a rainy experience.
Tips from RVers
Small RV limitations: While tent camping dominates the Somonauk area, some locations accommodate compact RVs. "Kayak Morris offers up about 50 primitive campsites that are 100% marked exclusively for tent camping (sorry RVers and 5th Wheelers, but you'll have to go back to the concrete paved lots for your slightly compromised outing in nature)," explains a reviewer about Kayak Starved Rock Youth Campground.
Uneven terrain challenges: The rolling landscape creates accessibility issues for larger vehicles. "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem. Just be aware of it," advises Brian O.
Alternative parking options: Some campers with small RVs find solutions at nearby locations. "For our trip, we parked at the Castle Rock State Park boat launch site, where overnight parking is permitted. From the launch, the canoe campground is approximately 2 miles south down river," shares Jessica W., describing the canoe-in camping option that allows RV parking at the boat launch.