The camping landscape near South Beloit includes prairie lands, deciduous forests, and riverside terrain with elevations ranging from 750-850 feet above sea level. Most camping in this area occurs along river corridors like the Rock River and Sugar River, which offer natural boundaries between Illinois and Wisconsin. Summer nights typically cool to the mid-60s even when daytime temperatures reach the 90s.
What to do
Kayaking the Sugar River: At Crazy Horse Campground, complimentary kayaking services include transportation upstream. "They provide at no charge kayaks and a shuttle to a drop-off point which you can kayak back down to the campground which takes about an hour and a half they space out the shuttles very well so you are not running into the people from the last shuttle," notes David H.
Hiking woodland trails: Thomas Woods Campground offers multiple trail environments within walking distance of campsites. "What we enjoyed the most was the variety of hiking trails. They aren't the longest but we were able to vary the route up to keep it fresh for our dog to sniff out her adventure. Some of grass and others were dirt," writes Art S.
Bird watching opportunities: The woodlands and wetlands support diverse bird populations. "Got bird watching on your mind? Well, you're in luck, because here at Rock Cut SP you can spot an amazing array of foul including bald eagles, American robins, northern cardinals, barn owls, mourning doves, indigo buntings, eastern bluebirds, Canadian geese, red-bellied woodpeckers, brown thrashers and many others," according to Stuart K.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Hononegah Forest Preserve offers seclusion despite proximity to urban amenities. "Supreme amount of peace & quiet," mentions Stuart K., who also notes it has "sites are spacious, flat and nicely shaded" with "ample space at each of the individual sites."
Multiple camping loops: Campgrounds like Rock Cut State Park offer distinct camping experiences in different areas. "You'll have to navigate which of the 7 campgrounds to book: Staghorn, White Oak, Prairie View, Plum Grove, Hickory Hills, Equestrian or Youth Group," explains Stuart K., adding "There are also 3 other smaller, really intimate primitive camping spots with the following names: Hawk, Crow and Owl."
Affordable pricing: Sugar River Forest Preserve maintains reasonable rates for county residents and visitors. Christopher R. mentions, "They have fire rings and picnic tables and firewood for sale at the entrance. They allow dogs and the ranger is frequently visible throughout the day. You are a short distance from the river and the surroundings are wonderful."
What you should know
Site size variations: Many campgrounds have significant differences between sites. At Rock Cut State Park, "The sites begin with #500 and as you circumnavigate the simple circular loop, you will pass by about 2 dozen or so slots that are nice flat paved slots perfect sized for just about any RV or 5th Wheel."
Primitive facilities at some locations: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Hononegah Forest Preserve, expect "pit toilets and no showers," while Thomas Woods Campground has "Pit toilets, no showers" and "Hand pumps for water and well-kept pit toilets," according to Marisa A.
Weekend-only operations: Some preserves operate limited schedules. Thomas Woods Campground is "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites. Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers," notes Marisa A. Another camper laments, "The campground is beautiful wish it was open more than the weekend's."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Find campgrounds with dedicated swim areas. At Crazy Horse Campground, families appreciate "a pool, petting zoo, kayaks, rocky beach, dog park, and a land pillow! The sites are spaced out well and there are more secluded sites so you have the feeling of privacy or big group sites for a big party," according to Rose F.
Activity passes: Verify what's included in camping fees. Marc W. notes that at Crazy Horse Campground, "They have a Daily Activity bracelet that allows you to partake in all activities but you need to purchase per person for each day regardless if you will utilize. With the kids we do use all of the included activities which include pool, kayaking services, batting cages, miniature golf, peddle cars."
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to play areas. At Milton KOA, "They have a ton of things to do for the family like a baseball backstop, sand volleyball, horse shoes, a playground etc.," according to Chris H., while Erin B. adds, "Great place to bring our three boys. There are 2 playgrounds, a nice pool, games and activities for the kids over weekends."
Tips from RVers
Power reliability concerns: Some campgrounds have aging electrical infrastructure. Rebecca C. cautions about Rock Cut State Park: "We called the Rangers and asked them to look at our site breaker since it kept tripping. They came, told us the park was old and not updated... Went to camping world the next day just for us to use their plugs and it was fine."
Site selection for privacy: The location within campgrounds matters significantly. At Sugar River Forest Preserve, "The primitive sites are where it's at! First come first serve and they fill up quick," advises Addie S., while at Blackhawk Valley Campground, a reviewer mentions, "The site we stayed on was not level and no parking pad."
Campground navigation: Some properties have complex layouts. At Milton KOA, "The sites were of decent size, some smaller than others and some very generous sites. I would recommend viewing their map and comparing to google maps. They do allow you to pick your site if your willing to pay $10 extra," suggests Marc W.
