Best Equestrian Camping near South Beloit, IL

Are you an equestrian lover who prefers a more rustic experience when you visit South Beloit? Equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. With our help, you'll find the best Illinois equestrian campsites from scenic to easily accessible.

Best Equestrian Sites Near South Beloit, IL (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground

    1. Rock Cut State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    228 Photos
    257 Saves
    Machesney Park, Illinois

    Located 10 miles northeast of Rockford, Rock Cut State Park is a 3,100-acre recreation area that encompasses two natural grasslands, a natural creek area, a nature preserve and 162-acre Pierce Lake. The area was designated a state park in 1957 as a way of preserving a local polititian’s favorite fishing hole. Prior to this, the park and wider area has a long history of Native American residence, including the Mascouten, the Winnegabo, and the Chippewa. With abundant water and preserved natural areas, the park now supports a thriving habitat for local birds, fish and wildlife. And with year-round camping and outdoor activities, you can experience the many seasonal sides the park has to offer.

    The campground at Rock Cut provides 270 sites that can accommodate tent campers, as well as RV and trailer campers up to 40 feet. Back-in sites are mostly grassy and equipped with picnic tables, cooking grills and electrical hookups. The campground provides water faucets, restrooms, showers, and a dump station; the water and dump station are not available November through April. One of the park’s multiuse trails runs right through the campground, and provides access to the larger trail network. Most of the campground’s facilities are ADA accessible. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed; alcohol is not permitted.

    For recreating in temperate seasons, more than 40 miles of hiking, cycling and equestrian trails allow you to explore the park’s woodlands and prairies. These are ideal ways to observe some of the local birds, animals, and wildflowers. For fun on the water, paddle around in a canoe or kayak, take a dip at Olsen Beach, or go fishing for some of the lake’s largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, pike and walleye. Several picnic areas throughout the park are ideal for group or family gatherings. In the snowy season, many of the park’s trails are open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with gear rentals available. For more family fun in the area, check out the nearby Volcano Falls Adventure Park.

    For those who want to include an overnight stay in their visit to Rock Cut, the campgrounds provide electricity at the site, water hydrants at the beginning of each camping loop, sanitary dump stations, showers, toilets, a boat launch and playground equipment. There are 210 Class A Premium sites and 60 Class B/S Premium sites. There is also a primitive cabin (it has electricity, but does not have water or plumbing facilities).

    From November - April, only electricity is available; there is no access to water or dump station.

    Equestrian camping is restricted to a site on Hart Road, is only available on a first-come, first-served basis and the Ranger will collect the fee at your site in the evening.

    Rock Cut is an alcohol-free park and campground, and this rule is strictly enforced.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve

    2. Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve

    7 Reviews
    27 Photos
    51 Saves
    Pecatonica, Illinois

    Life preservers are required for boating in the rivers. Swimming is prohibited.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground

    5. Paul Wolff Campground

    18 Reviews
    32 Photos
    144 Saves
    Elgin, Illinois

    Within Burnidge Forest Preserve is Paul Wolff Campground. Paul Wolff Campground contains 89 improved, vehicle camp sites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pad and fire ring. Improved camp sites are available to vehicle campers or tent campers. Each improved site is capable of handling a 50-foot motorhome. There are also 5 equestrian camp sites, where you may camp with your horse(s); and 10 primitive, wooded sites for tent camping only, away from the main camping area. Primitive sites do not have electric service and are available, weather permitting. All camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not taken.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $12 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhorn Campgrounds

    6. Elkhorn Campgrounds

    4 Reviews
    1 Photo
    15 Saves
    Elkhorn, Wisconsin
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area

    8. Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    20 Saves
    Lena, Illinois

    Whether you visit for an afternoon or stay a few days, you will leave Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area with many happy memories. Located in Stephenson County just west of Route 73 on Lake Road, the park is 6 miles south of the Illinois-Wisconsin state line and 3 miles north of Lena.

    Highlighted by a 40-acre lake and all the recreational opportunities there, the park also offers multi-use trails, picnic areas, and RV, tent, equestrian and youth group campgrounds.

    Developed as part of a statewide plan to provide Illinois citizens with recreational opportunities close to home, the park was started with a land acquisition program in 1948 and dedicated as a 715-acre state recreation area 10 years later.

    Lake Le-Aqua-Na’s name is the result of a contest sponsored by the Stephenson County Sportsman’s Club, one of the park’s many sponsors. The name is a combination of the town of Lena and the Latin word for water, aqua.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    10. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    7 Photos
    133 Saves
    Round Lake, Illinois

    Fish Lake Beach is one of the largest, privately owned campgrounds in Illinois, with 580 seasonal sites occupying the majority of the 113-acre property along with 60 overnight campsites. Fish Lake Beach has been family owned and operated for over eight amazing decades. Our brief story in pictures and how we got started is just below. Fish Lake Beach has become a camping tradition or a home-away-from-home for generations of families. We take pleasure in providing a friendly and fun experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $43 - $73 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

Recent Equestrian Reviews in South Beloit

180 Reviews of 15 South Beloit Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground
    Nov. 16, 2024

    Hansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground

    Out-N-Da-Boondocks Working Ranch Camping Experience

    Ever dreamt of working / living / camping on an actual working horse ranch?  Then you've arrived at the perfect spot.  As my post from a bit more than a year ago provided quite a bit of detail on this campground, I’m following up on that review by sharing more fotos as well as providing a topline update:

    Highlights: (1) Great hiking and kayaking in nearby Rock Cut State Park & George Fell Nature Preserve; (2) Supreme amount of peace & quiet; (3) Authentic feeling like you are actually on a working horse farm; (4) Sites are spacious and nicely shaded; (5) Excellent, well-maintained amenities like a game room, arcade, playground, small swimming pond, clean restroom & showers; (6) Very friendly and welcoming CG staff; and (7) Ample space to wander around and get lost in nature

    Lowlights: (1) This CG is very remote; (2) There is nothing nearby to either stock up on supplies or grab a bite to eat, so when you come here, bring everything with you that you’ll need

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground
    Nov. 15, 2024

    Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground

    Primitive Equestrian Camping in the Prairies

    Located just northwest of the little hamlet called Franklin Grove, which is just due north of Ronald Reagan’s birthplace in Dixon, Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground is ideal if you are one of those primitive campers who want to take their noble steed(s) with them for the night in order to gallup along some pretty amazing horse-friendly trails. While there’s not a lot in the way of amenities here, if you need a post to tie up your horse, a round-about where they can go for countless circle walks along with plenty of hay to keep them fed, then this location might just be ideal for you.

    What I enjoyed most about Franklin Creek State Natural Area is the 882 acres of fresh prairieland that feels fairly untouched and ready for some eager exploration. There’s several small natural springs completely shadowed by endless forests of hardwoods along with all of the natural fauna that you would expect in these parts like gray and fox squirrels, white-tailed deer, racoons, chipmunks, beavers and opossums. If you’re a bird watcher, you’ll enjoy the flycatchers, warblers, and woodpeckers, vireos as well as barn and horned-rim owls. And according to the information I found on-site, there’s more than 19 species of fish that you can find in the fresh water streams, creeks and rivers here.

    From an amenities standpoints, while you will find 4 picnic shelters (Bartlett, Sunday, Banker and Hausen-Knox, all of which can be reserved), restrooms, potable drinking water, stand-up grills and fire pits, there is very little in the way of amenities in the actual equestrian campground apart from water spigots with a picnic shelter, restrooms, running water, show area and the occasional picnic table. The equestrian trails offer more than 12 miles of horse hoofing fun and the terrain is heavily forested with just slight variable grades increasing and decreasing around fairly easy-to-maneuver turns. You’ll also discover that there is a very nice stream here that the kids will love jumping across and / or wading in searching for crawdads or small fish.

    What you’ll enjoy most about being here, apart from the peace & quiet as well as the abundance of serenity is that this place has a really nice connection with history as it features a fully functioning grist mill that goes all the way back to early Americana where corn meal and wheat flour were made from the stream currents of water passing by that would fuel the grist mill. On weekends, you can actually take the kids to this site, located just 70 yards west of the Equestrian Campground for a super-cool interactive exhibition. Other activities here that you can access include an archery range, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, biking, hunting and even snowmobiling.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Should you get tired of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or on-board RV mini-fridge, then you are in luck as with in the nearby town of Franklin Grove, given its very small population of just slightly more than 1,000 souls shouldn’t have many restaurants (let alone stop lights), but thankfully for your sake, it does. Apart from the Casey’s gas station, which actually serves up some pretty awesome pizza believe it or not, there’s 3 proper restaurants all serving ‘down home Midwestern comfort food’ that are each pretty delectable: Lincoln Way Café, Rooney’s and Rev on 38; (2) If you are looking to explore a slice of history in these parts and the grist mill just isn’t your thing, head due west to Dixon where you can go explore the boyhood home of Ronald Reagan. There’s also nearby Chaplin Creek Historic Village featuring an old salt box farmhouse as well as a one room school, which will take you back to the late 1800s before the world knew modernization and technology; (3) Although the trail hiking at Franklin Creek State Natural Area are very good, should you be on the hunt for much more challenging trail hiking or biking, then head on over to either White Pines Forest State Park or Castle Rock State Park, both of which are only about a 20 minute drive from here and offer very large areas to explore; (4) Should you come with kayak or canoe and are looking for some good challenging currents to get some excellent oar-rowing in, you will struggle to find that here at Franklin Creek State Natural Area, so I highly recommend towing your watercraft over to the banks of the Rock River where you will be richly rewarded; and (5) When you are ready to book this particular equestrian campground, just go to the IL SP site to book it: https://camp.exploremoreil.com/location/221.

    Happy Camping!

  • Addison G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    Awesome choice for campers on a budget

    These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There’s some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night. Bathrooms could’ve been cleaner but we were grateful for the facility which doubled as a storm shelter. There’s indoor showers and bathrooms. There are also cabins at this campsite, not sure on pricing tho

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    Fine camping in Northern Illinois

    We stayed in the Turner lake south loop, which has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites. Fox den and Prairie view loops are nice as well with mostly primitive sites. Be aware that the map on www.ExloreMoreIL,com(where you make your reservations) doesn't show where the restrooms are. In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61. Facilities are clean and well lit. Fire pits are slightly raised steel troughs with a heavy adjustable grill. This is a BIG park, the campgrounds are two miles from the front gate, and it's a drive to the main boat launch at Maple Grove, where you have access to the Fox River and Grass lake. This location has a huge parking lot for boat trailers, a very well stocked general store with fishing supplies, a cafe, boat rentals and good firewood. To get away from the crowd if you're a canoeist or kayaker it's nicer to leave the park and go back in at Oak Point picnic area and boat launch at the northern border. This will put you on the Fox river with developments to the north(including a bar& grill) or to the south which is all nature. I think the distance by boat between the two launches is 4-5 miles, but I'm not sure, Halfway there you'll meet up with the Goldfinch trail which is the shortest loop and the most diverse in term of flora. There are horse/ snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground. Chain o' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season. We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October, so I can't tell you how crowded, but the vast number of picnic areas must be there for a reason. An odd thing is that you can hear a Steam Train whistle quite often, this is from Richardson's Adventure Farm in Spring Grove. We don't have kids so we went to Stade's Farm& Orchard(which is also large and kid friendly) because they have an orchard and vegetable market. One last thing, the gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark:)

  • Julia B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    Nice lake

    The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car. The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all rvs. The boat launch to the fox river was nice too but it does get busy.

  • Abbe W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Lovely Pine Forest, Quiet, Clean Campground

    Stayed one night (Friday) and really enjoyed the location. We were in the quiet loop, Loop 1, which actually was very quiet. Everyone was respectful of the rules. We did walk over to the other loops where there was more of a party atmosphere at some sites with larger groups, music, and kids. 

    The sites in Loop 1 are varied as far as tree coverage, seclusion, and terrain.  Our site (22) was relatively flat, felt secluded, had good tree coverage with some filtered sunlight. The pit toilets are about 3 sites away, a short walk. There is room for two tents.

    There was a posting about black bear sightings in the area. We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds.

  • Rebecca C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    Not well maintained

    We have a 30 amp trailer. When we got there, the electricity wasn't working. It was 93° on a Saturday. 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 but then ultimately told us it was our trailer. We had to rent a motel for the night because we couldn't even pull out the slide or anything. This was after spending about 6 hours pulling apart all the electrical in the trailer. Went to camping world the next day just for us to use their plugs and it was fine. We thought maybe it was our cord so we bought a new one and still nothing. We called the Rangers again who came to look at it. Told us that the park was just so old that it probably couldn't keep up and moved us to a 50 amp sight. The 30 amp plug there would work for about 2 mins and then would keep tripping again. So we ended up having to go back to camping world to get an adapter to use the 50 amp. Wasted about 30 hours of our trip over their electrical not being updated and they knew that. Tried to reach out to get the first night reimbursed since we literally couldn't even stay there or use our trailer. Was told we had to come back the next day to speak to the head ranger, came back and he wasn't there again. Was told he would call us two different times and never got a call. Will never stay here again.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Mar. 14, 2024

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    So close to home

    We camp here at least 5 times a year. It’s only 8 miles from our home. Many trails and not to expensive. They have sites with electric and sites just for tents. The only negative is no drinkable water. Tons of trails, fishing and even a swimming pond.

  • Justin G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Oct. 22, 2023

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    Fall Getaway

    A perfect spot for a weekend trip. We stayed in the White Oak area and used our tent. This location was close to the shower house (which could have been a little bit cleaner but still usable). There are plenty of scenic photo opportunities especially during the fall season.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Oct. 17, 2023

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    Campground Jackpot in Northern Illinois

    For whatever reason you find yourself up here in northern Illinois, whether just entering the Land of Lincoln or fleeing to the 'nation of cheese curds' to the north (a.k.a. Wisconsin) – only 10 minutes from this natural outcrop by the way – be sure to stop by this multi-campus nature preserve camping outpost. With more than 3,000 acres of wetlands, tall grasses and protected forest preserves, Rock Cut SP packs a punch from a camping perspective as it offers up so much in such a concise area of land that has Pierce Lake perfectly placed in its center. 

    The biggest problem you are likely to encounter here is exactly which of the 7 (yes, I just said 7!) campgrounds to stay at: Staghorn, Prairie View, Plum Grove, Hickory Hills, White Oak, Equestrian or Youth Group. And if 7 campgrounds aren’t enough, there’s also a single rustic cabin with electricity (mind you, no running water or even a bathroom) you can rent as well as 3 other smaller, really intimate primitive camping spots (that are actually my favorite) with the following names: Hawk, Crow and Owl, which sit along the same lane opposite the Youth Group campground on this eastern stretch just due north of the lake.  Over here, you'll also see the boat launch area.

    For this particular review, I will focus my efforts on detailing Staghorn, which is the second campground (with the first campground you pass by being Prairie View) you will come across after entering Rock Cut SP from its northernmost entrance, with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east. Once you enter the park, you will follow the long winding nicely paved roadway until you begin seeing the signs highlighting where to go for the various campgrounds. Once you access this road, you’ll come across a small building with a smiling SP ranger inside where you will register, after which, you will pass by a designated dump station before coming around a small bend where you will take your second right (careful: taking that first right will have you driving into Staghorn the wrong way!). 

    The sites begin with #300 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 for just about any RV or 5th Wheel. You will note that the odd numbered sites are on the exterior while the even numbered sites are located on the interior of the loop. There are two his / her restrooms located at Staghorn with the first being placed behind the campground host sites (#302 and#304) at the beginning of the loop, while the second is strategically placed towards the end of the loop behinds sites #324 and #326. At the end of the loop there is also a designated trash area just past site #331. To access the shower, you will need to go back to the main road and hike it down the road with your towel and toiletries, which makes the latter sites (#318+) more attractive for their convenient location to the bathhouse (if that’s important to you). 

    As far as amenities go, Rock Cut SP offers up an awful lot (if the 7 campgrounds weren’t enough to help you arrive at that conclusion). In addition to all of the camping options, of course, one of the greatest assets here is the very massive Pierce Lake, which is great for fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming. In the Staghorn campground specifically, in addition to restroom and waste disposal, you’ll also have access to running water spigots at each site along with running electric. A single amphitheater is located centrally just past the camp store and before reaching the Hickory Hills campground. While I'm at it, this camp store in the middle of Rock Cut SP is just decent (not amazing) and offers up ice, firewood, ice cream, snacks, games, limited groceries and a number of other sundries you might need while camping. In all, there are 5 shelters that have electricity, water and restrooms nearby, with each shelter available by reserving them well in advance. Two of the shelters (Red Oak and Puri Crest) also have children’s playgrounds nearby. To launch your watercraft, you’ll have to head south to Hickory Hills campground where on the eastern side of this area you’ll be able to find the boat launch. To make a reservation either to camp or rent out a shelter, you’ll have to visit the ExporeMoreIL site to make a reservation. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) IMHO the best sites here in Staghorn are those that are positioned on the exterior of the loop and located furthest from the main road, for the obvious reasons being less traffic, less noise and more privacy. As such, odd-numbered sites from #301 to #319 are the best spots as they deliver peace & quiet, privacy and thus an intimate nature experience; (2) Once you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your onboard RV fridge, fret not, and just head out of the park where you will find a handful of dining options, including: Tom& Jerry’s, Fresh Start Café, Waffle Shop, Golden Chopsticks Buffet, Sunrise Family Restaurant, Beef-A-Roo (in fact, there’s like 4 of these that the park is surrounded by, so apparently they are very popular), but one of my absolute favorites is Pig Minds Brewery Company, which is, surprisingly, a Vegan joint, but one nonetheless that you can grab a number of seriously astonishingly awesome brews; (3) If you are on the prowl to see some of the most amazing animals that call northern Illinois their home, then you’ve hit the wild animal jackpot with easy viewing of white-tailed deer, red foxes, raccoons, squirrels, opossums, woodchucks and beavers; (4) But because there are so many wild animals out here, be sure to keep your domesticated pets on a leash (as its a requirement here at Rock Cut SP); and (5) If you would like to experience a bit of Illinois history, you could go for a nice long drive to the northwest corner of Illinois where you can experience Galena or if you don’t have enough time for that, then just head south of Rock Cut SP to check out Midway Village Museum. 

    Happy Camping!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Aug. 19, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Nice tent/bike camping

    Rode my bicycle for an overnight test run. I stayed in the primitive tent area. There are 5 wooded and 5 prairie sites. There is water and vault toilets by the tent area and flush toilets a 3 minute walk into the RV area.

    As noted in other reviews, I heard 3 trains between 10 pm and 6 am. Otherwise no other excessive noise issues. Tent area was very quiet.

    Staff was also very pleasant and helpful.

  • Grayson H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Jul. 28, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    INCREDIBLE

    Amazing and friendly staff, beautiful grounds, and very well kept. There are mainly RVs and campers but we brought our little tent and were welcomed with open arms. The price is perfect whether you’re a resident of the area or not. There’s options for everyone. 10/10 would recommend!!!

  • Dan W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhorn Campgrounds
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Elkhorn Campgrounds

    Trip #2- Post Malone

    Campsite 65- Rita, the mgr/owner, returned call to assist in selecting a site. The outer lanes had shade, while our site was in the middle open area. Easy access to electric and/or water. If unsure, contact office. Site, restrooms, and showers were clean. There are a lot of sites but still felt like there was ample space. Great location to visit Lake Geneva (~8mi.) or see a concert at Alpine Valley (~20 min). There’s a shuttle from the campground (outer sites near racetrack.). You pay for the shuttle through Lakeshore shuttle. This weekend had their annual Ribfest. Great food and music that you can walk to from your site (~2 min walk). Due to the fest, there was some late noise, but nothing obnoxious. Definitely recommend as a home base for area fun, music, shopping, and restaurants.

  • Dan W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    Trip #1 (Camper life begins)

    Campsite 201- spot was nice with plenty of space behind us along the woods. Camp store just 100 ft away. Park was very nice. Lake was great. Rented kayak for $20/hr. Has a dump station and water hookup just inside the entrance past the office. Area construction didn’t affect experience for camping, but did not allow you to hike around the entire lake. Overall, nice campground for a relaxing weekend.

  • Bob C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Jul. 10, 2023

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    Overnighter

    Our first trip out with our pop up was to the local state park. We were pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was. Bathrooms were meh. Some sites had good shade, but many had very little. Our site was okay, but friends across the road had no shade.

  • Darcy M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Jul. 5, 2023

    Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Clean, quiet and great hiking!

    I camped for two nights in Loop 1, site 21 (24-hour quiet enforced - no pets or speakers allowed). My site was pretty open, but still had nice shade and flat areas for my tent. I also hung a hammock and clothesline and had plenty of space to move about!

    Five stars for the camp hosts -- so friendly and they keep the campground very clean! You can also get firewood and ice from the camp hosts, so extra points for convenience!

    Hiking at Scuppernong and the Ice Age Trail are both accessible from the group camping area and/or near the showers, depending on which trails you are accessing. 

    Firepits were cleaned out daily, so no soggy ashes or smoky fires :)

    You could hear a bit of road noise, especially motorcycles and heavy trucks, but nothing crazy. There are also several hike-to sites that are nice as well.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground
    Jun. 5, 2023

    Hansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground

    Yippee-Ki-Yay Working Ranch Campground

    If you fancy pitching a tent or parking your RV for the night in an actual horse / farming working ranch environment, which puts you quite close to some pretty amazing river kayaking, somewhat challenging, yet scenic hiking all in a fairly historic area of north central Illinois, then Hansen’s Hideaway may just be the spot for you. Located a good 15 to 20 minutes southwest from downtown Oregon, in 1962 Bill & Evelyn founded Hansen’s Hideaway, which is comprised of 100 or so acres of rich farmland and pastures where you’ll see a good swath of horse roaming freely. Out here, there’s nothing to obstruct your pretty amazing view of the Midwest moonlit sky, apart from the handful of red barns and scattered Oaks that will provide you plenty of shade during a hot, sunny summer afternoon. 

    As for the campground, you’ll first look for a sign pointing you to Hansen’s Hideaway while you are driving west on S Harmony Road – and when you see the sign, you’ll want to head due south, passing a few houses, until you will have no other choice but to follow the bend in the road, which immediately reveals the main office at Hansen’s Hideaway. You’ll pass underneath one of those oversized wooden ‘OK Corral’ ranch gates that welcomes visitors to Hansen’s Hideaway, which is a nice touch. The office itself is quite homey with a wood-burning furnace, a number of comfy sofa chairs to sit in along with the check-in desk. The front office also serves as a bit of a market store, although there is not a whole lot here for sale. 

    Additional amenities here at Hansen’s Hideaway include: game room / video game arcade, horseshoe pits, covered pavilions with picnic tables, firewood & ice available for sale, designated dumping station, snack bar, fairly decent restroom and shower facilities, kid’s playground, water and electric hook-ups (no sewage lines to speak of) as well as scattered picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills. The ‘crown jewel’ amenity at this camping ranch is the man-made swimming pond with a small little beachhead encircling it, which the kids will love. And while you could pitch a tent here, to be fair, this is definitely more of an RV countryside outpost. There are two primary ‘neighborhoods’ or loops here, with the first being just past the main building where you would have checked in at, while the second is further afield and requires you to veer to your left just before reaching the pond and driving about 100 years before reaching 2 oval loops that have RV slots around the perimeter. In all, there’s about 40 slots for RVs in both of these two designated outposts. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) I think the name ‘Hideaway’ is fairly accurate here, as you will find that you are very far away from just about everything, which is great if your goal is to commune with nature, but this also means that you should come prepared with everything you may need during your stay; (2) While there are 2 different neighborhoods to consider parking your RV, the area closest to the main office is definitely the one that is more congested, with sites being quite close to one another and given that the main office as well as the swimming pond are in the vicinity, of the areas to choose from, this is definitely the busier of the two, although it does provide you quicker and closer access to the amenities; (3) If hiking is on the agenda then you should definitely check out nearby George B. Fell Nature Preserve and Lowden-Miller Forest, both of which have some easy-to-medium trails to hike; (4) Should you coming towing watercraft, I would hightail it over to Castle Rock State Park, where on the bend of the Rock River (just look for the overlook signs) there’s a very decent kayak launch that you can depart from and which will take you down river; (5) If you’d like to take to the water in style (and have a good meal at the same time), then check out Maxson Restaurant & Riverboat, which will provide you with an AMAZING view of the Oregon area, but on the river, all while you are throwing some strong martinis back to wash down all that Saturday night prime rib special!; and (6) If you don’t have your sea legs about you and would rather stay on land while trying out the local fare and don’t mind a short 20 or so minute drive back to civilization, I would recommend the deep fried pork tenderloin sandwich with natural cut French fries all while slurping down the chocolate cake shake at Jay’s Drive-In, the Fettucine Rose pasta with shrimp and the most amazing Sauvignon Blanc in the world at La Vigna or fried anything (chicken, catfish, cod, wings, oreos) at Messie’s Bar & Grill in Oregon. 

    Happy Camping!

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    May. 19, 2023

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    Great site

    First time camping at Rock Cut State Park. Sites are spaced out well enough to provide privacy. Close to biking and hiking trails. Add bonus for EV owners, electricity is included in most sites so bring the travel charger.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    May. 19, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Nice Suburban Campground

    The campground has nicely spaced sites. If others think these sites are close, they haven’t been to campground with close sites. There is a train next to the campground that runs once a day, but it is before 10pm. The rules say you cannot take any plants or animals whether dead or alive from the forest preserve and campground. There is a limit to the length of stay for all campers, except for the six campground attendants, of 14 days in a 21 day period.

  • Kytharah L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    May. 12, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Not for serious campers

    This is definitely more of a rest area than a campground. All the sites are pretty tightly packed, was awoken by a toddler screaming across from us like it was being murdered for about an hour at 6 am. Relaxing. They do have flush toilets as well as vaults that were both kept fairly clean. Firewood is a scam. Spent an hour collecting dead, dry, fallen wood OFF THE TRAIL(NOT out of the woods), only to have it taken because they sell wood. But the wood they DO sell was knotty and not dried well enough and couldn't get half of it to burn well at all. Basically, don't come here for an actual camping experience, because it will not be what you're expecting.

  • Joseph B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Dec. 19, 2022

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    Ok for an overnight stay

    The sites were separated pretty well.

    Our site was not very level, the gravel area (pad) was washed away and needed some repairs.

    Decent bathrooms, about 100yds from site.



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