Campgrounds surrounding Peru, Illinois cluster along the Illinois River Valley, offering varied camping experiences within 15 miles of town. The region includes established sites like Starved Rock State Park Campground with tent, RV, and cabin options, plus the highly-rated Starved Rock Family Campground where wooded sites provide natural separation between campers. Visitors seeking additional accommodations can explore Lasalle/Peru KOA which offers boat-in access alongside traditional drive-in sites, or Pleasant Creek Campground featuring tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping yurts.
Most campgrounds in the area remain open from spring through fall, though seasonal availability varies. Starved Rock Campground operates year-round while nearby Pleasant Creek Campground typically opens from April 15 to October. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when Illinois River Valley attractions draw significant tourism. Many sites feature full hookups with 50-amp electric service, water connections, and dump stations for RVs, while tent campers will find designated areas with fire rings and picnic tables. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though coverage may diminish in some canyon areas. According to one visitor, Starved Rock State Park provides "nicely wooded and picturesque" sites "similar to northern Wisconsin" despite being "not far off the highway."
The Illinois River shapes the camping experience throughout the region, with several locations offering river views or direct water access. Campgrounds near Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks provide convenient bases for exploring their hiking trails, canyons, and waterfalls. Review insights highlight the contrast between busier campgrounds near major attractions and more secluded options. Campers frequently mention the ability to access hiking trails directly from campsites, particularly along the I&M Canal corridor that parallels the Illinois River. The proximity to small towns like Utica offers additional amenities while maintaining a rural atmosphere. One reviewer noted that Illini State Park campground provides "a great river view" along with "clean bathrooms" and "plenty of trees to hammock" despite occasional weather challenges.
$25 - $35 / night
"Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn’t expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"
"Beautiful Starved Rock is Illinois's favorite state park. Hiking through forests along the Illinois River to canyons and waterfalls with eagles soaring overhead."
"Within LaSalle County or for that matter, the whole of north central Illinois, I don’t know of any other privately run, multi-campground locations like Pleasant Creek that offers a total of 6 separate,"
"There is a nice pavilion, a game room/club house, basketball court, fishing pond, firewood for sale, and a few short trails."
"Everything in the campground is within walking distance. They have a dishwashing sink and garbage cans every 30-50 feet. Convenient. Bathrooms and showers are super clean. Recommend for sure."
"It’s adjacent a large field so you do get some wind and the occasional sound of farm equipment…but there’s a lot of nice spots."
"Located here in the heart of north central Illinois, where you can very easily get lost in the golden hue of sweet corn or the dizzying amounts of drilled bean fields, there’s a special quiet that exists"
"No water hookup but spigot nearby. No sewer hookup but dump station on-site.
So fun to hike and explore a series of canyons along the Illinois River."
$30 - $125 / night
"Just outside and behind this main building, you’ll discover a rather large, covered pavilion which is great for larger groups or for anyone wanting to picnic under some shade. "
$29 / night
"Before we begin, let me share 3 things with you: (1) I love camping, preferably primitive camping where I get to pitch my tent, leaving the comforts of modern civilization behind in the hopes of returning"
"One such place, an oasis of tranquility and beauty nestled in the Illinois wilderness, is the Kayak Starved Rock Campground."
$12 - $55 / night
"Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view."
"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."
$10 / night
"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 abounds in this particular Illinois"
"to hike during the day and the friendly on-site ranger made a call over to nearby Starved Rock SP to secure me a camping spot over there, so not all was lost. "
$6 / night
"A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."
"You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you’re looking for privacy this is it. There aren’t toilets tho or running water.."
$129 - $499 / night
"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"
"The owner of the facility definitely pays attention to details and keeps the location nice and updated."
ScoutIt’s a nice place river views, even beaches at the river a path in the woods that are also 4 wheel paths lots of fun there. The bad part is there water is bad not even reg rv filters last one day. My white shower when I left was orange I was there for 4 days. Everyone is laid back no hurry to do anything
LegendTucked along Pine Creek within the beautiful White Pines Forest State Park, Fox Canyon Youth Campground offers group-oriented camping amidst towering white pine groves and woodland trails. This Class B/S campground accepts families and youth groups predominantly with tent sites in mind with just a few electric hookups available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are easily made through ExploreMoreIL™, and the campground features limited amenities like a shared restroom (without showers) and potable water stations. Located a short drive from the main loop, Fox Canyon brings the creek and the forest straight to your tent door.
Camping here feels peaceful and rustic, with sprawling forest scenes, quiet pine-shaded groves and the occasional creek-side birdsong. The youth camping area naturally encourages camaraderie, group activities and nature exploration and while not necessarily ‘big, wide-open, wild wilderness,’ but rather a beautiful, forested retreat with functional infrastructure intact. Nearby, you’re only minutes from classic park features like the CCC-built lodge, picnic areas, trails and those iconic creek fords that make arrivals feel like outdoor-grade mini adventurers.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) For a solid group setup, position yourselves beside Pine Creek as it is both scenic and ideal for activity hubs; (2) Bring all your water containers full or you’ll need to fetch from communal hydrants, which I would suggest bringing a filter; (3) Be sure to walk the nearby accessible trail or the Pine Creek ford as it’s easy, beautiful and a talk-starter for younger campers; (4) Keep an eye on weather and creek levels as during heavy rains, the fords close and the campground may become cut off; (5) Post-camp meal? Visit the park’s rustic lodge restaurant for its Friday Night Fish Fry or Saturday Night Prime Rib specials otherwise order up the signature meatloaf or chicken fried steak during the week otherwise, you’ll need to drive a bit further afar for decent grub, where I recommend a stop in nearby Polo at either Dad’s Bar & Brill (aka Pinecricker Café) or the Dogwood Inn.
Happy Camping!
LegendSet on a serene 105-acre site perched above the Illinois River valley, Great Oaks Camp delivers an atmosphere of peaceful serenity blended with purposeful programming. First impressions are warm and welcoming with well-kept grounds, cabins, tent camping spots and lodges arranged thoughtfully, with a sense of intentional space that beckons people to settle in, reflect and connect.
The facility includes multiple lodging options for larger groups including Poplar Lodge that sleeps up to 60 guests across four dorm rooms, complete with a small kitchen and a fireside meeting room with TV/DVD. Hickory Lodge houses 20 people with two dorm rooms, couches and its own meeting area. Stafford Chapel offers two cabins sleeping up to 20 campers each, plus a large multipurpose room equipped for presentations. Eagle Nest and Turkey Roost cabins offer 16–20 beds in comfortable bunk setups, ideal for combined retreats. All buildings are heated and air-conditioned, with fully equipped bathrooms and showers.
Group activities are abundant and included at no additional charge. You can access archery, canoeing, paddle boats, fishing, disc golf, swimming, basketball, sand volleyball, Gaga ball, hiking, field games, high ropes, paintball, challenge initiatives and even an escape room. Meeting spaces like Pine Tree Lodge (with its commercial kitchen) ensure that meals are satisfying and communal. Free firewood is provided too.
Insider Tips? Here you go: (1) For large groups, consider reserving Poplar Lodge and Stafford Chapel together, offering both comfort and flexible meeting space; (2) If your group enjoys outdoor challenges, the high ropes course and escape room are standout features and make for great group bonding; (3) Pine Tree Lodge is ideal for meal prep or rainy-day hangouts as it’s got a commercial kitchen, card tables, and plenty of room; (4) Bring athletic gear as even casual games are covered: disc golf, volleyball, basketball and Gaga ball fields are included; (5) Rates include food, firewood and nearly all activities, which is great for budget planning and simplifying logistics; and (6) For meals outside camp or a short nature walk, consider heading into nearby Lacon where you’ll find a small host of restaurants like Wildey’s Country Diner, Mr. Mike’s Place, FroSmokes Meatery and Rita’s Kitchen & Bar all serving up delectable Midwestern staples.
Happy Camping!
LegendSituated about five miles west of Yorkville in Kendall County, Silver Springs State Fish& Wildlife Area spans over 1,350 acres including the beautiful Silver Springs, two manmade lakes and several miles of Fox River shoreline. Camping here is highly primitive and organized around youth and group backpack sites that offer a peaceful, history-rich wilderness setting. It’s not your typical family campground, but more of a lean-into-nature, group-only campout.
The camping experience here is stripped-down with no vehicle access to campsites, no RV hookups and no showers, just ground-based tents in shaded woods along the river. You’ll need to carry in all your gear and water, as this is basic trail-side camping. What you get is serenity, solitude and a tapestry of oak forests, prairie restoration zones and natural spring magic that makes this place feel timeless.
What really sets this park apart is its raw connection to landscape and wildlife. The spring itself bubbles a clear, cold pool that doesn’t freeze in winter, offering a shimmering focal point amid oaks and prairie grasses. Beyond that, the park offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing on Loon & Beaver Lakes as well as the Fox River, plus a robust network of trails stretching 4 miles for hikers and 7 miles for horseback riders. In winter, you can even ice-skate or cross-country ski weather permitting (read: wait for the snow to fall and the water to freeze over).
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you hadn’t picked up on it already, bring everything you need as this is primitive camping to the max with no potable water or facilities at campsites; (2) The spring is a must-see and I would encourage you to visit during sunset when the light turns the waters silvery; (3) You definitely want to plan some trail time hiking near those lake and river paths that are perfect for wildlife viewing and quiet reflection; (4) While you certainly could do solo camping here, this place ideal for organized youth groups or scout trips; (5) While you won’t be able to drive up to your site, there is a decent parking lot that will at least allow you to get pretty close to where you will eventually be camping, so while it will take a handful of trips, depending upon how many people you come with, at least you’ll be able to hike in ¼ mile to the first spot or a ½ mile further in where there are larger group sites; and (6) For groceries or hot meals after camping, head into Yorkville for the nearest comforts with excellent digs like Smokey’s for some authentic BBQ, Crusade Burger Bar for its namesake handhelds and craft beer as well as The Vault, which is a former bank offering up Midwestern comfort food.
Happy Camping!
GuideMay 15-20, 2025
Easy check in, empty on Thursday, site 47 Is full sun and level.
Not much shade in the western sites, plenty of grass, pads are gravel, mostly even. ADA sites are concrete. Site 49 and 51 have some shade. The eastern sites are wooded, narrow and secluded cept for a few near the shower house.
Electric was 20&30amp, newer metal fire pit with adjustable ring. Large wooden table. Pit toilets are ADA compatible, shower house has 2 showers, 2 stalls and urinal. Push button with good pressure and heat.
Cellular, T-Mobile 5G 2 bars outside, 3 bars LTE inside camper.
The Hosts were great, and very helpful. The campground overall is old and could use an upgrade. The toilets, showers, and playground, although the youth area has a newer area for the kids.
The park could use more water fill stations and there are two spots for dumping but only one septic hole. Trash dumpsters are located away from the camping area which makes for a nice walk in the evening.
TravelerWe had a wonderful time around the canal with our main issues being luck. On our first day there we were stalked and approached by some people who seemed to be on drugs, however we moved up the canal to a different campground and all seemed fine afterwards until our fishing poles were stolen at the new spot.
ScoutListed on app as free, but it actually requires a reservation and fee.
LegendBecause of it's layout, you never get a true sense of how big the whole campground is (50 acres). 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).
Depending on the time of year, the creek may not be running, but the fishing pond is always full. Many activities in well maintained areas. It's a new campground and the general store hasn't built up much inventory yet. The firewood is dry and burns well.
Fire pits are basic steel circles, bring your own grill.
There's one central restroom with showers, clean and spacious, but it can be a walk from some areas (long hills too).
There are small cabins for rent and long-term sites are available.
GuideWater was available on my visit 10-7 thru 10-10. The place is clean and well kept, including the pit toilets. Plenty of hiking along the canal and 10 miles away from most stores. Fee is $8 however if you’re an Illinois resident over 62 camping is free Sunday through Thursday nights.
Illinois River Valley camping sites near Peru, Illinois offer campers sites ranging from 450 to 750 feet in elevation. Seasonal weather can challenge campers with swift temperature changes during spring and fall months. Most campgrounds in the region maintain operating seasons from April through October, though some extend to year-round availability depending on weather conditions.
Kayaking the Illinois River: Launch from Kayak Starved Rock Campground for direct river access. "You can anchor and explore this small island– in fact, bring a blanket and picnic basket and make a day of it," suggests a visitor referring to Plum Island. The campground sits directly across from Starved Rock State Park, providing unique views from the water.
Canyon hiking in less crowded areas: Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground offers access to trails with fewer visitors than nearby alternatives. "There exists a combination of EZ, intermediate and difficult hiking and riding paths," notes one reviewer. The park's 5 miles of trails feature interesting limestone formations and seasonal waterfalls.
Wildlife observation: Buffalo Rock State Park provides viewing opportunities for native and introduced species. "Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers. A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk," explains a camper. This smaller park offers river overlooks without the crowds found at larger parks in the region.
River views from campsites: Great Falls Campground at Illini State Park provides direct Illinois River frontage. "We had a nice quiet spot right on the river. With the locks closed this year, the traffic on the river was way down," mentions a reviewer. These riverside sites fill quickly during peak season.
Natural separation between sites: Starved Rock Family Campground maintains good spacing between camping areas. "Sites aren't stacked on top of each other and seem fairly level," states one camper. Another notes, "The site is large enough for a nice dog walk and a very short drive to starved rock."
Off-season camping advantages: Campers report benefits to visiting during less busy periods. "Definitely a very relaxed and clean campground that isn't busy and has really cheap rates for off-season camping. $18 a night for walk-in and we got a 50amp spot right in front of the Illinois river," reports one visitor to Illini State Park.
Water levels affect site conditions: Several campgrounds face occasional flooding challenges. At Pleasant Creek Campground, "A heavy downpour resulted in water up over our ankles all through the site! Thank goodness the tents floated while we hunkered down in our vehicles," warns one camper. Sites along creeks and in lower elevations face highest risk.
Booking requirements vary: Some campgrounds operate on first-come systems while others require advance planning. "Got kicked out cause I didn't have a horse. Even though it was completely empty," reports a visitor to Matthiessen State Park's equestrian campground, highlighting the importance of understanding site restrictions.
Facilities differ widely between parks: Bathroom and shower quality ranges significantly. "The showers on site TRICKLED, not even enough to wash your hair. The sinks constantly run, they don't shut off," notes a camper at Illini State Park. Research facility conditions before arrival, especially for longer stays.
Playground access: Nature's Way RV Park provides dedicated play areas. "Above and beyond this, there's a designated propane refilling station, very well-maintained restroom and shower facilities, basketball court, scattered picnic tables and stand-up BBQ grills, WiFi and cable access, kid's playground, community fire rings," details one visitor.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with pools during summer months. A Pleasant Creek Campground visitor notes, "The kids loved going to the playground and they do have an arcade but other that that there's not much to do. A little creek runs through the campground and you can walk along that."
Starved Rock State Park hiking caution: Trails can challenge younger children. "People get down on Illinois. And I get it. It's a typical Midwest state and it's mostly pretty flat. But...then there's Starved Rock! Easily accessible to most of IL residents, Starved Rock is a great half-day for anyone looking for hiking, waterfalls, and views, views, views!" A visitor recommends: "We enjoyed a quick trail mix snack at the bottom of the steep inclines. Gave the kiddos the energy they needed to make it to the top."
Site selection strategies: At Lasalle/Peru KOA, "The spots are very tight and you have very little room between you and your neighbor. With all the rain this year, many sites flooded during a storm while we camped and they had to be moved to other areas that were not actual sites," reports one RVer. Request higher elevation sites when possible.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times. "The dump station was also up a one way in/out hill. You had to make a tight U-turn coming down from your site to get up to it. Plan on going early otherwise you're going to get stuck on the hill waiting…even after you finished dumping," advises a Pleasant Creek Campground visitor.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation. At Starved Rock Family Campground, "When we checked in, we just got a map and no rules or information sheet. Their rules etc. are on their website." Another visitor at Pleasant Creek notes, "To get up to the sites, it's a one way up and down road. Hopefully no one else is coming the opposite direction."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find tent camping near Peru?
For tent camping near Peru, Illinois, Starved Rock Campground offers a nicely wooded setting with a scenic atmosphere reminiscent of northern Wisconsin. The campground provides a quiet experience not far from the highway. Another excellent option is Great Falls Campground in Illini State Park, where you'll find plenty of trees for hammocking and beautiful river views. The campground's natural setting makes it popular among tent campers looking to connect with nature while still having access to basic amenities.
What amenities are available at Peru campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Peru offer varied amenities to suit different camping styles. Channahon State Park Campground provides access to the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail, making it perfect for cyclists. For RVers, Millpoint Park features spacious, well-distanced campsites along the Illinois River with many sites offering river views. Most area campgrounds provide clean restrooms, while state parks typically include shower facilities. Some private RV parks offer additional amenities like full hookups and dump stations. For those needing just an overnight stop, several parking options exist at local businesses with level parking areas.
What camping is available near Peru, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Peru, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 95 campgrounds and RV parks near Peru, IL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Peru, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Peru, IL is Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 100 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Peru, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Peru, IL.
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