Camping sites near Wilmington, Illinois feature varied terrain along the Kankakee River with significant seasonal variations. Spring flooding affects riverbank campgrounds from March through May, while summer temperatures typically range between 75-95°F with high humidity. Winter camping remains available at select locations though water services are often winterized between November and April.
What to do
Kayaking along the Illinois River: Kayak Morris offers direct river access where campers can launch from their sites. "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," explains Amanda W. The confluence across the river provides excellent floating opportunities.
Fishing for striped bass: The river convergence near Morris creates prime fishing conditions. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if it's the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M. Fishing licenses required; daily permits available online or at local sporting goods stores.
Cycling on the I&M Canal Trail: Channahon State Park Campground connects directly to the crushed gravel trail. "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," notes Art S. Trail access points located every 5-8 miles along the route.
What campers like
Private, vegetated sites: Potowatomi Campground offers natural separation between campsites. "Spacious sites with lush jungle-like greenery grown in between, which provides perfect privacy. Easy access to water pump," mentions Yang L. Sites in the Hickory Loop, especially numbers 16 and 17, receive praise for their tent-friendly layouts.
Wildlife encounters: The nature center at Kankakee River State Park provides hands-on educational opportunities. "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" shares Linda N. Weekend programs run May through October.
Boat-in camping options: Multiple campgrounds offer water access sites. "Small and hidden right on the Illinois River. Received a free night of camping with a whole day of kayaking which is absolutely recommended," explains Taylor L. about Kayak Morris. Most boat-in sites require reservation 24-48 hours in advance.
What you should know
Spring flooding issues: Low-lying sites can experience significant water accumulation. "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. 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," warns Rita S. about McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water quality challenges. "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day," reports Iryna R. about Leisure Lake Resort.
Roadway noise: Several campgrounds experience traffic disruption. "You can throw a stone and hit a semi driving by to I-80. There's a lot of traffic given the proximity to Chicago. If you're able to sleep with large trucks driving in the background, you'll be fine," notes Iris A. about Martin's Camping Ground.
Tips for camping with families
Riverside play areas: Chippewa Campground provides river access with supervised areas. "Boat ramp is accessible via trail or a short drive away. Another boat ramp about 3 miles downriver makes a gorgeous through-paddle possible," explains Norman V. The river is generally knee-deep near designated entry points.
Site selection strategy: Choose camping spots based on shade and activity space. "Some sites had fewer trees than others and might not be able to accommodate e.g. hammocks, market lights, etc. We picked one with a good setup of surrounding trees," advises Norman V. Sites 14-17 on Osage loop at Potowatomi Campground offer the most open play areas.
Weather contingency planning: Summer storms frequently interrupt camping. "It rained a ton during our trip so we didn't explore much, but would definitely recommend for a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity," notes Emma H. about her stay at Kankakee River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Service limitations: Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort has seasonal restrictions. "No water before 4/15. Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive," states David N. Water connections typically remain offline until mid-April, requiring campers to arrive with full tanks earlier in the season.
Hookup placement challenges: Campsite layouts sometimes require extra equipment. "Sewer connection at our site was technically on neighbors…we had to use extension," reports Beth B. about Martin's Camping Ground. RVers should carry 10-20 foot sewer hose extensions when visiting campgrounds in this region.
Limited longer-term tent options: Many RV parks restrict tent camping duration. "Great place to camp but three day limit with tent. Very disappointed with that and it's three days a month," explains Katelyn G. Most established RV campgrounds allow maximum 3-night tent stays due to local regulations.
