Best Glamping near Topeka, IL

Sankoty Lakes in Spring Bay and Springfield KOA in Rochester provide upscale glamping options with distinctive accommodations for travelers seeking comfort in nature without sacrificing modern conveniences. At Springfield KOA, deluxe glamping cabins include comfortable beds with linens, climate control, and private outdoor spaces, while Sankoty Lakes features luxury canvas tents with raised platforms and fully-furnished interiors. Both locations offer electrical hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site, with shower facilities nearby for added convenience. Carl Spindler Campground in East Peoria also provides glamping options with waterfront views of the Illinois River. "The campground is very well maintained and right on the Illinois river. The view of Peoria at night is beautiful," one visitor noted.

Waterfront glamping at Carl Spindler creates opportunities for fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing without leaving the property. Many units are positioned for optimal sunset views over the Illinois River with Peoria's skyline twinkling in the distance after dark. Crazy Horse Campground in Ashland maintains seasonal glamping availability from April through October, with proximity to hiking trails and local attractions. The resort-style camping experience includes community fire pits, playgrounds for children, and access to stocked fishing ponds. Millpoint Park in East Peoria adds another luxury outdoor stay option with glamping accommodations that include electrical and water hookups. A recent visitor mentioned, "This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, providing quick access to a fresh body of water."

Best Glamping Sites Near Topeka, Illinois (11)

    1. Kentuckiana Campground

    7 Reviews
    Mackinaw, IL
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 449-3274

    "When Unhitching if there is anyone waiting to drive by, you feel kind of rushed. Don’t let it make you forget wheel chocks or something important. They have a nice pond."

    "We stayed here last year and will likely stay there again this year when we are back in Illinois. The park has two sides, one side closer to the stage."

    2. Carl Spindler Campground

    11 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 699-3549

    "is formed where Upper Lake Peoria meets the Illinois River."

    "Along the Illinois River. Includes showers and laundry house."

    3. Millpoint Park

    16 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 231-6497

    $18 - $100 / night

    "Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing"

    "This place has beautiful views of illinois river. Nice sized campsites. Everything was clean and well taken care of! Not a lot of amenities, however that isn’t what camping is all about!"

    4. Crazy Horse Campground

    5 Reviews
    Jacksonville, IL
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 886-2089

    "Fire pit. AT&T wireless service. Every weekend has an event. Bluegrass to crafts. Right outside of Jacksonville, Ashland, Virginia, and close enough to Springfield."

    "It is family and pet friendly. The owners are fantastic, friendly and caring. They keep the grounds in great shape and always have fun activities to participate in."

    5. Spring Lake Park - Macomb

    8 Reviews
    Macomb, IL
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 833-2052

    "Friendly staff. Kayak and Pontoon to rent. Trails go all over the entire park! Clean showering facilities. Our furnished cabin faced the lake it was an incredible view. "

    "Miles of trails. Staff and caretakers keep the trails extremely clean. Excellent views of the large lake the trails go around."

    6. Deer Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    Lincoln, IL
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 786-4873

    "Near the back you can camp right alongside the river. Amenities are minimal, there are just port-a-potties for restrooms but they are very clean."

    7. Riverside Park

    3 Reviews
    Sherman, IL
    37 miles
    +1 (217) 546-4103

    $20 - $50 / night

    "We were looking for somewhere last minute on the 4th of July and we were welcomed here. All RV/ camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses."

    "Lots of fun trails with great views! Most trails are accessible from the parking area. Good for pictures at sunrise and sunset!"

    8. Springfield KOA

    9 Reviews
    Rochester, IL
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 498-7002

    "No trains, no interstate noise. It was great after a long day traveling. Bathrooms/showers are very clean& decorated nicely. Staff was courteous. Our site was fine."

    "Lots of wonderful signs directing you to the campground once you exit the interstate. Secluded. Quite. Not crowded, even when it's full."

    9. Schuy

    2 Reviews
    Timewell, IL
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (217) 322-6628

    "There are some hiking trails and pavilions and a softball field. There’s a stage they sometimes have plays and bands."

    "Friendly staff, clean restroom & showers. Will definitely stay here again."

    10. Sankoty Lakes

    2 Reviews
    Mossville, IL
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 570-1111

    $59 - $89 / night

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Recent Glamping Photos near Topeka, IL

78 Photos of 11 Topeka Campgrounds


Glamping Reviews near Topeka, IL

65 Reviews of 11 Topeka Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 26, 2024

    Carl Spindler Campground

    Waterfront Camping Bliss with City View

    This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water that is formed where Upper Lake Peoria meets the Illinois River. For campers who want to get away from it all, while still being within close driving distance to civilization, Carl Spindler offers the convenience of a nearby major city (Peoria) while still providing a decent escape for some rest & relaxation within a fairly decent vicinity to nature. The best part about this lakefront getaway – apart from the incredibly cheap prices for an overnight stay – was hands down, the very friendly staff who offer up everyone a very strong dose of Midwestern hospitality.

    This pet-friendly CG offers a lot of amenities including: FHUs featuring electric, water and sewage as well as playground, community fire pit, restroom and shower facility that are in pretty good (not pristine) condition, laundry, fresh tap water, boat launch, 2 dump stations, WiFi (although very poor connection) and a beachhead. All sites are very level here and come with a picnic table, fire ring and electric, while a good number of the RV slots have a combination of electric amp options in addition to water and sewage hook-ups. At the marina, you can purchase ice, small sundries and camping supplies and / or simply use this spot to launch your boat, kayak or canoe from. There’s also options to rent a slip, store your boat and / or trailer for the winter. There’s even a deluxe cabin to rent in case you don’t have a tent or RV.

    While most of Carl Spindler is designed more for the RV-driving or 5th Wheel toting kind – and to be honest, some of these look like longer-term residents and / or traveling professionals – offering up some 55 individual slots (some of which I would definitely describe as ‘very snug’), this outfit does provide 2 different options for decent camp sites with me tent pitchin’ bredren in mind, both of which sit right in front of the Illinois River. In these areas, and actually for the entire campground, there’s not much (if any) shade, tree cover or brush that contributes to an overall lack of privacy – so whatever your activities might be, you and your camping brood will be on full display to the rest of the campground. At least if you chose to set up your tent over in the primitive camping area, this area is still pretty underdeveloped (for now), so over in these parts, you’ll have a greater feeling of solitude, peace & quiet.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’d like to knock some pins down while slurping some delicious local cold brew, head on over to Landmark Bowling Center; (2) Should you be looking for some decent trails to hike check out nearby Powerton Lake State Park; (3) You will want to time your sundowners correctly, because if you do, you’ll be sipping Mai Tais leaning back in your camp chair listening to some Amy Winehouse watching the sun set in the west over the Illinois River as the twinkling stars come out to shine their brightest all with a crackling bonfire keeping you warm and lit on a gorgeous Midwestern night; (4) While I always pack a long 100 foot electrical cord for all of my electricity needs, I’ve never had to use it, except here, where the electrical outlet in the primitive tent camping area is shared by all 4 sites and ours was the furthest away – so we got lucky; and (5) In the event that you grow weary of conjuring up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or onboard mini-fridge and want to check out some local flavor, there’s a handful of options, but all will require a bit of a drive, of which I highly recommend Avanti’s Ristorante for their excellent pizza and Italian subs, the Blue Duck BBQ Tavern for outstanding smoked brisket and Obed & Issacs Microbewery for the finest local taps as well as their signature dish, Kitchen Sink Pie (don’t ask, just order).

    Happy Camping!

  • Brett F.
    Jun. 1, 2021

    Millpoint Park

    Location, location, location!

    We were late reserving a campsite for Memorial Day Weekend. But Don had a spot for us. We are glad we stayed.

    The campground sits along the Illinois River: many campsites face it. It's secluded and quiet. Campsites are spacious and well-distanced.

    There is much to do on site. The campground is situated between a nature preserve with nice walking paths and a beach. There is also an old barge to explore.

    A little further away is Old Mill Vineyard. Well worth the 20 minute drive! The wine and ambiance are very nice. Ask for Ellen.

    The campground only had two restrooms available during our stay. But they were nice. And don't forget your RV water filter! The water here is very rusty.

  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2017

    Carl Spindler Campground

    Good location to downtown Peoria

    If you want to visit Peoria, this is an ideal place to stay. The campground is part of a marina on the Illinois River and not too far from downtown. We wanted to stay here so we could visit the Caterpillar Visitor Center which is totally worth the visit.

    We visited the park in November and since it was the shoulder season the park was not very crowded. The park is open year-round and you will find more seasonal people during the off season. They close most of the park in the winter time which only leaves 22 paved sites available. Otherwise, they offer a mix of paved, full hook-up sites or electric only sites.  Sites that are close to the river have a great view of the skyline at night and if you don’t mind having just electric and being on sand these are great sites. There is a small beach area where you can access the water and a community fire pit which seemed to draw a lot of people in the evening.  

    The park has shower/bath house that was clean as were the laundry facilities. Wifi was non-existent but our Verizon 4G phone and hotspot worked well. We were able to get a decent number of antenna television channels. The roads are paved and easy for us to navigate in our 45’ RV. Our site was paved with a picnic table and fire pit and all the hook-ups worked well.

    We enjoyed the short nature trail that leaves directly from the area. The trail starts off as a boardwalk over an interesting marsh area and then transitions to a primitive trail eventually leading you to the lake shoreline. This was a great walk for our black lab who loves trails and water. Of the four times we walked the trail we only encountered people once. After a heavy rain, the low lying areas of the trail were pretty muddy so wear appropriate shoes. 

    The nice aspects of this park were the location to downtown Peoria, the pretty view of the skyline and the access to water if you want to kayak, fish, or swim. The price of $27/night for full hook-up was a great rate. The downside of this campground is that sites are close and there is a bit of road noise. There are a lot of seasonal people who were up and going to work in the morning which may bother late sleepers but meant for a quiet campground during the day.

  • Rayn C.
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Spring Lake Park - Macomb

    Just lovely so spacious and clean. Gorgeous view of lake from cabins.

    Friendly staff. Kayak and Pontoon to rent. Trails go all over the entire park! Clean showering facilities. Our furnished cabin faced the lake it was an incredible view.  We had fun fishing and sitting by the campfire in the evenings. Overall definitely worth the 5 stars!!!! Thanks Ryan and all of the staff out there! We will revisit soon.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2025

    Millpoint Park

    Waterfront Camping Bliss @ Family-Friendly CG

    Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing a sublime encounter with nature on top of offering direct waterfront sites that will frame one of the most beautiful sunsets as you look west to Peoria during Happy Hour. In all, there’s about 80 sites – all of which are incredibly spacious, unlike a lot of other RV parks – to choose from at Millpoint, where a slow meandering gravel lane will have you navigating around the campground where you’ll take good note of the excellent shade that is provided everywhere.

    From an amenity standpoint, Millpoint Park packs a punch with a combination of back-in and pull-thru sites offering up standard water, sewage and electric hook-ups, relatively new picnic tables and in-ground fire rings as well as a designated dumpster upon exiting the grounds. There’s a fantastic boat launch that will have you fishing, kayaking and experiencing this body of fresh water shortly after you anchor into your spot for the night.  In fact, you don’t even need to get into a boat, by accessing one of 2 small little lakes where you can simply cast a line in from the dock or around the perimeter. The meticulously clean restroom / bath house facility is located near the front adjacent to the main office, where next to this are 3 cabins that can be rented, just in case you forgot your tent or RV. Additionally, there’s decent hiking paths to explore both north and south of the property, with the latter offering up a small beachhead at Funks Run. The place also sells firewood, but if you need anything else, you’ll need to head south towards town where there’s no shortage of shops and restaurants.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you are a tent camper, there’s 3-4 designated areas for primitive camping, but if you’d like something less primitive and with access to water and electricity, then book yourself into one of the 5 designated tent sites: #233-#237, of which I recommend #236 and #237 as they have a small waterfront area flanking the southern perimeter; (2) The water here has a lot of iron in it, so don’t attempt to drink it, but according to the locals, it’s fine to shower in, so I would encourage you to bring a decent amount of bottled water with you; (3) If you haven’t camped out here in central Illinois during the summer, you will want to bring good DEET spray to keep the ticks away as well as hard-core smoke or scent-fused candles that are peppermint, eucalyptus or lavender-scented to keep the gnats at bay; and (4) The owner, Don, is quite possibly one of the most accommodating and friendly campground owners I have ever met– so don’t be shy if you need anything at all during your stay, including a discount to his pizza restaurant.

    Happy Camping!

  • carissa
    Oct. 14, 2020

    Millpoint Park

    Perfect Camp Site

    This place has beautiful views of illinois river. Nice sized campsites. Everything was clean and well taken care of! Not a lot of amenities, however that isn’t what camping is all about! Full hook ups at a reasonable price. Each site also has a picnic table and fire pit. The guy that runs the place is AWESOME! So nice and willing to help with anything you need. This park is close to town, so if anything is needed you are only minutes away. LOVED camping here & will definitely be back :)

  • Leslie G.
    Jul. 14, 2022

    Riverside Park

    Good last minute campground

    We were looking for somewhere last minute on the 4th of July and we were welcomed here. All RV/ camper sites are close to the bath and shower houses. We had electricity and water hookups and a picnic table available. This site is close to a large industrial strip for shopping and restaurants if you don’t want to cook! Also close to the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

  • Cindy H.
    Sep. 16, 2019

    Millpoint Park

    Not a lot of amenities.

    Large sites on Illinois River. FHU. Expensive. No laundry, store, or gas. They do sell firewood, pickup your trash, and have two showers available.

  • Cynthia K.
    Apr. 8, 2021

    Springfield KOA

    Very quiet

    This KOA is in a rural area. The signage to get there was very good, plus we had our GPS to help out. This area is QUIET! No trains, no interstate noise. It was great after a long day traveling. Bathrooms/showers are very clean& decorated nicely. Staff was courteous. Our site was fine. This KOA has many family activities, including a pool, mini golf, jumping pillow& a huge field for the kids to play. Cell service was fine. 

    Only bad thing- While checking in, the lady told me we couldn't use our sewer. She said the whole row was backing up. Since the dump station was also in this line, we couldn't dump. Normally this wouldn't be a problem, but I talked my husband out of dumping when we left the state park we were at because we were going to a KOA with a full hookup site! We camped at Springfield KOA Journey in a Travel Trailer.


Guide to Topeka

Glamping options near Topeka, Illinois combine amenities with natural settings along the Illinois River corridor. The area sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level with terrain characterized by bluffs, forests, and river access points. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-88°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall that can impact campsite conditions.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: At Millpoint Park, campers can fish without leaving the property. "We were able to do some fishing and kayaking. We caught some bluegill, buffalo, and large mouth bass," notes Marie B. The park offers fishing in both the Illinois River and in dedicated fishing areas.

Boat access: Carl Spindler Campground provides direct access to Upper Lake Peoria and the Illinois River. "This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water," reports Stuart K.

Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect camping areas with natural features. "There is a fantastic boat launch that will have you fishing, kayaking and experiencing this body of fresh water shortly after you anchor into your spot for the night... Additionally, there's decent hiking paths to explore both north and south of the property," explains Stuart K. about Millpoint Park.

What campers like

Spacious sites: Kentuckiana Campground offers generously sized camping spots. "Spaces are large enough for our Class A and they are pet friendly," mentions Shelly W. The campground maintains adequate spacing between sites for a more comfortable experience.

Waterfront views: Many glamping locations provide direct views of the Illinois River. "We stayed on 2 huge pull-thru sites with just our 2 tents and we were the only tent campers I saw... Views of the river were great, kindling was plentiful, and it was SO QUIET and peaceful at night!" shares Julie N. about her stay at Millpoint Park.

Family-friendly activities: Crazy Horse Campground offers various recreational options. "Catch and release fishing, small beach area with volleyball. Sites are small but clean. Bath house is clean and well maintained. Live music on the weekend," reports Sarah S. The campground maintains scheduled weekend activities throughout the season.

What you should know

Water quality concerns: Some locations have minerals in their water supply. "Water has a lot of iron so does smell/taste weird," reports Melissa C. about Millpoint Park. This is a common issue in the region, so bringing drinking water is recommended.

Cell service variations: Reception can be inconsistent in the area. "There is no cell/LTE reception out here (Sprint or Verizon). We drove to Casey's for a pizza and got a small cell signal there. If you like to watch movies, I recommend bringing a DVD player since you likely won't be able to stream Netflix," advises Ryan L. about Kentuckiana Campground.

Seasonal availability: Most glamping options in Topeka operate between April and October. "Crazy Horse Campground in Ashland maintains seasonal camping availability from April through October," with Sarah S. noting it's "in the middle of nowhere but only about 20 minutes to the nearest small town."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Spring Lake Park provides facilities for children. "Trails go all over the entire park! Clean showering facilities. Our furnished cabin faced the lake it was an incredible view. We had fun fishing and sitting by the campfire in the evenings," notes Rayn C., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.

Budget-friendly options: Several parks offer affordable glamping experiences. "It's the most reasonably priced campsite that we have found so far," mentions Colleen H. about Spring Lake Park, which offers primitive sites along with more developed options for various budgets.

Entertainment options: Weekend activities provide structured recreation. "Every weekend has an event. Bluegrass to crafts," says Leanne B. about Crazy Horse Campground, making it suitable for families seeking organized activities.

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Springfield KOA provides necessary services for recreational vehicles. "Sites have power and water, you have to go to dump station on the way out as there aren't individual sewers. But there is grass, picnic table and fire ring at every site, trees all around," explains Grace D.

Site conditions: Weather can affect the quality of sites. "Only down fall is there needs to be more rock on the sites, the sites get muddy after a rain!" notes Keith D. about Springfield KOA, suggesting campers should prepare for potential wet conditions.

Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have restricted access. "The RV area is only accessible by driving around the side of the complex and through a neighborhood, and then you have to wait for someone to come open the gate," explains Elizabeth R. about her experience at Sankoty Lakes, indicating that some glamping in Topeka, Illinois may require advance planning for arrival times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Topeka, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Topeka, IL is Kentuckiana Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near Topeka, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 glamping camping locations near Topeka, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.