Tent camping near Union, Illinois offers primitive wilderness experiences within woodlands and prairie settings. The area lies in McHenry County where the landscape transitions between glacial moraines and river valleys with elevations ranging from 800-900 feet. Spring camping brings average temperatures of 45-65°F while summer months hover around 70-85°F, with precipitation possible throughout both seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Castle Rock State Park Campground provides boat-in only tent camping along the Rock River, with sites accessible via a two-mile paddle downstream. One visitor noted, "I LOVED this experience. We did an overnight canoe trip through White Pelican rental which I highly recommend! It was a couple hour paddle, plus we made a pit stop at the castle rock overlook."
Hiking nearby trails: The Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center offers extensive trail networks through varied terrain. A camper mentioned, "There are over 640 acres of meadow, forest, and stocked pond. I'm not sure if it's still there, but there used to be a challenging obstacle course up a steep hill, over a wood wall with stations in the woods."
Fishing opportunities: Franklin Creek State Natural Area provides access to freshwater streams with diverse fish species. According to a review, "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While MacQueen Forest Preserve offers secluded sites, other nearby campgrounds maintain similar privacy standards. At Castle Rock State Park Campground, one camper shared, "The sites are primitive, but have tables and fire pits. Since all sites are on the riverbank and there's a state forest across the river, you really do feel like you're away from it all."
Budget-friendly options: Tent camping near Union remains affordable compared to developed campgrounds. A reviewer at Castle Rock noted, "Sites are $6 per nite and each site allows up to 4 adults. There are approximately 9 individual sites and a large group camp site."
Natural sounds and wildlife: Quiet natural environments dominate the camping experience in this region. A visitor described, "At night, we heard screech and barred owls and also observed tons of glow worms hanging out in a small creek that runs into the river. In the morning, the river was bustling with sounds from kingfishers, herons, and flycatchers."
What you should know
Water availability: Most primitive tent camping areas near Union require bringing your own water. At Snug Harbor Inn Campground, located within driving distance, a camper mentioned, "There is a very clean bathroom and bathhouse, freshwater for campers, and some electric tent campsites."
Weather considerations: Spring and fall camping can experience significant temperature fluctuations. Pack appropriate gear for potential overnight lows in the 40s even during summer months.
Reservation systems vary: Most primitive sites operate on first-come, first-served systems with self-registration. One Castle Rock visitor explained, "Sites can not be reserved and are first-come, first-served... A small park-information stand contains the 'permits' that you can purchase on-site and money is collected via the honor system."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options for children: Some locations offer easier access for families with young children. A reviewer at Snug Harbor noted, "The Galapagos tent campsite is elevated and a short distance from the loop road, and has a nice view of the lake. The Box Turtle site is also a bit elevated above the main driveway."
Educational opportunities: KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site provides a gentle introduction to backpacking for families. A visitor shared, "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside."
Preparation for primitive conditions: Ensure children understand bathroom limitations at wilderness sites. Most locations have vault toilets or outhouses only, as one camper at KMSF Shelter 1 noted, "There is an outhouse, but I wouldn't recommend using it."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most primitive tent sites near Union lack RV accommodations. When seeking spots for larger vehicles, consider developed campgrounds like Snug Harbor Inn Campground. A visitor explained, "This is primarily an RV/mobile home campground, but there are some nicely tucked away tent camp sites that I'll recommend later in this review."
Multi-level camping areas: Some campgrounds design their layout to maximize views despite having RVs present. One Snug Harbor camper described, "Nice place in the country but close enough to town to grab all those things we forgot, Like coffee and cups. What a dummy."
Weather protection considerations: RVs seeking shelter from storms should note that tent-focused areas typically lack adequate protection. A Snug Harbor reviewer mentioned, "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food."
