The sandstone canyons and limestone formations near Oglesby, Illinois create a unique camping environment distinct from typical Illinois terrain. Seasonal creek flows affect campsite conditions, with spring offering active waterfalls while summer often sees dry creek beds. Weather patterns can shift quickly, with summer temperatures reaching 85-90°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Kayaking the Illinois River: Kayak rentals available at Kayak Starved Rock Campground, located directly across from Starved Rock State Park. "If you have never sojourned to Starved Rock SP, you're in for a real treat. With more than 13 miles of trails and nearly 20 canyons to trek through, there's no shortage of absolute amazing hiking that awaits you," notes Stuart K. Rentals come with a $10 launch fee even if you bring your own kayak.
Hiking at Matthiessen State Park: Located just 3 miles east of Oglesby, the park offers 5 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. "Great hiking abounds in this particular Illinois SP where there exists a combination of EZ, intermediate and difficult hiking and riding paths," according to Stuart K. The upper bluff trails are easier while interior canyon trails require more skill.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife spotting times. "Occasionally, if you are especially quiet, you'll come across no shortage of white-tailed deer or wild turkeys foraging through the crabapple and plum trees that are scattered throughout the forest," as observed at Matthiessen State Park. Buffalo Rock State Park offers the chance to see actual buffalo in a preserved natural setting.
What campers like
River-front camping sites: Illini State Park offers water-view sites with electric hookups. "We got a 50amp spot right in front of the Illinois river," shares Nick E. These riverfront sites provide excellent morning wildlife viewing opportunities during the spring and early summer.
Swimming options: The in-ground heated swimming pool at Nature's Way RV Park provides relief from summer heat. "The 'crown jewel' asset here is the in-ground heated swimming pool, completely fenced in preventing the young kiddos from straying too far," writes Stuart K. Local swimming holes can also be found in nearby creeks when water levels permit.
Site spacing and privacy: Some campgrounds offer better separation between campers. "The sites up on the hill are nicely spaced out and deep," reports Rodney D. about Pleasant Creek Campground. Most tent-focused sites feature more natural spacing than RV areas, though availability varies widely by campground.
What you should know
Flooding risks: Several campgrounds experience periodic flooding during heavy rains. "The bulk of the campsites are down in a valley and ours was along the creek. A heavy downpour resulted in water up over our ankles all through the site!" warns Jackie S. about Pleasant Creek Campground. Sites on higher ground typically cost the same but offer better drainage.
Facility quality varies: Bathroom and shower conditions differ significantly between campgrounds. "The showers on site TRICKLED, not even enough to wash your hair. The sinks constantly run, they don't shut off," reports Lex D. about Illini State Park facilities. Many campers recommend bringing shower shoes and personal cleaning supplies regardless of where you stay.
Campground locations vs. hiking access: Many campgrounds require short drives to reach trailheads. "You have to get in your car and drive to any hiking at Starved Rock State park, just 10 min away, and battle the crowds for parking," notes one reviewer. Weekend parking at popular trailheads fills by 9:30am during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Starved Rock Family Campground offers child-friendly amenities close to hiking opportunities. "Small dog area (not the best fencing though if your dog is an escape artist), pool, showers, RV amenities, amazing park for children, front office has everything you could imagine," shares Tony K. The playground equipment is suitable for children 3-12 years.
Snack breaks during hikes: The canyons require climbing steep staircases that can challenge young children. "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," recommends Brannon M. when hiking Starved Rock's canyon trails. Bringing plenty of water is essential as drinking fountains are only available at trailheads.
Tent site selection for families: Look for level sites away from flooding zones. "Upper Creekside is a good spot for if it rains but be aware of the intense incline," advises Amanda P. about site options at Pleasant Creek Campground. Sites closer to restroom facilities make midnight bathroom trips more manageable for children.
Tips from RVers
Limited access at primitive campgrounds: Buffalo Rock State Park Campground requires planning for those with larger rigs. "The campsites are directly off of the towpath. The furthest site (the group site) is three miles from the ranger station," notes Scott N. Vehicles cannot access these sites, making them unsuitable for RVs despite their beauty.
Dump station considerations: Morning lines form quickly at popular campgrounds. "Plan on going early otherwise you're going to get stuck on the hill waiting…even after you finished dumping," advises Brian A. about Pleasant Creek Campground. Some campgrounds charge additional fees for dump station use.
Site dimensions and access: RV sites vary significantly in size and accessibility. "To get up to the sites, it's a one way up and down road. Hopefully no one else is coming the opposite direction," cautions Brian A. Larger rigs should call ahead to verify actual site dimensions, as many campgrounds in the area were designed before modern RV sizes became common.
