Raymond P.
Scout
ScoutChief Blackhawk Group Camp
Campsite numbers don’t match Internet numbers
Nice walking trails and good fishing at the lake
Best Campgrounds near Oglesby, IL
Campgrounds near Oglesby, Illinois range from state park facilities to private RV parks and cabin rentals, concentrated along the Illinois River valley. Starved Rock State Park Campground serves as the primary public camping area with tent and RV sites featuring electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities. The region includes several developed campgrounds like Pleasant Creek Campground and Starved Rock Family Campground that accommodate various camping styles. Kishauwau Cabins provides dedicated cabin lodging with 17 separate units for visitors seeking more comfort. Many sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails that connect to the area's distinct sandstone canyons and forested ravines.
Camping availability in the Oglesby area follows seasonal patterns, with several campgrounds operating from April through October. Starved Rock and Illini State Park campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation. As one visitor noted, "Sites are spacious and nicely shaded, but the facilities are basic-to-bad, so lower your expectations and bring your own sanitary wipes." Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during summer weekends and fall color season when the parks reach capacity. The terrain features unusual sandstone formations and multiple canyons with varying degrees of trail difficulty. Some campgrounds are separated from the main hiking areas of the state parks, requiring short drives to access trailheads.
The camping experience varies significantly between the public and private options near Oglesby. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities including restrooms, showers, and fire rings, though the quality varies. Campers report that the east loop at Starved Rock offers better privacy: "Decent pines and brush separating sites on both sides. Didn't feel like the sites were on top of each other." Wildlife sightings, particularly white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally bald eagles, enhance the outdoor experience in this region. Water features include small waterfalls within the canyons and access to the Illinois River for fishing and boating. During peak summer weekends and fall foliage season, visitors should anticipate crowds at popular trails and viewpoints, while the campgrounds themselves generally maintain a quieter atmosphere, especially during weekdays.
Best Camping Sites Near Oglesby, Illinois (99)
1. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
99 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL5 milesWebsite+1 (815) 667-4726$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!"
"We headed south to Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, Illinois. Boy was it HOT HOT HOT and HUMID HUMID HUMID. We were running on 30 amps and one air conditioner."
2. Pleasant Creek Campground
27 ReviewsOglesby, IL5 milesWebsite+1 (815) 431-0936"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."
3. Lasalle/Peru KOA
14 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL7 milesWebsite+1 (815) 667-4988"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."
4. Starved Rock Family Campground
11 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL6 milesWebsite+1 (815) 202-2088"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."5. Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park
30 ReviewsMarseilles, IL19 milesWebsite+1 (815) 795-2448$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."
6. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
8 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL7 milesWebsite+1 (630) 567-4653$29 / night
"more than two years ago provided 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) Closely located"
"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"
7. Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground — Matthiessen State Park
3 ReviewsOglesby, IL2 milesWebsite+1 (815) 667-4726$10 / night
"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. "
"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"
8. Buffalo Rock State Park Campground
4 ReviewsOttawa, IL9 milesWebsite$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.."
9. Kishauwau Cabins
2 ReviewsOglesby, IL6 milesWebsite+1 (815) 442-8453$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."
10. Starved Rock State Park - Youth Campground
2 ReviewsNorth Utica, IL5 milesWebsite+1 (217) 782-6302"All of this in arguably the absolute best state park in the whole of Illinois."
"function; (3) The second meadow offers more privacy, a quieter vibe along with the sense you’ve stumbled into your own private patch of wilderness; (4) Hiking at Starved Rock delivers 13+ miles of trails"
Recent Camping Photos near Oglesby, IL
185 Photos of 99 Oglesby Campgrounds
Stuart K.
Clark's Run Campground
Kim N.
Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park
Stuart K.
Starved Rock State Park - Youth Campground
Amanda P.
Pleasant Creek Campground
Alan F.
Starved Rock Family Campground
Erick B.
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
Marc W.
Lasalle/Peru KOA
Scott N.
Buffalo Rock State Park Campground
Stuart K.
Nature’s Way RV Park
Art S.
Whitetail Campground — Illini State Park
Abbe
Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park
Amy G.
Hennepin Canal Lock 6 Campground
Recent Reviews near Oglesby, IL
558 Reviews of 99 Oglesby Campgrounds
- Raymond P.Scout
Chief Keokuk Campground — Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
Level sites with electric
Site was walking distance from the lake. quiet cul-de-sac
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area
Riverbank Stillness along the Banks of the Illinois River
There’s a lovely hush that settles over Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area the moment you wind your way beneath the tall timber and pull into this rustic riverfront campground, the kind of place where the breeze feels soft and the squirrels seem to outnumber the people. The campground itself is small and simple, offering spacious, mostly shaded sites with EZ access to the Illinois River, where anglers set up early and kayakers glide past with that slow, content rhythm that makes you want to join them. The boys loved wandering the little footpaths between the trees, pretending they were explorers while my husband gathered kindling and I soaked in the quiet that’s so hard to find in everyday life. One of my favorite moments was watching the sun drop behind the far treeline as we all shared marshmallows at the fire ring, the river catching the last light just perfectly. For families who don’t mind the rustic feel, including vault toilets, limited amenities, and a true ‘bring what you need’ kind of setup, this place offers peaceful nights, wide-open nature, and a sense of being tucked away in something truly untouched. For the best campsite here, choose Site 18, which is the most private river-adjacent spot with a deep pocket of shade and just enough open ground for the boys to play safely while still keeping them in view.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Gebhard Woods State Park Campground
A Tiny, Peaceful Hideaway by Nettle Creek
The soft hush of Nettle Creek and the canopy of old hardwoods set the tone the moment we rolled into the tiny family campground at Gebhard Woods, which I would describe as a simple and wooded pocket tucked along the historic I&M Canal in the very quaint nearby town of Morris that feels like stepping back into a gentler, slower rhythm. With only a very small number of walk-in and car-accessible sites, everything here is intentionally uncomplicated with basic picnic tables, simple fire rings, primitive vault toilets, functional stand-up grills, expansive shelter in case of rain and an abundance of shade. The entire campground opens up within EZ walking distance of the creek, footbridges and a canal path that our little ones immediately ran off to explore. One of my favorite moments came as we watched them marvel at all of the turtles they discovered near the creek banks, their laughter echoing under the trees while my husband and I stirred the campfire and breathed in that cool creek-bank air ... grateful for a night that asked so little of us except to be present. While Gebhard Woods is primitive in every way with no hookups, no frills and no store, it’s absolutely perfect for families who want quiet, nature and room for little imaginations to run wild with the best spots being the shaded sites closest to Nettle Creek where the breeze and water sounds soften everything just right. Highly recommended for families seeking peaceful simplicity, kid-friendly exploring and a truly low-key overnight in the woods.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Woodford State Conservation Area
Riverbend Quietude for the Whole Family
With the river curving gently nearby and tall trees leaning in as if to welcome you with the non-stop shower of falling leaves in a kaleidoscope of Autumn colors, there’s a soft kind of stillness that settles over you the moment you pull into Woodford State Conservation Area. The campground here is small and simple, tucked into thick woods with EZ access to the boat launch, abundant fishing spots and winding shaded nature trails, plus vault toilets and fairly new looking picnic tables that keep things primitive, yet convenient even in this somewhat more rustic setting. Our two little boys loved wandering the shaded paths looking for deer tracks before finishing the night with marshmallows that melted faster than they could giggle about them. Since the campground doesn’t offer numbered or distinct campsite loops, the best places to set up are the shady pockets furthest from the gravel road you drove in, where the breeze is cooler and the trees thin just enough for those pretty filtered sunsets. While you’ll feel embedded in nature here, should you need any supplies, you can quickly access big box retailers and restaurants in less than 20 minutes from here in nearby East Peoria. I’d recommend this campground for families who appreciate quiet nature time, EZ access to paddling and fishing as well as a peaceful wooded environment that feels far from everything yet wonderfully grounding.
- MMark L.Scout
Rolling Oaks Campground
Always amazing
This was my family's campground before my grandmother passed when I was 7. From then till a few years ago I hadn't been back. The first time getting back was definitely a trip down memory lane. Now I try to get a campsite at least once a year. It's always quiet and peaceful & the staff is always willing to help make sure that you have the best experience possible.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Chief Blackhawk Group Camp
Spacious Woodland Haven for Big Gatherings
There’s something about arriving at the Chief Blackhawk Group Camp that immediately feels like stepping into a wide, green embrace, with the tall hardwoods and quiet prairie edges giving families the kind of breathing room that only a true group campground can offer. Set deep within Johnson-Sauk Trail State Park, this expansive, grassy group area provides a wonderful blend of shade, open field space, EZ parking access and nearby trails, with clean vault toilets and a central gathering area perfect for camp kitchens, games and big family meals. One of my favorite moments came as the boys chased fireflies along with their cousins across the open field at dusk, their happy shouts mixing with the crackle around the campfire along with our extended family as the sky slowly turned lavender above the treetops. Because there are no numbered sites here, the best setup is simply choosing the shady tree line along the western edge of the loop as close to the lake as you can get, where tents tuck in beautifully and families can enjoy both privacy and a view of the open meadow to the rear or the waterfront vista in front. And if you want to treat the family to a really nice treat, try out Paxton’s Corner Coop back in Annawan featuring fresh made ice cream and cinnamon rolls. I’d recommend Chief Blackhawk Group Camp for families looking to host reunions or multi-family trips, thanks to its generous space, quiet setting and the EZ access to hiking trails, Lake Johnson and all the classic memories a big campout tends to create.
Sue B.
RangerHennepin Canal Lock 11
Great spot for a night
We stayed here on the way back from a trip out west, and it was great for us. Pit toilets and a picnic table were unexpected bonuses. The app we used suggested a fee but we couldn't find anywhere to leave the $, and there was no one there collecting it. My 14 yo dog was struggling to regulate her body temp, so she and I camped in a tent while my hubby and the other pup slept in the van.
Stuart K.LegendDixon Elks Page Park
Hidden Campground On The River
Is it a park? Yes, there’s shelters and a few scattered playgrounds, so tick. Is it a farm? Well, it’s surrounded by rows of bean and sweet corn fields, and in a few different places you can spot structures that look as though they belong on a farm, so tick. But is it a campground? That’s where there is no doubt, but upon entry, you might only come to the conclusion that this is, well, either a park or a farm, or even an RV/ boat storage facility, but if you hand a left at the fork(just follow the arrow marked‘campground’, otherwise, if you turn right, you’ll be heading to the‘reception hall’) upon arrival and follow the single gravel lane, and you pass by what looks to be an RV/ boat resting place, just beyond this, you will enter the treelined forest where immediately on your right and left you will begin to see spots for RVs, 5th wheels and even some areas designated for tent camping.
Located about 30 minutes southwest of Oregon and just 10 minutes due north of Dixon(the home of Ronald Reagan, mind you) Elks Page Park-Farm sits adjacent to the Rock River, where on the one hand, this is a small river, in many places, you will discover the strength of the currents and will enjoy the snakelike journey that this river will take you on, but be careful when you make it over near Dixon as there is a pretty might damn that awaits you! As for the campground area, in all, there’s about 50 or so spots that you will discover as you meander the single lane that will eventually bring you to the base of the Rock River. Here is camp‘ground zero’, where the best spots are at(right by the river) and all of the amenities are located, including restroom and shower facilities, kid’s playground, covered pavilion, tetherball pole, scattered picnic tables, wood pile for pre-cut logs for your fire roasting pleasure.
As the name suggests, this spot belongs to the Elks, but if you know someone and can either accompany them or use their membership to experience this particular campground, then you’re in luck. Otherwise, give the good folks at Page Park-Farm a call and see if they have space and availability. You will enjoy the quiet solitude of this place, along with the easy access that you will have to the Rock River that flows by this campground.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) If you are looking for some good hiking nearby, I recommend giving Ruth Edwards Nature Center in Lowell Park, just due south of here, a quick stop where you can have some very basic, simple hiking that again will take you to the base of the Rock River;(2) Should you want something a bit more adventuresome and want to embrace more of the untouched nature that you are surrounded by, then head on up north to either Castle Rock State Park or Lowden Miller Forest, both of which have some easy-to-medium type hiking trails to explore;(3) If there is no‘space at the inn’ here at Page Park-Farm, I would recommend either nearby Hansen’s Hideaway or La Donna Lake Campground, located only about 25 minutes from here; and(4) Should this area be new to you, then you’re in luck as Dixon and the surrounding area is really quaint and worth exploring, particularly the 1950’s-esque downtown, complete with its small boutiques, shops and restaurants, of which I highly recommend Palmyra Pub& Eatery with daily features including‘All You Can Eat Shrimp’ Tuesdays or‘White House Fried Chicken’ on Sundays– whatever you order at this place, you can’t go wrong!
Happy Camping!
Guide to Oglesby
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there campgrounds near Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, Illinois?
Are there campgrounds near Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, Illinois?
Yes, there are several campgrounds near Starved Rock State Park. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park offers a quiet, wooded setting not far from the highway with friendly hosts and a picturesque environment. Just across from Matthiessen State Park, you'll find Cozy Corners Campground, which provides convenient access to both state parks. For additional options, Illini State Park is nearby, and there are several private RV parks in the surrounding area, all within a short drive of Starved Rock's hiking trails and scenic canyons.
What camping facilities and amenities are available in Oglesby, IL?
What camping facilities and amenities are available in Oglesby, IL?
Oglesby and the surrounding area offer diverse camping facilities with various amenities. Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park provides clean bathrooms, plenty of trees for hammocking, and beautiful river views. Just a short drive away, Pleasant Creek Campground is part of a unique multi-campground complex with six interconnected camping areas, each with its own distinct features and elevation differences. Many campgrounds in the area offer water hookups, toilets, and some provide full RV hookups. The region's campgrounds typically feature wooded sites, river access, and proximity to hiking trails in the state parks.
Can I rent an RV in Oglesby for camping at local state parks?
Can I rent an RV in Oglesby for camping at local state parks?
While there aren't dedicated RV rental services directly in Oglesby, there are options in the surrounding area. Glenwood RV Resort, located just 5 minutes south of I-80 near Marseilles, caters to RV campers and may have information about local rental services. Another option is Millpoint Park, which sits along the Illinois River with spacious campsites that accommodate RVs. For overnight RV parking without rentals, Love's Travel Stop - Oglesby offers basic facilities. Many campers rent RVs in Chicago or other larger cities before traveling to the Oglesby area.
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