Tent camping near Wayne, Illinois offers primitive sites with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. The Kishwaukee River area creates opportunities for water recreation at several campgrounds, with most sites concentrated along riverside locations or canal trails. Campers can expect seasonal differences in water levels, with spring bringing higher water in the Kishwaukee and DuPage rivers and occasional site flooding at certain locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kayak Morris provides excellent access to the Illinois River, where anglers report impressive catches. One visitor noted, "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!"
Paddling excursions: The area offers multiple paddling routes along calm waters. At Kayak Morris, visitors can rent equipment on-site or launch their own boats. A camper mentioned, "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site."
Trail biking: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail connects several campgrounds and provides a scenic route for cyclists. Channahon State Park Campground sits directly on this trail, making it "a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride."
What campers like
Site privacy: Campers appreciate the distance between sites at MacQueen Forest Preserve, with visitors noting the campground feels uncrowded even during peak season. One camper reported, "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you."
Riverside camping: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. A visitor to Kayak Morris explained, "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."
Affordability: The low cost of primitive camping appeals to budget-conscious travelers. A MacQueen Forest Preserve visitor appreciated that "the primitive camping is only $4," while sites at other preserves typically range from $4-10 per night for walk-in tent spots.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds in the area experience railroad noise, particularly at night. A McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove camper mentioned, "At night, you can hear owls and distant trains, but motorboats and jet-skis begin around 6:AM."
Water conditions: Water access varies by location and may not always be potable. At McKinley Woods, "Water is available by an old fashioned pump, and is drinkable, but cloudy. There's only one pit toilet."
Seasonal flooding: Low-lying campsites can flood during heavy rain. One camper at McKinley Woods reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
ADA-accessible options: Families with mobility concerns can find accessible sites at several preserves. McKinley Woods offers concrete pads, with a camper noting, "Two of the four sites are paved as well... The sites are ADA accessible."
Gear transport assistance: Camp Shabbona Woods provides amenities suitable for beginners. A visitor explained, "This camp site is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping."
Stargazing spots: Open meadow sites provide better views of night skies. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing!"
Tips from RVers
No hookup options: RV camping near Wayne is primarily primitive without utility connections. One visitor to Kishwaukee Valley Farms noted that glamping options exist for those wanting comfort without full RV hookups.
Park closure times: Some preserves limit after-hours access with gate closures. A camper at Camp Shabbona Woods reported, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite."
Urban proximity: Some campgrounds retain an urban feel despite natural settings. A Shabbona Woods visitor mentioned, "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background."
