Best Campgrounds near Wilmington, IL

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Wilmington, IL is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Wilmington camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Wilmington, Illinois (78)

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Recent Reviews near Wilmington, IL

455 Reviews of 78 Wilmington Campgrounds



Guide to Wilmington

Camping near Wilmington, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park. One visitor shared, "I spent hours hiking the more than 13 miles of trails, which offer access to beautiful waterfalls and spectacular overlooks."
  • Fishing: Head to Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area for some fishing. A camper noted, "We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting."
  • Boating: Enjoy a day on the water at Camp Bullfrog Lake. One reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful campgrounds with a lot to do like hiking, biking, and kayaking."

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the lush landscapes. One visitor at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground said, "It’s a unique location about .5 miles from the actual beach."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers enjoy well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Illinois Illini State Park stated, "The shower was hot and clean."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A visitor at Blackwell Family Campground said, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, have strict no alcohol rules. A camper noted, "This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy. One camper at Lakeshore Camp Resort mentioned, "The park was entirely too crowded. They packed these spots in like sardines."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A review for Big Rock Campground pointed out, "There are no showers. There is one flush toilet and two pit toilets."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One reviewer at Paul Wolff Campground said, "The ranger did stop by around 5 or 6ish with some activities for the kids to do."
  • Plan for Crowds: If you’re camping on weekends, arrive early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Pleasant Creek Campground noted, "During the summer months especially, this place fills up."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make family camping easier. One camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "The restroom and showrooms are very clean as well."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Starved Rock Campground said, "All of these sites have standard 20 amp electric plug-ins."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A visitor at Big Rock Campground noted, "The water hookups on most sites were way at the back, or on the 'wrong side.'"
  • Plan for Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, choose your site wisely. A camper at Burnidge Forest Preserve mentioned, "You can hear cars passing by throughout the night."

Camping around Wilmington, IL, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specific campground details and reviews to find the best fit for your trip!

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