Tent campsites near Wilmington, Illinois offer direct access to the DuPage, Des Plaines, and Illinois river systems that converge in this area. The region sits at approximately 530 feet above sea level within the Kankakee River watershed, creating numerous paddling opportunities. Most camping areas remain open April through October, though water access points stay available year-round for day use.
What to do
Kayaking river confluences: At Kayak Morris, campers can launch directly from riverfront sites. "If you want a nice riverfront camp site this place is perfect. They also have kayak rentals available," notes Eric R. The campground sits at the confluence point where paddlers report excellent fishing conditions.
Fishing for multiple species: Mac Finn's Landing provides access to no-wake zones on the Kankakee River. "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River imo! Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers," reports Raven Rock S. The area supports bass, catfish, and striper fishing.
Cycling the I&M Canal Trail: The crushed gravel trail passes several campsites, making it ideal for bike-in camping. The path connects multiple preserves and historic sites along a 61-mile corridor. A camper at Buffalo Rock noted, "The sites are directly off of the towpath. The furthest site (the group site) is three miles from the ranger station."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many tent campers appreciate the direct water access. At Kayak Morris, "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. If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," according to Eric R.
Fishing success: The river systems provide productive fishing. One camper at Kayak Morris reported, "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!"
Secluded sites: Some locations offer more privacy than others. A visitor to Buffalo Rock State Park Campground mentioned, "Camp sites aren't actually in buffalo rock, they're across the street at I&M canal. You have to walk a bit to get there but the sites are great. If you're looking for privacy this is it."
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Some camping areas sit in flood zones. A camper at McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove 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. We had three inches up the the fire pit."
Porta-potty conditions: Facilities vary widely between sites. Some locations maintain exceptionally clean portable toilets. A camper at Kayak Starved Rock noted, "The Porta potties were shockingly clean! The potties also have motion sensor lights in them for at night visits. They also have wipes, spray underarm deodorant, hand sanitizer and automatic air freshener."
Early park closures: Gates at many sites close earlier than expected. At Camp Shabbona Woods, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok." Be sure to check individual park regulations before leaving for supplies or activities.
Tips for camping with families
ADA-accessible options: Davis Creek Campground offers more developed facilities. A visitor noted, "I have been here several times in high school and in my adult years. Lots of what i did was participate in cross country practice here. This campground is open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept, and there is good access to water."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to see native animals. A camper at Buffalo Rock mentioned, "Real live Buffalo are a treat for kids and animal lovers. A number of trails around effigy mounds make for a nice walk."
Pack-in requirements: Most tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At McKinley Woods, a camper noted, "We didn't realize this was a walk-in campground, the details on the Will county site were vague, and the satellite photo showed a paved road. The road is a path, so the sites are ADA accessible (two of the four sites are paved as well)."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Wilmington accommodate tents only. Of the few RV-friendly sites, Illinois and Michigan Canal Backpack Camp offers primitive sites without hookups. RVers typically need to stay at more developed campgrounds further away or use smaller teardrop-style campers.
Small trailer access: Some campers have successfully brought small trailers. At McKinley Woods, one visitor reported, "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem. Just be aware of it."
RV sites with river views: For those with small RVs, Kayak Morris offers riverfront access with restrictions. The facility accommodates tent and small RV camping with campsites directly on the water's edge.
