Best Tent Camping in Illinois

There’s a lot more to Illinois than the great city of Chicago. Along with this exciting urban hub there are many natural areas where locals and residents alike enjoy getting outside. With 141 parks it’s no wonder the DNR created the motto, “State Parks, Great Parks” in 2013. This phrase is the title of their initiative to continue improvements on local natural areas with upgraded campgrounds and additional staff to cater to the more than 44 million yearly visitors looking for hiking and camping in Illinois.

People from all over the state – and even outside the country – take the short 1.5-hour drive from Chicago to Starved Rock State Park, where they can hike 13 miles of trails offering elevation gains on wooded pathways along the Illinois River. The 18 canyons serve as great places to spot waterfalls after a rain and families love ending the day with s’mores around the bonfire at the nearby Starved Rock State Park campsites.

Those looking to learn about the state’s heritage while camping in Illinois may head farther south to Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park & Memorial. This 162-acre park is 12 miles southwest of Decatur near Harristown, IL, and features the land where Abraham Lincoln first resided in the state. If you visit be sure to check out the memorials commemorating this important president.

People who want to mountain bike in this Midwestern state will enjoy heading to Palos Park, a forest preserve known for its excellent biking, hiking and equestrian trails that cover over 50 miles of terrain. When it comes to camping in Illinois, this locale offers beautiful facilities at Camp Bullfrog Lake where you can put up a tent next to a lake and hike short or long loops that end up back at your campsite.

If you want to check out the beautiful Lake Michigan drive to Illinois Beach State Park to spend time in the water along the 6.5 miles of sandy shoreline. The park is 4,160 acres offering ample opportunities for hiking, watersports, picnicking, fishing and camping. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Illinois during your stay in the Prairie State.

Best Tent Sites in Illinois (56)

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Guide to Illinois

Tent camping in Illinois offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene riverside spots to well-equipped campgrounds, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Kayak Morris, campers can enjoy picnic tables, firewood, and trash disposal, making for a comfortable stay.
  • MacQueen Forest Preserve features well-maintained bathrooms and secluded sites, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • Hickory Hill Campground offers a variety of amenities, including electric hookups, a swimming pool, and a general store stocked with essentials.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Tips for tent camping near Illinois

  • Be prepared for a rustic experience at Buffalo Rock State Park Campground, where sites are basic but offer a quiet escape from the crowds.
  • If you're looking for a more social atmosphere, Hickory Hill Campground is known for its friendly community and family-friendly activities.
  • For those who enjoy solitude, Mac Finn's Landing is a hidden gem with excellent fishing spots and a peaceful environment.