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The best camping near Rock Cut State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Rock Cut adventure.

100% (6 reviews)
100% (6 reviews)

Four seasons of fun await at this rock-cut wilderness within day-trip distance of Chicago.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Rock Cut State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Rock Cut State Park

100%
(52)

Rockford Ski Club Camp Site

20 sites ¡ RVs, Tents33 acres ¡ Rockford, IL
Learn more about this land:The Ski Club has 33 acres of prairie, forest, garden, and field. Beautiful forests with deer, turkey, and fox. The property leads to the Kishwaukee River where people can kayak or canoe. There is a view of the river valley from the camping field. The Ski Club has been a cooperative club for decades and members still ski and sled here. We are hosting a camping event for friends and Hip-campers Labor Day weekend (September 3rd - September 6th). The Club is easy to access off of Interstate 39. There is a gas station a half mile away and the city of Rockford is only a 10-15 minute drive away. People can camp in tents, car/vans, campers, or RVs in the mowed grass area. There is a well with limited amounts of water that is not drinkable but can be used to wash. There is electricity for phones, lights, games, etc. but will not power RVs. The club president can be reached at 8159794872
from 
$28
 / night
99%
(245)

Escape to Nature

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Huntley, IL
This property is located on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard. What to do here: Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks. If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking. Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit. The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. Kids love Thomas the train and Percy too! When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants. We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff. Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com. FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂 Here are some answers to common questions. We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent. Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour. ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door. WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done. CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing. WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood. PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits. INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent. HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage. EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking. ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.
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$35
 / night
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(8)

Forest Fairy's Paradise

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents6 acres ¡ Rockford, IL
This Homestead was built in 1918 and was named Tullock's Farm after the family who owned all the land nearby. It totals 6.6 Acres and has walking trails on the property. There are lots of black walnut trees, raspberries, mulberry trees and other fruits and veggies that grow on this land. We also raise chickens and sell the eggs. We love living here and want to share the hidden beauty.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your rv in the small patch of forest in back. You will have access to a campfire area and walking trails around the property. The main house is a 1 minute walk away but we will give you as much privacy as you like. There is a barn separating the campfire ring and the main house which has chickens in it and will be closed off, and also gives you the feel of a little more privacy. We have lots of different beautiful birds that visit the property as well as other animals. We also have two silos on the property that you are free to take photos with before leaving. The rock river is a short drive away with multiple places to put your boat in. There are also many parks and attractions close by as well. Family friendly environment.
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$40
 / night

Brown Rusk Ranch

3 sites ¡ RVs5 acres ¡ Winnebago, IL
We have 5 acres with 112 trees. 3 pasture where people may camp. Dry camping with self contained RVs under 30 ft. We have a huge fire pit area, sheep, and a kitten. Near Rockford Illinois. Numerous parks for hiking witching 15 miles. We have a car cottage that looks like the 50s diner. On a busy road but quiet at night
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$20
 / night
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(2)

Ice Age Retreat

3 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Palmyra, WI
Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more
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$40
 / night

Eagle Creek Ranch

1 site ¡ RV, Tent1 acre ¡ Kirkland, IL
Discover a unique retreat on our picturesque 5-acre property, featuring sectioned pasture with open views, pine trees, and vibrant gardens boasting diverse plant varieties. Bring your binoculars and catch a glimpse of the local bald eagle nest and share the space with our friendly horses, sheep, goats, a mini cow, and chickens. Nestled in a small town, larger towns are just a 20-minute drive away, providing easy access to additional amenities. Choose your ideal camping spot within the pine tree pasture, and unwind by the welcoming fire pit. For those with equine companions, we offer optional stall boarding for up to 3 horses at an extra fee. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while staying connected to nearby conveniences. Don't miss out on breathtaking sunsets and exceptional stargazing, adding a magical touch to your outdoor experience. Experience a perfect blend of rural charm and modern comfort on our welcoming property.
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$40
 / night
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(169)

Beaver Point Cabin

1 site ¡ Lodging90 acres ¡ Belleville, WI
The cabin is an off-grid, 12'X20' insulated structure, with a 7'X8' loft and a 12'X6' screened covered porch/deck. That overlooks a small stream and a cattail marsh. It is in the center of our 90 acres and is very private but near to some rural houses, only our house is (barely) visible in winter and you might see some lights of one other neighbor when the leaves are off the trees. We are 1 and a half miles from the village of Belleville and 5 miles from New Glarus. The Badger State Trail runs across the western edge of our property. It connects with the Sugar River State Trail 8 miles away. Near by New Glarus has many shops, restaurants, Baily's Run winery and the famous New Glarus Brewery (tours daily). Everything can be easily reached by bike or, in season, snowmobile. The marsh is a haven for all sorts of birds and wildlife. Spring brings an abundance of winged migrators and returning residents. There are: sand hill cranes, red wing blackbirds, a number of ducks; buffleheads, mergansers, woodducks, blue winged teal and shovelers just to name a few. The American woodcock can be heard overhead most spring mornings and evenings. The spring peepers (small frogs) are a symphony on their own and they continue into early summer. The woods has many spring flowers and the fall colors are wonderful. In summer there are many song birds like: bluebirds, finches, orioles, humming birds, cedar wax wings, robins, cardinals and herons. Sitting on the screened in deck one can hear a kaleidoscope of bird songs and activity. And an abundance of fireflies in later May through late July and then some. The cabin is off-grid, what that means is: there is NO RUNNING WATER in the cabin and only a chemical toilet (port-a-potty). A limited amount of water is supplied for drinking and washing. There is a sink with a drain in the cabin but no bathroom or refrigerator so bring a cooler. Very limited electricity. There is basic LED lighting and you will be able to charge your phones/devices. The power is supplied from batteries/inverter charged by solar panels on the roof. There are LED lights and a coffee maker. There is NO air conditioning but excellent ventilation and a small, cozy wood stove for heat. If you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with a wood stove, it may not be wise to stay here in the winter heating season, but we can show most people how to use the stove safely. This is still considered "camping" so be prepared to bring camping gear: your own pillows, sleeping bag, food, drinks, cups, plates, cooking utensils etc. There are carryout options a short drive away. The only thing you won't need is a tent, the cabin is very cozy, warm on the cold days and cool on the warm ones and there is a picnic table, lawn chairs and a gas grill with a side burner. There are a few spots around the cabin for tents if you have additional friends staying. There is an additional charge for additional guests (over 2) but please be advised: any loud "parties" or disturbances and you will be asked to leave. This is a place to enjoy nature and quiet time. To get away from it all. No extra charge for children 12 or under. Insects are a part of the woods environment, if you're afraid of bugs this may not be the right fit for you. We rarely have any real issues, so we're reluctant to use toxic chemicals to kill most (normal) bugs. Normal bug repellent is about all that is necessary. Why we have this cabin; It's a way to share this special place that, judging from the artifacts found here has been a camping area for thousands of years. We want to let others enjoy the seasons; the return of the migrating birds, the spring peepers in the marsh, the fall colors, the silence of a winter day in the woods and the warmth of a wood stove. (many people have found the stove to be their favorite feature) The cabin gives you a front row seat in the middle of, comparatively, pristine nature. Campers will have access to our fine trails for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and biking. (we would allow a snowmobile from the State trail to the cabin). All campers take note: 1. Please do your best to arrive/check in before dark! The cabin is dark; no yard lights, no streetlights, and if it isn’t a moonlit night, it IS very dark. Some of you are not used to real darkness. We provide some flashlights and headlamps (if you forgot yours) and there are LED lights in the cabin we keep charged for you. Camping headlamps are great for cooking, using the port-a-potty and finding your way around, etc. Bring yours or you can borrow ours, just ask. 2. Take safety precautions with the wood stove and learn how to use it correctly. The only source of heat in the cabin is a small, very nice wood stove. Those without any experience with using wood for heat are advised not to stay at the cabin during the cold season. Those that are eager to learn--we can help you, but safety is very important and you must at least have some basic skills to handle wood heat: using a propane torch, using kindling, splitting wood, operating the stove airflow. 3. Campfires: Campfire wood can be purchased for a reasonable price @$10 for a tote, or @$20 for a large pot/container. We do allow people to bring their own if they are coming from less that 50 miles away. Some exceptions do apply. 4. It has been very enjoyable meeting the many campers. Everyone has been very well prepared and it has been a pleasure seeing them have fun. We especially have enjoyed the families with young children and people with their dog(s). All have been very well behaved and very enthusiastic. 5 Dogs are welcome, but please let us know if your dog does not get along well with other dogs, so we can let others know. We have a young golden retriever that is very friendly and does very well with other dogs, kids and all people. If your dog doesn't get along with others (dogs or people) please let us know in advance, so we can warn others and please, for safety, keep them on a leash. Your hosts, Dan and Anne
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$95
 / night
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(21)

Zellers' Peaceful Place

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres ¡ Ashton, IL
We have 4 acres of flat land with lots of flower beds. Our property has a great view of a BNSF rail line, about 1 mile away as the crow flies, so trains are heard. You can bring your own tent or we can set one up for you with a large inflatable queen size bed. You'll need to bring your own sheets and pillows. If you want to just escape home quickly, book our Cabin Shalom where everything is ready for you including sheets, fridge, microwave, coffee pot, tv with DVD, wifi, and a chimnea fireplace We have firepits and $5.00 firewood bundles available and I can provide smore makings if interested at a $12.00 per package charge. We are halfway between Rochelle (with it's railroad museum, Kennay's Distillery, Artist's Garden, other quaint shops, and Chicago Land Skydiving Center) and Dixon-the hometown of Ronald Reagan and the Petunia Festival. We are close to Nachusa Grasslands with their buffalo and Franklin Creek Park with it's natural spring and hiking trails and Oregon with their bike paths and Autumn on the Prairie in Oregon Illinois.
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$20
 / night
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(1)

Willow Tree Island Cabin retreat

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Byron, IL
Beautiful Cabin For Rent On Scenic Island In Byron, Illinois. Featured on https://q985online.com/byron-il-island-cabin/. Beautiful views of sunrise and sunsets. You'll be on the River. Is a short kayak or boat ride from Byron, IL. boat launch. Close to restaurants, bars ,grocery stores, golf, state parks, drag strip, and many other activities. Otherwise stay and enjoy this studio cabin's A/C, warm showers, kitchen, and toilet with a view. 2 queen beds, couch recliners, air mattress. Plenty of room for tents. Covered porch. Animal friendly.
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$140
 / night
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(9)

The Aloha Ranch

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents26 acres ¡ Harvard, IL
We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle. Learn more about this land: Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.  Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.
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$50
 / night
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(4)

Nest in the Timber

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Freeport, IL
We have 10 acres of timber right near the highway. Beautiful Midwest sunsets. Close enough to amenities and quiet enough to feel secluded. Room for plenty. RVs vans campers tenters and roughers all welcome to set up with us. We are full timers living in a cargo conversion. Well water for filling tanks. Dump your grey wherever. Plenty of foraging to be done. Bring a 4 wheeler or a dirt bike if you like; there’s a path swerving all around the timber. Pets are welcome too!
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$10
 / night
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(16)

The Lichen Pod - 26' 1974 Argosy

2 sites ¡ Lodging49 acres ¡ Freeport, IL
Learn more about this land:The southern Driftless Area is one of rolling hills of farmland, prairie and woodlands. The camper is parked near a line of pines with both beautiful light and fresh breezes, located on a working ecological farm.
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$65
 / night

The best camping near Rock Cut State Park guide

Overview

About

As you explore the rambling woodland trails and gleaming lakes of Rock Cut State Park, it’s hard to believe that Illinois’ state capital is little more than an hour’s drive away. Hidden away in the hardwood forests of Winnebago County, this all-natural retreat has six miles of mountain biking trails, 40 miles of hiking trails, and 25 miles of equestrian trails to keep you busy. Afterward, take to the water at Pierce Lake or Olsen Lake to swim, fish, or paddle, then pitch your tent by the lakeside. Rock Cut Campground also has equestrian sites, electric sites, and a rustic cabin.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve one of 60 non-electric or 210 electric RV/tent sites at Rock Cut State Campground online. 
  2. Reservations are possible from May through October; camping is available on a walk-in basis only from November through March.
  3. Campsite reservations open six months in advance and must be made three days before arrival. 

When to go

Outdoor adventures are possible year-round. Peak season runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, when swimming and water sports draw lake crowds. Wildflowers bloom in the forests through spring and summer, but the most stunning views are in fall, when the hardwoods shed their colorful coats. Visiting in winter? Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and ice fishing are all popular. 

Know before you go

  • Rock Cut State Park is just north of Rockford and about an 80-minute drive northwest of Chicago.
  • There is no admission fee to visit Illinois state parks, but camping reservation fees apply. 
  • You can bring your own boat or watercraft to Pierce Lake (engines over 10 HP must operate at no-wake speed), where there are two boat launches. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards are available to rent in summer. Swimming is only allowed at Olsen Lake, and a daily admission fee applies for the swimming beach.
  • Park facilities include a camp store and food concession stand, restrooms and picnic areas, a playground, and a dump station. Skis and snowshoes can be rented through winter. 
  • Accessible day-use areas, trails, campsites, fishing piers, and restrooms are available.

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