Camping near Rockford with swimming
Take in the wilderness surrounding the Great Lakes while hiking and camping near Rockford.
95% (319 reviews)
- Rockford
95% (319 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Rockford
Under $50
Dog-friendly getaways
7 top campgrounds near Rockford with swimming
98%
(250)
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.
Pets
Potable water
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from
$42
/ night
100%
(176)
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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from
$95
/ night
100%
(3)
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
Pets
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from
$40
/ night
100%
(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.
Pets
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from
$140
/ night
96%
(13)
A Creek Runs Through It
2 sites · RVs2 acres · Elgin, IL
When I first stepped foot on this property I literally fell to my knees in awe of the beauty. There were many offers on it but I had to have it so I offered well over asking price. It has been an adventure making it my own over the past 4 years. I even got a pet pig - Alice! I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. It's rare to have property of this size with this beauty in a Chicago suburb. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!
Pets
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from
$45
/ night
100%
(21)
Camp Kettlewood
7 sites · Lodging80 acres · East Troy, WI
Founded in 2020, Camp Kettlewood is actually the second campground to have operated on this beautiful land. The property previously belonged to the Girl Scouts of Wisconsin- Badgerland Council. The Girl Scouts hosted outings and events here from 1967 through 2018. That's over 50 years of learning, laughing, building friendships, and making memories in the great outdoors!
We knew that this land was special when we bought it. So, when we decided to turn this campground into...well...a campground, we wanted to respect that rich history and honor it in a new way. You'll notice the campsite signs are new, but the campsite names- like The Hilton, Mushroom Gulch, and Last Resort- are all original. That was purposeful, not only because we couldn't think of any better names (it's harder than you think!) but mostly because we wanted to show respect to what was here before us. We even created a new campsite and named it Oakwood Knoll, which was the previous name of this property. If you keep an eye out, you'll be able to see more subtle nods to the Scouts program incorporated into our decorations at the campsites!
Our campsites are each set spaciously apart, so guests can have more privacy than they would at a traditional campground. Our premium sites are also designed for comfort and ease. When you arrive, the campsites are ready for you, so there's no setting up or tearing down. You'll also get to sleep in real beds, as opposed to sleeping in a bag on the ground. Guests can expect to enjoy electricity, flush toilets, coffee makers, propane grills, and the warm ambiance of
string lights hung at each site. These sites are perfect for both campers and glampers.
We're confident you'll get the perfect mix of relaxation, nature, and comfort during your stay. You'll also certainly get some great Instagram-able photos!
Also, while you're here, check out the many places and activities located just a short drive from Camp Kettlewood. As our name suggests, we're adjacent to the Kettle Moraine State Forest, as well as many other parks and nature preserves. You can also enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, boating, and fishing in several nearby lakes. All within 20 minutes or less of our camp, making day trips a breeze!
Thank you again for your interest in staying at Camp Kettlewood. We’re very excited to share our summers with you and we're honored to carry on the tradition of this property as a place for making memories- not only as a campground, but also as our home!
We are blessed to live on-grounds in the renovated lodge, which was previously the Girl Scout's cafeteria and club house. We've put a lot of hard work into this land and we're pretty proud of what we've been able to accomplish. We hope you will be, too!
Sincerely,
- Simona & Jeremy Ebner, Owners
Camp Kettlewood, Est. 2020
Pets
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from
$175
/ night
76%
(17)
Willow Creek Farm
4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Winslow, IL
Beautiful country setting in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois. Dating from 1890, this land has never been plowed or disturbed. Beautiful nightscapes of stars and constellations and nearby lakes and rivers make this an ideal camping spot. The permaculture gardens and the land need constant care and upkeep. When a tree dies it becomes home to the redhead woodpecker. The hummingbird loves the trumpet vine! We never spray chemicals and would appreciate it if you did not smoke or vape.
Lake Le-Aqua-Na is just 3 miles away and reopened in 2022 with brand new roads, nature walks, and swimming hole. Other lakes nearby are Apple River Canyon and Mt Carroll. Shop in nearby Lena, Cedarville or Freeport, IL and Monroe, Wisconsin.
Learn more about this land:
The trees shade the camping sites at Spring Creek Farm. The wood swing can be enjoyed by guests as they relax and enjoy the view. Birds frequent the property and you may be visited by our ginger male cat as he surveys his territory. Night skies are beautiful, and on clear nights the Milky Way is visible along with the Big Dipper and other constellations.
There is an outdoor fire pit to cook meals, or you can use a low copper fire pit for campfire enjoyment. Parking is available on the campground for smaller cars. Please leave your campsite clean so no woodland creatures are harmed and the landscape is kept in a safe condition for the next camper.
The Composting Toilet (weather permitting) is available and plenty of potable water from our Spring-fed Well.
We recycle in the country so please separate trash, paper, glass, and plastic into separate bags which can be left on the driveway when you leave.
Please let Dr. Wanona know if you'd like to join for a gentle flow yoga mat class, 30 or 60-minute massage, or a Permaculture Garden Tour. Add a deeper experience to your stay at Spring Creek Farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
$45
/ night
Available this weekend
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping near Rockford with swimming guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate destination for camping enthusiasts! If you're looking for a camping experience near Rockford, Illinois with swimming as your preferred activity/terrain, you're in luck. We have over 180 available options specifically tailored to your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, you'll find the perfect campsite. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Purplehaze Acres (295 reviews), Linden Campground (190 reviews), and East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews). With amenities like cooking equipment, trash disposal, and potable water, we've got you covered. If you're interested in historic sites, paddling, or hiking, you'll find plenty of activities to enjoy. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. Start planning your camping adventure now!
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