The best river, stream, or creek cabin rentals in Illinois

Looking for a cabin camping experience by the river in Illinois? Hipcamp has over 20 options that fit the bill. From Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews) to McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews) and CSC Permaculture Project (57 reviews), you can choose from a range of top-rated campsites. Prices start as low as $40 and average around $75 per night. Popular amenities include pet-friendly sites, potable water, and trash disposal. If you're looking for activities, you can enjoy paddling, snow sports, and boating while taking in the scenic river views.

99% (750)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a cabin camping experience by the river in Illinois? Hipcamp has over 20 options that fit the bill. From Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews) to McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews) and CSC Permaculture Project (57 reviews), you can choose from a range of top-rated campsites. Prices start as low as $40 and average around $75 per night. Popular amenities include pet-friendly sites, potable water, and trash disposal. If you're looking for activities, you can enjoy paddling, snow sports, and boating while taking in the scenic river views.

99% (750)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%

(843)

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Palmer, IL

We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm. In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land. The property has a greenhouse, high tunnel and about a half acre of field that we raise vegetables and fruit on. We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim and boat in. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them. Plenty of wildlife, hiking and mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised and/or made on the farm for folks to purchase. Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm. Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks. Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield is 35 miles from the farm.

2. Geneseo Campground

96%

(37)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Geneseo, IL

Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests. If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground! For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 309-442-2662.

3. CSC Permaculture Project

99%

(135)

5 sites · Lodging · Cabery, IL

8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors

4. Illini State Park

100%

(7)

100 sites · Marseilles, Illinois

Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(4)

92 sites · Shabbona, Illinois

Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Sun Retreats Rock River

253 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hillsdale, IL

Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Sun Retreats Rock River, formerly known as Sunset Lakes Resort, provides a premiere camping experience in Hillsdale, Illinois. At this award-winning resort, campers can set up their RV on our new seasonal sites with concrete pads and patios. You can also stay in one of our fully furnished two-bedroom vacation cottages. Cool off in our huge outdoor swimming pool, or stay active with outdoor recreations like a gem mining, basketball, horseshoes, tennis, and our rolle bolle court. Our pet-friendly campground also features a dog park for your four-legged family members. You'll find exciting attractions in The Quad Cities including riverboat cruises on the along the Mississippi River, just 15 minutes away.

7. Jensen Woods Camp

100%

(1)

10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mound Station, IL

Welcome to your new favorite camping oasis. Sitting on 550 acres, Jensen Woods Camp is a serene, secluded environment offering RV sites, bunkhouse rooms, treehouses, a rustic A-Frame cabin, and a lodge equipped with a small kitchen, a commercial kitchen, free WiFi, board games, foosball, washer/dryer, and more! We offer swimming and fishing ponds, archery, kayaking, and 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. (Trails are closed during hunting seasons.) Trails are closed until 1:30pm April 14- May 15, 2025.

8. Coop Dreams Farm

100%

(18)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marshall, IL

Currently the Coop Dreams farm from the Coop Dreams TV show. Hiking trails, creeks and woods surround the chicken and goat yard. 5 minutes to quaint little town - 15 minutes to a cool winery - 25 minutes to Terre Haute with restaurants and activities. Indianapolis is about an hour and 15 minutes.

9. Black Sheep Flower Farm

97%

(73)

5 sites · Lodging · Lewistown, IL

Million Dollar view! Stargazers & birdwatchers' dream! Black Sheep Flower Farm is a chemical free flower farm overlooking the Spoon and Illinois River valley. Beautiful hiking trails at Dickson Mounds and the Nature Conservancy (Emiquon) wetland preserve. We aim to provide an affordable and safe space where people feel free to be themselves and enjoy nature. Chill vibes. Quiet and romantic getaway! No homophobia, transphobia, racism or misogyny!

10. Mississippi Palisades State Park

100%

(3)

241 sites · Savanna, Illinois

See the mighty Mississippi River from a unique vantage point at this state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Lowden State Park

100%

(2)

89 sites · Oregon, Illinois

Explore where legendary Chief Black Hawk once lived with his people.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Pere Marquette State Park

100%

(2)

30 sites · Grafton, Illinois

See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. White Pines Forest State Park

100%

(2)

115 sites · Mount Morris, Illinois

Ogle at this resort area just two hours from Chicago.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

14. Heritage Hollow

1 site · Lodging · Stockton, IL

Heritage Hollow is a beautiful hobby farm set in a private, picturesque valley in southeastern Jo Daviess County. What makes us unique is that you have exclusive access to the farm and its inhabitants; your group will be the only guests on the property during your stay. Whether it be relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, find what you are looking for at Heritage Hollow. Stroll along the paths under the towering canopy of hardwood timber. Enjoy a hike to the top of the hill and explore the wildflowers and the accompanying nature in our very own prairie. Get a line wet while fishing at our stocked pond. Stargaze by the warmth of a bonfire. Get hands-on with the farm animals and make a new friend. Relax in your very own farmhouse filled with natural light. Get comfortable in a cozy window nook and take in the wildflower gardens and distant farm fields. Let the sounds of nature soothe your soul. Thirty acres of scenic property await exploration. Enjoy a walk under the towering canopies of century-old trees. Hike the hill to the Top 5, Heritage Hollow's very own prairie, complete with wildflowers, birds, dragonflies, and more. Watch the water flow from one of the spring-fed creeks, or observe the inhabitants of our artesian bog. Our farm animals provide plenty of entertainment,t whether you are up close and personal, or appreciating their beauty and antics at a short distance. Fabulous farm dog Scout and protege' Sugar watch over everything with a keen eye. Choose to watch or even participate in evening chore time. Join us in the big red barn to interact closely with our friendly horses and sheep. Please see our Enhance Your Stay page for other fun farm activities.

15. Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(1)

76 sites · Chesterfield, Illinois

With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

16. Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(1)

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

17. Fort Massac State Park

100%

(1)

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

18. Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area

100%

(1)

114 sites · Chandlerville, Illinois

One of the largest public access areas preserved by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites in Illinois

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sun Retreats Rock River

253 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hillsdale, IL

Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Sun Retreats Rock River, formerly known as Sunset Lakes Resort, provides a premiere camping experience in Hillsdale, Illinois. At this award-winning resort, campers can set up their RV on our new seasonal sites with concrete pads and patios. You can also stay in one of our fully furnished two-bedroom vacation cottages. Cool off in our huge outdoor swimming pool, or stay active with outdoor recreations like a gem mining, basketball, horseshoes, tennis, and our rolle bolle court. Our pet-friendly campground also features a dog park for your four-legged family members. You'll find exciting attractions in The Quad Cities including riverboat cruises on the along the Mississippi River, just 15 minutes away.

Jensen Woods Camp

100%

(1)

10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mound Station, IL

Welcome to your new favorite camping oasis. Sitting on 550 acres, Jensen Woods Camp is a serene, secluded environment offering RV sites, bunkhouse rooms, treehouses, a rustic A-Frame cabin, and a lodge equipped with a small kitchen, a commercial kitchen, free WiFi, board games, foosball, washer/dryer, and more! We offer swimming and fishing ponds, archery, kayaking, and 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. (Trails are closed during hunting seasons.) Trails are closed until 1:30pm April 14- May 15, 2025.

Coop Dreams Farm

100%

(18)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marshall, IL

Currently the Coop Dreams farm from the Coop Dreams TV show. Hiking trails, creeks and woods surround the chicken and goat yard. 5 minutes to quaint little town - 15 minutes to a cool winery - 25 minutes to Terre Haute with restaurants and activities. Indianapolis is about an hour and 15 minutes.

Black Sheep Flower Farm

97%

(73)

5 sites · Lodging · Lewistown, IL

Million Dollar view! Stargazers & birdwatchers' dream! Black Sheep Flower Farm is a chemical free flower farm overlooking the Spoon and Illinois River valley. Beautiful hiking trails at Dickson Mounds and the Nature Conservancy (Emiquon) wetland preserve. We aim to provide an affordable and safe space where people feel free to be themselves and enjoy nature. Chill vibes. Quiet and romantic getaway! No homophobia, transphobia, racism or misogyny!

Heritage Hollow

1 site · Lodging · Stockton, IL

Heritage Hollow is a beautiful hobby farm set in a private, picturesque valley in southeastern Jo Daviess County. What makes us unique is that you have exclusive access to the farm and its inhabitants; your group will be the only guests on the property during your stay. Whether it be relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, find what you are looking for at Heritage Hollow. Stroll along the paths under the towering canopy of hardwood timber. Enjoy a hike to the top of the hill and explore the wildflowers and the accompanying nature in our very own prairie. Get a line wet while fishing at our stocked pond. Stargaze by the warmth of a bonfire. Get hands-on with the farm animals and make a new friend. Relax in your very own farmhouse filled with natural light. Get comfortable in a cozy window nook and take in the wildflower gardens and distant farm fields. Let the sounds of nature soothe your soul. Thirty acres of scenic property await exploration. Enjoy a walk under the towering canopies of century-old trees. Hike the hill to the Top 5, Heritage Hollow's very own prairie, complete with wildflowers, birds, dragonflies, and more. Watch the water flow from one of the spring-fed creeks, or observe the inhabitants of our artesian bog. Our farm animals provide plenty of entertainment,t whether you are up close and personal, or appreciating their beauty and antics at a short distance. Fabulous farm dog Scout and protege' Sugar watch over everything with a keen eye. Choose to watch or even participate in evening chore time. Join us in the big red barn to interact closely with our friendly horses and sheep. Please see our Enhance Your Stay page for other fun farm activities.

Public campgrounds in Illinois

100%

(7)

Illini Campground

100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Illini State Park

100%

(4)

Shabbona Lake Campground

92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(3)

Mississippi Palisades Campground

241 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi Palisades State Park

100%

(2)

Lowden Campground

89 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lowden State Park

100%

(2)

White Pines Forest Campground

115 sites · in White Pines Forest State Park

100%

(2)

Pere Marquette Campground

30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pere Marquette State Park

100%

(1)

Fort Massac Campground

52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Fort Massac State Park

100%

(1)

Prairie Lake Campground

76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area

100%

(1)

Potawatomi Campground

105 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

100%

(1)

Walnut Point Campground

55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Walnut Point State Park

100%

(1)

Beaver Dam Campground

76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(1)

Dixon Springs Campground

23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dixon Springs State Park

Stories from the community

L

Lisa

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

We had a wonderful time staying at the cottage in the woods. The place is so welcoming and peaceful, and the hosts provided all the essentials for a comfortable stay. We would be very happy to come visit again.

R

Raquel

October 2025

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

This was my favorite camping experience yet. The host was very helpful and hands on. The set up was perfect for sunny and rainy days. It was sooo cozy and had a private feel to it. The stars were sooo bright and clear. I enjoyed walking around the sight. I had everything I needed. I will come back to this site again!

Greg here is just stopping through for one night on his trip around the country. Was on his bucket list and he's doing it! Cabin is often open on weeknights.

B

Ben

October 2025

With kids

1 night at CSC Permaculture Project

This is the second visit to CSC. It’s a great, quiet, place. No other campers around. If you’re primary goal is to enjoy time at camp, and perhaps take some walks/short hikes around the property, it’s perfect. Planning to return again.

W

Weslynne

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

Wonderful, peaceful stay at CSC. First time in the earth shelter site, which made this such a comfortable sleep. Lots of space for tents too. We fished, biked, had dinner and games at the campfire, and overall had a wonderful relaxing visit. Bill helped us out with many small things that really made the visit extra special, like loaning us bug spray, getting my kids new fishing gear sorted and helping fix an issue with my car. Can't wait to go back!

Emily

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

We had such a wonderful time celebrating our anniversary here with our toddler. You can tell how much love is put into this land and we enjoy it so much here! We had a very rainy night and the cabin stayed cozy and dry. The land is quiet and was perfect for letting our little one run around. We will definitely be back 😘

Shelly

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Geneseo Campground

We stayed for one night while traveling from Colorado to Michigan. The cozy cabin and location provided us with a quiet restful sleep. The campground was a perfect location with several nearby restaurants and the canal trail system right there for a nice walk.

J

Jonathon

September 2025

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

My spouse and I had a great time at this camp - Bill gave us an excellent tour of the space and talked to us about their philosophy on permaculture. The cabin was comfortable - great place to get out of Chicago for a bit.

X

Xavier

August 2025

3 nights at CSC Permaculture Project

I originally booked this property simply as a place to film, expecting just a small house and some land to move around on. What I actually found was something far beyond that: a magical piece of earth, a community with a fascinating history, and hosts who were kind, inspiring, and deeply connected to the land. The property itself is breathtaking—everywhere I turned felt alive with meaning, from the gardens to the woods to the stars overhead. Within minutes of being here, I realized this wasn’t just a backdrop for my project—it was a character in the story itself. I learned about permaculture, about the unique history of the community, and left with new friends and a new perspective on what sustainable living can look like. My hosts were wonderful. They made me feel welcome, answered every question, and even took the time to give me a tour that changed the way I look at both farming and community. Their generosity and openness made this more than a stay—it was a life experience. If you’re looking for a getaway where the land feels alive, where every corner holds a story, and where you can breathe in something truly unique, this is it. I came here thinking I’d just make a film. I left with inspiration, gratitude, and a genuine connection to a place I’ll never forget.

Padraic

August 2025

1 night at Geneseo Campground

Comfortable stay just off the highway. Clean and well kept with nice amenities. Would stay again.

D

David

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

What a great trip! Loved the beautiful cabin with tons of ambience. Lots of firewood available. Site has good privacy, although I highly recommend chatting with the friendly hosts and learning more about the permaculture. They've done really beautiful work creating a meaningful and abundant space. Cheers!

Tyler

August 2025

1 night at Geneseo Campground

The land was super well kept! The roads were easy to understand and the cabins were in the place they said they were.

M

Michelle

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Always a great place to stay whether at the Cottage or a tent site!

G

Gretchen

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Geneseo Campground

The campground is clean and peaceful. I went with a friend this weekend and we will be coming back with our families to camp again. The cabin was clean and accommodating. We enjoyed our stay immensely.

B

Brandon

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

Was amazing .. the flowers the wild animals! It was out of a movie fairy tale! Would recommend this space to everyone.. was amazing with a partner but would be a beautiful solo trip. Very private

D

Derek

July 2025

2 nights at Geneseo Campground

Very friendly staff, the host at the front desk and the staff were always friendly and very helpful with any questions we had. We were checked in promptly with our key. There is a small ramp to get onto the porch of the cabin which is good for transporting things like coolers or suitcases that have wheels, into the cabin. The warm lights and the turtle decor on the cabin were a welcome addition to the look of the cabin. The queen-size bed was comfortable for two people. Bathrooms were very clean, even when some unfortunately messy campers left the bathroom in a less than ideal condition, the staff cleaned the bathrooms in a swift manner and it was just as fresh and clean as when we first arrived. The bathrooms had the windows open, but the A/C always kept the bathrooms cool and comfortable. The showers in the bathroom were equipped with a shower chair, shower caddy, shower curtain, and multiple hooks for bags and such. There were fat tire bikes and pedal carts for rental and those were nice to ride on the trail. The fishing along the Hennepin Canal was good, although I didn’t catch anything, I did enjoy the atmosphere and the nature around the canal. The hiking/biking trail was nice, one side led to a canal lock which was cool. The fire pit was the perfect size for cooking burgers, hot dogs, and s’mores. Overall, the cabin itself, inside and out, was cozy, cute, and functional and the campground was calm and quiet while we were there. Great stay!

Terri

July 2025

3 nights at Black Sheep Flower Farm

The accommodations were perfect for a nice step up to tent camping. We had a snug, cozy cabin, access to a flush toilet(!!!!) and refrigerator to keep a few items in. the property was spacious and unique. Dennis and Ben were great hosts who we enjoyed meeting while they were harvesting their beautiful flowers. Dickson Mound museum directly across the road was a nice bonus with accessible walking trails. Hoping to go back again sometime!

P

Phil

June 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Very secluded and private. The cottage was even better than the pics suggested. Would book again!

S

Stephen

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

The farm was peaceful and lovely. The cabin was perfectly simple and charming. The fireflies at dusk and hummingbirds throughout the day, kept things magical. Dennis was a wonderful host. We felt welcome.

Eva

June 2025

With pets

1 night at Black Sheep Flower Farm

I stayed twice last year and it was just as nice this year. I sat on the porch where there was a nice breeze, strumming my guitar and watching the hummingbirds at the feeder. In the evening there was a brief coyote serenade. If they howled again later, I didn’t hear it as I was sound asleep.

D

Dr. Melissa

June 2025

2 nights at CSC Permaculture Project

My husband and I loved staying at the CSC's Earth Shelter. It was a beautiful site with lots of signs of thoughtful preparation by our hosts! There were benches around the firepit and on the porch, extra chairs to move around, a picnic table, plenty of firewood and dry kindling, and even a chiminea for a cozy porch fire in case the weather wasn't right for the firepit. The Earth Shelter was inspiring! We loved seeing it in person to appreciate all the care and expertise that went into building it. Very comfortable and well-maintained. We highly recommend it! Our hosts were wonderful as well- we had our choice of fresh-grown produce from their garden and a lovely tour of the land and area.