The best river, stream, or creek cabins 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% (810) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Illinois

Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%
(844)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Geneseo Campground

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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Coop Dreams Farm

3. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Illini State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

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
Toilets
Campfires
Sun Retreats Rock River

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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$48
 / night
Jensen Woods Camp

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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night
CSC Permaculture Project

8. 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Black Sheep Flower Farm

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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$60
 / night
Mississippi Palisades State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
Lowden State Park

11. Lowden State Park

100%
(2)
89 sites · Oregon, Illinois
Explore where legendary Chief Black Hawk once lived with his people.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pere Marquette State Park

12. Pere Marquette State Park

100%
(2)
30 sites · Grafton, Illinois
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
White Pines Forest State Park

13. White Pines Forest State Park

100%
(2)
115 sites · Mount Morris, Illinois
Ogle at this resort area just two hours from Chicago.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Heritage Hollow

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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$465
 / night
Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

15. Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

99%
(90)
20 sites · Tents, Lodging · Rockford, IL
Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Beaver Dam State Park

16. 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
Toilets
Campfires
Dixon Springs State Park

17. Dixon Springs State Park

100%
(1)
23 sites · Simpson, Illinois
Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fort Massac State Park

18. Fort Massac State Park

100%
(1)
52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois
Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area

19. 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
Toilets
Campfires

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% (810) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Illinois

Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%
(844)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Geneseo Campground

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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Coop Dreams Farm

3. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Illini State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

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
Toilets
Campfires
Sun Retreats Rock River

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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$48
 / night
Jensen Woods Camp

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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night
CSC Permaculture Project

8. 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Black Sheep Flower Farm

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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$60
 / night
Mississippi Palisades State Park

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
Toilets
Campfires
Lowden State Park

11. Lowden State Park

100%
(2)
89 sites · Oregon, Illinois
Explore where legendary Chief Black Hawk once lived with his people.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pere Marquette State Park

12. Pere Marquette State Park

100%
(2)
30 sites · Grafton, Illinois
See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
White Pines Forest State Park

13. White Pines Forest State Park

100%
(2)
115 sites · Mount Morris, Illinois
Ogle at this resort area just two hours from Chicago.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Heritage Hollow

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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$465
 / night
Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

15. Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

99%
(90)
20 sites · Tents, Lodging · Rockford, IL
Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Beaver Dam State Park

16. 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
Toilets
Campfires
Dixon Springs State Park

17. Dixon Springs State Park

100%
(1)
23 sites · Simpson, Illinois
Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fort Massac State Park

18. Fort Massac State Park

100%
(1)
52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois
Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area

19. 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
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field