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- Camping with Campfires allowed
The best camping in Illinois with campfires
97% (6.5K) • 8,264 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Illinois
Horseshoe Bend
1. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(768)
Roanoke, IL · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
WE ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026 SEASON!!
Family owned private campground since the 1940's. Very secluded and private. We offer a very unique experience that you will not find any public campground. I many ways we have a "private state park".
Nice trails for hiking or biking. There is even a small "race track" in the bottom bowl near the creek. There are several direct access points to the creek for fishing or wading. We have miles of marked trails that are easy for everyone.
Horseshoe Bend Main is a larger campground with four dispersed sites which a very spread out. This site has (3) 30 amp outlets for RV's. Porta potties are also provided.
The Horseshoe Bend Creekside sites are designated spots that are on the West Panther creek bank. There are porta potties, but no electric or water.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
2. Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
100%
(25)
Thomson, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Fin and Feather is a rustic campground located right on the banks of the Mississippi River backwaters, known for its true “camping in nature” experience. Every site looks out over the water with a beautiful sunset view! These primitive sites are large, shaded, hammock and dog friendly.
The ground is sandy, but the beach is not known as a swimming location. Fin and Feather sits where Big Slough of the Mississippi River meets Spring Lake, part of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge.
The Great River Bike Trail runs parallel to the campground. We offer canoe & kayak rentals (message us to arrange a rental in advance). The lake is a great place to paddle but be aware there is a lot of plant life in backwaters (closes to all boat traffic on October 1st as part of the wildlife refuge during hunting season). Firewood is available for purchase. The water in spigot is tested and "potable" but we recommend using it for hand washing and bringing drinking water. The nearby towns of Thomson and Savanna offer additional supplies. There’s so much to do in the area, such as hiking at Mississippi Palasades State Park, "troll hunting" in Clinton, IA, shopping in Fulton or Galena etc but with the peacefulness of the campground, you may just want to relax and enjoy the view!
We are a small privately owned campground. The grounds are separated into two regions. as you enter the property off off "Riverview" Road, there is a "T" intersection. As Hipcampers, you will turn right. The north side of the campground is for Hipcamp drop in camping only; tents and small campers like teardrops etc exclusively. (The south end of the campground is for our seasonal campers with bigger Rvs.) You will turn right and drive past the small camp store, a vintage trailer we are renovating and one Rv that is ours. The beach sites listed here are on the left along the shore line. We offer well maintained port a potties and there are water spigots on property as well.
*There is no power or water at the sites ("primative")
*pets are allowed- 2 per site maximum, must be leashed and no excessive barking allowed
*while maximum capacity 4, if you are a family with more kids please submit a specific request. We can make exceptions for families camping with their children.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Bear Bottom Ranch
3. Bear Bottom Ranch
93%
(153)
Yorkville, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! Our entrance is marked by 2 cross crossed American flags. Come and enjoy our 32 acres of wooded property where a creek runs through. We have gorgeous oak trees and walnut trees all throughout the property. If you looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have 3 unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Shawnee National Forest
4. Shawnee National Forest
95%
(30)
National forest in Illinois · 172 sites
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Illini State Park
5. Illini State Park
100%
(7)
State park in Illinois · 100 sites
Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Camp at Fyke Hill
6. Camp at Fyke Hill
Centralia, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp at Fyke Hill, a quiet, shaded retreat in the scenic countryside of Southern Illinois. Whether you're traveling with an RV, pitching a tent, or looking for a peaceful overnight stop, you'll enjoy a relaxing stay surrounded by mature trees, fresh air, and the beauty of nature.
Our spacious campsites offer plenty of room to spread out and unwind, making them perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Enjoy peaceful mornings with birdsong, spend your evenings around the campfire, and take in the calm atmosphere away from the crowds.
Conveniently located near Carlyle Lake and other local outdoor recreation areas, Camp at Fyke Hill is an excellent basecamp for fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring Southern Illinois. After a day of adventure, return to your campsite to relax beneath the stars and enjoy the tranquility of the property.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a road trip stop, or an extended camping adventure, Camp at Fyke Hill offers the perfect combination of privacy, comfort, and easy access to the region's natural attractions. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you enjoy everything Southern Illinois has to offer.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Willowthorne
7. Willowthorne
97%
(276)
Lynwood, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the Charm of Willowthorne: Your Rustic Sanctuary Amid Natural Beauty. Willowthorne invites you to revel in the natural allure and organic rhythm of life on the farm, fostering enduring memories that extend long after your visit.
Nestled within a serene 9-acre organic blueberry farm , Willowthorne emerges as an idyllic escape where the sunsets are sublime, and the night sky brims with twinkling stars, and the hosts are charming and delightful. This unique getaway marries the essence of organic farming, educational pursuits, and warm hospitality to create an unparalleled outdoor experience.
Catering to tent camping aficionados and retreat groups, our pastoral campgrounds are graced with picturesque views of a tranquil pond and willow trees. While our space welcomes the modest charm of tents, small RVs, and campers, we maintain a rustic essence without power hook-ups, encouraging guests to connect with nature. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a personal fire ring and table for your convenience.
Our area offers an incredible variety of recreational and sightseeing activities. Find peace and tranquility among nature or travel just 25 miles north to visit the heart of Chicago! We are central to many Illinois, Indiana and Michigan State Parks and beaches. Several good restaurants and breweries are also nearby.
PLEASE NOTE:
Please drive slowly and cautiously through our property. We are an active farm with a lot of activity all year round.
Please pitch your tent in the designated campground area.
In support of conservation of the natural ecosystem, please refrain from broadcast pesticides, i.e. Raid, Yard Guard, etc. Spraying skin, clothing, and personal property with mosquito repellent in your designated camping is fine.
Our farm has beehives placed at a safe distance from the campsites to ensure guest safety. Obey posted signs and please stay out of designated work areas
OBSERVE FIRE SAFETY.
Leave fire ring in designated spot.
Never leave fire unattended.
No fires on windy days.
Extinguish fire before leaving campsite.
Please read: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fire-safety
For Your Convenience:
Firewood:
Purchase bundles of wood on site as non-local wood can disrupt the local ecosystem through disease or invasive species. Feel free to collect any small, fallen twigs for kindling. (Wood in stacked piles is not for burning but reserved for mushroom cultivation and other projects.)
Honey:
We offer honey harvested from blueberry blossoms in spring and the rich flavors of black locust and clover in late summer.
Blueberries:
Come July, partake in our U-pick blueberry farm, an experience seamlessly woven into your stay.
Misc.
We also offer a variety of organic garden vegetables and herbs throughout the growing season. Kindly inquire on availability upon arrival if you are interested in any of these farm fresh goodies.
Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome.
We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
8. The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
92%
(326)
Chicago, IL · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Twenty years of growing this farm... Not what grows here but the farm itself! Stone and brick pulled from the ground till we found the beautiful earth beneath and built an incredible community around it. Or rather, it grew itself from the energy that surrounds it. It's a special spot where you may happen upon a fire in the sugar shack while we boil city collected sap into maple syrup or have an open jam night with world class jazz musicians. Enjoy the morning serenade of our rooster! Really, just come and be here. Though we think we're pretty cool, a few things to note that you may not think are so cool: There is a train that runs directly behind the farm. Light sleepers, may want to bring ear plugs. We try to accommodate parking your car on site but it's weather and situation conditional. Assume the possibility that you may need to park on the street.
Bring your tent to The Vaudeville! (RVs, campers, trailers, vans please see the ** at the bottom). Our urban farm is smack in the middle of Chicago only a 10 minute bike or train ride from Downtown, Lake Michigan, The Mag Mile and all Chicago has to offer! Bike the Lake Shore Trail, walk the 606, kayak the Chicago River, catch a blues show or Hawks game or just relax with the goats and chickens in the 9,000 square foot farm that we absolutely love to share with fellow campers!
** We have stopped hosting RVs, campers/vans, pull behinds and larger vehicles because we are finding it difficult to get them in the entrance gate but if you feel amazingly capable with your backing in skills in your rig and you're super patient, laid back and extra cool, let us know and we may be able to make it work!! :)
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
9. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
87%
(171)
Ottawa, IL · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Waterfront Rustic Primitive(no water/no electric/no showers) Camping we allow primitive tent camping(whole campground), tear drop campers, pop up campers(sites 60 and up) and campervans(whole campground) we are right on the illinois river across from Starved Rock State Park. Towering views of St. Peters sandstone bluffs, soaring bald eagles and sandy islands. We are primitive. no water no electric. Just rugged natural beautiful riverside camping with ultra clean pimped out porta potties that have wipes, underarm spray deodorant, air freshener and hand sanitizer. Please note kayak rentals or guided kayak tours are not included but may be purchased onsite or from our website kayak starved rock campground. showers are available nearby at Ottawa or Oglesby swimming pool for a small fee
You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation. If anyone in the camping reservation is under 21 then someone 20 years older must be present at all times camping with the person(s) under 21
Check-in time
Mon-Thurs 3:00 pm-5:30PM
Friday-Sun 3:00PM-7:30PM
Check-out time is 3:00 pm.
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND Camping Rules
Our Rules are to promote a family friendly and safe camping experience
We reserve the right to evict anyone without refund for improper behavior or failure to observe our rules and regulations.
All Campers must check in/show ID at the KSRC office and sign a waiver and receive a parking pass/wristband. WE DO NOT ALLOW GUESTS! ANYONE ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE REGISTERED AHEAD OF TIME AS A CAMPER AND PAID FOR! All Campers are required to wear wristbands. All vehicles must have a Parking pass on the dashboard. Anyone within camp area must have a wristband on.
NO GENERATORS!!!!!
NO MUSIC IS TO BE PLAYED THROUGH SPEAKERS AT ANY TIME QUIET HOURS ARE FROM 10PM TO 7AM THAT MEANS NO NOISE WHATSOEVER. Strictly Enforced Vehicular entry/exit is not permitted between these hours. Children should be on campsite by 9:00 pm. If you violate this rule you will be evicted without refund and you will be banned from ever camping again.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Rock Cut State Park
10. Rock Cut State Park
100%
(6)
State park in Illinois · 266 sites
Four seasons of fun await at this rock-cut wilderness within day-trip distance of Chicago.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
11. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park in Illinois · 92 sites
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
Showers
Sand Ridge State Forest
12. Sand Ridge State Forest
100%
(3)
State forest in Illinois · 46 sites
Think Central Illinois is one big corn field? Sand Ridge State Forest begs to differ.
Pets
Toilets
Sewer hookup
Mississippi Palisades State Park
13. Mississippi Palisades State Park
100%
(3)
State park in Illinois · 241 sites
See the mighty Mississippi River from a unique vantage point at this state park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
14. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
99%
(55)
Big Rock, IL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand and wood sales on site for 7 a large bundle. Feel free to pull wood from the land yourself as well. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. Need to drive to get to showers and go when the facility is open. Possible to see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less from Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open early this year Feb 19th through Sept 30th (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be on or about September 30th (but if we say open on the site after feel free to book). And then we will be closed for the winter until on or about May first (again if open you can book before this date); Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean Coffee close by. Local forest preserve has toilets (within driving distance and use while open before sundown) or bring your own porti-john (I find a bucket and a garbage bag do wonders). Camp with your dogs and horses!! Animals welcome (trails at the local preserve). Set up a temp spot for them with owner permission. We have the space. There is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner and a local farm spot where you can call and pet horses. We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A hammock. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, gardens, or themselves. 💕🙏 Again offering substantial fire wood bundles for 7 dollars a bundle. New egg and farm stand added this year. Two new picnic tables added. Well water available upon request for those that have travel tanks to refill (ask the owner and schedule a time to use the hose).
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
Linden Camprground
15. Linden Camprground
96%
(752)
Apple River, IL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We bought the farmette with much work outside and home interior remodel to complete. We slowly turned the property into our family oasis. We neighbor a pasture with cows. There are free range chickens running around during the day. Geese greet us every evening and morning at the pond...as do the many bullfrogs. Occasionally you'll hear the coyotes, but they keep their distance. The stars shine peacefully and the sunsets are picturesque (most afternoons). The pond is a great place to swim and fish. The hillside is a nice walk for exercise or take the easier route and sit under the great oak tree in the other pasture. Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. You won't find a sign...we keep it simple.
We allow pets at the sites for a $5 per pet/per night. If you would like to bring a pet, please add the Pet Fee which is listed on the Extra during the booking process.
We have firewood available for sale, $5.55/bundle. This is located in the Extra section during the booking process.
Lastly, there is free range chicken eggs available for purchase, $3.50/dozen. This is also located in the Extra section during the booking process.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Gypsi Acres
16. Gypsi Acres
93%
(20)
Sheridan, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to Nature's Sanctuary at Gypsi Acres
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of our 3-acre camping oasis, nestled amidst lush landscapes and soothing water views.
Open Field Camping: Pitch your tent under starry skies with breathtaking sunset views
Wooded Wonderland. Discover secluded campsites surrounded by towering trees and vibrant wildlife
**Creek Side Serenity*: Unwind to gentle water flows and enjoy creek-side camping with tranquil views
**Primitive Camping*: Immersive nature experience with no hookups
**Portable Toilets*: Clean facilities for your convenience
**Campfire Rings*: Cozy up to starry nights with friends and family
**Stargazing*: Unobstructed views of the night sky
Tent Camping
RV/Trailer (no hookups)
Book Your Nature Escape:
Call/Text [331-575-2398] or
Email [ karen88rodriguez@yahoo.com
Property can also be rented as an event venue for parties with a barn
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
17. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
99%
(190)
Tiskilwa, IL · 9 sites
🐐 Hungry World Farm: Glamping, Camping & Animal Encounters on a Working Regenerative Farm
Looking for something more meaningful than just a campground?
Welcome to Hungry World Farm—175 acres of forests, pastures, gardens, creeks, and animals where every visit connects people with the land, food, and each other.
Just two hours west of Chicago, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park, our nonprofit educational farm offers a totally different overnight experience—one rooted in regeneration, organic farming, community, and joy.
What Makes Hungry World Farm Different?
You don’t just sleep under the stars—you wake up to the sound of goats bleating, chickens scratching, and the scent of dew on rich, healthy soil.
Our 16 new glamping tents and campsites (cabin and apartments too) are nestled across rolling pastures and forests, offering sweeping views and proximity to daily farm life. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a family adventure, you'll be immersed in:
🐐 Baby Goat Snuggling & Animal Encounters
🌱 Working Regenerative Farm Experiences
🍕 Wood-Fired Pizza Nights on select Saturdays
🌳 Trails, Playgrounds, and Stargazing Opportunities
Lodging Options:
🛖 Glamping Tents – Furnished with queen beds and solar electric, some deep in forest on ridges, some near playground/flat lawn for families w/small children. Some remote, others next to each other or families vacationing together.
⛺ Rustic Campsites – Private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature
🏡 Cabin, Apartments – So your friends that need AC/shower can have those comforts
Other Experiences:
🐄 Guided Farm Tours of gardens, animals, and pastures
🛠️ Volunteer Days and Hands-On Learning Projects
📚 Seasonal Workshops in gardening, composting, and more
🥬 Farmstand Access (in-season) with eggs, produce, and preserves
Perfect For: 2 or more families/friends, Nature lovers and first-time campers, Eco-friendly wedding parties.
On-Site Amenities:
- Fire pits at every site, with wood and other camping needs available for purchase- Portapotties and a public restroom located on the farm (not officially part of the campground but accessible)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
18. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
100%
(874)
Palmer, IL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 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. We have some news for everyone from new campers to those that have visited before, we had our pond dredged this fall and winter (2025-2026). this was a much needed improvement for the ecology of the pond and it's inhabitants. We do want everyone to know it will look different for a while. There were trees that had to be removed from the north and east side of the pond, and until we can get the soil moved that came out of the pond, there will be piles of soil around the pond. The depth of the pond will be low until we receive enough rain to fill it back up (we didn't drain it completely, but it is much lower right now). We are keeping site 2 closed for 2026 so the grass has a chance to grow back. We will be adding a few more sites once the pond area is landscaped. 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.
Ice is available at the farm $5/8 pound bag.
Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm, Anderson Cemetery and Witch's Bridge.
Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks, in Taylorville.
Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield, is 35 miles from the farm.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Grand Chain Vineyards
19. Grand Chain Vineyards
90%
(24)
New Grand Chain, IL · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
The RV Resort at Grand Chain Vineyards features 25 full-hookup pull-thru campsites nestled in the center of Grand Chain Vineyards overlooking the Ohio River. Grand Chain Vineyards is a 60+ acre estate of rolling hills and vineyards overlooking the beautiful Ohio River with on-site Winery, RV Resort, Event Venue, Cabins & Rooms, and Restaurant "Due South" BBQ & Grill.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool
20. Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool
96%
(23)
Hamilton, IL · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Wildcat is a very nice campground operated by the Hamilton Park District in Hamilton IL. The Campground has 12 RV slots of various sizes and electric for tent camping. Water is also available at each camper site. There is also a dump station is on site. On the same property is a very nice public pool and one of the country's premier Disc Golf courses. Very quiet and peaceful surroundings. Just a half mile off of the Mississippi River. There is a single shower/restroom open for campers located on the North end of the pool house.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
H
Hannah
4 days ago
Tent
10 out of 10! The land was beautiful, the campsite was huge, and we loved how close we were to the water and wildlife. Bring the bug spray (the area in general is marshy, so it comes with the territory) and your binoculars (so many birds and we had beaver neighbors!). Danika and her husband were both so kind and communicative. And I appreciated the outdoor shower in this heat. We’ll be back!
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D
DEMIAN
5 days ago
13 ft toy hauler
With pets
Amazing location to just Relax ! Electrical connection was on point with no issues ! Clean, private, and with lots of land to explore ! Great for dog lovers !
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Sharon
5 days ago
26 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Amazing spot with shade and beautiful trails! Brady was amazing and brought us a heap of fire wood when we first arrived. The grounds are so well kept! We loved this stay and will definitely be back next time we’re through the state.
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E
Evan
5 days ago
Tent
With kids
Brady took care of us as always! Would come back again!
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Rainey
5 days ago
Tent
With kids
Our kids had an absolute blast out here playing on the water, very pretty place and the owners were very nice and accommodating. Definitely recommend checking it out and we will be back.
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D
Danylo
5 days ago
Tent
This is a very clean and well-maintained camping spot. The campsites were also nicely spread out, there was some free firewood, and Brady gave good instructions prior to arriving, so it was a great experience.
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A
April
5 days ago
With kids
I spent a weekend at the cottage with my family and my friend and her family, there were four adults and four kids total. We had a lovely time. The land is peaceful and well cared for. The cottage is great (the photos don't do it justice) and was well stocked for 8. The walk to the pond was such a nice opportunity to see flora and fauna. We spent a long day at the water on the canoe and kayak, fishing and playing. It was idyllic and restorative.
We were greeted by Matt who was very helpful throughout our stay. We learned a lot about the land in that area and hope that it is always stewarded by such thoughtful people. We briefly met Deb and Tia and always felt welcomed, but not watched. They were generous and we were able to try some of the incredible farm fresh food as well.
It was easy to navigate, but felt spacious and adventuresome. I feel lucky to have stayed there and recommend it to all.
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W
Wesley
5 days ago
12 ft rooftop tent
With kids
This was such an incredible experience! The campsites are nicely spread out so you have a space that feels like your own. Danika was very responsive and a pleasure to talk too! We will definitely be returning to the sandy oasis we called home briefly (campsite 2). Bonus was a very long sunset!
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M
Marian
5 days ago
Tent
We had a wonderful time camping here! The campsite is beautiful, peaceful, and very close to the water with amazing views. It was easy to find, and everything was exactly as described.
One thing to know is that the water near the shore is shallow, so if you want to fish, it's best to bring or rent a boat or kayaks. That's exactly what we did, and it worked out great. You can rent them right on-site, which is very convenient.
The owner is very friendly and welcoming. She answered all of our questions and was incredibly helpful. She even saved us by lending us a lighter because we forgot ours!
We truly enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back. Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a relaxing camping
experience!
★★★★★
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S
Scott
6 days ago
Tent
With pets
We loved our stay at Danika and James' Fin and Feather property on Spring Lake - Danika was a super communicative host, easy to reach and talk to and it's really cool how they're rehabing this old camp into something that feels quieter, more special, and more connected to the ecosystem around it. We stayed in site 2 with our large dog, and had a neighbor with kids in site 3, but never felt too cramped as can often happen at larger sites in state parks. This truly felt like our own special experience. The sites are spacious, and the available firewood, kayaks and canoes, water spigot, picnic tables with fire rings and grill grates, and CLEAN porta-jons make the stay a breeze for new and experienced campers alike. This is a considered a primative site primarily for tent camping, however the conveniences and proximity to many great locations, make it a very comfortable stay without feeling intrusive. We really like what Danika and James have got going on here and wish them all the best!
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J
JoAnn
1 week ago
30 ft pop-up camper
Absolutely beautiful property. Stayed twice for one night each trip on our way traveling through. We were camping with our two labs, the creek is beautiful, dogs loved it. Had the property to ourselves on the Tuesday we were headed home. Will definitely stay here again.
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J
Javier
1 week ago
12 ft rooftop tent
Here’s a polished version of your review:
We had a great stay at this campground! The location is beautiful, right on the waterfront, and it has all the basic amenities you need for a comfortable visit. The owner was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. Firewood was conveniently available on-site, which made our campfires even more enjoyable. We had a wonderful time and are already looking forward to coming back again soon. Highly recommend!
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Emma
1 week ago
Tent
Brady was incredibly responsive, helpful, and kind bringing us dry firewood after a storm and helping tow our car when it got stuck. The land and all amenities were beautiful and well kept. We will be back!
See moreK
Katarzyna
1 week ago
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
We just wrapped up a fantastic two-night weekend stay at Horseshoe Bend (the Ridge site), and it exceeded every expectation. If you're looking for total peace, privacy, and beautiful central Illinois scenery, this is the spot.
The grounds are pristine, the atmosphere is perfectly peaceful with plenty of birds and wildlife, and it gave us the reset we needed for the holiday weekend. We will absolutely be back!
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R
Ron
1 week ago
15 ft travel trailer
It was a great place for us, exactly as described. Others were there camping and we still had privacy. Would highly recommend it.
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C
CHUPER
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Very beautiful, everything was great—100% recommended. There is plenty of land for walking or cycling.
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Sabrina
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Quiet, large, private spot. Beautiful surroundings and trails.
See moreSabrina
1 week ago
20 ft truck camper
With pets
2nd time to this property this year, different site this time. It’s just so beautiful and peaceful. Won’t be our last visit!
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K
Kathryn
1 week ago
Tent
Great place to get away outdoors. Loved the river by our campsite was so clean and we were swimming in it!
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P
Patrick
1 week ago
Tent
Such a lovely campground! Everything was clean and well cared for, and the outdoor shower was a really nice touch. The lake was great, with kayaks available to rent, and there was quick access to a nicely paved bike trail. The whole place felt very kid-friendly. We also loved arriving to find a turtle welcoming us at our campsite — such a cute start to our stay!
See moreIllinois camping guide
Where to go
Chicago & Around
Once you’ve marveled at the skyscrapers and filled up on hot dogs in Chicago, you’ll find several of Illinois’ most impressive state parks within day-trip distance of the Windy City. Cool off at Illinois Beach State Park along the shores of Lake Michigan, hike to waterfalls and camp in the woods at Starved Rock State Park, or admire the fall foliage in Matthiessen State Park. For winter campers, Rock Cut State Park is a hotspot for cross-country skiing.
Great Rivers Country
Nineteenth-century towns, vineyards, and scenic river valleys provide a change of pace in Western Illinois. Hop between towns like Peoria, Moline, and Galena along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers; spot bald eagles in Grafton, or rent a cabin at nearby Pere Marquette State Park. Mississippi Palisades State Park is another regional highlight, where you can hike, rock climb, or cross-country ski, depending on the season.
Land of Lincoln
Illinois’ bucolic heartland was the long-time home of Abraham Lincoln, and historic sites are scattered around the countryside between Springfield, Bloomington, and Decatur. If you’re up for one of the world’s most famous road trips, drive your RV on down to Springfield, the birthplace of Route 66, or if woodland views and lake fishing are more your jam, head to Walnut Point State Park, Wolf Creek State Park, or Sangchris Lake State Park.
South Illinois
The rambling Shawnee National Forest stretches over much of southern Illinois, encompassing miles of hiking and horseback riding trails between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Take your pick of some of the state’s most rewarding hikes, including the River to River Trail and the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, and don’t miss the extraordinary rock formations of the Garden of the Gods. First-come, first-served campsites are available at several NF campgrounds, or you can pitch your tent or park your RV in the dispersed camping areas.
