Forest camping in Illinois with campfires

From Lake Michigan beaches to Shawnee National Forest trails—campers have options in Illinois.

96% (2563 reviews)
96% (2563 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Illinois

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds in Illinois with campfires

100%
(524)

Wine Trail Wilderness

16 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, IL
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.
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$24
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99%
(73)

Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · 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.
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$28
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97%
(275)

East Woods on the IL River

3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ottawa, IL
This 25 acre parcel was once owned by a sand mining company. There are mounds and valleys all along the Illinois River. We purchased the property in 1987, and cut in the road. The city of Ottawa recently annexed the property into the Ottawa city limits. It's like owning our own wild park.
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$36
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98%
(396)

McCully Heritage Project

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents940 acres · Kampsville, IL
The McCully Heritage Project is a 940- acre environmental center located one mile south of Kampsville, Illinois in beautiful and remote Calhoun County. We are a private non-profit left as the legacy of Howard and Eva McCully.
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$25
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(784)

Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents103 acres · 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 & fruit on. We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim & boat in. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them. Plenty of wildlife, hiking & mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised & 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.
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$35
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97%
(188)

Welcome to our Magical Woods

9 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Marseilles, IL
Cicadas 2024 are GONE It's so quiet! Except for the birds and other soft singing insects. LOTS of tree frogs are chirping. Grundy County Fair July 3 - 7 in Morris, IL. Fireworks from stadium seating July 3rd. Every day there is a carnival, horse show, truck/tractor pulls, auto races and more! https://grundycountyfair.org/ Nearly every local town has something going on for 4th of July, from very small towns to our larger cities in this area - just ask! LaSalle County 4H Fair July 10 - 14 Tractor and truck pulls, rodeo, demolition derby and of course lots of critters and kids. Best lemon shake ups on the planet https://www.facebook.com/lasallecountyjrfair/ Stargazers delight! We have very little light interference out here which makes for excellent stargazing! Upcoming celestial events: Comet 13P/Olbers Visible beginning 6/29/24 The comet is currently approaching its perihelion — its closest point to the sun. It will reach that point on Sunday, June 30. It will reach its closest point to Earth on July 20 More here: https://wgntv.com/news/comet-not-seen-since-1956-set-to-fly-by-earth/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0aLalFEmpJV7zTJP3RG-LVLfChe6COXzKPHX8oXK-YrA6zVXdpkqbdPZg_aem_Df1Swwdh287nWq04ev5N_g ************ Peaceful and enchanting. Very rustic and private. we are in the best part of the Illinois wilderness. Our woods transport you a world away, yet you are just a short walk from your vehicle and a short drive to stores, sites and restaurants. Our campsites are treated with a light essential oil to help repel bugs, like mosquitoes and ticks. Our pond is treated weekly for mosquitoes. We work hard so that you are comfortable. Your campsite is clean and stocked for you with a picnic table, five pieces of firewood, a lighter, fire starters, a couple of chairs and peace and quiet. A clean port a potty is available at the trail head and next to the stables. There is a stocked handwashing station next to the port a potties. No bears, no wolves, no mountain lions. Plenty of owls, birds, frogs, and small critters plus the shy deer are all about. Our "camp host" Tiller the big lovable doggo will patrol to scatter any trash pandas that might happen by. We keep track of him using GPS, so we know if He is hanging with you around the campfire. When his collar lights up and plays a tune, it's time for him to come home! Please send him on his way - thank you. Cicadas 2024 are GONE It's so quiet! Except for the birds and other soft singing insects. Up coming events: Marseilles Fundays Now - June 30th. Carnival, food, fun, fireworks and Sunday PARADE https://www.cityofmarseilles.com/marseilles-fun-days-2024/ Grundy County Fair July 3 - 7 in Morris, IL. Fireworks from stadium seating July 3rd. Every day there is a carnival, horse show, truck/tractor pulls, auto races and more! https://grundycountyfair.org/
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$35
 / night
99%
(82)

Angel Creek

20 sites · Tents18 acres · Sheridan, IL
Angel Creek is a carefully manicured, forested primitive campground that provides an array of tent camping spaces suitable for couples, family gatherings, and everything in between. Owned and managed by the Garcia family, campers will undoubtedly recognize and appreciate the meticulous hard work and attention to detail dedicated to each site, hiking trail, and overall experience at Angel Creek.
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$40
 / night
99%
(41)

175 Acre Farm: Glamp Tents & Cabin

3 sites · Lodging175 acres · Tiskilwa, IL
Hungry World Farm is a nonprofit 175 acre farm that inspires and educates people on the benefits of regenerative agriculture. Our farm is located in Central Illinois about 2 hours west of Chicago along I-80, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park. The beautiful topography includes bluffs, valley, Plow Creek, 100 acres of forest, and over 50 acres of pasture, market garden, crops, barns, playground, nature preserve, animals, playground, commercial kitchen, outdoor wood-fired pizza oven, and a produce packing center. Uniquely, for many years the farm was an Intentional Community and has 10+ Airbnb rentals with additional building, glamping tents, RV and camping sites. Our market garden and livestock operations provide delicious and nutrient dense food to thousands of people every year. So many of our guests just need an escape, from traffic, from electronics, from the things that keep their families from being together. We provide a uniquely, peaceful and unforgettable experience, where they can walk through the woods, pet the animals, dig their hands in the soil, and gaze at the stars. Here are some things we offer: 1. Wood Fired Pizza Nights, Friday nights from 5 - 8pm with some live music 2. Breakfasts on the Farm, Saturday 8:30 - 10am 3. Peaceful Overnight Stays for up to 35 guests in a variety of lodging including Cabin, Apartments, Retreat Center, RV spots, Glamping & Camping Available. These can be booked via the Hungry World Farm Website directly for special requests, as well as Airbnb, and Hipcamp. 4. Tours of the Farm Garden, Homestead Animals, Farmstead Livestock, with special focus on Regenerative Farming & forest and prairie Conservation 5. Volunteer Opportunities - to garden, build, raise animals, conserve pastures and forests, and build trails. 6. Workshops - Gardening, Homesteading, And Regenerative Agriculture Workshops including IVCC extension classes. 7. Groups of visitors holding Reunions, Youth events, Groups, special retreats, and wedding parties are welcome! 8. People can also buy farm produce at the Peoria Riverfront Market, May - September, and may be able to purchase value added products at the farm. Discover the farm - an unforgettable escape for you, your family, church group, or wedding party. Reconnect with nature. Gaze at the stars. Fall in love. Restore your soul. Our Cabin, Rooms, & Apartment are now on AirBnB and Hipcamp (with more to come.)
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$60.30
 / night
93%
(57)

Bear Bottom Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Yorkville, IL
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!
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$35
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87%
(129)

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

41 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Ottawa, IL
Waterfront Primitive 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 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 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. 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 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. Footwear must be worn at all times in the camping area. The speed limit is 10mph in the campground. We have Jumbo wood bundles for sale($8) at the front office. You may not use any wood(>3”diameter) found within the campground for your campfire. Swimming is prohibited from any beach in the campground. You may wade up to your thighs however, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON AND BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES we do allow well behaved leashed dogs at this campground(please be advised that Eagles can harm small dogs. we are not responsible if your dog inflicts harm/and or injures Glass containers/bottles of any sort are prohibited in the campground. Garbage must be bagged and placed into the Dumpster within the Campground upon leaving. If any garbage is left at your site you will be charged a $50 cleaning fee. No fires permitted except in fire rings. Absolutely no firearms or fireworks! IF FOUND YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE. No ATVs, dirt bikes, drones or motorized scooters (battery or gas) WE are not responsible for damage or theft of your personal belongings. Please leave all valuables at home. WE DO ALLOW WELL BEHAVED LEASHED DOGS AT THIS LOCATION ONLY 2 DOGS MAX PER CAMPSITE
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$39
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100%
(30)

Sonny Hills

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Eddyville, IL
70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with hiking trails, woods and water activities. Close to Garden of the Gods (10 min), RimRock, Pounds Hollow, Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. We are in the middle of the Shawnee surrounded by trees, our own lake, you can hike around and walk the land in solitude, yet, we are only 25 minutes to Harrisburg. The closest grocery/merchandise store is only 5 minutes away. Cabin-2BR -1 Q, 1 K/1BA sleeps 4- possible 5, Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Kitchen is fully equipped and stocked; plates and all utensils, as well as with coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil, and condiments. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace and nice views of private lake and hills. Large back deck that wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private, Fire pit. Free firewood. $85.00 per night, 2 night minimum, $60.00 cleaning fee Primitive tent camping sites available. RV pads for self-contained campers. One Electric space available. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Porta-Potty on premises. No showers. No Internet. Shade or sunny areas. Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds, and one small mix breed that runs the place). Dogs must have proof of vaccinations. Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoe and boat. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond. All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.
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$17
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92%
(19)

Bella Vita Private Resort

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents110 acres · Ashmore, IL
Welcome to Bella Vita Resort and Glamping where we're dedicated to reviving the timeless joy of family bonding and outdoor adventure. In a world where life moves quickly, we invite you to slow down and savor every moment with your loved ones. Our mission is simple: to provide a wide array of group activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Bella Vita. For those traveling with RVs, we offer spacious sites with 30/50-amp with partial and full hookups, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. If you prefer luxury tent camping, you will love our glamping tents. Our regular tent sites come equipped with 110 amp electric, allowing you to enjoy a cozy retreat under the stars while still having access to modern amenities. For true nature enthusiasts, we also offer primitive sites situated along the serene lake or river, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, our primitive sites offer a truly immersive camping experience. At Bella Vita Resort, we believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. Join us in embracing the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure and family bonding, and rediscovering the joy of living your best life.
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$30
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Star Hosts in Illinois

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Forest camping in Illinois with campfires guide

Overview

Illinois might be notoriously flat—the state’s highest natural point, Charles Mound, is easily eclipsed by Chicago's Willis Tower—but there are still plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures in the Land of Lincoln. Head to the windswept shores of Lake Michigan, grab your backpack and hit the trail in the Shawnee National Forest, or hop in your RV and set out along Route 66. With more than 300 state parks to explore, and a huge choice of campgrounds, glampsites, and cozy cabin rentals, campers have options to suit all four seasons. Summer is peak season, so book well in advance.

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.

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