The best camping in Illinois with fishing

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Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking to go camping in Illinois and enjoy some fishing? You're in luck! With over 700 options in Illinois that cater to fishing enthusiasts, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you prefer pitching a tent by the lake or parking your RV near a river, we've got you covered. And with campsites like Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews), and Linden Campground (190 reviews) being top favorites, you can trust that you'll have a great experience. Plus, if you're worried about the cost, don't be! Our average price per night is just $35, and we have options available for as low as $10. So pack your gear and get ready to reel in some memories!

97% (4.6K) • 6,694 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Illinois

Angel Creek

1. Angel Creek

98%
(184)
Sheridan, IL · 20 sites
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. We are a weekend only campground and not at will. You must book a reservation before arriving. We are not able to provide booking details after 9pm; do not book after 9pm.
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Wine Trail Wilderness

2. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%
(735)
Pomona, IL · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
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 and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers. Wine Trail Wilderness HipCamp was just honored with the "Top 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America" this year! We're honored to receive that distinguished title, and look forward to seeing y'all come out and camp in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest.
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Bear Bottom Ranch

3. Bear Bottom Ranch

94%
(179)
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!
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Shawnee National Forest

4. Shawnee National Forest

95%
(30)
National forest in Illinois · 172 sites
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
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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.
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Welcome to our Magical Woods

6. Welcome to our Magical Woods

98%
(301)
Marseilles, IL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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 Starved Rock, numerous parks, lakes, hiking, fishing and boating sites, stores, and restaurants. Campsites rentals benefit Acres Of Peace Center which provides free mental health programs to Veterans since 2004(located on our farm) We have 5 well spaced campsites complete with fire pit, picnic table and a couple of chairs ready for you at your campsite. Rent 1 or rent them all! Just bring your tent or your hammock! Your initial firewood . lighter, trash and recycling cans, and firestarters are brought to your site before you arrive. 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. We are dedicated to being inclusive. We all LOVE nature and Everyone is welcome here. Message us when you are 30 minutes out, so we can you our tractor to help bring your things to your site. Same at check out. Just let us know 30 mins before you are ready to go and we will help you pack out! Sorry you will not be able to drive your vehicle to your site. This keeps the woods quiet for all of our guests. Each site is just a few hundred feet from the parking area. The magical woods is located along the bridle trails behind our horse farm. Sorry, we do not offer trail rides as we have show horses. However you are welcome to arrange a visit to meet the animals when you arrive. We have horses, a miniature horse, a mule, a miniature sheep and a very sweet goat named Hairy. There are about 30 chickens wandering the yard all day and we have 4 dogs and 3 cats that are always around. They are used to other dogs. At night we have a lovely lullaby of owls, night birds, insects and frogs. Sometimes you can even hear sounds from the Illinois River and railway miles away. Barges, trains (not many) tug boats, and the interesting sounds that come with them. Listen carefully, can you tell them apart?
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Millbrook Trail Rides

7. Millbrook Trail Rides

97%
(132)
Newark, IL · 1 site
We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!
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Willowthorne

8. Willowthorne

97%
(293)
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!
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McCully Heritage Project

9. McCully Heritage Project

98%
(365)
Kampsville, IL · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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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.
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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.
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Lake Shelbyville

12. Lake Shelbyville

100%
(4)
Park in Illinois · 322 sites
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
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Moraine View State Recreation Area

13. Moraine View State Recreation Area

100%
(3)
State park in Illinois · 105 sites
1,687-acre Moraine View State Recreation Area is a scenic spot for both relaxation and recreation. It features a 158-acre lake and irregular crests formed by glaciers 15,000 years ago called moraines. Scattered groves of white oak, red oak, black walnut, maple, hickory, ash and elm dot the valleys.Anglers may be interested in competing in the fishing tournaments held at the lake, offering opportunities to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, bullhead, crappie, channel catfish, walleye, yellow perch and northern pike. There are also a number of shorter trails (less than 2 miles) to explore, including The Timber Point Handicapped Trail, which gives disabled visitors an opportunity for some quality time in the woods. An additional seven miles of trails is available for cross-country skiing and snowmobiles once there’s sufficient snowfall.
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Linden Camprground

14. Linden Camprground

95%
(489)
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.
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Vintage Spring Lake Campground

15. Vintage Spring Lake Campground

97%
(133)
Savanna, IL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Spring Lake Campground was est. in 1943. This “vintage campground” has provided a place for families to relax in nature and make memories for generations. The lake is a backwater Mississippi River refuge, so there is always something to see and learn about. The Great River Bike Trail runs right through, so bring your bike! It’s a beautiful ride from the campground to nearby Savanna, IL. We rent kayaks and canoes through September. The lake is great to paddle but be aware there is a lot of plant life on the backwaters. (The lake closes for all boat traffic Oct 1 to provide a refuge for migrating birds during duck hunting season. If you enjoy birding, plan a trip during October) With this abundant plant life, shore fishing becomes challenging as the summer progresses. We offer canoe and kayak rentals as an option to get out on the lake. There is so much to do in the surrounding area: hiking and climbing at Palisades State Park, restaurants, bars and shopping in Savanna, "Troll hunting" in Clinton, IA, museums and more. But enjoying a peaceful time at the campground, having a bonfire, watching the sunset on the lake and seeing the stars at night is really what it’s about. True old school camping, enjoying the wildlife sanctuary. Instead of pavement, we have trees. Our best amenity is nature! Get outside, unplug and relax. *While is says maximum capacity 4, if you are a family with more kids submit a specific request. We can make exceptions for families camping with their children. *We DO allow small campers on the peninsula like teardrops and Scamps but no generators please. *We ask that our campers please arrive before dark to find their site and set up to avoid disrupting other campers. It gets really dark! We do not have street lights so people can see the stars. *please note you are Requesting the site not instantly booking. We will respond to your request ASAP and all requests are pending.
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Sonny Hills

16. Sonny Hills

100%
(107)
Eddyville, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We live on 70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with some hiking opportunities, woods and water activities that we would love to share with you. 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/1 bath, sleeps 4, possible 5, with the foot stool/ table that makes a small child size bed. Completely modernized, with heating/ac. Full kitchen with stove, dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator, dual flex coffee maker, pots, pans, crock pot, toaster, all utensils. Coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil and condiments. Laundry. Outside Grill. Large Great room, with native sandstone fireplace that is converted to gas for easy lighting. Back deck has beautiful views of the lake and hills. Enjoy the large front porch that adjoins the back deck and wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private. Firepit, plenty of DVD's and games, or stream your own channels with Wi-fi. Tent and RV camping sites: Shade and sunny areas available. RV pads for self-contained campers. One Electric space available. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Clean Porta-Potty on premises. No showers. It is HIGHLY suggested that campers arrive at dusk or before sunset. The entrance to the area is not marked by lights, only a reflective triangle with the house number. The driveway is not lit, and the camp area also has no lights (better to see the stars). Contact us if arrival before nightfall is not possible and we can help guide you to the areas. Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. All dogs and people Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds). Dogs must have proof of vaccinations. Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoe and boat for your use. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond. There is a beach area for swimming. All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.
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Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

17. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%
(597)
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.
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East Woods on the IL River

18. East Woods on the IL River

97%
(354)
Ottawa, IL · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Railroad creek camp ground

19. Railroad creek camp ground

96%
(82)
Hamilton, IL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Come enjoy primitive camping while you commune with nature and hunt geodes and fossils in the famous Keokuk Geode region. Property is within close proximity to Nauvoo, Illinois and within a very short distance to the Mississippi River. The camping area is level ground and surrounded by trees. The property has a hillside geode mine on it and there is a creek running through it that has a lot of geodes in it.
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Serenity Fields Farm

20. Serenity Fields Farm

94%
(115)
Dalton City, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are originally from Northern California. We are enjoying our expansive farm with all it's fresh air, fresh food, plants, animals, and fun events. We enjoy time relaxing in hammocks and letting the world pass us by. Bring your family out to enjoy all the farm has to offer, or take advantage of the serenity and privacy! We are open to family reunions & parties, large gatherings of friends etc! We are happy to have a group that can party and consume adult beverages without driving or worrying about making noise. Sites 2 & 3 can accommodate big groups and vehicles. If you want the farm to yourself, book all three sites! Message me to discuss possibilities. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent near the creek (site 1) in a completely private site (kids can sleep in the truck bed topper or fort if they'd like) or on the field to the side of the house (site 2) for a semi-private spot nearest to the bathroom and with a wood chip drive entrance for larger vehicles or (site 3) a semi- private spot down by the creek and the hay bales to the left of the house.  (Or pick a spot of your choosing).  Enjoy the farm animals, walk the property, build a fire, and enjoy the outdoors! There are more animals to pet from April through October (typically we have bunnies, chickens, sheep, cats, dogs, alpacas, miniature horses, horses, pig, goat, etc.).  In the winter the horses, alpacas, chickens, dogs, cats and sometimes bunnies are available to visit.  Firewood bundles available for $10 The creek at times is swimmable, other times it's walkable, and sometimes in the heat of July it's very shallow. There is a zip line, log or bridge to cross the creek. There is a state park (Ft. Daniel) less than 5 minutes away and others a bit further (Spitler or Sand Creek) Horseback riding may be available upon request - $25.00 per person or $50.00 per family.  There is a large shaded playground in the front yard for the kids with a trampoline, small zip line, ninja line, slack line, silks, climbing dome, hammocks, etc. BATHROOM: If you are looking at the house from the street, the bathroom is on the right of the house, attached to the house. It is a small shed looking building and is pictured. It has a toilet and running hot and cold water.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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