The best forest camping in Illinois

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Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource for outdoor enthusiasts! With over 580 options in Illinois, specifically in forested areas, you're sure to find the perfect camping experience. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, our top campsites like Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews), and McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews) offer incredible amenities like toilets, showers, and campfires. Plus, you can enjoy popular activities such as horseback riding, paddling, and wildlife watching. With an average price per night of $33 and options as low as $10, camping in the Illinois forest has never been more affordable. So pack your gear and get ready to embrace the great outdoors!

97% (3.5K) 4,954 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Illinois

Horseshoe Bend

1. Horseshoe Bend

99%
(719)
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
Bear Bottom Ranch

2. Bear Bottom Ranch

92%
(136)
Yorkville, IL · 4 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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Campfires
Welcome to our Magical Woods

3. Welcome to our Magical Woods

98%
(256)
Marseilles, IL · 6 sites
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?
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
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
Rock Cut State Park

5. 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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Toilets
Campfires
Antiquity Oaks

6. Antiquity Oaks

Cornell, IL · 1 site
Tucked among trees and open pasture in central Illinois, Antiquity Oaks Farm is a peaceful escape designed for rest, reflection, and reconnecting with the natural world. This isn’t a crowded campground or a place for late-night parties. It’s a space for slowing down. Wake up to birdsong and soft morning light filtering through the trees. Spend your day walking wooded paths, journaling in a quiet corner, or simply sitting still long enough to hear the wind move through the leaves. At night, enjoy dark skies with bright stars, fresh air, and the deep quiet that’s hard to find in everyday life. Our farm is also home to a flock of chickens and a small herd of friendly goats, who may be grazing nearby or curiously watching your visit. While they’re not the focus of your stay, they add a charm to the landscape that many find unexpectedly calming. Whether you’re looking for a solo reset, a peaceful weekend away, or a simple nature-based experience, Antiquity Oaks offers a place to breathe, unplug, and return to yourself.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
Wine Trail Wilderness

7. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%
(700)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

8. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

99%
(47)
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).
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Campfires
Potable water
Angel Creek

9. Angel Creek

98%
(151)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Sand Ridge State Forest

10. 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.
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Toilets
Campfires
Mississippi Palisades State Park

11. 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.
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Toilets
Campfires
Pyramid State Recreation Area

12. Pyramid State Recreation Area

100%
(4)
State park in Illinois · 68 sites
Besides the rad name inherited from an old coal mine, Pyramid State Recreation Area’s 19,701 acres makes it the largest state recreation area in all of Illinois. There are also more than 500 acres of lakes on the property, ranging from a meager 0.1 acres to a substantial 276 acres. That bad boy is known as Super Lake and is held in high regard by anglers seeking largemouth bass and bluegill. Lost Lake (a hike-in lake) and some other small lakes contain a hybrid of green sunfish/bluegill. Land lovers can take advantage of 16.5 miles of foot, horse and mountain bike trails where you’re bound to encounter a sampling of the wildlife that includes songbirds, deer, squirrels, beavers, rabbits, turkeys, bobcats, raccoons, opossums, coyotes, weasels, minks, woodchucks and waterfowl. Future plans are in place to add even more trails to the park.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Rend Lake

13. Rend Lake

100%
(2)
Park in Illinois · 101 sites
Enjoy lake access, forests, and family-friendly camping at this classic Southern Illinois getaway.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

14. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

99%
(180)
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

15. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%
(856)
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
Campfires
East Woods on the IL River

16. East Woods on the IL River

97%
(341)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Sonny Hills

17. Sonny Hills

100%
(86)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Gypsi Acres

18. Gypsi Acres

91%
(11)
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
Serenity Fields Farm

19. Serenity Fields Farm

94%
(168)
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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Campfires
Kayak Starved Rock Campground

20. 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.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

Top national parks and forests in Illinois