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!

96% (3.8K) • 5,091 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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Toilets
Wine Trail Wilderness

2. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%
(733)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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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Toilets
Campfires
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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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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Sonny Hills

6. 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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Electrical hookup
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Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

7. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

99%
(208)
Tiskilwa, IL · 8 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)
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Toilets
Showers
Walnut Woods Farm

8. Walnut Woods Farm

100%
(33)
Yorkville, IL · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. And yes — silkie chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️
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Campfires
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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Toilets
Campfires
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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Campfires
Pyramid State Recreation Area

11. 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.
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Campfires
Potable water
Rend Lake

12. Rend Lake

100%
(2)
Park in Illinois · 101 sites
Enjoy lake access, forests, and family-friendly camping at this classic Southern Illinois getaway.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

13. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

100%
(2)
State park in Illinois · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
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Toilets
Campfires
East Woods on the IL River

14. 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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Campfires
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

15. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%
(595)
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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Toilets
Campfires
Emerald Acres Farm

16. Emerald Acres Farm

99%
(76)
Worden, IL · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE. It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

17. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

97%
(74)
Big Rock, IL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Peaceful, but not always the most quiet; as a farm does have animals, and the woods do have animal night life that live there. We also reside here. 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 (2 for small bundles while supplies last). Feel free to pull wood from the land yourself as well. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Each site has a picnic table and chairs. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA (have to use while they are open. I am not responsible for their hours). Need to drive to get to showers and go when the facility is open. Possible to and may 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 October 31st (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay. Message to confirm after October.) The end of the season this year will be on or about October 31st (but if we say open on the site after feel free to reach out and confirm 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, feel free to do so); 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 allowed (not paid rides this is a trail system if you bring your own horses) at the forest preserve right around the corner, and a local farm spot where you can call and pet horses at Steinke Farms (have to call and set up with them- Google should give you a listed number). 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 and smalls for 2 while supplies last. New egg and farm stand added this year. New picnic tables added to each site. Well water available upon request for those that have travel tanks to refill (ask the owner and schedule a time to use the hose or get a bucket for cooking dropped off). Disclaimer that animals make noises on a farm. Roosters do not just crow during the day. Dogs bark. Coyotes howl. Cats are present and might greet you. Jericho is a busy country road. The drive way is shared with the house. This means as we come and go there is traffic on the gravel road. We live here, so we might run a mower or get packages delivered.
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Potable water
Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

18. Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

98%
(46)
Geneseo, IL · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Whispering Pines, a family focused campground to help you get away from the daily grind. Surround yourself amongst tall pine trees as you hear the wind whisper tranquility all around you. We are a family owned campground with a heart to serve people and provide a peaceful environment where families and individuals can enjoy making new memories. Whispering Pines is an event and retreat center that offers lodging and camping amenities. We also have a chapel ready to host your ceremony. We have RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, a lodge, and an event center. We can help you create a package to fit your needs and budget.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bella Vita Private Resort

19. Bella Vita Private Resort

94%
(50)
Ashmore, IL · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Toilets
Full hookups
Gypsi Acres

20. Gypsi Acres

95%
(31)
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
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Electrical hookup
Toilets

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