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97% (5.6K) • 7,911 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Illinois
Horseshoe Bend
1. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(813)
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.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
2. The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
92%
(333)
Chicago, IL · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Twenty years of growing this farm... Not what grows here but the farm itself! Stone and brick pulled from the ground till we found the beautiful earth beneath and built an incredible community around it. Or rather, it grew itself from the energy that surrounds it. It's a special spot where you may happen upon a fire in the sugar shack while we boil city collected sap into maple syrup or have an open jam night with world class jazz musicians. Enjoy the morning serenade of our rooster! Really, just come and be here. Though we think we're pretty cool, a few things to note that you may not think are so cool: There is a train that runs directly behind the farm. Light sleepers, may want to bring ear plugs. We try to accommodate parking your car on site but it's weather and situation conditional. Assume the possibility that you may need to park on the street.
Bring your tent to The Vaudeville! (RVs, campers, trailers, vans please see the ** at the bottom). Our urban farm is smack in the middle of Chicago only a 10 minute bike or train ride from Downtown, Lake Michigan, The Mag Mile and all Chicago has to offer! Bike the Lake Shore Trail, walk the 606, kayak the Chicago River, catch a blues show or Hawks game or just relax with the goats and chickens in the 9,000 square foot farm that we absolutely love to share with fellow campers!
** We have stopped hosting RVs, campers/vans, pull behinds and larger vehicles because we are finding it difficult to get them in the entrance gate but if you feel amazingly capable with your backing in skills in your rig and you're super patient, laid back and extra cool, let us know and we may be able to make it work!! :)
Toilets
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Potable water
Wine Trail Wilderness
3. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(716)
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.
Electrical hookup
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.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Bear Bottom Ranch
6. Bear Bottom Ranch
93%
(169)
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
7. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
86%
(176)
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Walnut Woods Farm
8. Walnut Woods Farm
100%
(22)
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 — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Millbrook Trail Rides
9. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(128)
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!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
11. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park in Illinois · 92 sites
Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Lake Shelbyville
12. Lake Shelbyville
100%
(4)
Park in Illinois · 322 sites
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
Mississippi Palisades State Park
13. Mississippi Palisades State Park
100%
(3)
State park in Illinois · 241 sites
See the mighty Mississippi River from a unique vantage point at this state park.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Escape to Nature
14. Escape to Nature
98%
(401)
Huntley, IL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Each reservation includes firewood that is rough cut.
Always call ahead when you are planning to enjoy a local attraction.
This property is located on the outskirts of the village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. This is a kid-friendly and pet friendly location.
Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard.
What to do here:
Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks.
If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking.
Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit.
Check out these amazing area attractions!
-The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. (http://www.IRM.org)
-Tower Hills Stables, Trail Rides, Horseback Riding Camp (ages 5 to 14), Riding Lessons, just 8 miles drive, (https://www.towerhillstables.net/.)
-Summerfield Farm and Zoo, a privately owned zoo in rural Belvidere, IL, 3088 Flora Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008, a 30 minute drive. (https://summerfieldfarmandzoo.com/.)
-Safari Lake Geneva, 45 minute drive to the north, Visit Safari Lake Geneva, Wisconsin's original drive through animal park. Feed and interact with a variety of animals from the comfort of your car (https://safarilakegeneva.com/).
Additional suggestions include Santa's Village Amusement and Water Park in West Dundee, Randall Oaks Zoo, in Dundee on Randall Road, Minor League Baseball with Schaumburg Boomers or Kane County Cougars, Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Sullivan Mobile massage, Belvidere Park in Belvidere, IL, Volo Auto Museum, Department of Natural Resources Bike and Hiking Trails and fishing.
When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants.
We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff.
Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com.
FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂
Here are some answers to common questions.
We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent.
Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour.
ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door.
WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done.
CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing.
WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood.
PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits.
INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent.
HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage.
EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking.
ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
McCully Heritage Project
15. McCully Heritage Project
97%
(474)
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
16. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
100%
(885)
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Gun Smoke Ranch
17. Gun Smoke Ranch
98%
(165)
Grant Park, IL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table.
Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase.
Four beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents/RVs.
Sites 1 and 2 overlook a manicured pasture, creek, and are covered by pines. Site 3 and 4 are open sky, with easy pull-up parking for the big campers or RVs. The county has restricted us from shooting on our property due to a neighbor complaint. Bow/arrow is allowed to use on the range.
Car, suv, truck, trailer and RV parking. See the directions to camp locations after booking.
15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, and Badlandz Paintball Field. Sollitt Tap is a few miles west. It has the best burgers!
No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet)
Porta potty provided, water hose available at the house.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
East Woods on the IL River
18. East Woods on the IL River
97%
(351)
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.
Campfires
Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
19. Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
98%
(40)
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.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
20. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
98%
(66)
Big Rock, IL · 4 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).
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
b
betty
3 weeks ago
36 ft travel trailer
With kids
Very nice, clean park. The site was level and it was quiet. We did have a stray cat that wanted to stay. The pool was beautiful and very clean and the staff was very friendly.
See moreM
Misty
August 2026
26 ft travel trailer
With pets
The location was great and very peaceful. Will definitely be back again!
See moreD
Dave
August 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great Pool and Frisbee course!
Volleyball net is right in front of site #1
See more
C
Curt
July 2026
25 ft campervan
Super friendly host. Quiet and safe. Clean bathrooms and showers. Geneseo has a small but vibrant downtown that is close by and has good dining and drinking options.
See moreE
Erin
July 2026
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
We only stayed one night while cross country traveling. The campground was easy to get to from I-80, the bathrooms were clean, and the campground manager was very helpful. We appreciated that the campground was very quiet (there was only one other campsite in use while we were there).
See moreJ
Jennifer
July 2026
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
Wildcat Springs was a nice shady campground. The site was level with a decent picnic table. The evenings were quiet even on a weekend
See moreJ
Jackie
July 2026
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
Site 5 had a slab. Camper was level. Hamilton Park was nice and quiet. Centrally located for stores and restaurants.
See more
A
Alex
July 2026
15 ft rooftop tent
With pets
Absolutely an amazing site. Victor was hands-down the best host, beautiful location. I will be coming here. Every chance I get clean sight friendly people that work at the location thank you so much you guys for being so genuine and inviting to my family.
See moreY
Yogendra
July 2026
16 ft car
With kids
A very good experience, Victor and his team are very helpful and we had one of our best camping
See moreG
Gabriela
July 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Very nice area, spacious camping spots, and the playground right in front of us was a great way to keep our child busy and on sight. Although this spot #5 description said it was fully shaded, reality is that it wasn’t between 8a-3p. I would recommend to update descriptions of the spots and maybe including some actual pictures of every spot. Another surprise was that the only 24/7 available toilet and shower at the pool, it’s a family room, and was just one, so if it was taken, you had to wait for it to be available. Also, that family room was like a steam room, as there was no ventilation to keep the air flowing.
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Douglas
July 2026
36 ft fifth wheel
Nice little park - swimming pool right across the street, nice sand volleyball court as well as a small playground for the little ones. Abundance of trees make for great shade.
See moreR
Rodney
July 2026
30 ft travel trailer
We stayed in site 3, almost the entire day the trailer was in the shade. With a nice breeze, we were able to stay comfortable, although the temperature was well into the 90's. Water, pressure is outstanding and 50 amp hookups, no sewer, but the dump station is well maintained. The power is a little on the low side, but never was below 112 volts. We definitely plan on staying here again.
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D
Didier
June 2026
16 ft car
Nice peaceful location, friendly owner and staff. Nice place for a relaxing evening by the campfire and a bit of fishing with our two dogs. Access to a 110v plug helped our Tesla camp mode running without problems
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L
Lindsay
May 2026
35 ft Class A
With kids
We loved the quiet spot just outside of town! The showers were clean and spacious. The yard space, playground, and game room were awesome for our three kids!
See moreJ
Jennifer
May 2026
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
Site is located at a camp, so you get the advantages of that. Hammocks, playground, air hockey, bags and ping pong. Very nice and clean bathrooms. There were times when there were a lot of people around, and times when we had the whole place to ourselves.
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L
L. M.
May 2026
16 ft car
This campground is wonderful.
The staff was
-Kind & helpful
The sites were
-well maintained
-nicely shaded
-had a playground visable from all sites
-spacious
-had ample space for even the very large RVs
The amenities
-the playgrounds were well maintained
-the family bath/shower room was tidy and had warm water
-we camped during the pools off season, but it looked like a very nice pool set up, with a diving end and a beach like side as well.
-the creek down the hill from the site was a hit for our kiddos
-the disc golf trails looked diverse and fun
-the campground was close to places to hunt for Geos
Would definitely recommend this place again, and hope to be back soon!
Side note: we thought it was very thoughtful that when the matinance staff did the lawns they gathered twigs and branches and would leave them in neat piles at the campsites for campers to use for their fires.
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Alex
May 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
I loved my stay at Whispering Pines. They were attentive and responsive to our messages via the app. Their campsite felt safe and was clean. The facilities were spacious and clean. My dog loved the walking trail that ran along the outside of the campsite. I would definitely recommend this place to family and friends.
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Stephanie
December 2025
29 ft Class A
With pets
We loved Whispering Pines! It was peaceful & quiet. There were showers & bathrooms on site. It had a walking trial, playground, basketball hoop, chapel & event space. There are also rooms & cabins for rent. They had a fire pit, water & electric. It was private since we were there in the winter. In the summer, I would think it could have more people. I would recommend Whispering Pines & would stay here again!
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Sunny
October 2025
20 ft campervan
I arrived later than I anticipated and was able to find everything really well with the instructions provided. It is a nice camping park with some facilities like bathrooms and showers. I enjoyed my stay thank you!
See moreP
Patrick
September 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
Loved it. Beautiful place, great people. Lots of fun things to do on the property. Well maintained.
See more
