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- Riverside Camping
The best river, stream, or creek camping in Illinois
97% (4.1K) • 4,477 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Illinois
Horseshoe Bend
1. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(774)
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
Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
2. Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
100%
(27)
Thomson, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Fin and Feather is a rustic campground located right on the banks of the Mississippi River backwaters, known for its true “camping in nature” experience. Every site looks out over the water with a beautiful sunset view! These primitive sites are large, shaded, hammock and dog friendly.
The ground is sandy, but the beach is not known as a swimming location. Fin and Feather sits where Big Slough of the Mississippi River meets Spring Lake, part of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge.
The Great River Bike Trail runs parallel to the campground. We offer canoe and kayak rentals (message us to arrange a rental in advance). The lake is a great place to paddle but be aware there is a lot of plant life in backwaters (closes to all boat traffic on October 1st as part of the wildlife refuge during hunting season). Firewood is available for purchase. The water in spigot is tested and "potable" but we recommend using it for hand washing and bringing drinking water. The nearby towns of Thomson and Savanna offer additional supplies. There’s so much to do in the area, such as hiking at Mississippi Palasades State Park, "troll hunting" in Clinton, IA, shopping in Fulton or Galena etc but with the peacefulness of the campground, you may just want to relax and enjoy the view!
We are a small privately owned campground. The grounds are separated into two regions. as you enter the property off off "Riverview" Road, there is a "T" intersection. As Hipcampers, you will turn right. The north side of the campground is for Hipcamp drop in camping only; tents and small campers like teardrops etc exclusively. (The south end of the campground is for our seasonal campers with bigger Rvs.) You will turn right and drive past the small camp store, a vintage trailer we are renovating and one Rv that is ours. The beach sites listed here are on the left along the shore line. We offer well maintained port a potties and there are water spigots on property as well.
*There is no power or water at the sites ("primative")
*pets are allowed- 2 per site maximum, must be leashed and no excessive barking allowed
*while maximum capacity 4, if you are a family with more kids please submit a specific request. We can make exceptions for families camping with their children.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
3. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
99%
(192)
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
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
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Antiquity Oaks
6. Antiquity Oaks
100%
(1)
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
Gypsi Acres
7. Gypsi Acres
93%
(21)
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
Millbrook Trail Rides
8. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(125)
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!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Wine Trail Wilderness
9. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(711)
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
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
10. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Shelbyville
11. Lake Shelbyville
100%
(4)
Park in Illinois · 322 sites
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi Palisades State Park
12. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
13. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
State park in Illinois · 185 sites
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
14. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
86%
(172)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bear Bottom Ranch
15. Bear Bottom Ranch
93%
(156)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Welcome to our Magical Woods
16. Welcome to our Magical Woods
98%
(270)
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
Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
17. Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
99%
(39)
Washburn, IL · 2 sites
Great place for train lovers! Many train enthusiasts come and take pictures and videos Great place for fishing and relaxation! Kayaking down the creek Our specified 2 acres has been turned into a park like setting with beautiful trees and the creek around it! Small town near by with amenities ..
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
18. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
100%
(874)
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
Angel Creek
19. Angel Creek
98%
(167)
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
Stunning View at Galena River Ranch
20. Stunning View at Galena River Ranch
100%
(55)
Galena, IL · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:A peaceful respite with a breathtaking view of the Galena and Mississippi River valleys. The secluded campsite is situated on a high point on Pilot Knob that overlooks the entire valley with 180 degree views to the South, West and North. The tent site is a flat 20'x20' spot next to a Birch tree, fire ring and table; plenty of room for two tents and a car or two. In the foreground is a natural field with small Cedar trees, Scrub Oak, Sumac and prairie grasses where deer often eat and bed. The site is situated on about 25 acres - plenty of space to take a walk through the fields. Further out are natural woods, and in the distance is the entire Mississippi River valley South to Bellevue, IA and North of Dubuque, IA. Sunsets are absolutely breathtaking from this vantage point.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
L
Liz
2 days ago
22 ft campervan
With pets
We loved this campsite! It was nice and shaded for the summer heat and took less than a 10 min walk to get to a good creek spot for my dogs. It was very nice to have firewood provided at the site.
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Bryanna
2 days ago
Tent
Clean, secluded, so nice. Owner was very friendly and helpful. Shower house was clean and wonderful to use after a long day outside. Absolutely will be back. Got to see two river otters and caught a few fish. Truly the best weekend away from society. So lucky to have found this spot!! Thank you!!
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B
Ben
3 days ago
Tent
Great spot with fun trails to bike and near a creek as well. Thanks for a fun night.
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B
Brady
1 week ago
Tent
Welcoming hosts! Lots of space to camp and lovely, calm environment. Great shower. Some highway noise so if you’re a light sleeper have earplugs.
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B
Brett
1 week ago
25 ft travel trailer
They were very responsive and understanding of our long travel plan. The owner met us at the gate and helped us set up. It was a great experience.
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D
DEMIAN
1 week ago
13 ft toy hauler
With pets
Amazing location to just Relax ! Electrical connection was on point with no issues ! Clean, private, and with lots of land to explore ! Great for dog lovers !
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Sharon
1 week ago
26 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Amazing spot with shade and beautiful trails! Brady was amazing and brought us a heap of fire wood when we first arrived. The grounds are so well kept! We loved this stay and will definitely be back next time we’re through the state.
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E
Evan
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Brady took care of us as always! Would come back again!
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Rainey
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Our kids had an absolute blast out here playing on the water, very pretty place and the owners were very nice and accommodating. Definitely recommend checking it out and we will be back.
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Jason
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
Tiffani's campsite was awesome! It was beautiful, peaceful, private, and spacious. We will definitely be returning here.
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D
Danylo
1 week ago
Tent
This is a very clean and well-maintained camping spot. The campsites were also nicely spread out, there was some free firewood, and Brady gave good instructions prior to arriving, so it was a great experience.
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A
April
1 week ago
With kids
I spent a weekend at the cottage with my family and my friend and her family, there were four adults and four kids total. We had a lovely time. The land is peaceful and well cared for. The cottage is great (the photos don't do it justice) and was well stocked for 8. The walk to the pond was such a nice opportunity to see flora and fauna. We spent a long day at the water on the canoe and kayak, fishing and playing. It was idyllic and restorative.
We were greeted by Matt who was very helpful throughout our stay. We learned a lot about the land in that area and hope that it is always stewarded by such thoughtful people. We briefly met Deb and Tia and always felt welcomed, but not watched. They were generous and we were able to try some of the incredible farm fresh food as well.
It was easy to navigate, but felt spacious and adventuresome. I feel lucky to have stayed there and recommend it to all.
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W
Wesley
1 week ago
12 ft rooftop tent
With kids
This was such an incredible experience! The campsites are nicely spread out so you have a space that feels like your own. Danika was very responsive and a pleasure to talk too! We will definitely be returning to the sandy oasis we called home briefly (campsite 2). Bonus was a very long sunset!
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M
Marian
1 week ago
Tent
We had a wonderful time camping here! The campsite is beautiful, peaceful, and very close to the water with amazing views. It was easy to find, and everything was exactly as described.
One thing to know is that the water near the shore is shallow, so if you want to fish, it's best to bring or rent a boat or kayaks. That's exactly what we did, and it worked out great. You can rent them right on-site, which is very convenient.
The owner is very friendly and welcoming. She answered all of our questions and was incredibly helpful. She even saved us by lending us a lighter because we forgot ours!
We truly enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back. Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a relaxing camping
experience!
★★★★★
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S
Scott
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
We loved our stay at Danika and James' Fin and Feather property on Spring Lake - Danika was a super communicative host, easy to reach and talk to and it's really cool how they're rehabing this old camp into something that feels quieter, more special, and more connected to the ecosystem around it. We stayed in site 2 with our large dog, and had a neighbor with kids in site 3, but never felt too cramped as can often happen at larger sites in state parks. This truly felt like our own special experience. The sites are spacious, and the available firewood, kayaks and canoes, water spigot, picnic tables with fire rings and grill grates, and CLEAN porta-jons make the stay a breeze for new and experienced campers alike. This is a considered a primative site primarily for tent camping, however the conveniences and proximity to many great locations, make it a very comfortable stay without feeling intrusive. We really like what Danika and James have got going on here and wish them all the best!
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J
JoAnn
1 week ago
30 ft pop-up camper
Absolutely beautiful property. Stayed twice for one night each trip on our way traveling through. We were camping with our two labs, the creek is beautiful, dogs loved it. Had the property to ourselves on the Tuesday we were headed home. Will definitely stay here again.
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C
Christina
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
We loved camping at Jennifer's beautiful property! The grandkids loved the pond and we got to see neighboring cows the morning we left. They were such gracious hosts and everything was perfect!
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Emma
2 weeks ago
Tent
Brady was incredibly responsive, helpful, and kind bringing us dry firewood after a storm and helping tow our car when it got stuck. The land and all amenities were beautiful and well kept. We will be back!
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J
Jerry
2 weeks ago
32 ft travel trailer
With pets
Due to the flooding my site was inaccessible. They made it right and set me up on one of their other properties high and dry. It all worked out great.
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C
Callie
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
The river was so perfect and peaceful, the dogs really enjoyed swimming! Everyone fit comfortably and it didn’t feel cramped at all. The barn was super nice to escape from the rain and play some games. The animals are so adorable, and the host are super welcoming.
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