The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Carol Stream, Illinois

Camping near Carol Stream, Illinois is a great way to experience the beauty of the outdoors. With over 380 available options that accommodate RVs and are located near rivers, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure. Top campsites like Mulln-Heim Vineyards (342 reviews), Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), and East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews) are just a few of the places you can choose from. Popular amenities like trash, campfires, and potable water are provided to ensure a comfortable stay. If you're looking for adventure, popular activities like wildlife watching, paddling, and swimming are available to explore. With an average price per night of $39 and options as low as $15, camping near Carol Stream, Illinois is an affordable way to get away from it all.

96% (277)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping near Carol Stream, Illinois is a great way to experience the beauty of the outdoors. With over 380 available options that accommodate RVs and are located near rivers, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure. Top campsites like Mulln-Heim Vineyards (342 reviews), Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), and East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews) are just a few of the places you can choose from. Popular amenities like trash, campfires, and potable water are provided to ensure a comfortable stay. If you're looking for adventure, popular activities like wildlife watching, paddling, and swimming are available to explore. With an average price per night of $39 and options as low as $15, camping near Carol Stream, Illinois is an affordable way to get away from it all.

96% (277)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Bottom Ranch

92%

(127)

31mi from Carol Stream · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Yorkville, IL

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!

2. Millbrook Trail Rides

96%

(110)

31mi from Carol Stream · 1 site · Tent · Newark, IL

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!

3. Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

99%

(90)

49mi from Carol Stream · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Rockford, IL

Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.

4. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

100%

(2)

185 sites · Channel Lake, Illinois

Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!

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Toilets

5. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

22 sites · Channahon, Illinois

Experience an echo of the expansive natural prairies of an Illinois past when you come to Des Plaines Fish & Wildlife Area. The tranquil vibes of the park will refresh your soul. The smooth flowing rivers and natural prairie lands stretch across the horizon—making that campfire glow all the more spectacular. There is so much diversity at this park; woodland turns to farmland, prairie turns to swamp, calm waters turn to rushing rivers. This makes for an exceptional array of epic outdoor activities to partake in. We’re talking something for nature lovers and huntsmen alike. The fishing here is on point, with bass, walleye, northern pike, and catfish jumping at the bait on the banks of Miliken Lake and Kankakee River. Explore the acres of naturally preserved beauty, embrace the lush water sources, and just have a hell of a good time all around at this park.

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6. A Creek Runs Through It

93%

(15)

13mi from Carol Stream · 2 sites · RVs · Elgin, IL

I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!

7. The Aloha Ranch

100%

(19)

40mi from Carol Stream · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Harvard, IL

We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle. Learn more about this land: Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport. Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.

8. Rolling Oaks Campground

37mi from Carol Stream · 51 sites · Sheridan, IL

Rolling Oaks Campground stands out as a unique family-owned destination, nestled along the picturesque Fox River just 7 miles south of Sandwich, Illinois. Since 1969, this campground has been a cherished retreat for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. Open from mid-April to mid-October, weather permitting, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages. At Rolling Oaks, there's no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. Families can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a playground, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits. The campground hosts special events throughout the summer, featuring music and dancing on Saturday evenings, farmers markets, and delightful cart rides. Guests can also partake in community dinners such as spaghetti suppers, corn boils, and pig roasts, creating lasting memories together. For those looking to cool off, the campground boasts a well-maintained outdoor swimming lake. Additional conveniences include a propane exchange station, a dump station, firewood for sale, and a snack bar offering delicious options like burgers and pizza. The nearby town of Sandwich provides ample shopping, dining, and laundry facilities, ensuring that all your needs are met during your stay. Rolling Oaks Campground features a variety of RV sites, including pull-thru, back-in, partial, and full

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9. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park

83%

(9)

224 sites · Zion, Illinois

Illinois’ only beach ridge shoreline sits within an hour of the city.

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Potable water

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10. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(4)

92 sites · Shabbona, Illinois

Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.

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Public campgrounds near Carol Stream

Prairie View Campground

36mi from Carol Stream · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

Fox Den Campground

36mi from Carol Stream · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

100%

(2)

Turner Lake South Campground

36mi from Carol Stream · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

Honeysuckle Hollow Campground

37mi from Carol Stream · 86 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

Des Plaines Campground

38mi from Carol Stream · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

83%

(9)

Illinois Beach Campground

39mi from Carol Stream · 224 sites · Tents, RVs · in Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park

100%

(4)

Shabbona Lake Campground

40mi from Carol Stream · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Millbrook Trail Rides

Nice property. Gorgeous sunset. Portapottie is on the other side of the property which I wish I knew beforehand as I may have camped elsewhere. It's a bit dark since it's in a barn and has no hand sanitizer so just make sure you've got a flashlight and hand sanitizer if needed. The instructions say if you have a car small enough with high clearance you can cross the bridge (mine was too big to drive across which is fine), but the owner said the bridge isnt built to be driven across. So for anyone thinking of driving to your campsite, just be aware of that! :)

S

Santos

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bear Bottom Ranch

I loved hearing the owls and seeing the horse in the morning. This was a lovely piece of land and I would definitely recommend camping here.

C

Carlos

October 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Un lugar hermoso que se disfruta lo unico traer tu propio generator si quieres luz

J

Jonathan

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to A Creek Runs Through It

When we pulled up to the site, Kristen made sure we knew exactly where to park and gave us the layout of her land. It was nice to be able to park our camper there while we visited the nearby town. This site was quiet and private. We felt very safe here. Kristen communicated well and we knew everything we needed to know before even showing up. We would definitely camp here again!

M

Mike

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Millbrook Trail Rides

A really great spot and a really amazing experience being around the horses. Can't wait to visit again.

D

Deanne

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Millbrook Trail Rides

My daughter and I love camping and horses and this was the perfect mix!! Loved our site, we were able to set up hammocks and have a nice fire. The train is loud at night but it kinda makes it more of an adventure. The horses coming into our site was just the most epic and amazing thing. Host is so sweet and we cannot wait to come back to do a trail ride! Note: the road to the site is very bumpy so keep this in mind with vehicle. Recommend!!

Dave

September 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Wonderful piece of property fantastic hosts my third or fourth time here had a great time every single trip will highly recommend this

s

sarah

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Millbrook Trail Rides

Wonderful place- private and so special with the horses and other animals on the property nearby! Kids love to play in the creek and meet the horses!

S

Stephanie

September 2025

8 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Our pups loved this place! Three sites that were a good distance apart, no one bothered us, and the site was well maintained. You could definitely fit a couple tents per site if you're going with family! Porta poty was very clean and easily accessible.

C

Carlos

September 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

It is a beautiful place for camping. It is very quiet.

M

Megan

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Aloha Ranch

If you’re looking for a peaceful and untouched place to camp, the Aloha Ranch is it! Bobby was very communicative, and went out of her way to ensure we enjoyed our stay. She helped set us up at a local fishing venue with a beautiful castle and we spent two days enjoying the weather and solitude. Our campsite also had excellent stargazing! Highly recommended to anyone looking for a private getaway.

I

Imad

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Second time this summer. Great spot! Peaceful, clean, well taken care of, and surrounded by nature. Meredith was a wonderful host and made everything easy. Highly recommend!

C

Christy

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Millbrook Trail Rides

We had an incredible time!!! The train bridge made it feel so magical, and waking up the grazing horses near our tent was the delight of my trip so far!!!!

Allan

August 2025

6 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Great place to get away from the city! The spot was amazing ! The horses are beautiful. The Vibes where the best ! Will be coming back !

S

Samantha

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Great private site. Loved going for a walk and seeing the horses. Only downside, which is just the reality of camping, was the mud by the firing from rain a few days before hadn’t been able to dry because it was in a shaded part of the site making it tough to use. Just to be aware of if it had rained recently. Great place!

B

Bill

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Aloha Ranch

Bobbie at Aloha Ranch was amazing! Great communication and such a wonderful host. Property was very fun and secluded. Thank you!

C

Catherine

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Honestly, a great campsite. The owners were friendly and brought us firewood. We only stayed for a night, but I wish it was longer would definitely recommend staying here.

J

Jean

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Great camping. Beautiful sites. All sites are very private and exclusive.

C

Carlos

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Beautiful place. I would like to go back next week or 2 weeks. This is a beautiful place

J

John

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

This is a really cool site that's tucked away in the middle of nowhere but is still easy to get to. Nice clean site, have a little steam meandering through the back side of the site and there are no outside noises. Meredith is super cool to work with, will provide nice dry firewood at a low price.