The best campgrounds near Cary, Illinois with fishing

In Cary, anglers have their pick with over 600 campsites catering to fishing—expect everything from quiet riverbanks to stocked ponds. Nightly rates start at $20, with the average hovering around $45. You’ll find hot showers, pet-friendly spots, and clean toilets across most sites. If you want a local favorite, check out Millbrook Trail Rides (81 reviews) for shaded trails near the water, Bear Bottom Ranch (60 reviews) for open skies and easy lake access, or Simply Maple Farm Tipi🪶🏕️🛶 (31 reviews) for a tipi stay just steps from the stream. Besides fishing, hiking and swimming round out the list of things to do. You won’t have trouble finding a spot that fits your style and puts you close to the water.

98% (419)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Cary, anglers have their pick with over 600 campsites catering to fishing—expect everything from quiet riverbanks to stocked ponds. Nightly rates start at $20, with the average hovering around $45. You’ll find hot showers, pet-friendly spots, and clean toilets across most sites. If you want a local favorite, check out Millbrook Trail Rides (81 reviews) for shaded trails near the water, Bear Bottom Ranch (60 reviews) for open skies and easy lake access, or Simply Maple Farm Tipi🪶🏕️🛶 (31 reviews) for a tipi stay just steps from the stream. Besides fishing, hiking and swimming round out the list of things to do. You won’t have trouble finding a spot that fits your style and puts you close to the water.

98% (419)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Bottom Ranch

92%

(127)

45mi from Cary · 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)

45mi from Cary · 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. Auch Farm.

100%

(62)

39mi from Cary · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Mount Pleasant, WI

Rustic Escape on an 8-Acre Homestead – Pines, Trails & Wetland Views Step into a peaceful, off-grid retreat on our 8-acre homestead—where open grassy fields meet whispering pines, and nature invites you to slow down. Set up camp in the wide-open meadow or follow a quiet trail through the woods to a secluded, wooded site overlooking untouched wetlands. It’s the perfect spot to relax in a hammock, stargaze by the fire, or just kick back and stay a while. We border protected wetland conservation land, offering a truly remote and rustic experience—secluded, yet still close to town for anything you might need. Please note: This is boondocking only. There are no toilet facilities, so we ask campers to bring a bucket, sawdust, and pack everything out. It’s your stuff—we don’t want it! Farm Life Bonus: We share the land with friendly goats and egg-laying hens. You’re welcome to say hello, feed the goats (they LOVE weeds—feel free to pull some and treat them!), and even pick up fresh eggs in the morning ($5/dozen—just ask, as availability varies). This is a back-to-nature experience, perfect for tent campers, vanlifers, and RVers who enjoy space, simplicity, and real connection with the land.

4. 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.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Rock Cut State Park

100%

(6)

266 sites · Loves Park, Illinois

Four seasons of fun await at this rock-cut wilderness within day-trip distance of Chicago.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

99%

(90)

40mi from Cary · 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.

7. A Creek Runs Through It

93%

(15)

16mi from Cary · 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!

8. Pearl Forge Conservancy

100%

(33)

51mi from Cary · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · North Prairie, WI

This beautiful property is on the foothills of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. There are an abundance of natural areas such as a fen, creek, pond and walking trails. The camper site over looks the property with amazing panoramic views. The rustic campsite is tucked back on the property near a fishing pond and hiking trails. Snuggle up to a nice cozy campfire or take a nice nature walk though the woods. Guaranteed to be a memory to last a lifetime. Absolutely NO HUNTING!!!

9. Ice Age Retreat

99%

(57)

48mi from Cary · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Palmyra, WI

Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more

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.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Simply Maple Farm Tipi🪶🏕️🛶

97%

(44)

44mi from Cary · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mukwonago, WI

Peace and quiet served daily-no other tents in sight! This is off the beaten path next to the Fox River with no other campers nearby. You can bring your own RV/tent/campervan or choose to stay in the tipi. There are two kayaks with life jackets labeled for guests to use during their stay. As you drive on the dirt road to the site there are farm fields to your left and the Fox River is straight ahead. If needing to to get groceries, Walmart and Aldi's are about 5 minutes away. Local towns are Mukwonago and East Troy. Chicago is 90 minutes away and Milwaukee and Lake Geneva are 30. Fork in the Road and David Alan Alan's Smokehouse & Saloon are popular restaurants in Mukwonago. Or you can try mead in East Troy at the Hive! The Alpine Valley Music Theatre is 15 minutes away. Location is near I-43 & Highway 83. Summerfest is the world's largest musical festival and it is located 30 minutes away. You can Venmo or use cash while you are at the campsite to purchase wood for one dollar a piece. There is also charcoal available with the site along with a weber grill. Lastly, the river might give you muddy toes-consider it a souvenir! But feel free to bring some water to rinse off and keep things fresh.

12. Rehm Acres

100%

(5)

23mi from Cary · 1 site · RV · Antioch, IL

Offering a great little spot to overnight as a rest area between Chicago and Milwaukee only 2 miles off of 294. Nothing special but a low cost option to park and relax. Do have a donkey and peacocks that can make noise and do have morning traffic, but the area is indeed rural and the property is relaxing. Site is close to house but our property is your property during your stay.

13. The Aloha Ranch

100%

(19)

20mi from Cary · 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.

14. Rolling Oaks Campground

50mi from Cary · 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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Cary

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Ice Age Retreat

99%

(57)

48mi from Cary · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Palmyra, WI

Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more

Simply Maple Farm Tipi🪶🏕️🛶

97%

(44)

44mi from Cary · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mukwonago, WI

Peace and quiet served daily-no other tents in sight! This is off the beaten path next to the Fox River with no other campers nearby. You can bring your own RV/tent/campervan or choose to stay in the tipi. There are two kayaks with life jackets labeled for guests to use during their stay. As you drive on the dirt road to the site there are farm fields to your left and the Fox River is straight ahead. If needing to to get groceries, Walmart and Aldi's are about 5 minutes away. Local towns are Mukwonago and East Troy. Chicago is 90 minutes away and Milwaukee and Lake Geneva are 30. Fork in the Road and David Alan Alan's Smokehouse & Saloon are popular restaurants in Mukwonago. Or you can try mead in East Troy at the Hive! The Alpine Valley Music Theatre is 15 minutes away. Location is near I-43 & Highway 83. Summerfest is the world's largest musical festival and it is located 30 minutes away. You can Venmo or use cash while you are at the campsite to purchase wood for one dollar a piece. There is also charcoal available with the site along with a weber grill. Lastly, the river might give you muddy toes-consider it a souvenir! But feel free to bring some water to rinse off and keep things fresh.

Rehm Acres

100%

(5)

23mi from Cary · 1 site · RV · Antioch, IL

Offering a great little spot to overnight as a rest area between Chicago and Milwaukee only 2 miles off of 294. Nothing special but a low cost option to park and relax. Do have a donkey and peacocks that can make noise and do have morning traffic, but the area is indeed rural and the property is relaxing. Site is close to house but our property is your property during your stay.

The Aloha Ranch

100%

(19)

20mi from Cary · 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.

Rolling Oaks Campground

50mi from Cary · 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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Cary

83%

(9)

Illinois Beach Campground

27mi from Cary · 224 sites · Tents, RVs · in Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park

100%

(6)

Rock Cut Campground

39mi from Cary · 266 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rock Cut State Park

100%

(4)

Shabbona Lake Campground

46mi from Cary · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

J

Jacob

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Auch Farm.

Beautiful land, the host has clearly been working hard to create nice camp sites. We enjoyed it so much we booked another night.

K

Kasie

November 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Ice Age Retreat

Nice private location with great access to trails including the Ice Age Trail. Another site located across field at a good distance allowing plenty of space for all. Will definitely be back.

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.

A

Anne

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Pearl Forge Conservancy

Yet another great time at Peter's spot! (See prior review from Sept 2023). The spot was cozy and lovely, even in the rain! The hosts are good people; highly recommend as a go-to to enjoy the Southern Unit of Kettle Moraine! See ya next year, guys!!!

A

Ash

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Auch Farm.

great place to stay. it was a private and easy to get to camp spot, goats and bees near by. Thank you Ron

Heidi

October 2025

23 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ice Age Retreat

We have stayed here in the past and have enjoyed the peace and quiet. It's a perfect camping spot. Chris is an awesome host!

Meaghan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Auch Farm.

We had a great time camping on Ron's land. Lots of great places for kiddos to walk around and explore, plus they had fun visiting the chickens and goats. Would love to come back!

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

V

Viviane

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ice Age Retreat

Chris was accommodating and helpful. The site came with water and wood. A lot of room. Dogs loved it too!

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!

a

amanda

October 2025

35 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Auch Farm.

First impression I thought I was lost, that’s the point right? Very responsive to communication and flexible. Escorted by farm tractor to location, let me see different sights to pick from. I picked tucked in the woods for some seclusion. Brought my two dogs and they loved running in the 3 different fields close by, we even visited the goats multiple times to give them some weeds. 2 other sites were being used but you would never know it. Would visit again for a quick getaway.

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

David

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ice Age Retreat

Great site! Host is friendly. Plenty of firewood, well-maintained compost toilet. Good access to hiking and regional attractions. No complaints.

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!!

N

Nicolas

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Auch Farm.

Had a great time staying at Ron’s farm. The goats and chickens were adorable and the fresh eggs were delicious. Fire pit was awesome and the area was really spacious. Ron was a very nice guy, super helpful if you need anything. Highly 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

K

Katie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ice Age Retreat

Great spot to relax and view the stars at night! It feels really secluded when you get to your site, there’s 1 more in the vicinity but you still have plenty of privacy. You may hear some road noise during the day but it gets quiet and serene as it gets dark. Host was kind and communicative, she even came by around checkout to see if we needed any help. All around a great time, I can’t wait to spend another night here again in the future