The best forest campgrounds near Decatur, Illinois

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a forest camping experience near Decatur, Illinois, you're in luck. We have over 120 options available that cater specifically to your preference for forest terrain. With options as low as $20 per night and an average price of $33 per night, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Looking for some recommendations? Check out our top campsites in the area: Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews), McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews), and Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities like potable water, showers, and toilets. Plus, you'll have plenty of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, off-roading (OHV), and paddling. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable forest camping adventure near Decatur, Illinois!

95% (541)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a forest camping experience near Decatur, Illinois, you're in luck. We have over 120 options available that cater specifically to your preference for forest terrain. With options as low as $20 per night and an average price of $33 per night, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Looking for some recommendations? Check out our top campsites in the area: Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews), McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews), and Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities like potable water, showers, and toilets. Plus, you'll have plenty of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, off-roading (OHV), and paddling. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable forest camping adventure near Decatur, Illinois!

95% (541)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%

(843)

34mi from Decatur · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Palmer, IL

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, high tunnel 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. 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. Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm. Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks. Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield is 35 miles from the farm.

2. Bella Vita Private Resort

93%

(40)

50mi from Decatur · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ashmore, IL

Welcome to Bella Vita Resort and Glamping where we're dedicated to reviving the timeless joy of family bonding and outdoor adventure. In a world where life moves quickly, we invite you to slow down and savor every moment with your loved ones. Our mission is simple: to provide a wide array of group activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Bella Vita. For those traveling with RVs, we offer spacious sites with 30/50-amp with partial and full hookups, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. If you prefer luxury tent camping, you will love our glamping tents. Our regular tent sites come equipped with 110 amp electric, allowing you to enjoy a cozy retreat under the stars while still having access to modern amenities. For true nature enthusiasts, we also offer primitive sites situated along the serene lake or river, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, our primitive sites offer a truly immersive camping experience. At Bella Vita Resort, we believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. Join us in embracing the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure and family bonding, and rediscovering the joy of living your best life.

3. Secluded Springfield Stay

94%

(18)

36mi from Decatur · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Springfield, IL

On the outskirts of Springfield lay a secluded, peaceful piece of property perfect for a quick night or a weekend getaway. For those that don't wish to go all the way into the woods, our property is a great way to get that camping feel while still being in perfect vicinity to town for any basic needs or food chains. Nearby attractions: Carpenter Park that has beautiful hiking trails and Sangamon River access (5 min drive) Riverside Park - very dog friendly, fishing, Sangamon river access, hiking, horseback riding, etc. (3 minute drive) The Rail Golf Course (5 min drive) Weebles Bar and Grill being only a short walk away Blake and Aiden, the couple who own this land, are LGBTQ+ friendly, in their mid-20's, pet friendly, and also love to camp, hike, rock climb, and travel. They would be happy to answer any questions about nearby hiking, local attractions, restaurants, etc.

4. Serenity Fields Farm

95%

(165)

9.3mi from Decatur · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dalton City, IL

We are originally from Northern California. We are enjoying our expansive farm with all it's fresh air, fresh food, plants, animals, and fun events. We enjoy time relaxing in hammocks and letting the world pass us by. Bring your family out to enjoy all the farm has to offer, or take advantage of the serenity and privacy! We are open to family reunions & parties, large gatherings of friends etc! We are happy to have a group that can party and consume adult beverages without driving or worrying about making noise. Sites 2 & 3 can accommodate big groups and vehicles. If you want the farm to yourself, book all three sites! Message me to discuss possibilities. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent near the creek (site 1) in a completely private site (kids can sleep in the truck bed topper or fort if they'd like) or on the field to the side of the house (site 2) for a semi-private spot nearest to the bathroom and with a wood chip drive entrance for larger vehicles or (site 3) a semi- private spot down by the creek and the hay bales to the left of the house. (Or pick a spot of your choosing). Enjoy the farm animals, walk the property, build a fire, and enjoy the outdoors! There are more animals to pet from April through October (typically we have bunnies, chickens, sheep, cats, dogs, alpacas, miniature horses, horses, pig, goat, etc.). In the winter the horses, alpacas, chickens, dogs, cats and sometimes bunnies are available to visit. Firewood bundles available for $10 The creek at times is swimmable, other times it's walkable, and sometimes in the heat of July it's very shallow. There is a zip line, log or bridge to cross the creek. There is a state park (Ft. Daniel) less than 5 minutes away and others a bit further (Spitler or Sand Creek) Horseback riding may be available upon request - $25.00 per person or $50.00 per family. There is a large shaded playground in the front yard for the kids with a trampoline, small zip line, ninja line, slack line, silks, climbing dome, hammocks, etc. BATHROOM: If you are looking at the house from the street, the bathroom is on the right of the house, attached to the house. It is a small shed looking building and is pictured. It has a toilet and running hot and cold water.

Public campgrounds near Decatur

Weldon Springs Campground

18mi from Decatur · 95 sites · Tents, RVs · in Weldon Springs State Park

Eagle Creek Campground

28mi from Decatur · 106 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

Wolf Creek Campground

29mi from Decatur · 148 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wolf Creek State Park

Deer Point Campground

32mi from Decatur · 72 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sangchris Lake State Park

Hickory Point Campground

33mi from Decatur · 56 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sangchris Lake State Park

Possum Creek Campground

39mi from Decatur · 28 sites · in Hidden Springs State Forest

White Oak Campground

49mi from Decatur · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(1)

Walnut Point Campground

49mi from Decatur · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Walnut Point State Park

Hickory Grove

49mi from Decatur · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

J

Jennifer

5 days ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Bella Vita Private Resort

It’s always an amazing stay here! Victor and Cam are great hosts. I was the only camper here, they delivered firewood and checked up on me the next day. I love this place!!

L

Lisa

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

We had a wonderful time staying at the cottage in the woods. The place is so welcoming and peaceful, and the hosts provided all the essentials for a comfortable stay. We would be very happy to come visit again.

K

Karina

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

This is our second time visiting Bear Creek Farm and it was once again Amazing! Camp sites are clean and spacious along with fantastic service from Debbie and the fam. Wood was provided for us at our camp site and although it did rain during our stay, we still had an awesome time here. Though we couldn't keep our fire going due to the rain we were greeted with a delicious breakfast that Matt prepared for us. I am so happy to have found Bear Creek Farm and ranch and will definitely be coming back.

H

Heather

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

What a great place for families! We stayed at the creek-side camp and loved the privacy. It was perfect with our 5 and 7 year old as they were able to head to the playground alone with walkie talkies. For younger kids, the site closer to the playground may be a better fit. Julie was kind and helpful with every question we had! The property is also close to town, should you need anything at all - like we did!

N

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Great place to camp with dogs. Sites are huge and secluded! Hosts are very welcoming and kind.

A

Abby

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

We had a lovely night at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch. Site 2 was peaceful, well-maintained, and felt private. We would definitely stay here again

C

Christian

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

For central Illinois this place was amazing! The site itself was unique and secluded with a cool zip line within it. All the animals on the farm were fun to check out and interact with. Most of all Julie and her family were wonderful and thoughtful people to interact with.

P

Patsy

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Literally had such a great time tent camping on Julie's Farm! From the spaced out nature of every site, the zip lines all over, and the activities for the children to do! To the responsiveness of Julie and her family 💖 We had our space but we also could nearly always find someone to ask questions or just chat 💖 The herbs and vegetables and flowers and variety of animals 💖 Julie also allowed us to have an impromptu birthday party for my daughter and she enjoyed the farm so much, she cried as we were leaving. Best private camping we've found so far! 👏👏 thanks again Julie and Serenity Farms

M

Matthew

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Stop looking at other places. This farm is amazing, owners are awesome (helped us out with a battery/inverter). You won’t be disappointed, great camping and fishing.

Cecile

August 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields Farm

Great place to relax and recharge on our road trip. Very nice welcoming and charming property.

J

Jadrian

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Amazing location and setting for camping. We will definitely be back!

K

Kevin

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Had a fantastic time Bear Creek Farm and Ranch. Our hosts were very welcoming and offer a variety of Farm fresh foods. Will definitely be coming back for a visit.

Erin

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

The land is beautiful and the hosts are incredibly welcoming. We were given a complete tour when we arrived and were able to pick veggies from the greenhouse, bought delicious steaks and were given fresh loaf of bread. We will definitely be back and will recommend this hidden illinois gem to many!

K

Ken

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

The spot was perfect! Absolutely beautiful and quiet. Debbie was so nice and helpful. Fishing was amazing.

K

Karen

August 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

After spending many nights at crowded state parks, it was delightful to relax in peace and quiet. The most noise we heard, was the bull frogs! We were greeted by Matt. He is a kind and gentle soul and truly cared about his home and our comfort. If you get a chance to travel to Palmer, Illinois, do yourself a favor and check out this great property. We are glad we did!

J

Jeff

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Serenity Fields Farm

Julie and her family were very welcoming! Our family, including our 8 year old son, loved our stay at the farm. From a zip line at our site, to kittens to play with and even a horse ride, we had a great day and night. Highly recommended!

K

Kerri

August 2025

25 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Secluded Springfield Stay

We had a very nice stay. Thank you for accepting our same day request. I wish we had more time to relax around the property but we had to head out early in the morning. Thank you for having us

S

Sophia

August 2025

30 ft Class C

3 nights at Secluded Springfield Stay

We had a great and seamless time staging on Aiden’s land for the weekend in an RV while attending the Illinois State Fair. He was very relaxed, accommodating, communicative, and kind and his family was so sweet too. Thank you, Aiden!

a

allison

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Very pretty and secluded. Best part was we didn’t find a single tick on us or our gear :)

J

Jim

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

My kids absolutely love Bear creek! Got tons of bass on top water frogs! Very exciting for me and both my kids! 8 and 10! Great place to hike around as well!