The best campgrounds near Decatur, Illinois with swimming

Looking to go camping near Decatur, Illinois and want to go swimming? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 65 options in the area that offer swimming, you're sure to find the perfect campsite. Whether you're looking for a rustic cabin, a cozy tent, or a spacious RV site, Hipcamp has got you covered. One top campsite option is Bear Creek Farm and Ranch, which has received 273 reviews. If you're interested in exploring more options, check out Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews) and Serenity Fields Farm (48 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, cooking equipment, and showers, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable camping experience. And with prices starting as low as $15 per night and an average price of $30 per night, camping has never been more affordable! So pack your swimsuit and get ready for a refreshing adventure.

99% (602)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Decatur, Illinois and want to go swimming? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 65 options in the area that offer swimming, you're sure to find the perfect campsite. Whether you're looking for a rustic cabin, a cozy tent, or a spacious RV site, Hipcamp has got you covered. One top campsite option is Bear Creek Farm and Ranch, which has received 273 reviews. If you're interested in exploring more options, check out Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews) and Serenity Fields Farm (48 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, cooking equipment, and showers, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable camping experience. And with prices starting as low as $15 per night and an average price of $30 per night, camping has never been more affordable! So pack your swimsuit and get ready for a refreshing adventure.

99% (602)

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. 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.

3. 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

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(138)

11mi from Decatur · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Niantic, IL

The 1912 Barn is a 114 historic post and beam barn that makes a wonderful backdrop for a night out in the country. Located only 25 minutes from Springfield historic sites and 10 minutes from Decatur, IL this location makes it easy to tour during the day and relax by the camp fire in the evening. Our site is perfect for visiting local communities and the relaxing on our quiet site each evening. Decatur has a mini golf course, splash cove water park, children's zoo and museum, a governor's mansion for tours and 3 museums to visit. Milikin University offers local college level sports. Decatur has a great lake for paddle boarding, boating and fishing with canoe trips down the local Sangamon River. Several local breweries and cute market areas makes Decatur a great place to visit. Take a ride on the trolley and learn out our history. Springfield sites are only a hop and skip away with many things to see and learn. Museums offer great programs and the New Salem Park is a fun day trip with the kids to learn about historic living. Lincoln's sites around in several counties are great to see. You also have the opportunity to hike in some great parks and ride your bike on some outstanding central Illinois paths. If you happen to visit late summer enjoy the Illinois Farm Progress show and maybe catch a concert at the Devon Theatre on the lake.

4. Green Meadow Amish Farm

100%

(1)

28mi from Decatur · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arthur, IL

Experience a day in the life on an Amish farm. We are an Amish farm family who enjoy the simple things life has to offer. Come bring your tent and sleep under the night sky. For those not ready to take on such a rustic sleeping arrangement, we have a camper available for rent that sleeps up to 5 people. Or you can bring your own. Come have a meal cooked over the open fire. Bake bread or cookies, you can even mill your own wheat! Our wheat has been in the family for generations, and we've been told is the softest and tastiest bread around (try it with our homemade apple butter!) Take a ride on our customized wagon. Where we pop open a table for you to enjoy a picnic with sunset views. Bring your bicycles along and take a trip into town. There are wonderful shops with homemade goodies. Looking for handcrafted furniture, antiques, or just an enjoyable walk around town as buggies go by - it's all just a ride away. Our Amish farm is nestled in the heart of Amish Country, Douglas County Illinois. We're located just 45 min. from Champaign & Decatur, 5 minutes from the Aikman Wildlife Adventure & 35 min. from the fishing spots & walking trails at Walnut Point State Park. Relax in our quiet lodging right here on the farm where you'll see horses, goats & chickens. For an additional fee, we're happy to offer Amish buggy rides & wagon rides for our guests. The camper is 28 feet with a 12 foot tip-out. It has one bedroom with a king size bed, and another with a double bed. In the common area there's a sleeper sofa. There's a bathroom with shower in the camper and another bathroom with shower about a 1 min. walk in a separate building. Our farm is just a 5 min. drive from the Great Pumpkin Patch, Yoder's Country Kitchen and various Amish owned shops. Beautiful Lake Shelbyville is a 35 minute drive. We are about a 45 min. drive from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and 35 min. from Eastern Illinois University. This Amish owned camper doesn't have Wifi (TV only plays DVD's). Depending on your phone carrier & plan, you shouldn't have any problem getting cell phone service & internet on your phone. It may be possible to funnel the internet from your phone to your phone to your laptop using a "personal hotspot".

Public campgrounds near Decatur

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(1)

Forrest W. Bo Wood Campground

27mi from Decatur · 141 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shelbyville

Wolf Creek Campground

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

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(3)

Coon Creek Campground

29mi from Decatur · 181 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shelbyville

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Moraine View Campground

40mi from Decatur · 105 sites · Tents, RVs · in Moraine View State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

t

tess

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

I had a lovely three night stay on Aissa and Hank’s property! When we arrived, they were there to welcome us and give us a tour and let us know about our camping options. We were the only campers staying that weekend so they were happy to let us pick our spot and got a fire pit moved for us so we could stay local to our spot for the most part. Their barn and land is gorgeous, and they were equipped with helpful items for campers far beyond what we expected when booking our stay. Aissa and Hank themselves were both very kind and welcoming and made us feel very safe and comfortable. They were around if we needed anything but did not make us feel hovered over and did not interrupt our privacy whatsoever. We had a very sweet and slow weekend, exactly what we were looking for and needed! We would definitely come back and enjoy another weekend here.

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.

j

jessica

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

We loved this place! The scenery is beautiful and super relaxing after a long day of driving.

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.

V

Valena

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

Everything was perfect! Aissa and Hank are outstanding, gracious hosts. Starting with a golf cart tour of their property really helps to decide where you want to set up and ask questions. After choosing a convenient spot, both Aissa and Hank are helpful with anything you may need. Bathroom was spotless, very well taken care of property all around. I hope to return to enjoy the friendly atmosphere and peaceful natural surroundings. The barn looks like a great venue for a party or celebration, with plenty of space to park and play in the beautiful backyard. What a terrific find! Thank you so much for your hospitality!

Julie

September 2025

Tent

1 night at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

Lovely people and such a peaceful place! Definitely would love to come back!

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!

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 :)