The best forest campgrounds near Elgin, Illinois

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a forest retreat near Elgin, Illinois, we've got you covered with over 280 options to choose from. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, our top campsites offer a range of amenities and activities to make your experience unforgettable. Check out Mulln-Heim Vineyards, Purplehaze Acres, and Horseshoe Bend, each with hundreds of rave reviews. From historic sites to horseback riding and wildlife watching, there's something for everyone. Plus, with prices starting as low as $10 per night and averaging at $40 per night, you'll find the perfect camping spot that fits your budget. Don't wait, start planning your forest adventure now!

98% (309)

Top-rated campgrounds near Elgin

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a forest retreat near Elgin, Illinois, we've got you covered with over 280 options to choose from. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, our top campsites offer a range of amenities and activities to make your experience unforgettable. Check out Mulln-Heim Vineyards, Purplehaze Acres, and Horseshoe Bend, each with hundreds of rave reviews. From historic sites to horseback riding and wildlife watching, there's something for everyone. Plus, with prices starting as low as $10 per night and averaging at $40 per night, you'll find the perfect camping spot that fits your budget. Don't wait, start planning your forest adventure now!

98% (309)

Top-rated campgrounds near Elgin

1. Gypsi Acres

83%

(3)

42mi from Elgin · 1 site · Tent

Open field and wooded area, a creek to fish in

2. Bear Bottom Ranch

92%

(129)

32mi from Elgin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

3. A Creek Runs Through It

93%

(15)

4.1mi from Elgin · 2 sites · RVs

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!

4. 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

Toilets

Campfires

5. The Aloha Ranch

100%

(19)

28mi from Elgin · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

6. Private Lake Mary Channel Camping

100%

(6)

34mi from Elgin · 1 site · Tent

Tent Camping Site on Lake Mary’s Channel. Private place to pitch a couple tents, hammocks, enjoy a campfire, and most importantly enjoy access to Lake Mary & Lake Elizabeth via a short channel which is only steps from the door of your tent! The channel is shallow, while you cannot swim from the campsite to the lake you can easily launch kayaks and after 850ft of paddling you are out on Lake Mary! 15minute safe sidewalk or quiet neighborhood road walk to Lance Park from camping site. The park also has ample parking. Drive time from camping site to the park is only 2minutes! Lance Park has a wonderful pubic beach swimming area. The water quality of Lake Mary is amazing with great clarity and no algae or seaweed growth. It also has a public boat launch. The park also hosts the “AquaNut” Water Show every Wednesday and Saturday nights in the summer! Lance Park also has a clean and very large handicap accessible porta potty that can be used 24/7. Twin Lakes has a cute Main Street with lots of fun to be had. There are also several restaurant/bars on Lake Mary or Lake Elizabeth. Lake Elizabeth can be accessed by a small waterway that connects the lakes. Kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes can easily float under a lower foot and car bridge. Larger and taller motorized boats cannot move between lakes. This camping site offers such a fun and inexpensive way to get outdoors this summer!

7. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

99%

(41)

24mi from Elgin · 10 sites · Tents

Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. May see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less to Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open May 1 through Sept 30 (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be September 30th. And then we will be closed for the winter until May first. Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean close by. Local forest preserve has toilets or bring your own porti-john. Bring your horses. Set up a temp spot. We have the space. And there is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner. Camp with your HORSES! We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A tire swing. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, or gardens. 💕🙏

8. The Commons Oak Savanna

92%

(25)

21mi from Elgin · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: (NOTE) Greenwood Rd and Illinois Rt 120 are the same...Google uses Greenwood Rd, and the State prefers Illinois Rte 120) Get away from it and commune with nature in a pre-settlement natural oak savanna with oaks and hickories of 200-400 years. 25-acre woodland completely fenced and surrounded by cropland and woods with no homes or roads within a half mile. Experience the land as the nomadic Indian tribes saw it. Trails cross the property. Hawks, owls, turkeys, and occasional bald eagles, along with finches, woodpeckers, doves, and martins fill the sky; while deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits roam the grounds. Only two camps are available to keep the setting pristine and primitive and a third site can be used behind the sheds if you encounter unexpected weather.

9. Crooked Creek Ranch

100%

(4)

48mi from Elgin · 1 site · Tent, RV

Wooded acres. Driving range. Starry sky's. Walking trails. Creek. Sledding hill. Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, fox, turkey, beaver, birds, to name a few. Abundant wood for fires.

10. Angel Creek

98%

(151)

43mi from Elgin · 21 sites · Tents

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.

11. Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(3)

32mi from Elgin · 1 site · Tent

7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. And yes — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️

12. Rolling Oaks Campground

37mi from Elgin · 51 sites

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

Camper favorites near Elgin

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Commons Oak Savanna

92%

(25)

21mi from Elgin · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: (NOTE) Greenwood Rd and Illinois Rt 120 are the same...Google uses Greenwood Rd, and the State prefers Illinois Rte 120) Get away from it and commune with nature in a pre-settlement natural oak savanna with oaks and hickories of 200-400 years. 25-acre woodland completely fenced and surrounded by cropland and woods with no homes or roads within a half mile. Experience the land as the nomadic Indian tribes saw it. Trails cross the property. Hawks, owls, turkeys, and occasional bald eagles, along with finches, woodpeckers, doves, and martins fill the sky; while deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits roam the grounds. Only two camps are available to keep the setting pristine and primitive and a third site can be used behind the sheds if you encounter unexpected weather.

Crooked Creek Ranch

100%

(4)

48mi from Elgin · 1 site · Tent, RV

Wooded acres. Driving range. Starry sky's. Walking trails. Creek. Sledding hill. Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, fox, turkey, beaver, birds, to name a few. Abundant wood for fires.

Angel Creek

98%

(151)

43mi from Elgin · 21 sites · Tents

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.

Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(3)

32mi from Elgin · 1 site · Tent

7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. And yes — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️

Rolling Oaks Campground

37mi from Elgin · 51 sites

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

Public campgrounds near Elgin

100%

(6)

Rock Cut Campground

40mi from Elgin · 266 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rock Cut State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Brian

3 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Bear Bottom Ranch

Site 1 was perfect. We had a couple nice days before the snowstorm hit to enjoy the trails and bonfire pit. We were there to winter camp so snow was a plus. Plenty of down limbs if run short on wood. Stores were close and bbr was easy to find. Recommend if you like privacy.

Joe

November 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Had another awesome trip here. I was allowed to hike to the creek and camp. It was so beautiful and peaceful. The dog and horses are very friendly and cool. The hoasts are very nice.

Jimmy

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Extremely private as described. Nice area. We didn't get to spend much time there but we would recommend it to anyone looking for a private spot. 2WD accessible even with a sedan. Thanks!

V

Victoria

November 2025

19 ft travel trailer

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Sandra is a wonderful, welcoming person, property is beautiful,site is clean , quiet & safe. I love the fall colors on the trees & hiking trails. I would recommend.

J

Jennifer

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walnut Woods Farm

Suzanne, Jeremy and roommates were AMAZING! I love their property and the work they have put in to it to share with others. They spent so much time with me, teaching me! The horses , chickens (Beta ❤️), stocked pond and mowed paths. Beautiful!

Joe

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Great, beautiful place will definitely be back. Lots of firewood around, quiet and friendly. Has some cool horses.

Big rock forest preserve right around the corner. Hiking trails. Allows horses! I’ll allow horses on the farm. Ask me on advance to set something up. Camp with your horses!

C

Cristian

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

Easy check in and check out simple signs and location. Nice set up.

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.

J

Joel

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

What a wonderful Hipcamp experience! I received a very warm greeting from Sandra (and Koda!) who guided me down to the campsite. The site itself is private, tucked back in the woods, with plenty of space to spread out. Sandra had prepared the campfire, and there was tons of downed wood scattered about for gathering. I was able to ride my bike to a nearby restaurant that she recommended (No Prep Tacos—SO good), and slept so well in the peaceful tranquility of her property. I only wish I had more time to explore the property’s trails and brook. I will absolutely stay again the next time my travels bring me through the area!

Maxime

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gypsi Acres

Cute little sweet spot by the creek. Friendly host and clean porta potties. Ducks, chicken and goats on the property is fun for kids. Road is nearby but traffic is not too bad. Not a deal breaker but something to note.

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

Megan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Private Lake Mary Channel Camping

My family and I had an awesome time camping at Steve’s thoughtfully laid out campground. The ground was soft and level so the tents were super comfy. Lots of seating on stumps surrounding a clean fire pit. Watching the moon reflect on the water was magical!

Motor Camping Near Woodstock, IL, ca. 1930

B

Brian

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Commons Oak Savanna

The Commons Oak Savannah is a beautiful property and was the perfect setting for our 1930's themed camp-out. The hilly 1/2 mile cow lane from the highway back to the campsite passes through fields and woodlands and lends a feeling of travelling to a distant place and time, and we had no problem negotiating it our 1928 Model A Ford. The site itself is surrounded by woods with ancient oaks to the north, east and south, and we enjoyed the magnificent sunset over the open fields to the west. Darkness brought the sounds of screech owls and even the distant yips and howls of coyotes. The site itself was large and well mowed, and we found an abundance of wood in the brush pile concealed in the tall grass next to the lane. Prospective campers may want to note that there is a small group of well-maintained honey bee hive boxes adjacent to the site, but they ignored us completely and did not even stray into our camp. The host, Steve, was very congenial, with excellent communication via both hipcamp messaging and phone texting, and his interest in helping us enjoy our experience was readily apparent. I heartily recommend The Commons Oak Savannah to campers seeking a tranquil and authentic experience and hope to return many times myself.

E

Estefania

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Walnut Woods Farm

One of the best camping experiences I’ve ever had 🌿. The place feels super safe, cozy, and peaceful; we truly enjoyed a real camping experience with lots of privacy and connection to nature. Suzanne was so kind from the moment we arrived, and even helped us carry our things to the campsite with a tractor. We also got to meet her beautiful horses and give them treats 🐴💛. Another highlight was the flexible check-in and check-out times, which made everything so much easier and stress-free. That was one of the main reasons we chose this spot, and it really made a difference. We left feeling delighted and are already looking forward to coming back!

R

Ryne

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Angel Creek

Martin was an amazing guy who dropped off firewood to everybody before it got dark out, he checked up on everything multiple times and let us know that he would talk to some louder campers without us even asking him. Overall site C was awesome and me and my two friends already made plans to go again some time soon. 10/10

M

Malaika

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Lake Mary Channel Camping

Steve’s campsite was a lovely quiet spot that was private enough that we felt comfortable sleeping in the tent without the cover up. It was really peaceful and the trees covering the spot made it very secluded despite being in a neighborhood! Steve was very responsive and attentive as a host. 11/10 would stay there again!

T

Tim

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Angel Creek

The camp site was very nice with lots of trails to explore. this was my grand daughters first camping trip and she loved it. She couldn't stop talking about it. She is already planning another trip next year. Tthe only drawback, and I am sure Omar could not control this. Somewhere off site there was a party going on with a motorcycle running until at least 2 am. Noisy neighbors are a problem every where.

N

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

The site we were at was absolutely beautiful woke up to a beautiful sunrise. Highly recommend site A!!