The best campgrounds near Elgin, Illinois with wildlife watching

Looking to immerse yourself in wildlife watching near Elgin, Illinois? Look no further than Mulln-Heim Vineyards! With over 355 options in the area that cater specifically to wildlife watching enthusiasts, you're sure to find the perfect camping experience. From waking up to the sound of birds chirping to catching a glimpse of deer grazing nearby, these campsites offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. Top campsites like Purplehaze Acres and Horseshoe Bend have received rave reviews from fellow campers, ensuring a memorable stay. Plus, popular amenities such as potable water, showers, and trash facilities are available to make your camping experience comfortable. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also enjoy activities like climbing, horseback riding, and of course, wildlife watching. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $20, camping near Elgin, Illinois has never been more accessible. So grab your binoculars and get ready to embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure!

97% (534)

Top-rated campgrounds near Elgin

Looking to immerse yourself in wildlife watching near Elgin, Illinois? Look no further than Mulln-Heim Vineyards! With over 355 options in the area that cater specifically to wildlife watching enthusiasts, you're sure to find the perfect camping experience. From waking up to the sound of birds chirping to catching a glimpse of deer grazing nearby, these campsites offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. Top campsites like Purplehaze Acres and Horseshoe Bend have received rave reviews from fellow campers, ensuring a memorable stay. Plus, popular amenities such as potable water, showers, and trash facilities are available to make your camping experience comfortable. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also enjoy activities like climbing, horseback riding, and of course, wildlife watching. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $20, camping near Elgin, Illinois has never been more accessible. So grab your binoculars and get ready to embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure!

97% (534)

Top-rated campgrounds near Elgin

1. Escape to Nature

98%

(355)

12mi from Elgin · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Each reservation includes firewood that is rough cut. Always call ahead when you are planning to enjoy a local attraction. This property is located on the outskirts of the village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. This is a kid-friendly and pet friendly location. Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard. What to do here: Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks. If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking. Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit. Check out these amazing area attractions! -The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. (http://www.IRM.org) -Tower Hills Stables, Trail Rides, Horseback Riding Camp (ages 5 to 14), Riding Lessons, just 8 miles drive, (https://www.towerhillstables.net/.) -Summerfield Farm and Zoo, a privately owned zoo in rural Belvidere, IL, 3088 Flora Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008, a 30 minute drive. (https://summerfieldfarmandzoo.com/.) -Safari Lake Geneva, 45 minute drive to the north, Visit Safari Lake Geneva, Wisconsin's original drive through animal park. Feed and interact with a variety of animals from the comfort of your car (https://safarilakegeneva.com/). Additional suggestions include Santa's Village Amusement and Water Park in West Dundee, Randall Oaks Zoo, in Dundee on Randall Road, Minor League Baseball with Schaumburg Boomers or Kane County Cougars, Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Sullivan Mobile massage, Belvidere Park in Belvidere, IL, Volo Auto Museum, Department of Natural Resources Bike and Hiking Trails and fishing. When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants. We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff. Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com. FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂 Here are some answers to common questions. We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent. Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour. ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door. WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done. CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing. WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood. PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits. INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent. HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage. EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking. ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.

2. Millbrook Trail Rides

96%

(111)

33mi from Elgin · 1 site · Tent

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. 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!

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

Toilets

Campfires

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

Toilets

Campfires

6. Rancho Comienzo

99%

(84)

39mi from Elgin · 3 sites · Tents

Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays. Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities! We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!

7. 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!

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. Channahon State Park

25 sites · Channahon, Illinois

This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

11. 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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Gebhard Woods State Park

100%

(1)

2 sites · Morris, Illinois

Birds and boats, turtles and trails. Find all of the above and more at Gebhard Woods State Park. Enjoy this little world as you picnic by the shady lake, take a boat out to fish, and explore the trails weaving through the park. No matter the season, no matter the weather, the park is open and raring to go! Check out the variety of birds, bring your horse around for a trot, there is a million ways to have fun at Gebhard Woods!

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

13. 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.

Rancho Comienzo

99%

(84)

39mi from Elgin · 3 sites · Tents

Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays. Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities! We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!

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!

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.

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.

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

83%

(9)

Illinois Beach Campground

38mi from Elgin · 224 sites · Tents, RVs · in Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park

100%

(6)

Rock Cut Campground

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

Channahon Campground

43mi from Elgin · 25 sites · in Channahon State Park

Des Plaines Campground

47mi from Elgin · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

100%

(1)

Gebhard Woods Campground

48mi from Elgin · 2 sites · in Gebhard Woods State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Brian

November 2025

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.

J

Jawad

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Millbrook Trail Rides

This is a beautiful site just 1.5 hours from downtown. Also, didn't knew silver springs state wildlife park was just 5 mins from here. I would come here in spring and summer when the creek level is enough for paddling.

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!

S

Sarah

November 2025

50 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to The Commons Oak Savanna

Steve was an awesome host. After we got parked he explained some things he had to offer. I got lavender bunches, honey, and a book written by Steve himself. I teared up when he was explaining the true story of a princess he met at the age of 95, who has an incredible story… I am looking forward to reading it. We spent Halloween night here, without any scary stuff happening, and we lived to tell another story. Thanks Steve.

M

Mary

October 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Escape to Nature

Having been on the road the last year and half since retirement, we can honestly say this has been one of the most beautiful campgrounds. It combines a wonderful balance of unspoiled nature, views and peace with any and all nearby resources. Further, if not most importantly - David had been a most attentive and amazing host.

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.

F

FannyGo

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Escape to Nature

We got one of the 3 spots, all the way at the end of their property. The grass was so beautiful that I was jealous! All the birds were so cute! Especially the ducks with the white fluffy heads. Those were adorable! They didn’t let us pet them, but were very well into our lettuce. It’s 9min away from a shopping area with Walmart, Walgreens and all kinds of food places. Be aware of the bees. They have beautiful flowers and happy bees. Tons of bees that are not shy at all.

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

Julia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Escape to Nature

The site was nice and having free firewood is a nice perk. Other campers were courteous, but we decided not to stay the second night that we had booked. The road noise from nearby highway was a reminder of how close we were to suburban life.

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

Mary

October 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Escape to Nature

This property is a chill experience with a beautiful pastoral view. We were the only campers out of 4 sites for 3 days. There were occasional road/neighbor sounds but the camping area is set way back and behind the Inn so the campsites are fairly private. The hosts were very respectful and helpful when approached for information.

M

Mary

October 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Escape to Nature

We enjoyed several nights camping here on this beautiful, quiet and peaceful property in our self contained RV. There was plenty of firewood to enjoy each night and good internet was a plus. The road into the property is rustic and grassy and might be challenging after a lot of rain. Our host was very friendly and helpful. Seeing the ducks and turkeys roaming free was really charming.

M

Mary

October 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Escape to Nature

This was the most natural campsite that we have stayed at so far. We were fortunate to have beautiful weather (no rain that might have made access challenging) and we had privacy as the only ones camping during a weekday. The old growth trees and horses in pasture added to the natural beauty. The site was effectively administered by a host that was friendly and helpful. Our 21' L 10' H Minnie Winnebago just fit into the level grassy site although the small road there was a wee bit bumpy and had low hanging branches. We enjoyed a fire every night and watched the farmers harvesting the corn field by day.

M

Mark

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Escape to Nature

I only camped for one night here but I want to book another 5 consecutive nights later this week. This is a very beautiful property. David, the host, was very pleasant and accommodating. I can see why Escape to Nature received the high marks that it has. Any fellow Hipcampers will not be disappointed. Book it ! Mark

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.

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.

chris

October 2025

12 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Escape to Nature

Dave was a great host. Site is clean, quiet and relaxing.

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!!