97% (999) • 823 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Elmwood
Frakers Grove Farm
1. Frakers Grove Farm
100%
(47)
22mi from Elmwood · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Frakers Grove Farm has been part of my family since the 1980s, but its history extends back to 1828 when Michael Fraker arrived and negotiated a peaceful settlement with the local Native American tribes, becoming the first settler in North Eastern Knox County. His grave, along with those of approximately 26 relatives and friends, is located on the property.
Camp on a 250-acre farm in Western Illinois, featuring a 1.5-acre pond stocked with Blue Gill, Crappie, Wide Mouth Bass, Catfish, and resident Grass Carp, plus a small creek. The property also has trails and abundant wildlife, including deer, American river otters, beavers, geese, wood ducks, and raccoons. A Jon boat is available for use on the pond.
We offer 1 Walk-in Camp Site and 1 Drive-In Site by the pond, each with a fire ring. RV camping is currently in a trial phase; your feedback is invaluable. This area provides primitive wooded camping behind and around the pond, with the RV site located next to the pole barn. Note: The RV site listing is not normally active, so please reach out in advance if interested. Guest WiFi is available near the buildings.
Assistance with transporting tents and supplies to and from the campsite on check-in and check-out days is available upon request.
Facilities include a Porta Potty and potable water from a yard hydrant, both located near the Pole Barn.
NOTE: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during the spring and fall. We currently have chickens and are taking a break from pigs. The newly established pasture is expected to yield grass hay this year to help fund new fencing, a preparatory step for introducing cows.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Black Sheep Flower Farm
2. Black Sheep Flower Farm
97%
(73)
31mi from Elmwood · 1 site
Million Dollar view! Stargazers & birdwatchers' dream! Black Sheep Flower Farm is a chemical free flower farm overlooking the Spoon and Illinois River valley. Beautiful hiking trails at Dickson Mounds and the Nature Conservancy (Emiquon) wetland preserve. We aim to provide an affordable and safe space where people feel free to be themselves and enjoy nature. Chill vibes. Quiet and romantic getaway! No homophobia, transphobia, racism or misogyny!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
3. Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
99%
(36)
36mi from Elmwood · 2 sites
Great place for train lovers! Many train enthusiasts come and take pictures and videos Great place for fishing and relaxation! Kayaking down the creek Our specified 2 acres has been turned into a park like setting with beautiful trees and the creek around it! Small town near by with amenities ..
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Jubilee College State Park
4. Jubilee College State Park
State park 8.2mi from Elmwood · 107 sites
It’s called Jubilee for a reason, people! You’re going to want to shout from the rooftop once you set your sights on the natural landscape and abundant wildlife. Whether you want to go hunting, hiking, fishing, or biking (we’re poets and we know it) Jubilee is the place to be. Bring your horse or bike to the trails for an added level of fun. Don’t just make this a spring/summer visit: swing by in the cooler months for a taste of snow activities! Jubilee sounds almost too good to be true.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rock Island State Trail
5. Rock Island State Trail
100%
(1)
State park 17mi from Elmwood · 1 site
Walk along an old railroad bed at this linear state park in north-central Illinois.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Bellinger's Liberty Acres
6. Bellinger's Liberty Acres
100%
(21)
38mi from Elmwood · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 6 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA, Macomb,IL and Galesburg,IL.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Posey Ridge
7. Posey Ridge
96%
(108)
39mi from Elmwood · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
I have a lake with lots of fish to go fishing, canoeing, kayaking. I also have small jon boat available for fishing. My property also has a outdoor his and hers privys..(bathrooms) No water though. I also have two construction trailers that we remodeled with couches chairs tables and refrigerators and TV's. These have a microwave in them to. These are available for people to stay in if wanted. They also have heat and AC. No water though. They cost extra to stay in.There's also places with camper plug ins. So power is available. Also have horseshoe pit and overhead cooking area. Great place for tent camping also. Have fire pit. And fire rings available. Also have access to firewood. Just no water. Great quiet enjoyable place for getaway to go fishing,canoeing or kayaking. Conveniently located between Peoria and Bloomington Illinois. Only about 3/4 from the Mackinaw river. For those who love to canoe and kayak on the river.
Paddle boats will be available please inquire.
I have several tent camping spots. No assigned spots. They're on a first come first serve basis. The cost is $40 per tent that is put up. Four wheel drive are not needed just recommended if it is supposed to rain. You're allowed to bring more than one vehicle but please check with me first. Thanks. We look forward to a good year and hope everyone enjoys this time out here.
** PLEASE CONTACT HOSTS ABOUT PETS** I
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
8. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
99%
(184)
43mi from Elmwood · 9 sites
🐐 Hungry World Farm: Glamping, Camping & Animal Encounters on a Working Regenerative Farm
Looking for something more meaningful than just a campground?
Welcome to Hungry World Farm—175 acres of forests, pastures, gardens, creeks, and animals where every visit connects people with the land, food, and each other.
Just two hours west of Chicago, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park, our nonprofit educational farm offers a totally different overnight experience—one rooted in regeneration, organic farming, community, and joy.
What Makes Hungry World Farm Different?
You don’t just sleep under the stars—you wake up to the sound of goats bleating, chickens scratching, and the scent of dew on rich, healthy soil.
Our 16 new glamping tents and campsites (cabin and apartments too) are nestled across rolling pastures and forests, offering sweeping views and proximity to daily farm life. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a family adventure, you'll be immersed in:
🐐 Baby Goat Snuggling & Animal Encounters
🌱 Working Regenerative Farm Experiences
🍕 Wood-Fired Pizza Nights on select Saturdays
🌳 Trails, Playgrounds, and Stargazing Opportunities
Lodging Options:
🛖 Glamping Tents – Furnished with queen beds and solar electric, some deep in forest on ridges, some near playground/flat lawn for families w/small children. Some remote, others next to each other or families vacationing together.
⛺ Rustic Campsites – Private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature
🏡 Cabin, Apartments – So your friends that need AC/shower can have those comforts
Other Experiences:
🐄 Guided Farm Tours of gardens, animals, and pastures
🛠️ Volunteer Days and Hands-On Learning Projects
📚 Seasonal Workshops in gardening, composting, and more
🥬 Farmstand Access (in-season) with eggs, produce, and preserves
Perfect For: 2 or more families/friends, Nature lovers and first-time campers, Eco-friendly wedding parties.
On-Site Amenities:
- Fire pits at every site, with wood and other camping needs available for purchase- Portapotties and a public restroom located on the farm (not officially part of the campground but accessible)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Horseshoe Bend
9. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(727)
44mi from Elmwood · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
WE ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026 SEASON!!
Family owned private campground since the 1940's. Very secluded and private. We offer a very unique experience that you will not find any public campground. I many ways we have a "private state park".
Nice trails for hiking or biking. There is even a small "race track" in the bottom bowl near the creek. There are several direct access points to the creek for fishing or wading. We have miles of marked trails that are easy for everyone.
Horseshoe Bend Main is a larger campground with four dispersed sites which a very spread out. This site has (3) 30 amp outlets for RV's. Porta potties are also provided.
The Horseshoe Bend Creekside sites are designated spots that are on the West Panther creek bank. There are porta potties, but no electric or water.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rice Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area
10. Rice Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 22mi from Elmwood · 34 sites
Venture along 15 miles of shoreline to hunt ducks and geese or fish the river for the perfect catch.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
11. Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
State park 22mi from Elmwood · 81 sites
You may catch some crappie, but your time at Spring Lake will be totally rad. Overlooked by a large sandstone bluff, Spring Lake is a long, narrow lake born from a meander of the Illinois River. It’s actually divided into two separate lakes, making it a fishing frenzy. The north has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, muskie, channel catfish, sunfish, bullheads, and carp. The south has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, northern pike, sunfish, and carp. Forgot your boat? Not to worry! Rentals are available near the south boat ramp. And if you’re yearning for the whole livin’ off the land experience, the park houses three campgrounds.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area
12. Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area
100%
(1)
State park 26mi from Elmwood · 12 sites
Spend the weekend surrounded by luscious flora and fauna at Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area along the eastside of the Illinois River. With 2,462 acres of water, you won’t be surprised to see waterfowl, beaver, muskrat, and mink as you tool around the waters. Fish for crappies and bullhead in the Upper Peoria and Goose Lakes, but keep an eye on the sky! A bald eagle or two have been known to grace visitors with their appearance! Spend all day or camp all weekend long. You can’t go wrong either way!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sand Ridge State Forest
13. Sand Ridge State Forest
100%
(3)
State forest 26mi from Elmwood · 46 sites
Think Central Illinois is one big corn field? Sand Ridge State Forest begs to differ.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
14. Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
99%
(34)
49mi from Elmwood · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Whispering Pines, a family focused campground to help you get away from the daily grind.
Surround yourself amongst tall pine trees as you hear the wind whisper tranquility all around you.
We are a family owned campground with a heart to serve people and provide a peaceful environment where families and individuals can enjoy making new memories. Whispering Pines is an event and retreat center that offers lodging and camping amenities. We also have a chapel ready to host your ceremony. We have RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, a lodge, and an event center. We can help you create a package to fit your needs and budget.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Geneseo Campground
15. Geneseo Campground
96%
(38)
50mi from Elmwood · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests.
If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi.
Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground!
For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 309-442-2662.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Peaceful Stay on Spoon River
16. Peaceful Stay on Spoon River
32mi from Elmwood · 1 site
Step back into time as you enjoy a peaceful stay on the Spoon River.
The Yellow Submarine offers unique decor thematic to all things late 60's to early 70's. Guests will enjoy a newly renovated space that includes wood flooring, granite counter tops, and a 70' flat screen television. Whether you are kayaking up the Spoon River, fishing off our newly constructed deck, or journeying on a hike, the Yellow Submarine has an adventure for everyone.
Guests are welcome to fish in the pond. Please be sure to only catch and release in the pond.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Evening Star Camping Resort
17. Evening Star Camping Resort
100%
(1)
34mi from Elmwood · 119 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Evening Star Camping Resort stands out as a hidden gem in the charming town of Topeka, Illinois, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for campers of all ages. This picturesque campground features expansive open spaces ideal for exploring, hiking, biking, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets and stargazing.
Guests can indulge in a variety of on-site activities, including swimming, horseshoes, fire truck rides, basketball, and pool games. The resort also hosts hayrides and themed weekends packed with fun. Kids will love engaging in activities such as tie-dyeing, talent competitions, poker runs, auto races, golf cart games, haunted houses, and harvest potlucks, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
Beyond the campground, visitors can discover a wealth of local attractions. Explore the Jake Wolf Fish Hatchery, Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, Brown's Oakridge Zoo, New Salem Village, and the Spring Lake Fish and Wildlife Area, all just a short drive away.
Evening Star Camping Resort offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay, including full water and electric hookup sites, tent camping options, a snack bar, ice and wood sales, locally sourced produce, camping supplies, gas, laundry facilities, a dump station, and a pavilion.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Canton Lake
18. Canton Lake
16mi from Elmwood
Nestled just east of Canton and easily accessible via East Chestnut St./East County Highway 27, Lake Canton stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. This picturesque campground offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages, making it a unique spot for families and friends alike.
At Lake Canton, visitors can enjoy fishing and boating on the serene waters, with convenient boat slips and kayak launches available for easy access. The seasonal campground features cozy cabin rentals and well-maintained picnic areas, perfect for a day of fun in the sun. For those who love to explore, the hiking trails provide stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
Additionally, the lake view observation deck offers a breathtaking vantage point to take in the surrounding beauty. Throughout the recreation area, cameras are strategically placed to capture memorable moments. During the camping season, weekend food vendors often set up at the pavilion, providing delicious meals to enhance your outdoor experience. Whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat, Lake Canton has something for everyone.
Stonefort Campground
19. Stonefort Campground
17mi from Elmwood
Discover the unique charm of our serene campground nestled in the picturesque landscape of Central Illinois. At Stonefort Campground, we pride ourselves on offering a peaceful retreat where nature enthusiasts can unwind and rejuvenate. Our campground features seasonal sites, all with stunning water frontage, ensuring that every guest can enjoy the soothing sounds of nature right at their doorstep.
We believe that everyone deserves a tranquil escape, and Stonefort Campground is the ideal destination to reconnect with the great outdoors. Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, our campground provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure alike.
In addition to our beautiful sites, guests can explore nearby natural attractions, including swimming holes and hiking trails, perfect for outdoor activities. After a day of exploration, you can indulge in local dining options and visit charming shops in the area. Come experience the serenity of Stonefort Campground in Central Illinois, where nature's beauty awaits you.
Giant Goose Ranch
20. Giant Goose Ranch
17mi from Elmwood
The Giant Goose Ranch stands out as a truly unique family vacation destination in the Midwest, offering an expansive 840 acres of land and over 300 acres of water for exploration. Nestled in the historic strip mines of Canton, Illinois, this ranch provides an unparalleled setting for outdoor adventures and family bonding.
Guests can choose from daily and weekly cabin and campsite rentals, or even seize the opportunity to own a cabin or seasonal campsite for a more permanent getaway. The ranch is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring numerous fishing lakes, scenic trails, and a stunning 500-foot beach perfect for relaxation and play.
In addition to these natural attractions, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including sand volleyball, pickleball courts, and basketball hoops. Families will love the interactive animal farm and the onsite fish hatchery ponds, which offer a unique educational experience. Don’t forget to stop by the Hub coffee, ice cream, and snack shop for a delightful treat.
With its perfect blend of family fun, outdoor education, and adventure, the Giant Goose Ranch promises a lifetime of exploration and enjoyment for all who visit.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Patrick
1 day ago
20 ft truck camper
Fantastic site and Dennis is a great host! Had a very warm welcome and nice cozy stay by the pond!
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daniel
3 days ago
20 ft Class B
We had 2 very beautiful and peaceful nights. Dennis was a great host. We will be back!
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L
Lucas
1 week ago
Tent
The property was very nice, and well maintained! Brady was accommodating!
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Jennifer
1 week ago
Tent
I had Creekside 1. There were so many different birds singing, a pair of Orioles and a female hummingbird came very close. Lots of open area, and falling asleep to the owls and creek bubbling was wonderful. There are mowed trails to walk. Brady is a great and friendly host.
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Laurie
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
For first time Hipcampers, this one will spoil it for everything that comes after! Super well maintained sites with free firewood, mowed paths thru the woods, hot shower and very clean pit toilets. Highly recommend this place
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O
Olivia
1 week ago
Tent
Brady was an amazing host and the land was perfect! Porta potties stocked and close, fire pit with firewood, picnic table and trash can, hiking trails, and river fishing spots. Our dog also absolutely loved every second of it! Would recommend and will be staying again 😁.
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C
Cory
1 week ago
Tent
The creek side sites are amazing! Brady is such a great host. The grounds are well groomed and maintained. Highly recommended this host! He was running low on wood after a busy Memorial Day weekend so he went and cut wood for us on a Saturday.
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ALAN
1 week ago
Tent
Campsite is secluded, shaded, and perfect for a weekend of R&R. Brady is very hospitable and a pleasure to meet. I'll be back for sure.
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R
Raymond
1 week ago
Tent
Brady has an awesome setup at Creekside 1 where I stayed. There’s plenty of room to space out a decent sized group and he set me up with plenty of firewood for the site. A bathroom and shower are close, clean, and available for use. Upon getting to the site and getting setup, Brady came over, introduced himself and gave me the breakdown of the site and some trails and spots for fishing. I highly recommend this spot and would love to go back again
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C
Cody
2 weeks ago
24 ft Class C
With pets
If you're looking for a place to stay that gets you away from others and don't mind the occasional train horn or the bleating of goats then this place is perfect!
We (me + my wife & our 2 dogs) stayed 3 nights at the 'Sante Fe' site. The sites are fairly close together, but no one else was camping while we were there so we had the place to ourselves aside from the goats and farm cats. There is no water hookup, but Wesley offered to fill up our tank from a portable tank he has. He also provided a tank and hose to use for flushing out our black and grey tanks at the dump site he has.
All things considered, I would have paid twice the price we did for what what we got on such short notice!
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A
Ania
2 weeks ago
Tent
This spot is a perfect getaway from the city! My dog and I love coming here and keep coming back!
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Sabrina
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
We loved camping on Brady’s land so much that we booked our next trip back while we were still there! It is an incredible piece of property.
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C
Camden
2 weeks ago
Tent
The site was fantastic. A nice breeze kept us cool, the trails kept us entertained, and Brady kept the firewood coming even after it rained. We're already planning when we can come back.
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Maxime
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Favorite place to go. Wood, shower, river, plenty of space to camp, safe, quiet. It's great.
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Robin
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
This is a well organized campsite. Communication was easy. Directions were sent and accurate. Brady is a wonderful greeter and made sure we had firewood at all times. His entire family is wonderful. The campground is clean, quiet, and the sites are spread out. We loved the creek and the trails. There is a living picnic table, fire pit and grill at the site we stayed at. At night we could hear the frogs/toads, owls etc.... it was so easy to relax. The shower house and outhouse were really nice to have. We will definitely be back!
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Sabrina
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
We loved this property so much that we booked our next trip before we even left. We had both the Ridge and South sites between my family and my husband’s sister’s family. We hiked and biked the trailed, played in the creek, fished, played frisbee and catch with our dogs, relaxed by the fire, and connected with the sounds of nature during our stay at Horseshoe Bend. It is truly a treasure and we plan to return many times in the future. Cannot recommend enough.
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Allan
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Was a great camping trip like always ! Was able to be the first one to use his new dock for fishing. Caught some good ones . Once again thank you for the stay!
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M
Mutya
2 weeks ago
Tent
This was our second year camping at Foreakers Farm/creek side valley. The place was very relaxing listening to the river 24/7. Lots of firewoods and the owner Dawn & Steve were very friendly and accommodating. It would be a lot better if those grasses and weeds be cut or remove so the campers can enjoy the view of the river from the campsite.
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Brant
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
What a charming place and amazing experience! We absolutely loved all of the activities, especially for the kids, as well as running water at our site! Management was so helpful and you could tell they really care about fostering community and a great experience. Awesome star gazing on a clear night. We’ll be back and we’re telling all of our friends!
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J
Jeff
2 weeks ago
Tent
We stayed here for a couple nights. Dawn and Steve are great, very friendly and very accommodating, Even let me borrow some cooking items that I would have had to go into town for. A couple little glitches early were sorted out and we spent the rest of the time enjoying nature, cooking and going in the creek. Highly recommend and we plan on making this a regular trip.
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