The best campgrounds near Erie, Illinois with swimming

In Erie, you’ll find over 90 places to camp where swimming is part of the deal. Most sites sit within easy reach of creeks, lakes, or ponds—perfect for cooling off after a day on the trail. Nightly rates start at $30, with the average hovering around $75. You won’t have to rough it: showers, pet-friendly policies, and campfires are common. Fishing and hiking round out the list of things to do once you’ve had your fill of swimming. Locals keep coming back to 1860's Botanical Paradise (116 reviews), RWH Farm (7 reviews), and Honey Bee & Bee Homestead (6 reviews) for easy water access and a laid-back atmosphere. Bring your swimsuit and get ready to jump in.

99% (153)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Erie, you’ll find over 90 places to camp where swimming is part of the deal. Most sites sit within easy reach of creeks, lakes, or ponds—perfect for cooling off after a day on the trail. Nightly rates start at $30, with the average hovering around $75. You won’t have to rough it: showers, pet-friendly policies, and campfires are common. Fishing and hiking round out the list of things to do once you’ve had your fill of swimming. Locals keep coming back to 1860's Botanical Paradise (116 reviews), RWH Farm (7 reviews), and Honey Bee & Bee Homestead (6 reviews) for easy water access and a laid-back atmosphere. Bring your swimsuit and get ready to jump in.

99% (153)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 1860's Botanical Homestead

97%

(165)

46mi from Erie · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Bellevue, IA

Happy to announce we’ve won "the best of" properties to visit in Iowa! We hope to keep striving and adding more amenities as we go! Thank you to our wonderful guests and hello to future guests! 👋🏽 Built in 1860 by its first caretaker botanist, this homestead was propagated over its many years of life and is busting at the seams with medicinal and edible herbs. We now run a flower farm and vegetable gardens on our homestead. If you’d like to learn about herbs or gardening/ homesteading, we love sharing our knowledge. If you’d just like some farm fresh eggs and enjoy your time alone amongst the songbirds, that's just fine too :) The property is built into the stone hillside allowing for breathtaking views but also stairs to get to the campsites. Please wear comfortable shoes (not flip flops 😉). If you have mobility issues property access will be difficult. Please no children under 5. !CLASSES! We run our small school/business: HOMESTEAD and HAMMER from the property and are bringing classes to YOU! Look in the "EXTRAS" for classes you can partake in on your visit OR for more information on what's included on class weekends check out our website below! Classes include, forAging wild edibles, mushroom identification, homesteading skills, soap making, forging metals and many more! Website: www.homesteadandhammer.com *For guest and host safety property managed 24-7 by video and security services*

2. RWH Farm

100%

(15)

50mi from Erie · 16 sites · Tents, Lodging · Stockton, IL

Rich history in this property. A section of land was purchased from the railroad in 1866. The farm was established in 1872. The rest of the property was purchased land from neighboring farms as the family grew. Our family has seen six generations born and raised on this land in the past 150 years. American Indian tribes use the land for their burial ground ceremonies. Elders from a Wisconsin tribe came to the farm through the 1960s to trek the land and perform a ceremony to honor their ancestors. Many arrow heads were found in the fields of the land. The American Indians told stories of how the little spring fed creek running through our land was a small river flowing towards the Apple River which flows into the Mississippi River. The Apple river is located one mile north of the farm. In 2001, the land hosted a small budget film crew for the scenes and setting of the 2002 film “Stray dogs” with Genevieve Turner. Camping under the stars surrounded by trees with the sounds of nature. Spotting variety of wildlife. Watching the most spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and the moon rising over the hills. Classified as “D” for dry camping or boondocking. Upgrades will be made available with interest. For more info about how to check out campendium.com. There isn’t any swimming or fishing available at the campsites. There is fishing in the apple river. There is a private lake three miles north of the sites - we offer passes for a fee for fishing and swimming at the beach or pool.

3. Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

100%

(12)

42mi from Erie · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hanover, IL

Escape from the ordinary as you immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of our hidden sanctuary. Tucked away on a sprawling 40-acre haven of natural beauty just outside Galena, Illinois, our retreat unfolds in the heart of the stunning Driftless Area. Embrace tranquility by the serene pond, explore the meandering trails through 26 acres of protected forestry, and encounter the delightful presence of our charming residents - from chickens and guinea fowl to the gentle hum of honey bees. Meet Oxford and Pearl our friendly Great Pyrenees, who add an extra touch of warmth to our home. The Driftless Area beckons with its renowned geological wonders, presenting a captivating landscape of rolling hills, picturesque bluffs, and unparalleled scenic beauty. Delight your senses with the award-winning flavors of local Galena wines at nearby vineyards, where each sip is a celebration of the region's rich terroir.

4. Morrison-Rockwood State Park

100%

(1)

59 sites · Morrison, Illinois

Enjoy a quiet lakeside retreat just two and a half hours west of Chicago.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Wildcat Den State Park

100%

(1)

28 sites · Buffalo, Iowa

Discover the rugged beauty of Wildcat Den State Park.

Pets

Toilets

6. Captain's Cove Muscatine

100%

(1)

47mi from Erie · 1 site · Lodging · Muscatine, IA

Originally built with four ponds to accommodate a Catfish Farm and Shitake Mushroom Farm - this property has been in the family for four generations. We are pleased to share this amazing property with your family to continue the tradition of enjoying life's moments. We consider this place a small piece of heaven in Iowa and hope you will too. The activities available range from fishing, swimming or kayaking, in our private ponds, bonfires, outdoor grilling, sunrise or sunset watching, hiking around the property, and so much more. The property is just minutes away from Wild Cat Den State Park, bike paths and the Muscatine River Front.

7. Crow Valley Campground

17mi from Erie · 32 sites · Sterling, IL

Nestled in the picturesque town of Sterling, Illinois, Crow Valley Campground stands out as a unique destination for campers seeking both adventure and relaxation. This beautiful campground offers a serene outdoor environment, where visitors can breathe in the fresh air while enjoying the scenic views by the water. At Crow Valley, campers can immerse themselves in a variety of exciting activities, including fishing, golfing, biking, boating, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The campground is equipped with a range of amenities to enhance your stay, such as a boat launch, firewood for sale, garbage bins, a playground, pool access, propane refills, a convenience store, restrooms, RV sanitation, and partial 30/50 amp hookup sites. Additionally, guests can enjoy clean showers, water access, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Beyond the campground, there are numerous local attractions to explore. Visitors can discover the Dillon Home Museum, delve into history at Sterling Rock Falls Historical, or enjoy a day of fun at Blackhawk Amusements. For entertainment, the Midway Drive-In Theater offers a nostalgic movie experience, while dining options like The Precinct Bar and Club, Kelly's Irish Pub, Mom's Diner, Smoked on 3rd, and Dead Tree Tavern provide a taste

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Erie

100%

(1)

Morrison-Rockwood Campground

14mi from Erie · 59 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morrison-Rockwood State Park

100%

(1)

Wildcat Den Campground

43mi from Erie · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wildcat Den State Park

Stories from the community

C

Charlie

3 weeks ago

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

This is my favorite spot. We started our 2025 camping season here and ended it here. Will be back again and again.

G

Grace

October 2025

Tent

1 night at 1860's Botanical Homestead

This place is everything. My friend and I booked with Jessica last minute for a night after getting rained out of our original site, and our only problem is we wish we could have stayed longer. Cozy campsite, Jessica is an INCREDIBLE, generous host (with great soaps), and what an amazing, magical piece of land to be on. Also- world’s cleanest porta potty. Had to say it. If you’re thinking about it and you’re not sure - book it. 🤍

Daria

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

We LOVED tent camping here. One of the best places in Illinois. perfect, peaceful, and picturesque

D

Daniel

September 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

Beautiful quiet spot, with a pond, deck, and gazebo all to yourself. We loved the fenced in space that allowed our dogs more freedom than they’re used to having when camping. Definitely recommend taking advantage of the “extras” offered by the hosts. Fresh warm bread, eggs, and honey all were enjoyed on the spot. 30 A electric and quality water hook up were a big plus. Great camp experience close to all that Galena and Joe Davies County has to offer.

John

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

Amazing spot to camp and not need to leave all weekend, plenty of activities, great accommodations, and very nicely maintained… will be coming back for sure!

T

Tine

August 2025

16 ft car

With pets

2 nights at Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

A beautiful and wonderfully peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. Friendly and welcoming owners, and their bread, honey, and eggs are highly recommended!

R

Rachael

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

Adorable gazebo, delicious sourdough and honey, and privacy! Would recommend 10/10

A

Aericke

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at 1860's Botanical Homestead

Host was extremely friendly, and the garden and farm was beautiful

E

Eric

July 2025

Tent

1 night at 1860's Botanical Homestead

Laid back and accommodating hosts! Loved talking about plants and seeing the way they’ve carved out a niche in a beautiful part of Iowa.

Stephenie

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to 1860's Botanical Homestead

Spent my birthday weekend here with my chosen family (husband, best friends, and thier kids) and we had the tent site and the bunkie. The site was perfect. It was a little uneven as explained in the description but for it having to be cut into the hill we were impressed with how flat it was. Even with it raining alot it didnt get alot of pooling water. The tree cover was great so even when it got heavy we were still able to walk to the cars or the bathroom without getting soaked. The bunkie was clean and very comfortable and had a ton of things that people might forget like garbage bags and flashlights There are alot of stairs and they are handmade so you have to be careful but I appreciated that thier were handrails pretty much everywhere. The property is beautiful. I loved seeing all of the plants. Im a forager so I loved juat walking through and identifying the different plants. They had rented goats to clear alot of the brush on the hill and we got to watch them the first night while they were working which was awesome to see. Jessica is an amazing host and was super sweet with the kids. She let them help her feed them and check for eggs and showed them all the art and work she does. Also, I've never used a porta potty that smelled that good before and showering in the outdoor shower surrounded by nature was honestly magical. 100/10 will come again.

Jaquelyn

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

We had an amazing time tent camping for 3 nights to celebrate our son's birthday. He said it was the best camping trip ever! We had a blast swimming, fishing, and hiking around the property. I'd highly recommend camping with Jeri.

Simone

June 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

This gem is perfect if you want to unplug and forget about everything! The pond brings nature to you and my husband and I spent lots of time trying to identify all the bird calls while sitting in your personal gazebo and we were even visited by deer while we enjoyed our camp fire! Jeri and Colin were very responsive and welcoming hosts and close by should we need anything. Totally private and fenced, this property is perfect for your furry friends to explore off leash while providing you peace of mine. Our initial plan was to use this as a home base while we explored Galena near by but in the end it was too peaceful to leave. We wished we could have stayed another night and walked the trails on the property. That will need to be on our todo list the next time we book this oasis.

T

Travis

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

This place was awesome. I can’t say enough good about this place. The owners were very friendly and communicative. Our battery died and they lent us jumper cables. It’s clean and quiet and peaceful. The gazebo was great for sitting and talking in the shade. No cell service so it was a great opportunity to unplug. There plenty of fish to be caught in the lake. There’s a paddle boat that can be used,a row boat,and a lily pad to float on in the lake. Plenty of trails to walk. The entire area was fenced to bring pets. This was great family time. This was just a great experience and we got engaged!! Highly recommended.

K

Katherine

May 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

Our recent stay at Jeri's Honey Bee & Bee Homestead was an absolute dream. This peaceful, well-maintained spot is a little slice of heaven tucked away in the Driftless Area. The fenced-in site next to the pond—complete with a charming gazebo and sitting area—offered the perfect mix of comfort and natural beauty. My husband, our dog, and I spent the weekend swimming, relaxing, and watching the local wildlife (we even spotted turtles sunbathing!). The trail system is incredible—extensive, scenic, and we barely scratched the surface during our stay. Don’t miss the chance to dip in the pond, and be sure to add on the farm-fresh eggs, honey, and homemade sourdough bread. Trust me, they’re a must. Our only regret was the wind that kept us from using the fire pits—but that just gives us one more reason to return. We’ll definitely be back!

C

Charlie

April 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

We chose this spot for the maiden voyage with our brand new Winnebago. The spot is beautiful and super private. The hosts were more than accommodating, even giving us some peripherals we had forgotten. It’s perfect if you have dogs because the entire campsite is fenced in. Walking trails are cleanly cut and a trip into Elizabeth for a burger and a beer (try Hwy 20 Brewery cut into an old church) is super easy. The pond is lovely and frequented by migratory birds. We also fished and caught the first good sized large mouth of the year. We only wish we could have stayed longer and will be back for sure.

J

Jordan

March 2025

Tent

1 night at 1860's Botanical Homestead

We loved camping here! Wonderful hilltop spot with an overlook view. We also loved getting to see the chickens and baby chicks. Jessica was so kind and hospitable. We can't wait to come back!

A

Anthony

November 2024

Tent

4 nights at 1860's Botanical Homestead

We loved camping at the Woodsy tent site! It’s was cozy. Sarah was very welcoming and a great host! Always quick to respond to anything we needed. Downtown Bellevue was cute and had a great book shop. 30 mins to Downtown Dubuque and 50 mins to Galena. The drive was very scenic!