The best campgrounds near Galena, Illinois with horseback riding

Looking to go camping near Galena, Illinois? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor accommodations. With over 350 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you're into hiking, horseback riding, or wildlife watching, there's a campsite for you. Plus, many campsites offer popular amenities like pet-friendly policies, campfires, and showers. And don't just take our word for it - check out these top campsites with rave reviews: Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), Folk School Farm Stay (135 reviews), and n*Everland Barnyard Camping (81 reviews). So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

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Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Galena, Illinois? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor accommodations. With over 350 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you're into hiking, horseback riding, or wildlife watching, there's a campsite for you. Plus, many campsites offer popular amenities like pet-friendly policies, campfires, and showers. And don't just take our word for it - check out these top campsites with rave reviews: Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), Folk School Farm Stay (135 reviews), and n*Everland Barnyard Camping (81 reviews). So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. RWH Farm

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16mi from Galena · 24 sites · Tents, Lodging · Apple Canyon Lake, IL

This property is a 150 year old working farm, which has seen six generations. We are happy to share a piece of land with you. Whether you are a first time or experienced camper wanting to sleep outdoors. We have the perfect spot for you to rest, relax, and recharge while camping under the stars surrounded by trees in a four acre wooded area located on a quiet country road within a vast working farm in the heart of Jo Daviess, County. Listen to the sounds of nature white spotting a variety of wildlife. Watch the sunrises, sunsets, comets, meteor showers, sometimes the northern lights, and the full moon rising over the hills. Watch the leaves turn color in autumn. We offer three types of sites: basic Glamping, preset tent, and rustic. Check out the descriptions of the sites to see which site is for you. Limited sites - first come basis. We try to make each site as secluded as possible.. There are firewood stations throughout the sites with attached fire extinguisher. We are creating a gravel trek around the sites with two entrances and gravel parking planned be completed by 2028. We are working on flushable outhouses and possible showers. Children’s play area by 2027. There isn’t any swimming or fishing available on the farm property. There is a private lake three miles from the sites - see details under extras. We are located ten miles from the Wisconsin border and villages with their unique shops and museums. 20 minutes from Galena, 45 minutes from the Mississippi River and Dubuque. Iowa. Three hours from Chicago. DNR - department of natural resources have properties a mile north of the farm with nice trails to walk near the Apple river, which is stocked twice a year for fishing tournaments. As well as the Boy Scout campgrounds located nearby. Locals have caught crayfish and swam in the Apple river, we are unfamiliar with current spots. People have tubed and canoed down the Apple river. There are numerous state parks within driving distance for hiking, sight seeing, eagle watching etc. Immerse yourself in the vast history of the area. Again we encourage you to come rest relax and recharge in this peaceful spot.

2. Windy Ridge Retreat

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46mi from Galena · 1 site · Lodging · Fennimore, WI

The rustic cabin sits on a beautiful ridge. You will have a great view of the sky. Birds and wildlife watching along with listening to them. The property is a second farm that has been in my family's history since the 1960's. We are a working crop, horses and beef cattle farm. We raise crops on this property. We have a main farm down the road that if you would like to visit, we can try setting that up so you can see the animals if you would like. Please note that the cabin has a porta potty outside. The cabin does not have electricity, but an extension cord can be brought and plugged into the outdoor electric outlet. The cord can be run into the cabin to use the fan, lamp and electric skillet or infrared heater in the colder months. There is a water hydrant outside for bathing or boiling. The water is non potable. We have direct access to the property for ATV/UTV's for the public road use on the back roads. You can travel from town to town and sight see. The property is between two towns and is close to places to see and things to do, driftless area history, wineries, caves, hiking, canoeing, fishing, sightseeing, river, streams and more.

3. Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

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3.3mi from Galena · 1 site · Tent, RV · Galena, IL

Learn more about this land:A peaceful respite with a breathtaking view of the Galena and Mississippi River valleys. The secluded campsite is situated on a high point on Pilot Knob that overlooks the entire valley with 180 degree views to the South, West and North. The tent site is a flat 20'x20' spot next to a Birch tree, fire ring and table; plenty of room for two tents and a car or two. In the foreground is a natural field with small Cedar trees, Scrub Oak, Sumac and prairie grasses where deer often eat and bed. The site is situated on about 25 acres - plenty of space to take a walk through the fields. Further out are natural woods, and in the distance is the entire Mississippi River valley South to Bellevue, IA and North of Dubuque, IA. Sunsets are absolutely breathtaking from this vantage point.

4. Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area

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138 sites · Lena, Illinois

Create happy memories at a lake with a funny-sounding name.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Governor Dodge State Park

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221 sites · Dodgeville, Wisconsin

Discover Governor Dodge State Park's natural splendor and outdoor adventures.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

6. Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

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14mi from Galena · 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.

Public campgrounds near Galena

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Hickory Hill Campground

30mi from Galena · 138 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area

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Governor Dodge Campground

44mi from Galena · 221 sites · Tents, RVs · in Governor Dodge State Park

Stories from the community

C

Charlie

November 2025

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.

R

Ryan

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

Perfect spot to camp right outside Galena! Perfect getaway for some roughing it camping! We'll definitely come back again. Thank you for providing such a beautiful piece of property to stay on.

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

Sunset view over the Mississippi River Valley.

S

Steven

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

A really unique view, extremely peaceful, and safe and clean spot

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.

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Gabriel

September 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

This is exactly the kind of spot you hope to find when camping in Galena. The land feels almost beyond words. You’re perched on a hill with trees at your back and a sweeping view of the Mississippi Valley in front. The sunsets here rank among the best I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been chasing them for 44 years across the world. The experience is completely private. A locked gate secures the property, and once I closed it behind me I felt wonderfully alone. There’s a sturdy iron table with chairs, a flat rock, and a great stone fire ring. I set up a hammock between two trees and had a clear view of the valley right from it. You’re far enough from town to escape Galena’s buzz, but close enough to pop back for firewood or supplies. Darcee was a pleasure to communicate with and very kind about accommodating my changing needs before the trip. I left feeling deeply grateful and rejuvenated. This place is a true gift.

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!

Brenda

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to RWH Farm

We really enjoyed staying at Joan’s and jean’s! The farmhouse has everything you need games, basketball, a full stocked kitchen! We enjoyed being in a rural area and looking at the stars. Joan and Jean were super nice and helpful with everything. We enjoyed seeing the cows so close! And teddy the dog who hanged out with us and was super friendly and adorable 🥰

A

Amanda

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

Beautiful views, private and quiet. Will definitely come back.

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

New parking pad and side walk for your convenience

A

Antoine

August 2025

Group trip

1 night at RWH Farm

We loved our stay at this peaceful countryside ranch! The setting was absolutely gorgeous, with rolling fields and farm animals adding to the charm. The fully renovated ranch was cozy, comfortable, and beautifully maintained, blending modern amenities with a quaint, rustic feel. We came to stargaze for the Perseid meteor shower, and the clear, dark skies made for an unforgettable night under the stars. It was the perfect spot to relax, unplug, and enjoy the quiet. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a serene getaway.

Nick

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

5 nights at Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

We all loved the seclusion and the views of the nearby valley! The stars were so bright! It's close proximity to town and shopping was a huge plus! The only downside were the flies and mosquitos, but a few traps from Walmart solved that issue! Overall we had a great time! I would look forward to staying here again

C

Clarissa

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

My husband and I enjoyed camping here. The site felt secluded, and was easy to find. Close to downtown Galena which is a plus. Would camp here again.

Christian

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Windy Ridge Retreat

The cabin was very cozy and comfortable. We had a very relaxing and fun time, especially the pup. It's definitely the most peaceful and quiet place we have been. Sherri was very kind and accommodating.

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.

Kris

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

This was such a great experience. Literally would change nothing. Directions were great, site was large, flat and private. Close to Galena and other nearby attractions. View from the site was amazing for sunsets and I even got a bonus fireworks show from the other side of the Mississippi River. Would definitely book again without hesitation.

Heidi

June 2025

12 ft campervan

4 nights at Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

We absolutely loved this spot! It is very private, great views and a short trip into Galena! Going to add this one to the keeper list!

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.

Juan

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to RWH Farm

Beautiful camp site with everything you need. Hosts were excellent communicators. We went to ride bikes in the area, and couldn’t have had a better time. Highly recommend staying here for some time in the driftless.