The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Galena, Illinois

Camping near Galena, Illinois just got better with Hipcamp! With over 680 options for RV camping near the picturesque river, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Enjoy your stay with an average price of $49 per night, with options as low as $15. Check out top-rated campsites like 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews), Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), and Folk School Farm Stay (135 reviews). Popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and trash make your stay more comfortable. And with biking, historic sites, and paddling as popular activities, there's something for everyone.

96% (366)

Top-rated campgrounds

Workshop building. Three stories of intrigue and interest to explore and experience during the stay. On special occasions, bands play here to everyone's delight.

Camping near Galena, Illinois just got better with Hipcamp! With over 680 options for RV camping near the picturesque river, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Enjoy your stay with an average price of $49 per night, with options as low as $15. Check out top-rated campsites like 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews), Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), and Folk School Farm Stay (135 reviews). Popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and trash make your stay more comfortable. And with biking, historic sites, and paddling as popular activities, there's something for everyone.

96% (366)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. n*Everland Barnyard Camping

100%

(223)

49mi from Galena · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Anamosa, IA

Seeking an adventure that feels like somewhere completely different from the norms of society? This is what you will find at n*Everland Barnyard. We march to the beat of our own drummer and love sharing our space with those seeking true connection to nature and themselves. Privacy or community connection, whichever you prefer, we have 20 acres in Anamosa, Iowa at the end of a cul-de-sac just 5 blocks from Main Street. We think it's a slice of heaven and we bet you agree! Do you want to hike into a site? We have a few sites in the woods that are not easily accessible by car, if you want that kind of experience just mention it when booking. Follow us on Facebook to stay abreast of our current events! We are not very active on FB though, so we may miss your message if you reach out to us that way. FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN: Please reach out to us in messaging to determine if this is the right fit for your family vacation as we feel there are better options in the area for kids, but we do make exceptions for the well-behaved and respectful older children. Thank you for your understanding. ABOUT THE BARNYARD: n*Everland Barnyard is an eccentric art installation space created from found, recycled, and repurposed building materials in the heart of Grant Wood Country in Jones County, Iowa. We are not a commercial campground. We focus on Zen, mindfulness, peace, and tranquility. Firmly in the realm of Outsider Art, Gothic and rustic, Bob Kellogg has created a place unlike anywhere else in the world that represents freedom and inspires endless creativity. The land provides multiple camp sites for easy access to bike and walking trails taking visitors into town or through the Wapsipinicon State Park across the river from the property. Anamosa offers several restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses all within walking distance and less than a mile from our land. We also offer #ProjectCreatePeace, an initiative to create more peace in the world through art as an art project. Check out the extras listings to get your art on while you are here! There is a beautiful spring-fed water hole ideal for swimming in the state park, as well as access to the river from our property (although we do not recommend swimming in the river.)

2. Circle M Farm Stay: Camp or Glamp

100%

(208)

40mi from Galena · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Blanchardville, WI

Camp in style on a beautiful Driftless Farmstead! This tiny valley farm once had stanchions to milk 8 cows in the barn. That was in 1890. Now we are home to sheep, steers, hogs, cats, dogs, chickens and myriad wild critters and pollinators and migrators. We are a conservation farm and on a mission to heal our wetland, improve our trout stream and bring people out to the land. We are in Driftless Southwest Wisconsin - gorgeous hills and quilted cropland bisected by oak woods and switchback rivers. Pitch your tent, park a small camper/rv, or stay in one of our three vintage campers. You will share an indoor bathroom, or our open-to-the-sky hot outdoor shower, and an outdoor sink with other campers. We serve a pick-up community breakfast with coffee and tea. We have a Cedar Sauna you can reserve. This is easy camping with a view of the stars, nestled in a farm-to-table farm community with lots of goods to buy. We LOVE our Driftless neighborhood in SW Wisconsin and can recommend many amazing activities for everyone from fisherman to families! We're close to shopping, antiquing, Amishing and good eating. We're within a half hour of 3 great rail trails, two state parks and one amazing ATV rental. Go to an old-fashioned drive in movie, a local farmers market, dirt-track stock care races, tractor pulls, a u-pick apple farm or a Toy Train Museum. Go kayaking, boating or biking - you can rent what you need. Or sit on one of the porches to watch the chickens peck and the pigs dig. We can't wait to introduce you to all the livestock, cats, our Great Pyrr Willie and our Border Heeler Dolly! We are a five minute walk from our cute downtown with a playground, library and several great places to eat. Ten minutes from New Glarus Brewery. A half hour from Mineral Point (Fall Art Tour), Mount Horeb (Troll Way), Dodgeville (House on the Rock) and Monroe (Cheese Days). Fifteen minutes from hiking, fishing and boating at Yellowstone Lake State Park. Campfire with s'mores every night, coffee and scones in the morning. Wifi is reliable on some spots on the property, and a sure thing on the front breakfast porch. We do require a two-night minimum to stay in the campers. Tent camping we have no minimum. Please reach out to us on the app to see what is available.

3. Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

100%

(12)

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.

4. Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

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(48)

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.

5. Spring Creek Organic Farm

78%

(18)

33mi from Galena · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Winslow, IL

Beautiful country setting in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois. Dating from 1890, this land has never been plowed or disturbed. Beautiful nightscapes of stars and constellations and nearby lakes and rivers make this an ideal camping spot. The permaculture gardens and the land need constant care and upkeep. When a tree dies it becomes home to the redhead woodpecker. The hummingbird loves the trumpet vine! We never spray chemicals and would appreciate it if you did not smoke or vape. Lake Le-Aqua-Na is just 3 miles away and reopened in 2022 with brand new roads, nature walks, and swimming hole. Other lakes nearby are Apple River Canyon and Mt Carroll. Shop in nearby Lena, Cedarville or Freeport, IL and Monroe, Wisconsin. Learn more about this land: The trees shade the camping sites at Spring Creek Farm. The wood swing can be enjoyed by guests as they relax and enjoy the view. Birds frequent the property and you may be visited by our ginger male cat as he surveys his territory. Night skies are beautiful, and on clear nights the Milky Way is visible along with the Big Dipper and other constellations. There is an outdoor fire pit to cook meals, or you can use a low copper fire pit for campfire enjoyment. Parking is available on the campground for smaller cars. Please leave your campsite clean so no woodland creatures are harmed and the landscape is kept in a safe condition for the next camper. The Composting Toilet (weather permitting) is available and plenty of potable water from our Spring-fed Well. We recycle in the country so please separate trash, paper, glass, and plastic into separate bags which can be left on the driveway when you leave. Please let Dr. Wanona know if you'd like to join for a gentle flow yoga mat class, 30 or 60-minute massage, or a Permaculture Garden Tour. Add a deeper experience to your stay at Spring Creek Farm!

Public campgrounds near Galena

Bellevue Campground

4.8mi from Galena · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bellevue State Park

Blanding Landing Campground

9.5mi from Galena · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

93%

(7)

Canyon Ridge Campground

16mi from Galena · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Apple River Canyon State Park

100%

(3)

Mississippi Palisades Campground

24mi from Galena · 241 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi Palisades State Park

Wapsipinicon Campground

49mi from Galena · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wapsipinicon State Park

Stories from the community

C

Craig

2 weeks ago

10 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Circle M Farm Stay: Camp or Glamp

Our recent stay at Kriss and Shannon’s amazing farm was one of the most unique and memorable camping experiences we’ve ever had. They’ve done an incredible job creating a welcoming, and interesting farm environment, that feels both relaxing and inspiring. The camping options offered us as much privacy as we wanted, but more often we found ourselves happily spending time with our hosts—learning about the area, their farm operations, and their involvement in conservation and education programs. We were lucking to have had the pleasure of meeting their son, Eli, over coffee and muffins on the porch. He helped us map out a perfect day trip to Monroe and New Glarus, along with a short but awesome hike at Yellowstone Lake. Such an interesting and memorable stay. We will absolutely be back.

Jaap

3 weeks ago

22 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

We had a really great evening and enjoyed every minute although the weather was really bad. As all previous guests already have stated: Xenevand Bob are great hosts and the nicest people ever. Visit their place; it is really good to spend some time there

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.

view of the camp area from across the pond

J

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Circle M Farm Stay: Camp or Glamp

This was one of the best campsites I’ve ever been to! I can’t recommend this place enough. Extremely peaceful and quiet with great views, sheep, and some of the nicest cats and dogs ever. Extremely clean and high quality bathroom and shower! Coffee and baked goods in the morning was one of the best parts. Will definitely be coming back!

Nina

October 2025

21 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

3 nights at n*Everland Barnyard Camping

What a super cool place! Robert and Xene are incredible hosts, with the most epic camping world ever. The art exhibits are beyond wild, and fun to explore and get lost in. The camping was serene, including visits from deer and turkeys. The free firewood was such a nice touch, as was the ability to buy fresh eggs from their chickens. We had such a great overall experience and can’t wait to visit again!

K

Kari

October 2025

14 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

We absolutely loved our time at Robert and Xene’s. The property was beautiful and peaceful. We chose the very last spot at the bottom of the property and it was perfect. One morning about 15 wild turkeys flew over us. They are caring and gracious hosts and we cannot wait to go back.

Kristin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

What a delight to spend the weekend at Bob and Xene’s. We experienced wild turkeys, nightly campfires, a walk to the river, and plenty of wonderful creations. Our site felt private, yet close to site amenities. You can hear some distant highway noise from the secluded hilltop… but I think that may be Iowa. We visited 4 state parks over the weekend and could often hear some road noise but still a great weekend in nature.

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.

D

Dayana

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

The grounds were beautifully kept. There's so much art to see, beautiful places to hike, and the hosts are very kind and welcoming. There's clean bathroom and outdoor shower for the guests (hot water included). I can't wait to go back!

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.

S

Sarah

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

Wondrous. Peaceful. Loving. The hosts, Xene and Robert, are incredibly welcoming. The campsites were clean and well maintained. Multiple shower options and a short walk to the restroom with running water. Wondrous buildings to explore with all sorts of oddities and art. There were deer loping around at every glance. Multiple campsite options for being secluded or more out in the open. Easy to drive up to. Great communication and directions from the hosts. Very short drive to stores for last minute necessities. Firewood and ring came in clutch. They have cultivated a beautiful space for being, I felt like I was right where I needed and wanted to be.

E

Erika

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

I loved this place so much! Bob & everyone was everything good a human could be. The place is fun, relaxing & peaceful. The parliament of owls provided surround sound better than any high tech speakers money could buy. Thanks so much!

N

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

Bob and Xenes’ property is not only beautiful and peaceful, but so are they. We had an enjoyable weekend mostly because of their company. It was refreshing to be around people who are such positive influences in this dark world. Please come visit them and their homestead you won’t be disappointed!

R

Ronald

September 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at n*Everland Barnyard Camping

Best. Hipcamp. Ever. Such a unique experience and the hosts were amazing! This is our go to when traveling through. You will not be disappointed:)

S

Sydney

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to n*Everland Barnyard Camping

We absolutely loved our stay at n*Everland! Such a beautiful acreage - we spent so much time appreciating the art and craftsmanship on the property. Looking forward to planning another (longer) stay in the future!

G

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.