97% (1.9K) • 944 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Grand Ridge
East Woods on the IL River
1. East Woods on the IL River
97%
(335)
8.6mi from Grand Ridge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This 25 acre parcel was once owned by a sand mining company. There are mounds and valleys all along the Illinois River. We purchased the property in 1987, and cut in the road. The city of Ottawa recently annexed the property into the Ottawa city limits. It's like owning our own wild park.
Pets
Campfires
Welcome to our Magical Woods
2. Welcome to our Magical Woods
98%
(249)
11mi from Grand Ridge · 6 sites
Peaceful and enchanting. Very rustic and private. we are in the best part of the Illinois wilderness. Our woods transport you a world away, yet you are just a short walk from your vehicle and a short drive to Starved Rock, numerous parks, lakes, hiking, fishing and boating sites, stores, and restaurants.
Campsites rentals benefit Acres Of Peace Center which provides free mental health programs to Veterans since 2004(located on our farm)
We have 5 well spaced campsites complete with fire pit, picnic table and a couple of chairs ready for you at your campsite. Rent 1 or rent them all! Just bring your tent or your hammock! Your initial firewood . lighter, trash and recycling cans, and firestarters are brought to your site before you arrive.
Our "camp host" Tiller the big lovable doggo will patrol to scatter any trash pandas that might happen by. We keep track of him using GPS, so we know if He is hanging with you around the campfire. When his collar lights up and plays a tune, it's time for him to come home! Please send him on his way - thank you.
We are dedicated to being inclusive. We all LOVE nature and Everyone is welcome here.
Message us when you are 30 minutes out, so we can you our tractor to help bring your things to your site. Same at check out. Just let us know 30 mins before you are ready to go and we will help you pack out! Sorry you will not be able to drive your vehicle to your site. This keeps the woods quiet for all of our guests. Each site is just a few hundred feet from the parking area.
The magical woods is located along the bridle trails behind our horse farm. Sorry, we do not offer trail rides as we have show horses. However you are welcome to arrange a visit to meet the animals when you arrive. We have horses, a miniature horse, a mule, a miniature sheep and a very sweet goat named Hairy. There are about 30 chickens wandering the yard all day and we have 4 dogs and 3 cats that are always around. They are used to other dogs.
At night we have a lovely lullaby of owls, night birds, insects and frogs. Sometimes you can even hear sounds from the Illinois River and railway miles away. Barges, trains (not many) tug boats, and the interesting sounds that come with them. Listen carefully, can you tell them apart?
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Angel Creek
3. Angel Creek
98%
(151)
18mi from Grand Ridge · 20 sites
Angel Creek is a carefully manicured, forested primitive campground that provides an array of tent camping spaces suitable for couples, family gatherings, and everything in between. Owned and managed by the Garcia family, campers will undoubtedly recognize and appreciate the meticulous hard work and attention to detail dedicated to each site, hiking trail, and overall experience at Angel Creek.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Illini State Park
4. Illini State Park
100%
(7)
State park 8.4mi from Grand Ridge · 100 sites
Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Starved Rock State Park
5. Starved Rock State Park
93%
(28)
State park 10mi from Grand Ridge · 128 sites
Gushing waterfalls, ice sculptures, white-tailed deer and soaring eagles offer year-round excitement
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gypsi Acres
6. Gypsi Acres
95%
(10)
20mi from Grand Ridge · 1 site
Escape to Nature's Sanctuary at Gypsi Acres
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of our 3-acre camping oasis, nestled amidst lush landscapes and soothing water views.
Open Field Camping: Pitch your tent under starry skies with breathtaking sunset views
Wooded Wonderland. Discover secluded campsites surrounded by towering trees and vibrant wildlife
**Creek Side Serenity*: Unwind to gentle water flows and enjoy creek-side camping with tranquil views
**Primitive Camping*: Immersive nature experience with no hookups
**Portable Toilets*: Clean facilities for your convenience
**Campfire Rings*: Cozy up to starry nights with friends and family
**Stargazing*: Unobstructed views of the night sky
Tent Camping
RV/Trailer (no hookups)
Book Your Nature Escape:
Call/Text [331-575-2398] or
Email [ karen88rodriguez@yahoo.com
Property can also be rented as an event venue for parties with a barn
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Rancho Comienzo
7. Rancho Comienzo
99%
(84)
22mi from Grand Ridge · 2 sites
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!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Millbrook Trail Rides
8. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(116)
29mi from Grand Ridge · 1 site
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!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Bear Bottom Ranch
9. Bear Bottom Ranch
92%
(131)
29mi from Grand Ridge · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gebhard Woods State Park
10. Gebhard Woods State Park
100%
(1)
State park 22mi from Grand Ridge · 2 sites
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
Toilets
Campfires
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
11. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 33mi from Grand Ridge · 22 sites
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
Channahon State Park
12. Channahon State Park
State park 34mi from Grand Ridge · 25 sites
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
13. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 34mi from Grand Ridge · 92 sites
Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
14. Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
98%
(32)
32mi from Grand Ridge · 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
Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
15. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
99%
(175)
34mi from Grand Ridge · 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
16. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(690)
35mi from Grand Ridge · 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
Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
17. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
99%
(46)
38mi from Grand Ridge · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. Possible to see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less from Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open early this year Feb 19th through Sept 30th (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be on or about September 30th (but if we say open on the site after feel free to book). And then we will be closed for the winter until on or about May first (again if open you can book before this date); Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean Coffee close by. Local forest preserve has toilets (within driving distance) or bring your own porti-john. Camp with your horses!! (trails at the local preserve). Set up a temp spot for them with owner permission. We have the space. And there is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner and a local farm spot where you can call and pet horses. We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A hammock. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, gardens, or themselves. 💕🙏 Now offering substantial fire wood bundles for 7 dollars a bundle. New egg and farm stand added this year. Two new picnic tables added. Well water available upon request for those that have travel tanks to refill (ask the owner and schedule a time to use the hose).
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
CSC Permaculture Project
18. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
40mi from Grand Ridge · 1 site
8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Paradise Quarry
19. Paradise Quarry
95%
(54)
43mi from Grand Ridge · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our beautiful property! This is a very special place, located an hour from Chicago and only minutes from the west suburbs, you will be transported to another time! This has to be the best “swimming/ fishing hole” in Chicagoland and you can have it all to yourself.
The property features 20 acres of woods, prairie and an 8 acre lake!!! The lake is crystal clear because it’s so deep (reportedly 125 ft) and is sandy on the bottom. We created a massive beach area with many camping spots to choose from. The kids will love exploring the trails on foot and on bike. Everyone will love lounging under the umbrellas on the comfy chaise lounges and enjoying the views.
You won’t want to leave, but if you need to restock, there a gas station 1/4 mile away and full service grocery store and restaurant under a mile away. We even get pizza delivered! There’s a nice driveway of gravel that leads to a nice open field for RV campers. Tent campers can continue to the beach and set up in style.
The property was once an active quarry and was then basically abandoned for 40-50 years. Nature took over over, Trees matured, the stocked lake grew some massive fish. A few years ago we started camping out there and just loved it. We’ve worked hard to make it amazing and we want to share it with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Old Rugged Barn
20. The Old Rugged Barn
96%
(89)
47mi from Grand Ridge · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
I grew up on a farm and thrilled to be enjoying country living once again! We are not annual campground, but we have space on the property for travelers needing an overnight or two. We can be found on HIPCAMP listed under OLD RUGGED BARN.
We are in central IL near Historic Rt 66, minutes north of Bloomington-Normal with easy access from I-55. The property is a small 3.5 Acre farmstead that includes our event venue, space that can used for campers, and my home.
We offer space for Campers through Hipcamp. We are NOT a campground per se. We do have space on our property to comfortably accommodate up to 8 spaces for Overnight guests.
I moved to the farm in 2010 with the intent to simply enjoy the peace And quiet of country living. Then I realized we Could create a place that could serve as a place for community to gather for special events.
We are making constant strides to utilize Our 3.5 acres highlighted by the Old Rugged Barn venue and welcome the opportunity to host any kind of public and private event! The Old Rugged Barn..... where happy happens!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
L
Liz
6 days ago
16 ft car
Wonderful site ran in a relaxed, homely manner. Very accessible for a first-time camper such as myself.
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David
6 days ago
Tent
Lovely campsite! Brady was friendly and pointed out the firewood, shower, outhouse, and hiking trails. Everything was exactly as described on hip camp. Saw lots of wildlife -- deer, crane, and even a fox!
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A
Amelia
1 week ago
Tent
We loved our stay at Katie’s campsite! The spot is tucked away behind honeysuckle shrubs, so it’s very private, with the lovely goose creek babbling away and serving as our very own white noise machine. Perfect spot to camp for exploring Ottawa!
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Erin
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Always amazing experience at Katie’s :) beautiful land and very personable host. Clean site, will be back again!
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R
Riley
1 week ago
F
Frank
1 week ago
Tent
Creekside 1 was a beautiful and peaceful site, and the entire campground was incredible. We saw many deer and turkey, and it was fun listening to the owls at night. I look forward to coming back!
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Bonnie
1 week ago
14 ft truck camper
Great experience all the way around. Easy to book, great rate, excellent instructions/easy to find. I really appreciated the firewood provided and how spaced out/private the campsites are. The campground is clean and well maintained. A perfect retreat for the nature enthusiast and convenient for travelers! I look forward to coming back!
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F
Frank
2 weeks ago
15 ft toy hauler
Really sweet wooded area near a small stream. Extremely quiet. Campsites a couple hundred feet apart, all with power hookups, picnic tables, fire pit, free split firewood. Only one other camper on the 10 sites. 30 wooded acres with several hiking trails
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Russell
2 weeks ago
Tent
We arrived well after nightfall and couldn't find the camp entrance. We managed to get Brady on the phone and he kindly guided us into the campground.
Once there everything was perfect! Both the shower and outhouse were short walk from the camp. But the highlight was the babbling creek gently singing us to sleep.
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J
Jenica
2 weeks ago
Tent
Very kind host, she host reached out and let us know to maybe expect bad weather. Luckily, it stopped raining before we got there and we had a lovely night
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C
Chris
2 weeks ago
21 ft Class B
Beautiful and peaceful spot in the woods. We loved staying here for the night and wish we could have stayed longer.
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P
Phy
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Desperately needed some R&R in nature so we decided to hop on Hipcamp and kick off the season! Katie was such a sweet soul and was so welcoming! We enjoyed our stay and will be back.
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Robert
2 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very nice place comfortable accommodation and the host is very friendly.
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S
Sydney
2 weeks ago
Tent
We had a lovely stay tent camping! The creek was beautiful, and firewood was provided. It was a great place for swimming, exploring, and relaxing. Would definitely stay again!
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A
Andrew
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful and quiet location while I tent camped right near the water. Tons of wildlife all around you while still only moments away from Main Street in town
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S
Sean
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Location was great! Very private with a lovely creek running right behind the campsites. Also the hosts were kind enough to check on me when I injured my hand cooking ( my own fault) . Grateful for their thoughtfulness!
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c
christian
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great place to camp, nice trail system and creek side sites have nice views
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R
Rob
2 weeks ago
Tent
What a wonderful experience! We were warmly welcomed upon our arrival and shown to the campsite right away. The site was clean with ample room for our gear, firewood was provided, and even though the car was only a couple hundred feet away you couldn’t see the car, giving the overall feeling that we were in a remote area. Can’t say enough good things about our experience.
Oh, and being visited by the resident dog was the icing on the cake.
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G
Glenna
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
With pets
Cute little local spot that I will definitely book again!
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M
Michael
3 weeks ago
Tent
Great camping spot with the trickling sound of water nex5 to a camp fire. Nicely secluded. Will definitely be back.
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