96% (1.3K) • 645 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Herscher
CSC Permaculture Project
1. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
7.3mi from Herscher · 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
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Toilets
Campfires
Gun Smoke Ranch
2. Gun Smoke Ranch
98%
(163)
32mi from Herscher · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table.
Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase.
Four beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents/RVs.
Sites 1 and 2 overlook a manicured range, creek, and are covered by pines. Site 3 and 4 are open sky, with easy pull-up parking for the big campers or RVs. Waivers must be signed to use range, HipCamp is not liable for range use.
Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking.
15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, and Badlandz Paintball Field. Sollitt Tap is a few miles west. It has the best burgers!
No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet)
Porta potty provided, hose available at the house.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Welcome to our Magical Woods
3. Welcome to our Magical Woods
98%
(249)
36mi from Herscher · 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
Kankakee River State Park
4. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
State park 12mi from Herscher · 207 sites
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
5. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 23mi from Herscher · 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
Angel Creek
6. Angel Creek
98%
(151)
42mi from Herscher · 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
Gypsi Acres
7. Gypsi Acres
95%
(10)
43mi from Herscher · 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
Willowthorne
8. Willowthorne
97%
(263)
43mi from Herscher · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the Charm of Willowthorne: Your Rustic Sanctuary Amid Natural Beauty. Willowthorne invites you to revel in the natural allure and organic rhythm of life on the farm, fostering enduring memories that extend long after your visit.
Nestled within a serene 9-acre organic blueberry farm , Willowthorne emerges as an idyllic escape where the sunsets are sublime, and the night sky brims with twinkling stars, and the hosts are charming and delightful. This unique getaway marries the essence of organic farming, educational pursuits, and warm hospitality to create an unparalleled outdoor experience.
Catering to tent camping aficionados and retreat groups, our pastoral campgrounds are graced with picturesque views of a tranquil pond and willow trees. While our space welcomes the modest charm of tents, small RVs, and campers, we maintain a rustic essence without power hook-ups, encouraging guests to connect with nature. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a personal fire ring and table for your convenience.
Our area offers an incredible variety of recreational and sightseeing activities. Find peace and tranquility among nature or travel just 25 miles north to visit the heart of Chicago! We are central to many Illinois, Indiana and Michigan State Parks and beaches. Several good restaurants and breweries are also nearby.
PLEASE NOTE:
Please drive slowly and cautiously through our property. We are an active farm with a lot of activity all year round.
Please pitch your tent in the designated campground area.
In support of conservation of the natural ecosystem, please refrain from broadcast pesticides, i.e. Raid, Yard Guard, etc. Spraying skin, clothing, and personal property with mosquito repellent in your designated camping is fine.
Our farm has beehives placed at a safe distance from the campsites to ensure guest safety. Obey posted signs and please stay out of designated work areas
OBSERVE FIRE SAFETY.
Leave fire ring in designated spot.
Never leave fire unattended.
No fires on windy days.
Extinguish fire before leaving campsite.
Please read: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fire-safety
For Your Convenience:
Firewood:
Purchase bundles of wood on site as non-local wood can disrupt the local ecosystem through disease or invasive species. Feel free to collect any small, fallen twigs for kindling. (Wood in stacked piles is not for burning but reserved for mushroom cultivation and other projects.)
Honey:
We offer honey harvested from blueberry blossoms in spring and the rich flavors of black locust and clover in late summer.
Blueberries:
Come July, partake in our U-pick blueberry farm, an experience seamlessly woven into your stay.
Misc.
We also offer a variety of organic garden vegetables and herbs throughout the growing season. Kindly inquire on availability upon arrival if you are interested in any of these farm fresh goodies.
Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome.
We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
East Woods on the IL River
9. East Woods on the IL River
97%
(335)
44mi from Herscher · 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
Channahon State Park
10. Channahon State Park
State park 27mi from Herscher · 25 sites
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Gebhard Woods State Park
11. Gebhard Woods State Park
100%
(1)
State park 28mi from Herscher · 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
Illini State Park
12. Illini State Park
100%
(7)
State park 37mi from Herscher · 100 sites
Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Middle Fork State Fish & Wildlife Area
13. Middle Fork State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 57mi from Herscher · 46 sites
Get out on the water for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Bear Bottom Ranch
14. Bear Bottom Ranch
92%
(131)
44mi from Herscher · 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
Millbrook Trail Rides
15. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(116)
45mi from Herscher · 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
Rancho Comienzo
16. Rancho Comienzo
99%
(84)
46mi from Herscher · 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
RC River Retreat
17. RC River Retreat
28mi from Herscher · 1 site
Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax.
With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system.
2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock.
Non-smoking.
The space
We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs.
Guest access
The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners.
Other things to note
There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four).
So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Antiquity Oaks
18. Antiquity Oaks
30mi from Herscher · 1 site
Tucked among trees and open pasture in central Illinois, Antiquity Oaks Farm is a peaceful escape designed for rest, reflection, and reconnecting with the natural world.
This isn’t a crowded campground or a place for late-night parties. It’s a space for slowing down.
Wake up to birdsong and soft morning light filtering through the trees. Spend your day walking wooded paths, journaling in a quiet corner, or simply sitting still long enough to hear the wind move through the leaves. At night, enjoy dark skies with bright stars, fresh air, and the deep quiet that’s hard to find in everyday life.
Our farm is also home to a flock of chickens and a small herd of friendly goats, who may be grazing nearby or curiously watching your visit. While they’re not the focus of your stay, they add a charm to the landscape that many find unexpectedly calming.
Whether you’re looking for a solo reset, a peaceful weekend away, or a simple nature-based experience, Antiquity Oaks offers a place to breathe, unplug, and return to yourself.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
Flora and Fauna
19. Flora and Fauna
37mi from Herscher · 2 sites
A quiet get away along the Mother Road, Rte 66. Cows graze in the pasture while barn swallows fly overhead, keeping bugs away!
Located near fun places to visit in rural America surrounded by acres of agriculture in the heartland.
Come stay and count the fireflies as you travel along your way... welcome!
Pets
Historic Route 66 Hideaway
20. Historic Route 66 Hideaway
37mi from Herscher · 2 sites
Traveling Route 66? Just passing the area? Come enjoy a one-of-a-kind destination camping experience just one mile off historic US Route 66! This property features 7.5 acres of prairie farmland with a creek running along the north side of the camping area. To the west, in a separate pasture, are cattle living their best lives!
This property has easy access off a county road, with spacious parking. A short walk down the property and you're at the private camping area. Each site has plenty of space and privacy, which includes a fully stocked camper with bedding, towels/washcloths, hotel-style toiletries, and kitchens stocked with all the essentials.
Since this is a boondocking setting, we provide a full fresh water tank, along with a quiet generator at each campsite for power (first full tank is on us).
Site 1 hosts a 2021 Rockwood Geo Pro 20BHS Camper. It accommodates up to 6 people, but fits 4 most comfortably. An outside, camper-mounted grill is included, which utilizes the onboard propane system. TV is included in the main sleeping area, the back area has 2 single bunks along with the middle area dinette, which also converts into a sleeping area. The full bathroom is in the rear of the camper, with the cooking area placed across from the dinette.
Site 2 hosts a 2020 Coleman Lantern 215BH Camper. It accommodates up to 6 people, but fits 4 most comfortably. Outside, the camper has an outdoor kitchen equipped with a mini fridge, a griddle, and a 2-burner cooktop which utilizes the onboard propane system. TV is included in the main sleeping area, the back area has 2 oversized bunks along with the middle area dinette, which also converts into a sleeping area. The full bathroom is in the rear of the camper, with the cooking area placed across from the dinette.
The outside area also features a full power awning with an LED light strip for additional lighting, and the camping space has a family-style picnic table.
Come enjoy the Midwest's peacefulness right off Route 66 in this relaxing venue that you're sure to enjoy!
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Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Amelia
6 days 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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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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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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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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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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A
Ashleigh
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
It was a beautiful campsite with a wonderful creek! We unfortunately left in the night due to a storm but the site itself was great and I appreciate the host!
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McKenzie
April 2026
Tent
We had an awesome weekend here. We car-camped at the campsite that was right next to the stream which was pretty and secluded. They even gave us extra firewood! Added bonus of being able to walk over and see the friendly goats and chickens there. Thank you!
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M
Megan
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Great star gazing opportunity
Friendly hosts
Adorable goats
Secluded space
River
Fridge access in barn was an appreciated bonus
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B
Brian
April 2026
Tent
With pets
I had a nice time on Heidi"s property. Good views and very private at pondsite paradise.
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Tom
April 2026
Tent
With pets
We always love camping here! Will be back again soon :)
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Gregory
April 2026
Tent
Waking up in my hammock surrounded by horses was pure joy!
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Dave
April 2026
Tent
Simply amazing. We decided on this location specifically because of the horses, and everything exceeded our expectations. Near the barn we were greeted by friendly cats and a dog, and were able to pet the horses over the fence, but later on we had good weather and the horses were turned out at night. 25 horses trotting over the bridge next to your campsite, grazing at night silhouetted on the hillside, and randomly popping in to say Hi was one of the coolest things I've experienced camping. At morning, the first time I popped my head out of the tent there was a donkey looking back at me, and they must have been hungry because I was immediately surrounded by a dozen cute and huge faces. What a cool experience to have, and the people we interacted with were more than friendly and helpful. Thanks for the opportunity!
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P
Peter
April 2026
Tent
It was amazing! Heidi and Stan were so nice and accommodating! The dogs are no joke they got 4! Tiller is the best boy, each morning he came to our camp and hung out with us until dark, or when we would arrive from hiking.
Beautiful space, very open, lots of farm animals,
I also want to mention how accommodating the hosts were when we got fire wood but it was a little damp and hard to catch on.
They came out at 8:30 to bring us more firewood that was kept inside and a starter, PLUS! A propane tank flamethrower for good measure! It was such a huge help on a 38 degree night.
We will definitely be back, at minimum to see Tiller again!
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P
Paul
April 2026
Tent
Great spot by the river, restrooms, fire pit in the very peaceful setting
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Angie
April 2026
Tent
With pets
This was my first time Hipcamping - and it was a great experience. Hosts very communicative and friendly. Spot was really pretty, next to a little pond. Had just what you needed -
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G
Gemini
March 2026
Tent
I absolutely loved my stay at Willowthorne — it was truly an amazing experience. I spent two nights there and honestly didn’t want to leave. I was so comfortable and content that I seriously considered extending my stay.
Gosia was incredible. She took the time to talk me through the property, made sure I had wood and even kindly loaned me large pliers to fix my sink — which I really appreciated as a solo camper. I also loved chatting with her about the farm and learning more about how they care for the land and keep it as natural and pollutant-free as possible. You can really feel the intention and care that goes into this space.
I visited in early spring, and it was already beautiful. I can only imagine how breathtaking it must be in the summer when everything is in full bloom — I’m definitely planning to come back to experience that.
If you’re looking for a serene, scenic campsite that feels like a peaceful escape but is still close to the city, with genuinely wonderful hosts, Willowthorne is the place. I’ll absolutely be returning!
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Allan
March 2026
Tent
Amazing place , Would stay again! Katie was very nice!
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Alison
March 2026
Tent
A fantastic stay with horses, water, birds, structure and lots of space to explores. A piece of little heaven. Love the beautiful stream going through the properties. We had a beautiful sunset. The herd of horses came by the bridge out to the field is so awesome! The freight train gone through the beautiful wooden bridge once at 9 pm was a nice highlight. It went slow and beautiful. We love train.
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