- Forest Camping
The best forest camping near Hillsboro
96% (535) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Hillsboro
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
100%
(844)
24mi from Hillsboro · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm.
In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land.
The property has a greenhouse, high tunnel and about a half acre of field that we raise vegetables and fruit on.
We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim and boat in. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them.
Plenty of wildlife, hiking and mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised and/or made on the farm for folks to purchase.
Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm.
Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks.
Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield is 35 miles from the farm.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Emerald Acres Farm
2. Emerald Acres Farm
99%
(70)
28mi from Hillsboro · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf
goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE.
It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
3. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
100%
(22)
29mi from Hillsboro · 1 site
At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting.
You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake.
A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available.
More than just two of you?
There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents.
We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp!
Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery.
To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater.
Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you.
Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile.
Learn more about this land:
Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66.
Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$129
/ night
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
4. Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
State park 18mi from Hillsboro · 135 sites
With its rolling hills and timbered shoreline, Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area has become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors enjoy quiet strolls in the forest, secluded picnicking, as well as more energetic activities.Fishing is huge here, so the lake is managed by draw-downs and stocking. Some species found are largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and black crappie. Hit up the concession stand for supplies. Other popular pastimes include hunting (dove, pheasant, quail, deer) and winter sports like fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. There’s even a 13-mile designated snowmobile trail.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Beaver Dam State Park
5. Beaver Dam State Park
100%
(1)
State park 28mi from Hillsboro · 76 sites
With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Triangle H Farm, LLC
6. Triangle H Farm, LLC
91%
(53)
37mi from Hillsboro · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Once a large cattle operation, Triangle H Farm has evolved through being a corn, soybean and horseradish farm before its present use as a horse boarding, training, and lesson facility. As a matter of fact, depending upon the season, you can schedule a tour of our horseradish farm. We are top 10 producers of horseradish in the nation! Come see our 100 acres of camping possibilities and enjoy nature at its finest! We look forward to having you with us.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or plug in your RV (30 or 50 amp, or 110 volt) on our 110 acre horse farm. Choose between staying up closer to the barns or out in the timber. We have a nice primitive spot under a 100+ year old cottonwood tree that is near a stream. There is a picnic table there as well. About 1.25 mile down the trail from the main barn is a walnut grove with a picnic table. The same stream runs past the walnut grove. There is a spot for a fire too. If you want more rustic, feel free to cross the creek to the timber and choose a primitive camping spot there. Enjoy mowed trails to hike or bike. Water (from hydrants and hoses) and portopotty are up near main barns. We have 60 horses on the farm as well as goats, cats, and chickens. We do not offer access to horses unless you're in a riding lesson, or have scheduled a pony riding session. We look forward to sharing our little piece of heaven with you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Middle Eden
7. Middle Eden
91%
(11)
48mi from Hillsboro · 2 sites
Escape to Our 16-Acre Permaculture Paradise
Nestled among majestic oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberries, and black/honey locusts, our developing agroforestry biome recreates the breathtaking pre-Columbian oak-hickory savanna. We’re passionate about sharing this regenerative haven with fellow nature lovers.
Private Campsites with Thoughtful Amenities
Each site features an established campfire ring and complimentary firewood—perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Sites are a scenic 300–500 ft walk from parking (depending on your chosen spot).
Secure Parking Note
Parking is on a quiet dead-end road monitored by security cameras. It’s not secluded, so we don’t recommend car camping.
Book now and immerse yourself in a living food forest—where camping meets ecological restoration.
Campfires
Potable water
from
$12
/ night
Sangchris Lake State Park
8. Sangchris Lake State Park
State park 32mi from Hillsboro · 128 sites
Wildflowers and song birds will guide you along the miles of scenic trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Carlyle Lake
9. Carlyle Lake
100%
(1)
Park 39mi from Hillsboro · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
10. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 36mi from Hillsboro · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hidden Springs State Forest
11. Hidden Springs State Forest
State forest 43mi from Hillsboro · 28 sites
Thirsty for adventure? Hidden Springs is guaranteed to quench your craving. The name is an ode to the seven springs that were used for drinking water by early settlers. Terrain varies from flat bottomland areas along Richland Creek to steep hillsides. If you’re a native tree nut (no pun intended), you’ll be in heaven at Hidden Springs, with plenty of species to ID. Timber management practices strive to keep the forest healthy, accessible and productive. Plenty of hiking trails traverse the forest’s rolling hills. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for songbirds, flowers and mushrooms on your jaunt. Hankering for some catfish? There’s five stocked fishing ponds within the forest. Tent campsites are available and equipped with pedestal stoves⸺perfect for cooking up your catch or just toasting your tootsies.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Eagle Creek State Recreation Area
12. Eagle Creek State Recreation Area
State park 47mi from Hillsboro · 106 sites
Why dip your toes into Eagle Creek Recreation Area when you can cannon ball in full force? Set right on Lake Shelbyville, this area offers prime access to all your favorite outdoor activities: sipping cold drinks on the shoreline, tossing the line the water, and soaking up that all-natural sunshine. Seriously, there is so much to do here—the expansive woodland areas, picturesque shorelines, and the shimmering waters of the lake are all calling your name.Whether you’re down for some hiking or mountain biking exploration or want to test out your windsurfing skills, you’ll find plenty of time to get it all in at Eagle Creek. Carp, bullhead, muskie, bluegill and others call the lake home and herds of deer are known to roam throughout the park—all that wildlife beauty will certainly move the soul (and hopefully the fishing line). Hurry up and get your outdoor escape on at this natural haven!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wolf Creek State Park
13. Wolf Creek State Park
State park 47mi from Hillsboro · 148 sites
Reserve the 30-person Lost Shelter picnic area, an isolated, secluded site that overlooks the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
96% (535) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Hillsboro
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
100%
(844)
24mi from Hillsboro · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm.
In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land.
The property has a greenhouse, high tunnel and about a half acre of field that we raise vegetables and fruit on.
We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim and boat in. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them.
Plenty of wildlife, hiking and mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised and/or made on the farm for folks to purchase.
Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm.
Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks.
Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield is 35 miles from the farm.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Emerald Acres Farm
2. Emerald Acres Farm
99%
(70)
28mi from Hillsboro · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf
goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE.
It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
3. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake
100%
(22)
29mi from Hillsboro · 1 site
At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting.
You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake.
A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available.
More than just two of you?
There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents.
We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp!
Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery.
To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater.
Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you.
Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile.
Learn more about this land:
Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66.
Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$129
/ night
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
4. Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
State park 18mi from Hillsboro · 135 sites
With its rolling hills and timbered shoreline, Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area has become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors enjoy quiet strolls in the forest, secluded picnicking, as well as more energetic activities.Fishing is huge here, so the lake is managed by draw-downs and stocking. Some species found are largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and black crappie. Hit up the concession stand for supplies. Other popular pastimes include hunting (dove, pheasant, quail, deer) and winter sports like fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. There’s even a 13-mile designated snowmobile trail.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Beaver Dam State Park
5. Beaver Dam State Park
100%
(1)
State park 28mi from Hillsboro · 76 sites
With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Triangle H Farm, LLC
6. Triangle H Farm, LLC
91%
(53)
37mi from Hillsboro · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Once a large cattle operation, Triangle H Farm has evolved through being a corn, soybean and horseradish farm before its present use as a horse boarding, training, and lesson facility. As a matter of fact, depending upon the season, you can schedule a tour of our horseradish farm. We are top 10 producers of horseradish in the nation! Come see our 100 acres of camping possibilities and enjoy nature at its finest! We look forward to having you with us.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or plug in your RV (30 or 50 amp, or 110 volt) on our 110 acre horse farm. Choose between staying up closer to the barns or out in the timber. We have a nice primitive spot under a 100+ year old cottonwood tree that is near a stream. There is a picnic table there as well. About 1.25 mile down the trail from the main barn is a walnut grove with a picnic table. The same stream runs past the walnut grove. There is a spot for a fire too. If you want more rustic, feel free to cross the creek to the timber and choose a primitive camping spot there. Enjoy mowed trails to hike or bike. Water (from hydrants and hoses) and portopotty are up near main barns. We have 60 horses on the farm as well as goats, cats, and chickens. We do not offer access to horses unless you're in a riding lesson, or have scheduled a pony riding session. We look forward to sharing our little piece of heaven with you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Middle Eden
7. Middle Eden
91%
(11)
48mi from Hillsboro · 2 sites
Escape to Our 16-Acre Permaculture Paradise
Nestled among majestic oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberries, and black/honey locusts, our developing agroforestry biome recreates the breathtaking pre-Columbian oak-hickory savanna. We’re passionate about sharing this regenerative haven with fellow nature lovers.
Private Campsites with Thoughtful Amenities
Each site features an established campfire ring and complimentary firewood—perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Sites are a scenic 300–500 ft walk from parking (depending on your chosen spot).
Secure Parking Note
Parking is on a quiet dead-end road monitored by security cameras. It’s not secluded, so we don’t recommend car camping.
Book now and immerse yourself in a living food forest—where camping meets ecological restoration.
Campfires
Potable water
from
$12
/ night
Sangchris Lake State Park
8. Sangchris Lake State Park
State park 32mi from Hillsboro · 128 sites
Wildflowers and song birds will guide you along the miles of scenic trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Carlyle Lake
9. Carlyle Lake
100%
(1)
Park 39mi from Hillsboro · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
10. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 36mi from Hillsboro · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hidden Springs State Forest
11. Hidden Springs State Forest
State forest 43mi from Hillsboro · 28 sites
Thirsty for adventure? Hidden Springs is guaranteed to quench your craving. The name is an ode to the seven springs that were used for drinking water by early settlers. Terrain varies from flat bottomland areas along Richland Creek to steep hillsides. If you’re a native tree nut (no pun intended), you’ll be in heaven at Hidden Springs, with plenty of species to ID. Timber management practices strive to keep the forest healthy, accessible and productive. Plenty of hiking trails traverse the forest’s rolling hills. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for songbirds, flowers and mushrooms on your jaunt. Hankering for some catfish? There’s five stocked fishing ponds within the forest. Tent campsites are available and equipped with pedestal stoves⸺perfect for cooking up your catch or just toasting your tootsies.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Eagle Creek State Recreation Area
12. Eagle Creek State Recreation Area
State park 47mi from Hillsboro · 106 sites
Why dip your toes into Eagle Creek Recreation Area when you can cannon ball in full force? Set right on Lake Shelbyville, this area offers prime access to all your favorite outdoor activities: sipping cold drinks on the shoreline, tossing the line the water, and soaking up that all-natural sunshine. Seriously, there is so much to do here—the expansive woodland areas, picturesque shorelines, and the shimmering waters of the lake are all calling your name.Whether you’re down for some hiking or mountain biking exploration or want to test out your windsurfing skills, you’ll find plenty of time to get it all in at Eagle Creek. Carp, bullhead, muskie, bluegill and others call the lake home and herds of deer are known to roam throughout the park—all that wildlife beauty will certainly move the soul (and hopefully the fishing line). Hurry up and get your outdoor escape on at this natural haven!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wolf Creek State Park
13. Wolf Creek State Park
State park 47mi from Hillsboro · 148 sites
Reserve the 30-person Lost Shelter picnic area, an isolated, secluded site that overlooks the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
April
February 2026
Tent
With kids
Great simple land. There were goats and some chickens. Also a very friendly family dog that made us feel extra safe. The host was very quick to respond! Will book again in future.
See more
Monica
January 2026
Tent
We absolutely had a fantastic weekend camping on this lovely piece of land. We love that it is local to us so we can take a little getaway weekend now and then. Everything about this property is just cool. There are sheep, chickens and the coolest dog you'll ever meet! This is the kind of place that you want to tell everyone about but want to keep to yourself, too! Cant wait to come back.
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Monica
December 2025
Tent
Middle Eden is an absolute *find*. I am local to this host and just wanted to find a nice quiet place to occasionally get away! It was hard to believe we weren't out in secluded backcountry, but close enough to get back home if needed and there's sheep, chickens and a really cool, really sweet dog! My husband and I absolutely needed this reset and we will be back!
See moreMonica
December 2025
Tent
Unfortunately, I was unable to stay due to illness. Jeffrey was gracious and I will be reserving again soon! 🤞🤞
See moreA
Adrian
November 2025
Tent
Such a beautiful place! Safe and secure! I enjoyed being welcomed by the sweetest dog, she lead me right where to set up for the night. Waking up on a beautiful piece of land with sheep, chickens, fluffy sweet doggo, it was such a fun and much needed experience. 10/10 highly recommend!!
See moreS
Samuel
October 2025
Tent
BEAUTIFUL property. Owner is super nice and they love sharing the property that they have built. 10/10 would recommend!
See more
L
Lisa
October 2025
With kids
We had a wonderful time staying at the cottage in the woods. The place is so welcoming and peaceful, and the hosts provided all the essentials for a comfortable stay. We would be very happy to come visit again.
See more
K
Karina
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
This is our second time visiting Bear Creek Farm and it was once again Amazing! Camp sites are clean and spacious along with fantastic service from Debbie and the fam. Wood was provided for us at our camp site and although it did rain during our stay, we still had an awesome time here. Though we couldn't keep our fire going due to the rain we were greeted with a delicious breakfast that Matt prepared for us. I am so happy to have found Bear Creek Farm and ranch and will definitely be coming back.
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J
Jason
October 2025
Tent
Wonderful place! Very spacious and was exactly what we needed when we were in the area.
See more
C
Chris
October 2025
Tent
I enjoyed the secluded location and the quiet setting. I would stay again.
See moreE
Ellie
October 2025
Tent
With kids
We loved tent camping on Marcy’s land. The views were beautiful. My kids loved seeing the horses.
See more
N
Nicole
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Great place to camp with dogs. Sites are huge and secluded! Hosts are very welcoming and kind.
See more
A
Abby
September 2025
Tent
We had a lovely night at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch. Site 2 was peaceful, well-maintained, and felt private. We would definitely stay here again
See moreM
Matthew
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Stop looking at other places. This farm is amazing, owners are awesome (helped us out with a battery/inverter). You won’t be disappointed, great camping and fishing.
See moreJ
Jadrian
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Amazing location and setting for camping. We will definitely be back!
See moreK
Kevin
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Had a fantastic time Bear Creek Farm and Ranch. Our hosts were very welcoming and offer a variety of Farm fresh foods. Will definitely be coming back for a visit.
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Erin
August 2025
Tent
With pets
The land is beautiful and the hosts are incredibly welcoming. We were given a complete tour when we arrived and were able to pick veggies from the greenhouse, bought delicious steaks and were given fresh loaf of bread. We will definitely be back and will recommend this hidden illinois gem to many!
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K
Ken
August 2025
Tent
The spot was perfect! Absolutely beautiful and quiet. Debbie was so nice and helpful. Fishing was amazing.
See moreK
Karen
August 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
After spending many nights at crowded state parks, it was delightful to relax in peace and quiet. The most noise we heard, was the bull frogs!
We were greeted by Matt. He is a kind and gentle soul and truly cared about his home and our comfort.
If you get a chance to travel to Palmer, Illinois, do yourself a favor and check out this great property. We are glad we did!
See morea
allison
August 2025
Tent
Very pretty and secluded. Best part was we didn’t find a single tick on us or our gear :)
See more
