The best campgrounds near Hillsboro, Illinois with swimming

Looking to go camping near Hillsboro, Illinois? Hipcamp has you covered with over 237 options to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, staying in a vintage barn, or glamping in style, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your taste. And with prices starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $33 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Check out the top campsites with rave reviews: McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews), 1912 Vintage Barn Experience (45 reviews), Glamp Games Retreat (44 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like showers, toilets, and cooking equipment, and indulge in activities such as biking, wildlife watching, and surfing. Get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in Hillsboro, Illinois!

100% (527)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hillsboro

Looking to go camping near Hillsboro, Illinois? Hipcamp has you covered with over 237 options to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, staying in a vintage barn, or glamping in style, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your taste. And with prices starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $33 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Check out the top campsites with rave reviews: McCully Heritage Project (150 reviews), 1912 Vintage Barn Experience (45 reviews), Glamp Games Retreat (44 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like showers, toilets, and cooking equipment, and indulge in activities such as biking, wildlife watching, and surfing. Get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in Hillsboro, Illinois!

100% (527)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hillsboro

1. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

100%

(844)

24mi from Hillsboro · 5 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.

2. 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

99%

(138)

49mi from Hillsboro · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

The 1912 Barn is a 114 historic post and beam barn that makes a wonderful backdrop for a night out in the country. Located only 25 minutes from Springfield historic sites and 10 minutes from Decatur, IL this location makes it easy to tour during the day and relax by the camp fire in the evening. Our site is perfect for visiting local communities and the relaxing on our quiet site each evening. Decatur has a mini golf course, splash cove water park, children's zoo and museum, a governor's mansion for tours and 3 museums to visit. Milikin University offers local college level sports. Decatur has a great lake for paddle boarding, boating and fishing with canoe trips down the local Sangamon River. Several local breweries and cute market areas makes Decatur a great place to visit. Take a ride on the trolley and learn out our history. Springfield sites are only a hop and skip away with many things to see and learn. Museums offer great programs and the New Salem Park is a fun day trip with the kids to learn about historic living. Lincoln's sites around in several counties are great to see. You also have the opportunity to hike in some great parks and ride your bike on some outstanding central Illinois paths. If you happen to visit late summer enjoy the Illinois Farm Progress show and maybe catch a concert at the Devon Theatre on the lake.

3. Carlyle Lake

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(1)

310 sites · Carlyle, Illinois

This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

4. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

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(2)

366 sites · Carlyle, Illinois

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

5. Lake Shelbyville

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(4)

322 sites · Shelbyville, Illinois

Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Wolf Creek State Park

148 sites · Findlay, Illinois

Reserve the 30-person Lost Shelter picnic area, an isolated, secluded site that overlooks the lake.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

7. Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

55 sites · Kinmundy, Illinois

Land your limit of largemouth bass, bluegill or crappie at this well-stocked, beautiful lake.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Hillsboro

Boulder Campground

35mi from Hillsboro · 82 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

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(2)

Illini Campground

36mi from Hillsboro · 366 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground

37mi from Hillsboro · 119 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

100%

(1)

Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

38mi from Hillsboro · 109 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

100%

(3)

Coon Creek Campground

43mi from Hillsboro · 181 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shelbyville

Wolf Creek Campground

47mi from Hillsboro · 148 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wolf Creek State Park

Stephen A. Forbes Campground

49mi from Hillsboro · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

t

tess

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

I had a lovely three night stay on Aissa and Hank’s property! When we arrived, they were there to welcome us and give us a tour and let us know about our camping options. We were the only campers staying that weekend so they were happy to let us pick our spot and got a fire pit moved for us so we could stay local to our spot for the most part. Their barn and land is gorgeous, and they were equipped with helpful items for campers far beyond what we expected when booking our stay. Aissa and Hank themselves were both very kind and welcoming and made us feel very safe and comfortable. They were around if we needed anything but did not make us feel hovered over and did not interrupt our privacy whatsoever. We had a very sweet and slow weekend, exactly what we were looking for and needed! We would definitely come back and enjoy another weekend here.

L

Lisa

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

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.

K

Karina

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

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.

N

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Great place to camp with dogs. Sites are huge and secluded! Hosts are very welcoming and kind.

A

Abby

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

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

j

jessica

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

We loved this place! The scenery is beautiful and super relaxing after a long day of driving.

M

Matthew

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

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.

V

Valena

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

Everything was perfect! Aissa and Hank are outstanding, gracious hosts. Starting with a golf cart tour of their property really helps to decide where you want to set up and ask questions. After choosing a convenient spot, both Aissa and Hank are helpful with anything you may need. Bathroom was spotless, very well taken care of property all around. I hope to return to enjoy the friendly atmosphere and peaceful natural surroundings. The barn looks like a great venue for a party or celebration, with plenty of space to park and play in the beautiful backyard. What a terrific find! Thank you so much for your hospitality!

Julie

September 2025

Tent

1 night at 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

Lovely people and such a peaceful place! Definitely would love to come back!

J

Jadrian

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Amazing location and setting for camping. We will definitely be back!

K

Kevin

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

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.

Erin

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

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!

K

Ken

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

The spot was perfect! Absolutely beautiful and quiet. Debbie was so nice and helpful. Fishing was amazing.

K

Karen

August 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

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!

a

allison

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Very pretty and secluded. Best part was we didn’t find a single tick on us or our gear :)

J

Jim

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

My kids absolutely love Bear creek! Got tons of bass on top water frogs! Very exciting for me and both my kids! 8 and 10! Great place to hike around as well!

X

Xavier

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Perfect does not even start to describe it. Matt and Debby have a beautiful property that is unrivaled in every aspect.

X

Xavier

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Another absolutely amazing weekend at Bear Creek. There truly aren’t words to adequately describe how perfect of a location this is. One must simply experience it for themself.

Todd

August 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

I stopped here in my Tacoma, which has an Alu-Cab camper. I rolled in late and easily found a spot to park and camp. I was asleep in minutes. It was perfect!