- Camping with Hiking
The best camping near Lacon with hiking
96% (1.3K) • 755 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lacon
Horseshoe Bend
1. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(663)
23mi from Lacon · 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
from
$25
/ night
Frakers Grove Farm
2. Frakers Grove Farm
100%
(41)
32mi from Lacon · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Frakers Grove Farm has been part of my family since the 1980s, but its history extends back to 1828 when Michael Fraker arrived and negotiated a peaceful settlement with the local Native American tribes, becoming the first settler in North Eastern Knox County. His grave, along with those of approximately 26 relatives and friends, is located on the property.
Camp on a 250-acre farm in Western Illinois, featuring a 1.5-acre pond stocked with Blue Gill, Crappie, Wide Mouth Bass, Catfish, and resident Grass Carp, plus a small creek. The property also has trails and abundant wildlife, including deer, American river otters, beavers, geese, wood ducks, and raccoons. A Jon boat is available for use on the pond.
We offer 1 Walk-in Camp Site and 1 Drive-In Site by the pond, each with a fire ring. RV camping is currently in a trial phase; your feedback is invaluable. This area provides primitive wooded camping behind and around the pond, with the RV site located next to the pole barn. Note: The RV site listing is not normally active, so please reach out in advance if interested. Guest WiFi is available near the buildings.
Assistance with transporting tents and supplies to and from the campsite on check-in and check-out days is available upon request.
Facilities include a Porta Potty and potable water from a yard hydrant, both located near the Pole Barn.
NOTE: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during the spring and fall. We currently have chickens and are taking a break from pigs. The newly established pasture is expected to yield grass hay this year to help fund new fencing, a preparatory step for introducing cows.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
East Woods on the IL River
3. East Woods on the IL River
97%
(328)
38mi from Lacon · 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
from
$36
/ night
Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area
4. Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 5.2mi from Lacon · 7 sites
Three distinct areas of this park offer varied outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area
5. Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area
100%
(1)
State park 10mi from Lacon · 12 sites
Spend the weekend surrounded by luscious flora and fauna at Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area along the eastside of the Illinois River. With 2,462 acres of water, you won’t be surprised to see waterfowl, beaver, muskrat, and mink as you tool around the waters. Fish for crappies and bullhead in the Upper Peoria and Goose Lakes, but keep an eye on the sky! A bald eagle or two have been known to grace visitors with their appearance! Spend all day or camp all weekend long. You can’t go wrong either way!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Old Rugged Barn
6. The Old Rugged Barn
96%
(89)
42mi from Lacon · 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
from
$40
/ night
Welcome to our Magical Woods
7. Welcome to our Magical Woods
98%
(244)
44mi from Lacon · 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.
We have 4 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 LBGTQ+, LatinX and Very Family Friendly. 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, miniature sheep and a very sweet goat named Hairy. There are about 50 chickens wandering the yard all day and we have 3 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 a 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
from
$35
/ night
Avalon Unity Garden
8. Avalon Unity Garden
97%
(16)
46mi from Lacon · 1 site · Tent, RV
This garden is intended to help people connect to Mother Earth. There is room for yoga or meditation with the plants. You can sleep in a tent, or your vehicle.
It has a walkable spiral, an 18’ Mother Earth sculpture, an earth lodge for ceremonies and a hexagon swing area. It’s located in a very small farm community. We are about a mile from the Hennepin canal where you can walk, fish or canoe.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Angel Creek
9. Angel Creek
98%
(151)
49mi from Lacon · 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
from
$37
/ night
Rock Island State Trail
10. Rock Island State Trail
State park 20mi from Lacon · 1 site
Walk along an old railroad bed at this linear state park in north-central Illinois.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Jubilee College State Park
11. Jubilee College State Park
State park 26mi from Lacon · 107 sites
It’s called Jubilee for a reason, people! You’re going to want to shout from the rooftop once you set your sights on the natural landscape and abundant wildlife. Whether you want to go hunting, hiking, fishing, or biking (we’re poets and we know it) Jubilee is the place to be. Bring your horse or bike to the trails for an added level of fun. Don’t just make this a spring/summer visit: swing by in the cooler months for a taste of snow activities! Jubilee sounds almost too good to be true.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Starved Rock State Park
12. Starved Rock State Park
93%
(28)
State park 30mi from Lacon · 128 sites
Gushing waterfalls, ice sculptures, white-tailed deer and soaring eagles offer year-round excitement
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
13. Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
State park 33mi from Lacon · 97 sites
There’s nothing quite like a day outdoors, are we right or are we right!? For an exceptional day outdoors, head out to Johnson-Sauk Trail Recreation Area. Don’t let the name trip you up, it’s all smooth sailing when you’re on the lake or take to the trails. Visit the Ryan’s Round Barn for a look at a historic and...interesting take on barn architecture. Swing by any day of the year, winter or summer. Close your eyes and breathe in the fresh air.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
14. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
87%
(171)
32mi from Lacon · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Waterfront Rustic Primitive(no water/no electric/no showers) Camping we allow primitive tent camping(whole campground), tear drop campers, pop up campers(sites 60 and up) and campervans(whole campground) we are right on the illinois river across from Starved Rock State Park. Towering views of St. Peters sandstone bluffs, soaring bald eagles and sandy islands. We are primitive. no water no electric. Just rugged natural beautiful riverside camping with ultra clean pimped out porta potties that have wipes, underarm spray deodorant, air freshener and hand sanitizer. Please note kayak rentals or guided kayak tours are not included but may be purchased onsite or from our website kayak starved rock campground. showers are available nearby at Ottawa or Oglesby swimming pool for a small fee
You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation. If anyone in the camping reservation is under 21 then someone 20 years older must be present at all times camping with the person(s) under 21
Check-in time
Mon-Thurs 3:00 pm-5:30PM
Friday-Sun 3:00PM-7:30PM
Check-out time is 3:00 pm.
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND Camping Rules
Our Rules are to promote a family friendly and safe camping experience
We reserve the right to evict anyone without refund for improper behavior or failure to observe our rules and regulations.
All Campers must check in/show ID at the KSRC office and sign a waiver and receive a parking pass/wristband. WE DO NOT ALLOW GUESTS! ANYONE ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE REGISTERED AHEAD OF TIME AS A CAMPER AND PAID FOR! All Campers are required to wear wristbands. All vehicles must have a Parking pass on the dashboard. Anyone within camp area must have a wristband on.
NO GENERATORS!!!!!
NO MUSIC IS TO BE PLAYED THROUGH SPEAKERS AT ANY TIME QUIET HOURS ARE FROM 10PM TO 7AM THAT MEANS NO NOISE WHATSOEVER. Strictly Enforced Vehicular entry/exit is not permitted between these hours. Children should be on campsite by 9:00 pm. If you violate this rule you will be evicted without refund and you will be banned from ever camping again.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$39
/ night
Hennepin Canal State Trail
15. Hennepin Canal State Trail
State park 55mi from Lacon · 10 sites
From boating to biking to snowmobiling, year-round adventures and spectacular scenery await.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Illini State Park
16. Illini State Park
100%
(7)
State park 42mi from Lacon · 100 sites
Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Green River State Wildlife Area
17. Green River State Wildlife Area
State park 43mi from Lacon · 100 sites
Popular for its, well, wildlife, Green River provides diversions for all types of outdoor enthusiasts: from hunters and hikers, to birders and amateur oglers. Camping is available within the 2,565 acres, the topography varying from flat to gently rolling. Swampy slough areas dominate nearly a third of Green River’s acreage (so maybe avoid pitching your tent there). The remaining habitats are active prairie restorations, open fields, cultivated areas or timberlands. Native vegetation is often planted to provide more food and cover for the animals. Critter sightings might include: pheasant, rabbit, quail, dove, squirrel, crow, fox, raccoon, coyote, turkey, opossum, skunk and deer, so grab your binoculars and your Audubon Guide!
Pets
Campfires
Sewer hookup
Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
18. Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
State park 46mi from Lacon · 81 sites
You may catch some crappie, but your time at Spring Lake will be totally rad. Overlooked by a large sandstone bluff, Spring Lake is a long, narrow lake born from a meander of the Illinois River. It’s actually divided into two separate lakes, making it a fishing frenzy. The north has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, muskie, channel catfish, sunfish, bullheads, and carp. The south has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, northern pike, sunfish, and carp. Forgot your boat? Not to worry! Rentals are available near the south boat ramp. And if you’re yearning for the whole livin’ off the land experience, the park houses three campgrounds.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
96% (1.3K) • 755 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lacon
Horseshoe Bend
1. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(663)
23mi from Lacon · 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
from
$25
/ night
Frakers Grove Farm
2. Frakers Grove Farm
100%
(41)
32mi from Lacon · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Frakers Grove Farm has been part of my family since the 1980s, but its history extends back to 1828 when Michael Fraker arrived and negotiated a peaceful settlement with the local Native American tribes, becoming the first settler in North Eastern Knox County. His grave, along with those of approximately 26 relatives and friends, is located on the property.
Camp on a 250-acre farm in Western Illinois, featuring a 1.5-acre pond stocked with Blue Gill, Crappie, Wide Mouth Bass, Catfish, and resident Grass Carp, plus a small creek. The property also has trails and abundant wildlife, including deer, American river otters, beavers, geese, wood ducks, and raccoons. A Jon boat is available for use on the pond.
We offer 1 Walk-in Camp Site and 1 Drive-In Site by the pond, each with a fire ring. RV camping is currently in a trial phase; your feedback is invaluable. This area provides primitive wooded camping behind and around the pond, with the RV site located next to the pole barn. Note: The RV site listing is not normally active, so please reach out in advance if interested. Guest WiFi is available near the buildings.
Assistance with transporting tents and supplies to and from the campsite on check-in and check-out days is available upon request.
Facilities include a Porta Potty and potable water from a yard hydrant, both located near the Pole Barn.
NOTE: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during the spring and fall. We currently have chickens and are taking a break from pigs. The newly established pasture is expected to yield grass hay this year to help fund new fencing, a preparatory step for introducing cows.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
East Woods on the IL River
3. East Woods on the IL River
97%
(328)
38mi from Lacon · 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
from
$36
/ night
Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area
4. Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 5.2mi from Lacon · 7 sites
Three distinct areas of this park offer varied outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area
5. Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area
100%
(1)
State park 10mi from Lacon · 12 sites
Spend the weekend surrounded by luscious flora and fauna at Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area along the eastside of the Illinois River. With 2,462 acres of water, you won’t be surprised to see waterfowl, beaver, muskrat, and mink as you tool around the waters. Fish for crappies and bullhead in the Upper Peoria and Goose Lakes, but keep an eye on the sky! A bald eagle or two have been known to grace visitors with their appearance! Spend all day or camp all weekend long. You can’t go wrong either way!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Old Rugged Barn
6. The Old Rugged Barn
96%
(89)
42mi from Lacon · 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
from
$40
/ night
Welcome to our Magical Woods
7. Welcome to our Magical Woods
98%
(244)
44mi from Lacon · 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.
We have 4 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 LBGTQ+, LatinX and Very Family Friendly. 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, miniature sheep and a very sweet goat named Hairy. There are about 50 chickens wandering the yard all day and we have 3 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 a 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
from
$35
/ night
Avalon Unity Garden
8. Avalon Unity Garden
97%
(16)
46mi from Lacon · 1 site · Tent, RV
This garden is intended to help people connect to Mother Earth. There is room for yoga or meditation with the plants. You can sleep in a tent, or your vehicle.
It has a walkable spiral, an 18’ Mother Earth sculpture, an earth lodge for ceremonies and a hexagon swing area. It’s located in a very small farm community. We are about a mile from the Hennepin canal where you can walk, fish or canoe.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Angel Creek
9. Angel Creek
98%
(151)
49mi from Lacon · 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
from
$37
/ night
Rock Island State Trail
10. Rock Island State Trail
State park 20mi from Lacon · 1 site
Walk along an old railroad bed at this linear state park in north-central Illinois.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Jubilee College State Park
11. Jubilee College State Park
State park 26mi from Lacon · 107 sites
It’s called Jubilee for a reason, people! You’re going to want to shout from the rooftop once you set your sights on the natural landscape and abundant wildlife. Whether you want to go hunting, hiking, fishing, or biking (we’re poets and we know it) Jubilee is the place to be. Bring your horse or bike to the trails for an added level of fun. Don’t just make this a spring/summer visit: swing by in the cooler months for a taste of snow activities! Jubilee sounds almost too good to be true.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Starved Rock State Park
12. Starved Rock State Park
93%
(28)
State park 30mi from Lacon · 128 sites
Gushing waterfalls, ice sculptures, white-tailed deer and soaring eagles offer year-round excitement
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
13. Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
State park 33mi from Lacon · 97 sites
There’s nothing quite like a day outdoors, are we right or are we right!? For an exceptional day outdoors, head out to Johnson-Sauk Trail Recreation Area. Don’t let the name trip you up, it’s all smooth sailing when you’re on the lake or take to the trails. Visit the Ryan’s Round Barn for a look at a historic and...interesting take on barn architecture. Swing by any day of the year, winter or summer. Close your eyes and breathe in the fresh air.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
14. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
87%
(171)
32mi from Lacon · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Waterfront Rustic Primitive(no water/no electric/no showers) Camping we allow primitive tent camping(whole campground), tear drop campers, pop up campers(sites 60 and up) and campervans(whole campground) we are right on the illinois river across from Starved Rock State Park. Towering views of St. Peters sandstone bluffs, soaring bald eagles and sandy islands. We are primitive. no water no electric. Just rugged natural beautiful riverside camping with ultra clean pimped out porta potties that have wipes, underarm spray deodorant, air freshener and hand sanitizer. Please note kayak rentals or guided kayak tours are not included but may be purchased onsite or from our website kayak starved rock campground. showers are available nearby at Ottawa or Oglesby swimming pool for a small fee
You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation. If anyone in the camping reservation is under 21 then someone 20 years older must be present at all times camping with the person(s) under 21
Check-in time
Mon-Thurs 3:00 pm-5:30PM
Friday-Sun 3:00PM-7:30PM
Check-out time is 3:00 pm.
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND Camping Rules
Our Rules are to promote a family friendly and safe camping experience
We reserve the right to evict anyone without refund for improper behavior or failure to observe our rules and regulations.
All Campers must check in/show ID at the KSRC office and sign a waiver and receive a parking pass/wristband. WE DO NOT ALLOW GUESTS! ANYONE ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE REGISTERED AHEAD OF TIME AS A CAMPER AND PAID FOR! All Campers are required to wear wristbands. All vehicles must have a Parking pass on the dashboard. Anyone within camp area must have a wristband on.
NO GENERATORS!!!!!
NO MUSIC IS TO BE PLAYED THROUGH SPEAKERS AT ANY TIME QUIET HOURS ARE FROM 10PM TO 7AM THAT MEANS NO NOISE WHATSOEVER. Strictly Enforced Vehicular entry/exit is not permitted between these hours. Children should be on campsite by 9:00 pm. If you violate this rule you will be evicted without refund and you will be banned from ever camping again.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$39
/ night
Hennepin Canal State Trail
15. Hennepin Canal State Trail
State park 55mi from Lacon · 10 sites
From boating to biking to snowmobiling, year-round adventures and spectacular scenery await.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Illini State Park
16. Illini State Park
100%
(7)
State park 42mi from Lacon · 100 sites
Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Green River State Wildlife Area
17. Green River State Wildlife Area
State park 43mi from Lacon · 100 sites
Popular for its, well, wildlife, Green River provides diversions for all types of outdoor enthusiasts: from hunters and hikers, to birders and amateur oglers. Camping is available within the 2,565 acres, the topography varying from flat to gently rolling. Swampy slough areas dominate nearly a third of Green River’s acreage (so maybe avoid pitching your tent there). The remaining habitats are active prairie restorations, open fields, cultivated areas or timberlands. Native vegetation is often planted to provide more food and cover for the animals. Critter sightings might include: pheasant, rabbit, quail, dove, squirrel, crow, fox, raccoon, coyote, turkey, opossum, skunk and deer, so grab your binoculars and your Audubon Guide!
Pets
Campfires
Sewer hookup
Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
18. Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
State park 46mi from Lacon · 81 sites
You may catch some crappie, but your time at Spring Lake will be totally rad. Overlooked by a large sandstone bluff, Spring Lake is a long, narrow lake born from a meander of the Illinois River. It’s actually divided into two separate lakes, making it a fishing frenzy. The north has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, muskie, channel catfish, sunfish, bullheads, and carp. The south has largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, northern pike, sunfish, and carp. Forgot your boat? Not to worry! Rentals are available near the south boat ramp. And if you’re yearning for the whole livin’ off the land experience, the park houses three campgrounds.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Tanya
5 days ago
18 ft campervan
With pets
I camped for 3 nights at this beautiful peaceful campsite. The host was great, and the site itself was just amazing! A beautiful river, trails and plenty of deer. I wish i could have stayed longer.
See more
Allan
1 week ago
Tent
Amazing place , Would stay again! Katie was very nice!
See more
Y
Yooper
3 weeks ago
10 ft travel trailer
Beautiful land to camp on and owners were very nice
See more
Luke
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had such a blast camping this past weekend. Brady is an excellent host, brought us firewood directly to our campsite and making sure we had everything we needed. The bathroom was really clean, the woods were gorgeous and it was so nice to get away from the city for a reset. My dog had a great time running around off leash, the site was very well maintained; we will definitely be back!
See more
Sunny
3 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
I loved my time here! Katie was very kind and helpful when showing me the site. I took a camper van and parked by the treeline. There was an in the woods hang out space that I think is good for a tent too!
See moreD
Derrick
February 2026
Tent
The campsite was really nice, quite and scenic, it’s was right by a pond, it’s private and secluded, ideal for private camping, the owner was responsive and very helpful 10 out of 10
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amanda
February 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
This camping compound is secluded! Surrounded by trees and wilderness.
I was the only one there because of the season but I can imagine how pretty it would be with trees full of leaves in warmer weather.
My 2 dogs loved running around and taking in all the new smells. Super long road was great to walk on for light exercise or if you’re feeling adventurous you can walk through the trees.
- The host reached out with directions. Waze has no idea where to go but Apple/google maps sure do. They reached out again in the evening to make sure all is well.
- location signage it’s apparent. Site location is clear but not intrusive. Brown signs vs bright colored.
- 30 amp available. Easy to use.
- cell service good (att)
- Fire ring and firewood readily available. Which was nice because it was about 20 degrees.
- environment was very quiet. Could hear coyotes singing from a far distance, birds and squirrels chattering with each other.
I would enjoy coming back during a warmer season.
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Arissa
February 2026
Tent
I loved tent camping on Brady’s land. There was clear directions on getting there and was very spacious campground. We were the only campers there but even if there the other camp sites were full his campgrounds are nice and spread out that you still have the privacy and quiet nature experience you are looking for. Brady was also very responsive and offered extra fire wood if needed.
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David
January 2026
Tent
Extremely kind lady the spot was very nice although close to town it was very nice the spot was very clean and just such a nice experience.
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James
November 2025
Tent
Fantastic piece of land and fantastic people! It was quiet and beautiful, perfect kind of spot for cozy and secluded camping. Heidi couldn’t have been more nice and helpful, it was really a phenomenal experience. Can’t say enough good things, definitely try this out!
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Eric
November 2025
Tent
Easy to get to, great spot, tons of room. It's a horse farm with lots of friendly animals running around. (But the camping area is down a small trail and secluded). Heidi brought us fresh eggs in the morning and the roosters made sure we didn't over sleep and waste our day. I'd def come back here. Thanks
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Tom
November 2025
Tent
This trip was much colder than our typical trips to Katie's land, but we still had such a nice time!
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Drew
October 2025
Tent
This is our 3rd time camping here. We love the land. And Heidi is an amazing host who always goes above and beyond
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Andy
October 2025
Tent
It was secluded, quiet and nice. Owner was kind and very responsive!
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Mark
October 2025
Tent
I drove down a path, leading to the campsite. There are a lot of deep ruts along the way. Small, low profile vehicles might not make it! My SUV did. It is very secluded, in the woods, next to the Illinois River, only about 100 yards away. I had a great experience. And would do it again.
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Sherri
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Such a beautiful piece of land! We really enjoyed our stay. Mornings and evenings are magical by the water watching the birds.
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Julia
October 2025
Tent
We enjoyed our stay. The description was perfect and Heidi was very helpful in helping us take our gear to our site. We had a wonderful night's stay. The load of wood provided was really nice. The fresh eggs were a nice extra too!
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Jennifer
October 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
Always a beautiful stay here. The host is very welcoming and the sunrise is beautiful. There’s a walking path around the pond to explore the property.
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Chelsea
October 2025
Tent
With kids
My family and I loved camping on Heidi's land. It was our daughter's first time camping, she is 6 months old. They have dogs on their property and my daughter loved the pomeranian. All of their dogs were super friendly and great with our daughter. We had the camp site next to the ravine, very beautiful. The site was big, lots of space. Heidi and her husband were wonderful hosts! We definitely recommend the stay! The property was easy to find and we had good cell service.
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Greta
September 2025
16 ft campervan
With pets
If you’re looking for a getaway and the vibe of a public campground is not appealing, this is the place for you. All of the reviews here are spot on. An enjoyable drive through scenic farmland takes you to the oasis of Horseshoe Bend. Despite dry conditions in the area the grounds were green with a cool morning mist. Brady is a great host helping me pick the perfect spot and making sure there was enough firewood on hand. Highly recommend!
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