- Riverside Camping
The best river, stream, or creek camping near Lincolnwood
97% (196) • 519 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lincolnwood
A Creek Runs Through It
1. A Creek Runs Through It
94%
(16)
33mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site · Tent, RV
I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$41
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
38mi from Lincolnwood · 2 sites
This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away.
Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet
25 dollars for 2nd pet (75)
2 max pets
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$90
/ night
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
3. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
49mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Come enjoy a stay at the rustic Hruby Ranch. 50 acres of private land to explore. A cozy comfortable excursion tent with queen bed. There are trails throughout of which you are free to explore. And our animals will surely delight. A fire pit is always a wonderful way to end the day. Located 12 minutes from I 65 and 15 minutes from downtown Crown Point and 20 from Valporaiso. If the beach is more your style, we are 25 minutes from the Indiana dunes and Lake Michigan!
We are in winter/inclimate weather conditions, all stays are hike in and out approximately 150yards from the barn and stable areas.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
4. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
83%
(9)
State park 30mi from Lincolnwood · 224 sites
Illinois’ only beach ridge shoreline sits within an hour of the city.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
5. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
State park 39mi from Lincolnwood · 185 sites
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Aloha Ranch
6. The Aloha Ranch
100%
(19)
49mi from Lincolnwood · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle.
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.
Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
Gun Smoke Ranch
7. Gun Smoke Ranch
98%
(163)
49mi from Lincolnwood · 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
from
$50
/ night
Painted Turtle Campsite
8. Painted Turtle Campsite
100%
(6)
45mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site
Waterfront Tent Site on Lake Mary’s Channel
Pitch your tent and launch your kayak just steps from your site.
Enjoy a private, peaceful camping experience with direct water access. Whether you’re hanging a hammock between the trees or gathering around the campfire, this site serves as your personal gateway to the beautiful Twin Lakes.
The Waterfront & Access
• Paddle-In Paradise: Launch your kayaks directly from the campsite. It’s a scenic, easy 850-foot paddle through the shallow channel out to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Mary.
• Explore Two Lakes: Another, much shorter channel connects Lake Mary to Lake Elizabeth—perfect for low-profile watercraft to glide under the footbridges and explore both lakes in one trip.
• Pristine Water: Lake Mary is known for its incredible clarity and lack of seaweed/algae, making it a dream for paddlers.
• Complimentary firewood for your campfires, all I ask is that you please be respectful of how much you use because I want to offer this amenity to all guests this summer!
Local Fun at Lance Park (2-Min Drive / 15-Min Walk)
A safe sidewalk or quiet neighborhood stroll leads you to Lance Park, which offers:
• Swimming: A wonderful public beach with great water quality.
• Entertainment: Catch the famous “AquaNut” Water Show every Wednesday and Saturday night during the summer!
• Convenience: Lance Park’s bathrooms are open from 7am to 10pm, 24/7 access to a clean, handicap-accessible porta potty facility porta potty, with ample parking.
The Twin Lakes Lifestyle
Experience the charm of a classic lake town. The site is just minutes away from:
• Downtown Twin Lakes: A cute Main Street with local shops and energy.
• Dining: Several popular restaurant-bars are located right on the shores of Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth.
Note: The channel is too shallow to launch large, power boats, and it is too shallow for swimming directly at the campsite. The public beach at Lance Park is your go-to spot for a dip!
Pets
Campfires
from
$49
/ night
Creekside Dunes
9. Creekside Dunes
45mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, located close to downtown Chesterton, Indiana!Just minutes from your spot, discover outdoor fun at Indiana Dunes State Park, where forest, dunes, and beach await, or hike through the wetlands and scenic landscapes on the Indiana Dunes National Park Cowles Bog Trail. Closer to town, wander the nature paths and boardwalks of Coffee Creek Preserve, or enjoy biking and strolls along the Prairie Duneland Trail for a mix of easy adventure and beautiful scenery — all within about 15 miles of your campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Indiana Dunes National Park
10. Indiana Dunes National Park
95%
(43)
National park 43mi from Lincolnwood · 66 sites
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Channahon State Park
11. Channahon State Park
State park 48mi from Lincolnwood · 25 sites
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
97% (196) • 519 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lincolnwood
A Creek Runs Through It
1. A Creek Runs Through It
94%
(16)
33mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site · Tent, RV
I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$41
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
38mi from Lincolnwood · 2 sites
This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away.
Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet
25 dollars for 2nd pet (75)
2 max pets
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$90
/ night
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
3. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
49mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Come enjoy a stay at the rustic Hruby Ranch. 50 acres of private land to explore. A cozy comfortable excursion tent with queen bed. There are trails throughout of which you are free to explore. And our animals will surely delight. A fire pit is always a wonderful way to end the day. Located 12 minutes from I 65 and 15 minutes from downtown Crown Point and 20 from Valporaiso. If the beach is more your style, we are 25 minutes from the Indiana dunes and Lake Michigan!
We are in winter/inclimate weather conditions, all stays are hike in and out approximately 150yards from the barn and stable areas.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
4. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
83%
(9)
State park 30mi from Lincolnwood · 224 sites
Illinois’ only beach ridge shoreline sits within an hour of the city.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
5. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
State park 39mi from Lincolnwood · 185 sites
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Aloha Ranch
6. The Aloha Ranch
100%
(19)
49mi from Lincolnwood · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle.
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.
Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
Gun Smoke Ranch
7. Gun Smoke Ranch
98%
(163)
49mi from Lincolnwood · 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
from
$50
/ night
Painted Turtle Campsite
8. Painted Turtle Campsite
100%
(6)
45mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site
Waterfront Tent Site on Lake Mary’s Channel
Pitch your tent and launch your kayak just steps from your site.
Enjoy a private, peaceful camping experience with direct water access. Whether you’re hanging a hammock between the trees or gathering around the campfire, this site serves as your personal gateway to the beautiful Twin Lakes.
The Waterfront & Access
• Paddle-In Paradise: Launch your kayaks directly from the campsite. It’s a scenic, easy 850-foot paddle through the shallow channel out to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Mary.
• Explore Two Lakes: Another, much shorter channel connects Lake Mary to Lake Elizabeth—perfect for low-profile watercraft to glide under the footbridges and explore both lakes in one trip.
• Pristine Water: Lake Mary is known for its incredible clarity and lack of seaweed/algae, making it a dream for paddlers.
• Complimentary firewood for your campfires, all I ask is that you please be respectful of how much you use because I want to offer this amenity to all guests this summer!
Local Fun at Lance Park (2-Min Drive / 15-Min Walk)
A safe sidewalk or quiet neighborhood stroll leads you to Lance Park, which offers:
• Swimming: A wonderful public beach with great water quality.
• Entertainment: Catch the famous “AquaNut” Water Show every Wednesday and Saturday night during the summer!
• Convenience: Lance Park’s bathrooms are open from 7am to 10pm, 24/7 access to a clean, handicap-accessible porta potty facility porta potty, with ample parking.
The Twin Lakes Lifestyle
Experience the charm of a classic lake town. The site is just minutes away from:
• Downtown Twin Lakes: A cute Main Street with local shops and energy.
• Dining: Several popular restaurant-bars are located right on the shores of Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth.
Note: The channel is too shallow to launch large, power boats, and it is too shallow for swimming directly at the campsite. The public beach at Lance Park is your go-to spot for a dip!
Pets
Campfires
from
$49
/ night
Creekside Dunes
9. Creekside Dunes
45mi from Lincolnwood · 1 site
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, located close to downtown Chesterton, Indiana!Just minutes from your spot, discover outdoor fun at Indiana Dunes State Park, where forest, dunes, and beach await, or hike through the wetlands and scenic landscapes on the Indiana Dunes National Park Cowles Bog Trail. Closer to town, wander the nature paths and boardwalks of Coffee Creek Preserve, or enjoy biking and strolls along the Prairie Duneland Trail for a mix of easy adventure and beautiful scenery — all within about 15 miles of your campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Indiana Dunes National Park
10. Indiana Dunes National Park
95%
(43)
National park 43mi from Lincolnwood · 66 sites
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Channahon State Park
11. Channahon State Park
State park 48mi from Lincolnwood · 25 sites
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Mitch
3 days ago
Tent
With pets
This was a beautiful site right on the creek, as advertised! There were a few great spots to pitch a tent and hang a hammock. Though the host's home is visible, it's far enough away to feel somewhat private. She left us a good-sized table firepit that cooked up food for two well and we had plenty of kindling available nearby. We brought our own firewood so I'm not sure if the host offers any. Plenty of room to park and there were lots of nice animal noises throughout the day & night for that wilderness feel. I'd recommend this for a low-key site that feels close to nature.
See more
E
Eric and Aline
November 2025
36 ft Class A
With pets
Lovely spot. Follow instructions carefully and you’ll be fine. Worked great as we were reconnecting w/family.
See more
B
Brian
October 2025
Tent
With pets
The host, John, is a super nice guy and very accommodating. We showed up on the wrong date (by accident - my mistake) and he was very flexible about it and we ended up staying the night. Very nice campsites and we will definitely plan on coming back to visit.
See more
J
Jennifer
October 2025
19 ft campervan
As advertised. I was welcomed and happened to have the place to myself. Just what I needed & kindly available on very late notice.
See moreJ
Jonathan
October 2025
13 ft travel trailer
When we pulled up to the site, Kristen made sure we knew exactly where to park and gave us the layout of her land. It was nice to be able to park our camper there while we visited the nearby town.
This site was quiet and private. We felt very safe here. Kristen communicated well and we knew everything we needed to know before even showing up. We would definitely camp here again!
See more
M
Megan
October 2025
Tent
With kids
My family and I had an awesome time camping at Steve’s thoughtfully laid out campground. The ground was soft and level so the tents were super comfy. Lots of seating on stumps surrounding a clean fire pit. Watching the moon reflect on the water was magical!
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C
Camilla
October 2025
With pets
We had a wonderful stay. Nice to have a getaway like this so close to the city. We enjoyed the site- absolutely beautiful view of ponies and goats. Camper was worn and comfortable and very well stocked. There’s some highway noise but it becomes like white noise- I didn’t notice it really. The host was incredibly nice and helpful and communicative. We hope to return.
See moreM
Malaika
September 2025
Tent
Steve’s campsite was a lovely quiet spot that was private enough that we felt comfortable sleeping in the tent without the cover up. It was really peaceful and the trees covering the spot made it very secluded despite being in a neighborhood! Steve was very responsive and attentive as a host. 11/10 would stay there again!
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Vanisa
September 2025
With kids
The Hruby Ranch was everything we were hoping for and more. You can tell immediately that there is a lot of love put into the property. It is very well maintained and easy to do our overnight getaway, having comforts of home and still outdoor camping feeling. Seeing both sunset and sunrise from our site was so special. The animals were our kiddos favorite along with the trampoline!
Thank you Tom and Ally for the hospitality, we hope to make this at least an annual getaway.
See moreD
Daniel
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Love coming back to this site! Owners are kind and responsive, and the sites are clean and accessible! My kids are a huge fan of the swing set and the trampoline on the premises.
See moreD
Dan
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
What a great location. Every stay my family creates new memories. John is a great host. See ya whenever the 4th stay will be.
See more
s
smita
September 2025
With kids
We had such a wonderful stay here! Derek is a very helpful and responsive host. My daughter absolutely loved all the animals — cats, dogs, horses, and goats — which made the trip extra special. The location is perfect, close to the beach and just a short drive from Chicago, so it was both relaxing and convenient. We would definitely love to come back again.
See moreP
Patrick
September 2025
Tent
We arrived on Saturday morning. Another group left shortly after so we had the place to ourselves. Lots of property to roam around on. Played football all in the grassy hill and had the most fun using the shooting range. Great firewood available and some nice spots to set up camp. Will definitely be back and bring more people! Thanks again, John!
See moreB
Bram
September 2025
30 ft campervan
We stayed at John’s ranch for two nights and wished we could’ve stayed longer. John is an excellent host that helps you with whatever you need. I would recommend this place to anyone
See more
N
Natalia
September 2025
14 ft campervan
With pets
Great host.
Super responsive and helpful.
Easy to communicate.
We had great times! And our few dogs too.
Thank you so much!
Highly recommended!
See more
M
Megan
August 2025
Tent
If you’re looking for a peaceful and untouched place to camp, the Aloha Ranch is it! Bobby was very communicative, and went out of her way to ensure we enjoyed our stay. She helped set us up at a local fishing venue with a beautiful castle and we spent two days enjoying the weather and solitude. Our campsite also had excellent stargazing! Highly recommended to anyone looking for a private getaway.
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Y
Yasmine
August 2025
Tent
This spot is perfect for a one tent camp. You could tell the owner put a lot of work into this spot. The two dogs we brought did really well off leash and loved diving off the docks at Lake Mary.
Check out Cup of Joe in town for good coffee. Make sure to bring your kayaks ( we did not ) as the little creek does take you straight to the lake.
Lastly this spot is hidden within a neighborhood just as an fyi, but I definitely think it’s worth trying out.
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Amanda
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
Love this place so much, this was my second time back and plan to come again next summer. Beautiful spot and beautiful beach 10 min away. It’s close to Illinois so it’s a short drive. Highly recommend
See moreD
Daniel
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Had a great time. Campsite was spacious and had all the amenities we needed. Hosts also went above and beyond to help and assist us throughout the course of our stay.
See moreB
Bill
August 2025
Tent
Bobbie at Aloha Ranch was amazing! Great communication and such a wonderful host. Property was very fun and secluded. Thank you!
See more
