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96% (495) • 1,297 campsites
Top-rated RV parks near Machesney Park
The Aloha Ranch
1. The Aloha Ranch
100%
(19)
26mi from Machesney Park · 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
The Commons Oak Savanna
2. The Commons Oak Savanna
92%
(26)
32mi from Machesney Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
(NOTE) Greenwood Rd and Illinois Rt 120 are the same...Google uses Greenwood Rd, and the State prefers Illinois Rte 120) Site 1&2 are south of the road and the farmstead access via the grass cow lane. Site 3 is behind the sheds north of the road.
Get away from it and commune with nature in a pre-settlement natural oak savanna with oaks and hickories of 200-400 years. 25-acre woodland completely fenced and surrounded by cropland and woods with no homes or roads within a half mile. Experience the land as the nomadic Indian tribes saw it. Trails cross the property. Hawks, owls, turkeys, and occasional bald eagles, along with finches, woodpeckers, doves, and martins that fill the sky; while deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits roam the grounds. Only two camps are available to keep the setting pristine and primitive and a third site can be used behind the farmstead facing the North-Fourty, in case you encounter unexpected weather or for rigs too large for the primative sites.
Woodstock is a destination location, with its noted Victorian charm and historic square. It's the only place famous movie actor Orson Welles called home, as does the groundhog of Bill Murray movie Groundhog Day fame.
Pets
Escape to Nature
3. Escape to Nature
98%
(385)
32mi from Machesney Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Each reservation includes firewood that is rough cut.
Always call ahead when you are planning to enjoy a local attraction.
This property is located on the outskirts of the village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. This is a kid-friendly and pet friendly location.
Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard.
What to do here:
Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks.
If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking.
Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit.
Check out these amazing area attractions!
-The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. (http://www.IRM.org)
-Tower Hills Stables, Trail Rides, Horseback Riding Camp (ages 5 to 14), Riding Lessons, just 8 miles drive, (https://www.towerhillstables.net/.)
-Summerfield Farm and Zoo, a privately owned zoo in rural Belvidere, IL, 3088 Flora Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008, a 30 minute drive. (https://summerfieldfarmandzoo.com/.)
-Safari Lake Geneva, 45 minute drive to the north, Visit Safari Lake Geneva, Wisconsin's original drive through animal park. Feed and interact with a variety of animals from the comfort of your car (https://safarilakegeneva.com/).
Additional suggestions include Santa's Village Amusement and Water Park in West Dundee, Randall Oaks Zoo, in Dundee on Randall Road, Minor League Baseball with Schaumburg Boomers or Kane County Cougars, Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Sullivan Mobile massage, Belvidere Park in Belvidere, IL, Volo Auto Museum, Department of Natural Resources Bike and Hiking Trails and fishing.
When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants.
We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff.
Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com.
FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂
Here are some answers to common questions.
We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent.
Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour.
ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door.
WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done.
CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing.
WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood.
PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits.
INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent.
HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage.
EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking.
ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.
Pets
Rock Cut State Park
4. Rock Cut State Park
100%
(6)
State park 3.2mi from Machesney Park · 266 sites
Four seasons of fun await at this rock-cut wilderness within day-trip distance of Chicago.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Lowden State Park
5. Lowden State Park
100%
(2)
State park 28mi from Machesney Park · 89 sites
Explore where legendary Chief Black Hawk once lived with his people.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Crooked Creek Ranch
6. Crooked Creek Ranch
100%
(15)
33mi from Machesney Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Wooded acres. Driving range. Starry sky's. Walking trails. Creek. Sledding hill. Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, fox, turkey, beaver, birds, to name a few. Abundant wood for fires.
Pets
Natures Garden
7. Natures Garden
99%
(38)
36mi from Machesney Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
Peaceful Private tree farm. Wildlife preservation. Deer, turkey, pheasant, quail, ducks, geese, birds, frogs etc. options: 4 wheeler trails.. Camp. Walk trails,. Peace and quiet for your picnic. Fish for small pan fish in ponds. Take pictures of wildlife. Feed pet ducks. Gods Glory! Guests provide own tents, chairs, tables, water, food. If the weather has days of rain. I will refund all visitors. Because its gets muddy.
May use bathroom in my cabin in an emergency. Enjoy! OPEN FOR CAMPERS MAY THU NOVEMBER
Pets
Ice Age Retreat
8. Ice Age Retreat
99%
(70)
40mi from Machesney Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more
Pets
A Creek Runs Through It
9. A Creek Runs Through It
95%
(19)
43mi from Machesney Park · 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
Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
10. Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
100%
(1)
State park 41mi from Machesney Park · 138 sites
Create happy memories at a lake with a funny-sounding name.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
11. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
State park 44mi from Machesney Park · 185 sites
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Lake Kegonsa State Park
12. Lake Kegonsa State Park
100%
(3)
State park 43mi from Machesney Park · 82 sites
Discover Lake Kegonsa's serene waters, lush trails, and family-friendly camping.
Sewer hookup
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
13. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 45mi from Machesney Park · 92 sites
Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Barrington Camp Close to Town
14. Barrington Camp Close to Town
97%
(18)
46mi from Machesney Park · 4 sites
Small farm property conveniently located 10 minutes from town, bike trails, recreation center, hospital, train to downtown Chicago, and restaurants including a popular marina bar/grill/ music venue called the Broken Oar.
Property includes access to large shared fire pit, bicycles, and electric/water hook ups (no sewage). Hipcampers are welcome to fill water tanks as needed, but constant connection is not always available. Note: campers have access to 15 & 30 amp electrical power via extension cords.
We welcome horses and pets, but clean up by visitors is required. For the safety of all Hipcampers and their pets, supervised off-leash playtime is expected. Please be outside with your pets while they are off-leash. The country-like property is a setting with wildlife, neighbors, pets, and free range chickens.
Owners Sam and Sylvia also reside on the property in the red home.
Enjoy your stay and thanks for visiting our listing!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping
15. Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping
100%
(12)
48mi from Machesney Park · 28 sites · Tents, RVs
These campsites are located along the lower half of our property and are tucked into fun little sites bordering our off road trail built for Jeeps, Broncos, and other similar off road vehicles. These are primitive style sites and cell phones likely will not work on any of our sites. This is truly a way to get away and just disconnect for a while! There is a VERY steep entrance into the camping area and a small water crossing is also necessary. Low clearance vehicles, cars, campers/trailers, and RV's will not be able to access the zone. If you'd like to camp at one of our sites and have a vehicle that won't qualify -- we do have friendlier parking but it will require quite a hike to get to your site or we can offer you a ride as well.
Pets
Paradise Quarry
16. Paradise Quarry
96%
(57)
49mi from Machesney Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our beautiful property! This is a very special place, located an hour from Chicago and only minutes from the west suburbs, you will be transported to another time! This has to be the best “swimming/ fishing hole” in Chicagoland and you can have it all to yourself.
The property features 20 acres of woods, prairie and an 8 acre lake!!! The lake is crystal clear because it’s so deep (reportedly 125 ft) and is sandy on the bottom. We created a massive beach area with many camping spots to choose from. The kids will love exploring the trails on foot and on bike. Everyone will love lounging under the umbrellas on the comfy chaise lounges and enjoying the views.
You won’t want to leave, but if you need to restock, there a gas station 1/4 mile away and full service grocery store and restaurant under a mile away. We even get pizza delivered! There’s a nice driveway of gravel that leads to a nice open field for RV campers. Tent campers can continue to the beach and set up in style.
The property was once an active quarry and was then basically abandoned for 40-50 years. Nature took over over, Trees matured, the stocked lake grew some massive fish. A few years ago we started camping out there and just loved it. We’ve worked hard to make it amazing and we want to share it with you.
Pets
Autumn Hill (Under Construction)
17. Autumn Hill (Under Construction)
6.4mi from Machesney Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Please forgive the roughness of the property. It's a foreclosure that is being rehabilitated. Come back and see the progress.
A little video showing some of what Rockford has to offer: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1460816965783215
We are outside of Rockford near Lockwood Park and an easy drive to the east side of town. The BMX race track is at Searls Park just 4 minutes from my place. Bike routes that go to or around the city and others that also connect to Wisconsin and Iowa routes are nearby—a great place to camp during the Ironman race during the summertime. Go hiking with the goats in Pecatonica; 15 minutes to Anderson Gardens and the downtown Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens at Sinnisippi Park, and the Klehm Arboretum is about 12 minutes away.
Currently under rehabilitation and not fancy yet; rustic and farm-like. The RV spots are located in a field and wooded area, without a concrete or gravel pad. Plenty of available firewood. I've been cutting down trees to make more usable space on the property. I’m in the middle of rehabbing the house, outbuildings, and landscaping the 2 acres. Shade spots are available away from the house. Must be self-sustainable. Not a paved path nor a landing, but it is mowed grass. A tree line and forestry path around the back of the property. It makes a nice walking path. The property goes back much further than the photos show, and I’ve widened the path. Lots of birds to greet you in the morning, and at night, crickets will sing you to sleep. I’m off a main four-lane road with a long driveway with ample room to drive to the back of the property. I’ll navigate you around the septic area when you get here. No guests or alcohol consumption without prior authorization. This is a quiet, relaxed family property.
A few helpful links to local attractions:
https://andersongardens.org/
Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens https://nicholasconservatory.com/
Klehm Arboretum https://klehm.org/
Lockwood Park https://www.facebook.com/LockwoodParkRockfordParkDistrict/
Searls Park https://rockfordparkdistrict.org/searls-park
Burpee Museum of Natural History https://burpee.org/
Discovery Center Museum https://discoverycentermuseum.org/
For things to eat, see, and do while in Rockford go the the website https://www.gorockford.com/
Pets
Brown Rusk Ranch
18. Brown Rusk Ranch
100%
(9)
11mi from Machesney Park · 3 sites
We have 5 acres with 112 trees. 3 pasture where people may camp. Dry camping with self contained RVs under 30 ft. We have an outhouse for tent campers. Water is available and have a huge fire pit area. Sheep goats and a cat. Numerous parks for hiking. Rockford is only 15 miles and Winnebago is 6 miles for any supplies. We have a car cottage that looks like the 50s diner. On a busy road but quiet at night. Many whimsical additions to our little ranch!
Pets
Limestone Bluff
19. Limestone Bluff
100%
(2)
29mi from Machesney Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We live on 17 acres in northern Illinois. A little over half of our property is wooded, and we also have a rolling hayfield and a year-round stream that runs through the lower part of the property. There are numerous mowed hiking paths around the hayfield and through the woods. One path leads down a limestone bluff to a picnic and camping area near the Leaf River—a big name for a nice-sized creek—that crosses the property.
Wildlife is abundant and includes deer, turkeys, coyotes, herons, and the occasional bobcat. It is not unusual to see bald eagles or red-tailed hawks overhead, and at night, you can often hear owls and coyotes.
We have numerous campsites available. Some are accessible by vehicle, while others are best reached on foot unless you have a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and don't mind a few potential scrapes and scratches from branches along the trail.
As with any wooded or grassy property, bugs can be an issue depending on weather conditions. Mosquitoes, ticks, and biting gnats are common, so bug spray is recommended to help you fully enjoy the outdoors.
Safety is especially important, particularly when children are present. The limestone bluff can be a fall hazard, creek banks may give way, poison ivy grows in the woods, and fire pits can cause burns. We maintain the trails to help minimize these risks, but common sense and close supervision of children will help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable stay.
There is a nice shallow area of the creek where children and adults can play, though water shoes are recommended. Please be aware that leeches may also be present. To help preserve the natural beauty of the property, we ask that guests do not climb on the limestone bluffs.
We have a dog named Poppy who has free run of the property. She may bark, but she is friendly and not aggressive. It's best to simply ignore her, and please do not feed her. If she becomes a problem, send us a message and we'll bring her back to the house.
We also have three barn cats that may wander by. If they bother you, simply clap your hands to shoo them away. As always, let us know if they're causing any issues.
Pets
OWL’s Nest
20. OWL’s Nest
85%
(10)
36mi from Machesney Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Site is across the road from Pell Lake and you can watch the lake from the site. The lake also is good for canoes and fishing. Behind the spot is a wet land - lots of bird watching! Best for self contained or rustic camping, no bathroom or facilities.
Parking is on the gravel driveway. You have access to grass and fire pit. Access to hose and electrical available for fee. NO DUMPING.
Property is 10 minutes from downtown Lake Geneva, 10 minutes to Country Thunder, or 20 minutes to Wilmont Ski Hill. For a bit farther it is 30 minutes to the Kettle Moraine State Park or Alpine Valley.
Pets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Theresa
June 2026
21 ft Class B
Lovely setting.
Friendly and welcoming.
Nice location.
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Tim
March 2026
31 ft Class C
Very friendly and helpful. They were even kind enough to give us three farm fresh eggs that were great.
See more
R
Raquel
March 2026
22 ft fifth wheel
With kids
We had an amazing stay on Sam’s land. We camped in winter (end of Feb), and had the lot to ourselves. Sam was friendly and helpful to get the power hooked up. Our 5yo had a blast playing in the yard, we can only imagine how fun that must be in summer. He got to peek inside the hen house and even got to take some fresh eggs. Make sure to bring an adapter from 110V/15A to 30/50 depending on your RV - it gives you more freedom to put up your RV anywhere in the yard.
If you are looking for a good dinner spot close by we recommend checking out Neoteca.
See moreS
Sunny
November 2025
26 ft travel trailer
Lovely quiet spot. Easy to find, easy to park, close to the train to the city.
Sam was a very nice host. I’ll be back next year.
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K
Kristin
August 2025
27 ft Class C
With pets
Sam and Sylvia’s property is really beautiful. It’s so quiet and peaceful. And they are such a sweet pair. They were generous and kind.
See moreJ
Jimmy
August 2025
35 ft travel trailer
Nice place to park. Better marking by the road for location would help. Gate to the area is a little tight but definitely doable. Great host!
See moreT
Tim
August 2025
14 ft travel trailer
We had a fantastic stay. Beautiful place, incredibly friendly hosts. We even left with some fresh eggs!!
Highly recommended
See moreB
Ben
August 2025
26 ft Class B
With kids
Sam was the perfect host, helpful but not overbearing. The site is beautiful, secluded but close (5 min drive) to Barrington station which was great for trains into Chicago to explore. Our 2 year old loved playing on the slide, trampoline and feeding the chickens. Highly recommend.
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Jay
July 2025
25 ft Class A
With pets
A beautiful quiet farm
Gracious host with Sam and Sylvia. Our dog loved area to romp around.
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P
Peter
July 2025
16 ft car
Incredible hospitality in the middle of a downpour! Nice place to stay!
See moreT
Tyson
July 2025
25 ft travel trailer
With kids
Sam was very friendly and welcoming! Close to Chicago for driving into the city and nice and quiet location!
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B
Brad
June 2025
35 ft Class A
Wonderful quiet spot with lots of space. Sam and his wife are amazing and friendly hosts . The pasture is wide open and separated enough from the main house to feel some privacy and space for dogs to run around outside. Added bonus was the various chickens which we enjoyed and were lucky enough to get some free eggs. This is ideal to much of the what north and west suburbs has to offer and about an hour to the city.
If you’re prepared for a few logistics this is an ideal spot. We could not believe it was in Chicago.
1. Don’t follow Google Maps marker. It will put you next door. Use Apple Maps or the physical address.
2. There are 2 NARROW gates. Our full-size RV managed to drive through but go slow and straight and pay attention to mirrors
3. This is boondocking - fill up on water at the front of the property before you head back. 30amp service is on the barn which won’t help unless you need to park and charge batteries for a little bit. 110v is available with extension cords if you’re tent or popup camping and just want to run devices. Dump station is not to far away.
It was summer so we parked in back and ran the generator and so ended up fine but we had enough fuel in the tanks to do that so I’m posting the above tips so you come prepared and enjoy the property and the hospitality.
We would absolutely return when camping in Chicago area!
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Michael
June 2025
16 ft travel trailer
I had a great stay! The Ranch is a wonderful
Quiet and pretty country setting. The hosts were very friendly and welcoming. Would definitely recommend it
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Michele
June 2025
23 ft Class C
With pets
Beautiful spot a short drive from Chicago (and opposite from the worst of the traffic!) The site is meticulously clean, has beautiful gardens, and is filled with kitchy, quirky, adorable art at every turn. Grassy site was level and dry, is set up for fully self-contained campers, but there is a picnic area and firepit - and there are sheep and a friendly family of cats. What more could one ask? (Well, you could also ask for a tour of the host's garage, which my husband got - he has restored some BEAUTIFUL classic cars.)
Across the street from Four Lakes Winnebago County Forest Preserve - great catch-and-release fishing at the lakes, well-stocked with tiny but feisty bluegill. Lovely rural area with horses and cows dotting the landscape, but still only about a 15 minute drive to Rockford if you need city amenities. Both Love's Truck Stops in the area have sewer dumps and propane available for campers.
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Donald
June 2025
23 ft Class C
With pets
Very unique location to spend a quiet night on the road. We found that if you go back near the fire pit and park your rig parallel to the road that the spot is totally level. Recommend you stay if traveling through. 50’s diner very cool too.
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Richard
June 2025
9 ft Class C
This is a wonderfully tranquil place to stay.. the host is brilliant too! Thanks!!
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Robert
June 2025
16 ft car
Amazing experience camping on Pat's land. They have classic cars. Sheep on the land. The cat had a litter of kittens and we got swarmed by little cuties. camp fire, great folks, and amazing times. Would recommend this place to anyone.
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Francine
May 2025
40 ft Class A
With pets
Sam and his wife are truly amazing hosts! They make sure you get settled and help you with anything you need. We are pretty large rig of a 41 foot motorhome and a 22 foot cargo trailer that pulls our car and we were able to fit comfortably in his pasture site. The location is so peaceful and serene, gorgeous big trees. Fantastic location in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Very close to downtown barrington for groceries and restaurants. We have a small child and they have a great playground he was able to use. We just couldn’t recommend this site enough for future travelers!
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Jessica
May 2025
30 ft Class C
With pets
Very kind, communicative, friendly hosts. We had the place to ourselves! Plenty of room for our dogs to freely run & play. Quiet, nestled-in, level site for our 30 ft class C.
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