The best forest campgrounds near Naperville, Illinois

Looking for a forest camping experience near Naperville, Illinois? Look no further than Mulln-Heim Vineyards (342 reviews), Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), and East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), you can trust that you'll have a great stay. And with popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and toilets, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable camping trip. Don't wait, book your forest getaway on Hipcamp today!

96% (880)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a forest camping experience near Naperville, Illinois? Look no further than Mulln-Heim Vineyards (342 reviews), Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), and East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), you can trust that you'll have a great stay. And with popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and toilets, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable camping trip. Don't wait, book your forest getaway on Hipcamp today!

96% (880)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Bottom Ranch

92%

(127)

22mi from Naperville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Yorkville, IL

Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! Our entrance is marked by 2 cross crossed American flags. Come and enjoy our 32 acres of wooded property where a creek runs through. We have gorgeous oak trees and walnut trees all throughout the property. If you looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have 3 unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!

2. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

99%

(41)

19mi from Naperville · 10 sites · Tents · Big Rock, IL

Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. May see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less to Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open May 1 through Sept 30 (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be September 30th. And then we will be closed for the winter until May first. Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean close by. Local forest preserve has toilets or bring your own porti-john. Bring your horses. Set up a temp spot. We have the space. And there is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner. Camp with your HORSES! We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A tire swing. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, or gardens. 💕🙏

3. East Woods on the IL River

97%

(324)

44mi from Naperville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ottawa, IL

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.

4. Welcome to our Magical Woods

98%

(244)

39mi from Naperville · 9 sites · Tents · Marseilles, IL

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?

5. A Creek Runs Through It

93%

(15)

20mi from Naperville · 2 sites · RVs · Elgin, IL

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!

6. Angel Creek

98%

(151)

32mi from Naperville · 21 sites · Tents · Sheridan, IL

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.

7. Camp Whispering Pines

97%

(86)

39mi from Naperville · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Marseilles, IL

The property has sloped grass areas and a level hard packed gravel driveway with 2 pedestals that support 50A, 30A, and 110 + outlets + $5. The property is less than 1 mile from The Cliffs Insane Terrain Off Road Park and is 2.5 miles to downtown Marseilles. Downtown Marseilles has several bars, restaurants, a bowling alley, and ice cream. It also has a boat ramp with access to the Illinois River. A Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial, Walmart 13 miles, We have cheap firewood. We have chickens for farm fresh eggs that are $4 a dozen. Pond is closed for maintenance.

8. The Commons Oak Savanna

92%

(25)

43mi from Naperville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Woodstock, IL

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) 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 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 sheds if you encounter unexpected weather.

9. Kayak Starved Rock Campground

87%

(171)

50mi from Naperville · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · Ottawa, IL

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.

10. Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(3)

20mi from Naperville · 1 site · Tent · Yorkville, IL

7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. And yes — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️

11. The Aloha Ranch

100%

(19)

50mi from Naperville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Harvard, IL

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.

12. Gypsi Acres

83%

(3)

32mi from Naperville · 1 site · Tent · Sheridan, IL

Open field and wooded area, a creek to fish in

Camper favorites near Naperville

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Camp Whispering Pines

97%

(86)

39mi from Naperville · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Marseilles, IL

The property has sloped grass areas and a level hard packed gravel driveway with 2 pedestals that support 50A, 30A, and 110 + outlets + $5. The property is less than 1 mile from The Cliffs Insane Terrain Off Road Park and is 2.5 miles to downtown Marseilles. Downtown Marseilles has several bars, restaurants, a bowling alley, and ice cream. It also has a boat ramp with access to the Illinois River. A Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial, Walmart 13 miles, We have cheap firewood. We have chickens for farm fresh eggs that are $4 a dozen. Pond is closed for maintenance.

The Commons Oak Savanna

92%

(25)

43mi from Naperville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Woodstock, IL

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) 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 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 sheds if you encounter unexpected weather.

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

87%

(171)

50mi from Naperville · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · Ottawa, IL

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.

Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(3)

20mi from Naperville · 1 site · Tent · Yorkville, IL

7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. And yes — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️

The Aloha Ranch

100%

(19)

50mi from Naperville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Harvard, IL

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.

Gypsi Acres

83%

(3)

32mi from Naperville · 1 site · Tent · Sheridan, IL

Open field and wooded area, a creek to fish in

Stories from the community

J

James

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

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!

Leticia

3 weeks ago

31 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Camp Whispering Pines

Russell was very accommodating and had great communication with us the whole time. We had a great time staying at his property!

E

Eric

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

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

Tom

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to East Woods on the IL River

This trip was much colder than our typical trips to Katie's land, but we still had such a nice time!

J

Jennifer

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walnut Woods Farm

Suzanne, Jeremy and roommates were AMAZING! I love their property and the work they have put in to it to share with others. They spent so much time with me, teaching me! The horses , chickens (Beta ❤️), stocked pond and mowed paths. Beautiful!

Big rock forest preserve right around the corner. Hiking trails. Allows horses! I’ll allow horses on the farm. Ask me on advance to set something up. Camp with your horses!

C

Cristian

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

Easy check in and check out simple signs and location. Nice set up.

S

Santos

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bear Bottom Ranch

I loved hearing the owls and seeing the horse in the morning. This was a lovely piece of land and I would definitely recommend camping here.

S

Shannon

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

My friend and I had the best time here. Our campsite felt nice and private. We could spot a few other campers through the bare fall trees, but everyone was far enough away that it still felt peaceful. The walk from the parking area to the campsites isn’t bad at all. When we arrived, they even helped us bring our supplies to the site on a tractor. The wagon by the porta-potty was very helpful when we were packing up, although I’m sure we could have asked for help from the tractor, too. In the morning, I walked out to my car and saw all the horses grazing in the sunlight. It was such a serene moment, I almost forgot where we slept! We had big plans to go hiking in the nearby canyons, but honestly, we were having so much fun on the farm that we never left. The dogs, especially Tiller, were total sweethearts. Heidi was super friendly and gave us a tour of the barn and all the animals. She was so patient and kind, we had a lot of tour questions, especially about the barn cats! We bought firewood and fresh eggs from Heidi, and they were delivered right to our site, making everything feel easy and relaxed. We felt safe and welcome the entire stay--Tiller even curled up at our campsite for a while, keeping us company like a little protector, so sweet. Heidi and her family are awesome hosts, and we’re already talking about when we can come back!

D

Drew

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

This is our 3rd time camping here. We love the land. And Heidi is an amazing host who always goes above and beyond

A

Andy

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at East Woods on the IL River

It was secluded, quiet and nice. Owner was kind and very responsive!

M

Mark

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at East Woods on the IL River

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.

Maxime

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gypsi Acres

Cute little sweet spot by the creek. Friendly host and clean porta potties. Ducks, chicken and goats on the property is fun for kids. Road is nearby but traffic is not too bad. Not a deal breaker but something to note.

Sherri

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to East Woods on the IL River

Such a beautiful piece of land! We really enjoyed our stay. Mornings and evenings are magical by the water watching the birds.

Julia

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Welcome to our Magical Woods

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!

C

Carlos

October 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Un lugar hermoso que se disfruta lo unico traer tu propio generator si quieres luz

E

Egan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

We had a great time and would definitely come back. Lots of options for hammocks. It’s a pretty quiet area and an easy drive to nearby state parks. Enjoyed Tiller stopping by a few times to say hello. Heidi is super nice and available if you need anything.

Chelsea

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

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.

J

Jonathan

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to A Creek Runs Through It

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!

Motor Camping Near Woodstock, IL, ca. 1930

B

Brian

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Commons Oak Savanna

The Commons Oak Savannah is a beautiful property and was the perfect setting for our 1930's themed camp-out. The hilly 1/2 mile cow lane from the highway back to the campsite passes through fields and woodlands and lends a feeling of travelling to a distant place and time, and we had no problem negotiating it our 1928 Model A Ford. The site itself is surrounded by woods with ancient oaks to the north, east and south, and we enjoyed the magnificent sunset over the open fields to the west. Darkness brought the sounds of screech owls and even the distant yips and howls of coyotes. The site itself was large and well mowed, and we found an abundance of wood in the brush pile concealed in the tall grass next to the lane. Prospective campers may want to note that there is a small group of well-maintained honey bee hive boxes adjacent to the site, but they ignored us completely and did not even stray into our camp. The host, Steve, was very congenial, with excellent communication via both hipcamp messaging and phone texting, and his interest in helping us enjoy our experience was readily apparent. I heartily recommend The Commons Oak Savannah to campers seeking a tranquil and authentic experience and hope to return many times myself.

E

Estefania

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Walnut Woods Farm

One of the best camping experiences I’ve ever had 🌿. The place feels super safe, cozy, and peaceful; we truly enjoyed a real camping experience with lots of privacy and connection to nature. Suzanne was so kind from the moment we arrived, and even helped us carry our things to the campsite with a tractor. We also got to meet her beautiful horses and give them treats 🐴💛. Another highlight was the flexible check-in and check-out times, which made everything so much easier and stress-free. That was one of the main reasons we chose this spot, and it really made a difference. We left feeling delighted and are already looking forward to coming back!