The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Ottawa, Illinois

Looking to camp near Ottawa, Illinois and explore the beauty of a river? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 202 options in the area specifically tailored to your preferences, you'll find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a tranquil getaway or an adventurous weekend, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Some top campsites to consider include Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), and Welcome to our Magical Woods (66 reviews). With popular amenities like cooking equipment, campfires, and showers, and activities such as fishing, swimming, and off-roading, you'll have everything you need for an amazing camping experience. And the best part? The average price per night is just $39, with options as low as $20. So pack your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors!

97% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to camp near Ottawa, Illinois and explore the beauty of a river? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 202 options in the area specifically tailored to your preferences, you'll find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a tranquil getaway or an adventurous weekend, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Some top campsites to consider include Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), and Welcome to our Magical Woods (66 reviews). With popular amenities like cooking equipment, campfires, and showers, and activities such as fishing, swimming, and off-roading, you'll have everything you need for an amazing camping experience. And the best part? The average price per night is just $39, with options as low as $20. So pack your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors!

97% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Bottom Ranch

92%

(127)

23mi from Ottawa · 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. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

99%

(166)

34mi from Ottawa · 9 sites · Lodging · Tiskilwa, IL

🐐 Hungry World Farm: Glamping, Camping & Animal Encounters on a Working Regenerative Farm Looking for something more meaningful than just a campground? Welcome to Hungry World Farm—175 acres of forests, pastures, gardens, creeks, and animals where every visit connects people with the land, food, and each other. Just two hours west of Chicago, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park, our nonprofit educational farm offers a totally different overnight experience—one rooted in regeneration, organic farming, community, and joy. What Makes Hungry World Farm Different? You don’t just sleep under the stars—you wake up to the sound of goats bleating, chickens scratching, and the scent of dew on rich, healthy soil. Our 16 new glamping tents and campsites (cabin and apartments too) are nestled across rolling pastures and forests, offering sweeping views and proximity to daily farm life. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a family adventure, you'll be immersed in: 🐐 Baby Goat Snuggling & Animal Encounters 🌱 Working Regenerative Farm Experiences 🍕 Wood-Fired Pizza Nights on select Saturdays 🌳 Trails, Playgrounds, and Stargazing Opportunities Lodging Options: 🛖 Glamping Tents – Furnished with queen beds and solar electric, some deep in forest on ridges, some near playground/flat lawn for families w/small children. Some remote, others next to each other or families vacationing together. ⛺ Rustic Campsites – Private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature 🏡 Cabin, Apartments – So your friends that need AC/shower can have those comforts Other Experiences: 🐄 Guided Farm Tours of gardens, animals, and pastures 🛠️ Volunteer Days and Hands-On Learning Projects 📚 Seasonal Workshops in gardening, composting, and more 🥬 Farmstand Access (in-season) with eggs, produce, and preserves Perfect For: 2 or more families/friends, Nature lovers and first-time campers, Eco-friendly wedding parties. On-Site Amenities: - Fire pits at every site, with wood and other camping needs available for purchase- Portapotties and a public restroom located on the farm (not officially part of the campground but accessible)

3. Millbrook Trail Rides

96%

(110)

22mi from Ottawa · 1 site · Tent · Newark, IL

We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!

4. Historic Route 66 Hideaway

42mi from Ottawa · 3 sites · Lodging · Chenoa, IL

Traveling Route 66? Just passing though the area? Come enjoy a one of a kind destination camping experience just one mile off historic US Route 66! This property features 7.5 acres of prairie farmland with a creek running along the north side of the camping area. To the west, in a separate pasture are cattle living their best lives! This property has easy access off a county road, with spacious parking. A short walk down the property and you're at the private camping area. Each site has plenty of space and privacy, which includes a fully stocked camper with bedding, towels/washcloths, hotel style toiletries, and kitchens stocked with all the essentials. Since this is a boondocking setting, we provide a full fresh water tank, along with a quiet generator at each campsite for power (first full tank is on us). Site 1 hosts a 2021 Rockwood Geo Pro 20BHS Camper. It accomodates up to 6 people, but fits 4 most comfortably. An outside, camper mounted grill is included which utilizes the onboard propane system. TV is included in the main sleeping area, back area has 2 single bunks along with the middle area dinette which also converts into a sleeping area. Full bathroom is in the rear of the camper, with the cooking area placed across from the dinette. Site 2 hosts a 2020 Coleman Lantern 215BH Camper. It accomodates up to 6 people, but fits 4 most comfortably. Outside, the camper has an outdoor kitchen equipped with a mini fridge, a griddle, and a 2 burner cooktop which utilizes the onboard propane system. TV is included in the main sleeping area, back area has 2 oversized bunks along with the middle area dinette which also converts into a sleeping area. Full bathroom is in the rear of the camper, with the cooking area placed across from the dinette. The outside area also features a full power awning with an LED light strip for additional lighting, and the camping space has a family style picnic table. Come enjoy the midwest peacefulness right off Route 66 in this relaxing venue that you're sure to enjoy!

5. Welcome to our Magical Woods

98%

(244)

8.3mi from Ottawa · 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?

6. East Woods on the IL River

97%

(324)

0.5mi from Ottawa · 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.

7. Rancho Comienzo

99%

(84)

15mi from Ottawa · 3 sites · Tents · Sheridan, IL

Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays. Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities! We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!

8. Horseshoe Bend

99%

(650)

43mi from Ottawa · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Roanoke, IL

WE ARE CLOSED OCTOBER 1, 2025 - JANUARY 30, 2026 FOR THE 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 creel 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.

9. Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

98%

(31)

38mi from Ottawa · 3 sites · Tents · Washburn, IL

Great place for train lovers! Many train enthusiasts come and take pictures and videos Great place for fishing and relaxation! Kayaking down the creek Our specified 2 acres has been turned into a park like setting with beautiful trees and the creek around it! Small town near by with amenities ..

10. CSC Permaculture Project

99%

(135)

45mi from Ottawa · 5 sites · Lodging · Cabery, IL

8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors

11. Angel Creek

98%

(151)

12mi from Ottawa · 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.

12. Kayak Starved Rock Campground

87%

(171)

6mi from Ottawa · 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.

13. Crooked Creek Ranch

100%

(4)

44mi from Ottawa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ashton, IL

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.

14. Gypsi Acres

83%

(3)

13mi from Ottawa · 1 site · Tent · Sheridan, IL

Open field and wooded area, a creek to fish in

15. Rolling Oaks Campground

17mi from Ottawa · 51 sites · Sheridan, IL

Rolling Oaks Campground stands out as a unique family-owned destination, nestled along the picturesque Fox River just 7 miles south of Sandwich, Illinois. Since 1969, this campground has been a cherished retreat for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. Open from mid-April to mid-October, weather permitting, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages. At Rolling Oaks, there's no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. Families can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a playground, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits. The campground hosts special events throughout the summer, featuring music and dancing on Saturday evenings, farmers markets, and delightful cart rides. Guests can also partake in community dinners such as spaghetti suppers, corn boils, and pig roasts, creating lasting memories together. For those looking to cool off, the campground boasts a well-maintained outdoor swimming lake. Additional conveniences include a propane exchange station, a dump station, firewood for sale, and a snack bar offering delicious options like burgers and pizza. The nearby town of Sandwich provides ample shopping, dining, and laundry facilities, ensuring that all your needs are met during your stay. Rolling Oaks Campground features a variety of RV sites, including pull-thru, back-in, partial, and full

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Ottawa

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

CSC Permaculture Project

99%

(135)

45mi from Ottawa · 5 sites · Lodging · Cabery, IL

8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors

Angel Creek

98%

(151)

12mi from Ottawa · 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.

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

87%

(171)

6mi from Ottawa · 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.

Crooked Creek Ranch

100%

(4)

44mi from Ottawa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ashton, IL

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.

Gypsi Acres

83%

(3)

13mi from Ottawa · 1 site · Tent · Sheridan, IL

Open field and wooded area, a creek to fish in

Rolling Oaks Campground

17mi from Ottawa · 51 sites · Sheridan, IL

Rolling Oaks Campground stands out as a unique family-owned destination, nestled along the picturesque Fox River just 7 miles south of Sandwich, Illinois. Since 1969, this campground has been a cherished retreat for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. Open from mid-April to mid-October, weather permitting, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages. At Rolling Oaks, there's no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. Families can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a playground, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits. The campground hosts special events throughout the summer, featuring music and dancing on Saturday evenings, farmers markets, and delightful cart rides. Guests can also partake in community dinners such as spaghetti suppers, corn boils, and pig roasts, creating lasting memories together. For those looking to cool off, the campground boasts a well-maintained outdoor swimming lake. Additional conveniences include a propane exchange station, a dump station, firewood for sale, and a snack bar offering delicious options like burgers and pizza. The nearby town of Sandwich provides ample shopping, dining, and laundry facilities, ensuring that all your needs are met during your stay. Rolling Oaks Campground features a variety of RV sites, including pull-thru, back-in, partial, and full

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Ottawa

100%

(7)

Illini Campground

6.2mi from Ottawa · 100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Illini State Park

93%

(28)

Starved Rock Campground

11mi from Ottawa · 128 sites · Tents, RVs · in Starved Rock State Park

100%

(1)

Gebhard Woods Campground

20mi from Ottawa · 2 sites · in Gebhard Woods State Park

100%

(4)

Shabbona Lake Campground

26mi from Ottawa · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Des Plaines Campground

31mi from Ottawa · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

Channahon Campground

32mi from Ottawa · 25 sites · in Channahon State Park

Marshall Campground

39mi from Ottawa · 7 sites · in Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area

Green River Campground

40mi from Ottawa · 100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Green River State Wildlife Area

Equestrian Campground

45mi from Ottawa · 8 sites · in Kankakee River State Park

A shallow part of rock creek, near the campground.

100%

(1)

Chippewa Campground

45mi from Ottawa · 94 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

100%

(1)

Woodford Campground

48mi from Ottawa · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area

100%

(1)

Potawatomi Campground

49mi from Ottawa · 105 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

Stories from the community

Joe

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Had another awesome trip here. I was allowed to hike to the creek and camp. It was so beautiful and peaceful. The dog and horses are very friendly and cool. The hoasts are very nice.

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!

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

V

Victoria

November 2025

19 ft travel trailer

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Sandra is a wonderful, welcoming person, property is beautiful,site is clean , quiet & safe. I love the fall colors on the trees & hiking trails. I would recommend.

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!

Joe

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Great, beautiful place will definitely be back. Lots of firewood around, quiet and friendly. Has some cool horses.

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Millbrook Trail Rides

Nice property. Gorgeous sunset. Portapottie is on the other side of the property which I wish I knew beforehand as I may have camped elsewhere. It's a bit dark since it's in a barn and has no hand sanitizer so just make sure you've got a flashlight and hand sanitizer if needed. The instructions say if you have a car small enough with high clearance you can cross the bridge (mine was too big to drive across which is fine), but the owner said the bridge isnt built to be driven across. So for anyone thinking of driving to your campsite, just be aware of that! :)

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!

R

Raquel

October 2025

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

This was my favorite camping experience yet. The host was very helpful and hands on. The set up was perfect for sunny and rainy days. It was sooo cozy and had a private feel to it. The stars were sooo bright and clear. I enjoyed walking around the sight. I had everything I needed. I will come back to this site again!

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.

Greg here is just stopping through for one night on his trip around the country. Was on his bucket list and he's doing it! Cabin is often open on weeknights.

B

Ben

October 2025

With kids

1 night at CSC Permaculture Project

This is the second visit to CSC. It’s a great, quiet, place. No other campers around. If you’re primary goal is to enjoy time at camp, and perhaps take some walks/short hikes around the property, it’s perfect. Planning to return again.

J

Joel

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

What a wonderful Hipcamp experience! I received a very warm greeting from Sandra (and Koda!) who guided me down to the campsite. The site itself is private, tucked back in the woods, with plenty of space to spread out. Sandra had prepared the campfire, and there was tons of downed wood scattered about for gathering. I was able to ride my bike to a nearby restaurant that she recommended (No Prep Tacos—SO good), and slept so well in the peaceful tranquility of her property. I only wish I had more time to explore the property’s trails and brook. I will absolutely stay again the next time my travels bring me through the area!

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.