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

Looking to camp near Plainfield, Illinois and enjoy the beauty of a river? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 212 options available specifically near Plainfield, Illinois with river, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you're looking for a rustic tent site or a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has you covered. And with prices starting as low as $20 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Check out top campsites like Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), and Welcome to our Magical Woods (66 reviews) for some tried-and-true favorites. Plus, popular amenities like pets, showers, and potable water are available to make your camping experience even better. So get ready to experience the great outdoors and enjoy activities like wildlife watching, snow sports, and off-roading (OHV) at a Hipcamp campground near Plainfield, Illinois!

95% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to camp near Plainfield, Illinois and enjoy the beauty of a river? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 212 options available specifically near Plainfield, Illinois with river, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you're looking for a rustic tent site or a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has you covered. And with prices starting as low as $20 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Check out top campsites like Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), and Welcome to our Magical Woods (66 reviews) for some tried-and-true favorites. Plus, popular amenities like pets, showers, and potable water are available to make your camping experience even better. So get ready to experience the great outdoors and enjoy activities like wildlife watching, snow sports, and off-roading (OHV) at a Hipcamp campground near Plainfield, Illinois!

95% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bear Bottom Ranch

92%

(127)

16mi from Plainfield · 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. Millbrook Trail Rides

96%

(110)

16mi from Plainfield · 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!

3. East Woods on the IL River

97%

(324)

36mi from Plainfield · 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. RC River Retreat

47mi from Plainfield · 1 site · Lodging · Momence, IL

Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax. With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system. 2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock. Non-smoking. The space We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs. Guest access The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners. Other things to note There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four). So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.

5. Welcome to our Magical Woods

98%

(244)

30mi from Plainfield · 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. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%

(24)

50mi from Plainfield · 5 sites · Lodging · Gary, IN

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

7. A Creek Runs Through It

93%

(15)

26mi from Plainfield · 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!

8. CSC Permaculture Project

99%

(135)

47mi from Plainfield · 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

9. Rancho Comienzo

99%

(84)

24mi from Plainfield · 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!

10. Angel Creek

98%

(151)

25mi from Plainfield · 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.

11. Kayak Starved Rock Campground

87%

(171)

42mi from Plainfield · 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.

12. Gypsi Acres

83%

(3)

24mi from Plainfield · 1 site · Tent · Sheridan, IL

Open field and wooded area, a creek to fish in

Camper favorites near Plainfield

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

A Creek Runs Through It

93%

(15)

26mi from Plainfield · 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!

CSC Permaculture Project

99%

(135)

47mi from Plainfield · 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

Rancho Comienzo

99%

(84)

24mi from Plainfield · 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!

Angel Creek

98%

(151)

25mi from Plainfield · 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)

42mi from Plainfield · 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.

Gypsi Acres

83%

(3)

24mi from Plainfield · 1 site · Tent · Sheridan, IL

Open field and wooded area, a creek to fish in

Public campgrounds near Plainfield

Channahon Campground

14mi from Plainfield · 25 sites · in Channahon State Park

Des Plaines Campground

18mi from Plainfield · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

100%

(1)

Gebhard Woods Campground

21mi from Plainfield · 2 sites · in Gebhard Woods State Park

Equestrian Campground

32mi from Plainfield · 8 sites · in Kankakee River State Park

100%

(7)

Illini Campground

32mi from Plainfield · 100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Illini State Park

A shallow part of rock creek, near the campground.

100%

(1)

Chippewa Campground

33mi from Plainfield · 94 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

100%

(4)

Shabbona Lake Campground

33mi from Plainfield · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(1)

Potawatomi Campground

37mi from Plainfield · 105 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

93%

(28)

Starved Rock Campground

46mi from Plainfield · 128 sites · Tents, RVs · in Starved Rock State Park

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!

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!

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.

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!

C

Camilla

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

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.