97% (1.8K) • 837 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Pontiac
CSC Permaculture Project
1. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
26mi from Pontiac · 1 site
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Horseshoe Bend
2. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(691)
26mi from Pontiac · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
WE ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026 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 creek 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Old Rugged Barn
3. The Old Rugged Barn
95%
(91)
26mi from Pontiac · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
I grew up on a farm and thrilled to be enjoying country living once again! We are not annual campground, but we have space on the property for travelers needing an overnight or two. We can be found on HIPCAMP listed under OLD RUGGED BARN.
We are in central IL near Historic Rt 66, minutes north of Bloomington-Normal with easy access from I-55. The property is a small 3.5 Acre farmstead that includes our event venue, space that can used for campers, and my home.
We offer space for Campers through Hipcamp. We are NOT a campground per se. We do have space on our property to comfortably accommodate up to 8 spaces for Overnight guests.
I moved to the farm in 2010 with the intent to simply enjoy the peace And quiet of country living. Then I realized we Could create a place that could serve as a place for community to gather for special events.
We are making constant strides to utilize Our 3.5 acres highlighted by the Old Rugged Barn venue and welcome the opportunity to host any kind of public and private event! The Old Rugged Barn..... where happy happens!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Illini State Park
4. Illini State Park
100%
(7)
State park 30mi from Pontiac · 100 sites
Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Moraine View State Recreation Area
5. Moraine View State Recreation Area
100%
(3)
State park 33mi from Pontiac · 105 sites
1,687-acre Moraine View State Recreation Area is a scenic spot for both relaxation and recreation. It features a 158-acre lake and irregular crests formed by glaciers 15,000 years ago called moraines. Scattered groves of white oak, red oak, black walnut, maple, hickory, ash and elm dot the valleys.Anglers may be interested in competing in the fishing tournaments held at the lake, offering opportunities to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, bullhead, crappie, channel catfish, walleye, yellow perch and northern pike. There are also a number of shorter trails (less than 2 miles) to explore, including The Timber Point Handicapped Trail, which gives disabled visitors an opportunity for some quality time in the woods. An additional seven miles of trails is available for cross-country skiing and snowmobiles once there’s sufficient snowfall.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Welcome to our Magical Woods
6. Welcome to our Magical Woods
98%
(250)
31mi from Pontiac · 6 sites
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.
Campsites rentals benefit Acres Of Peace Center which provides free mental health programs to Veterans since 2004(located on our farm)
We have 5 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 dedicated to being inclusive. We all LOVE nature and 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, a miniature sheep and a very sweet goat named Hairy. There are about 30 chickens wandering the yard all day and we have 4 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 miles away. Barges, trains (not many) tug boats, and the interesting sounds that come with them. Listen carefully, can you tell them apart?
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
East Woods on the IL River
7. East Woods on the IL River
97%
(335)
34mi from Pontiac · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
8. Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley
98%
(32)
36mi from Pontiac · 2 sites
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 ..
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
The City Farm - RV Stop
9. The City Farm - RV Stop
98%
(24)
36mi from Pontiac · 1 site
Residential farm with active crop production.
RV parking with 50 amp electric and water.
VERY close proximity to I-74 and I-55;
The farm is located adjacent to the Interstate, I-74.
Very close to amenities in Bloomington/Normal Illinois.
10 minutes to ISU, State Farm, Grossinger Motors Coliseum, the Castle Theater and other music venues.
Fitness trail on property 0.5 mile walking trail around the outside of the crops
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Gebhard Woods State Park
10. Gebhard Woods State Park
100%
(1)
State park 34mi from Pontiac · 2 sites
Birds and boats, turtles and trails. Find all of the above and more at Gebhard Woods State Park. Enjoy this little world as you picnic by the shady lake, take a boat out to fish, and explore the trails weaving through the park. No matter the season, no matter the weather, the park is open and raring to go! Check out the variety of birds, bring your horse around for a trot, there is a million ways to have fun at Gebhard Woods!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Starved Rock State Park
11. Starved Rock State Park
93%
(28)
State park 35mi from Pontiac · 128 sites
Gushing waterfalls, ice sculptures, white-tailed deer and soaring eagles offer year-round excitement
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
12. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 40mi from Pontiac · 22 sites
Experience an echo of the expansive natural prairies of an Illinois past when you come to Des Plaines Fish & Wildlife Area. The tranquil vibes of the park will refresh your soul. The smooth flowing rivers and natural prairie lands stretch across the horizon—making that campfire glow all the more spectacular.
There is so much diversity at this park; woodland turns to farmland, prairie turns to swamp, calm waters turn to rushing rivers. This makes for an exceptional array of epic outdoor activities to partake in. We’re talking something for nature lovers and huntsmen alike. The fishing here is on point, with bass, walleye, northern pike, and catfish jumping at the bait on the banks of Miliken Lake and Kankakee River. Explore the acres of naturally preserved beauty, embrace the lush water sources, and just have a hell of a good time all around at this park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kankakee River State Park
13. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
State park 41mi from Pontiac · 207 sites
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Posey Ridge
14. Posey Ridge
96%
(106)
39mi from Pontiac · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
I have a lake with lots of fish to go fishing, canoeing, kayaking. I also have small jon boat available for fishing. My property also has a outdoor his and hers privys..(bathrooms) No water though. I also have two construction trailers that we remodeled with couches chairs tables and refrigerators and TV's. These have a microwave in them to. These are available for people to stay in if wanted. They also have heat and AC. No water though. They cost extra to stay in.There's also places with camper plug ins. So power is available. Also have horseshoe pit and overhead cooking area. Great place for tent camping also. Have fire pit. And fire rings available. Also have access to firewood. Just no water. Great quiet enjoyable place for getaway to go fishing,canoeing or kayaking. Conveniently located between Peoria and Bloomington Illinois. Only about 3/4 from the Mackinaw river. For those who love to canoe and kayak on the river.
Paddle boats will be available please inquire.
** PLEASE CONTACT HOSTS ABOUT PETS**
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Angel Creek
15. Angel Creek
98%
(151)
40mi from Pontiac · 20 sites
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Gypsi Acres
16. Gypsi Acres
95%
(10)
42mi from Pontiac · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to Nature's Sanctuary at Gypsi Acres
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of our 3-acre camping oasis, nestled amidst lush landscapes and soothing water views.
Open Field Camping: Pitch your tent under starry skies with breathtaking sunset views
Wooded Wonderland. Discover secluded campsites surrounded by towering trees and vibrant wildlife
**Creek Side Serenity*: Unwind to gentle water flows and enjoy creek-side camping with tranquil views
**Primitive Camping*: Immersive nature experience with no hookups
**Portable Toilets*: Clean facilities for your convenience
**Campfire Rings*: Cozy up to starry nights with friends and family
**Stargazing*: Unobstructed views of the night sky
Tent Camping
RV/Trailer (no hookups)
Book Your Nature Escape:
Call/Text [331-575-2398] or
Email [ karen88rodriguez@yahoo.com
Property can also be rented as an event venue for parties with a barn
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rancho Comienzo
17. Rancho Comienzo
99%
(84)
45mi from Pontiac · 2 sites
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!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Bear Bottom Ranch
18. Bear Bottom Ranch
92%
(133)
49mi from Pontiac · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Millbrook Trail Rides
19. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(116)
50mi from Pontiac · 1 site
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!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Historic Route 66 Hideaway
20. Historic Route 66 Hideaway
9.3mi from Pontiac · 2 sites
Traveling Route 66? Just passing 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 accommodates 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, the back area has 2 single bunks along with the middle area dinette, which also converts into a sleeping area. The 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 accommodates 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, the back area has 2 oversized bunks along with the middle area dinette, which also converts into a sleeping area. The 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's peacefulness right off Route 66 in this relaxing venue that you're sure to enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
Rudolf
3 days ago
Tent
With kids
Stay was great. Perfect host. Our friendly dog visitors were the best, especially Tiller!
See more
Erin
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
I can understand why it’s number one in illinois now. host was very friendly and the sites had everything you could need. free endless fire wood, garbage cans, picnic tables, grill and plenty of space. our dog had a blast and we saw and heard plenty of nature. looking forward to coming back.
See more
L
Liz
1 week ago
16 ft car
Wonderful site ran in a relaxed, homely manner. Very accessible for a first-time camper such as myself.
See more
David
1 week ago
Tent
Lovely campsite! Brady was friendly and pointed out the firewood, shower, outhouse, and hiking trails. Everything was exactly as described on hip camp. Saw lots of wildlife -- deer, crane, and even a fox!
See more
A
Amelia
1 week ago
Tent
We loved our stay at Katie’s campsite! The spot is tucked away behind honeysuckle shrubs, so it’s very private, with the lovely goose creek babbling away and serving as our very own white noise machine. Perfect spot to camp for exploring Ottawa!
See more
Erin
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Always amazing experience at Katie’s :) beautiful land and very personable host. Clean site, will be back again!
See more
R
Riley
2 weeks ago
A
Alice
2 weeks ago
Tent
This was an utterly dreamy camping experience. The woods were verdant and alive with wildlife, (coyotes, deer, fish, some sort of water ferret??), but also there were hardly any bugs, (probably thanks both to the time of year and the well-maintained, mowed grass).
Creekside West is a nicely private campsite, and although it is the closest to the (non-busy) road of the available campsites, and you can see the main house and shop through the trees, the site itself is enshrouded in trees on all sides so didn’t feel at all exposed. There were large patches of sun all through the day, and the creek was perfect for wade-swimming (about 3’ deep near the campsite).
Beautiful walking trails, meadows and woods and creek.
And yes, I have never seen a cleaner port a potty! Smelled like a rose garden and was perfectly clean within.
Our host was attentive but not overbearing - checked in via text to make sure we were alright but otherwise gave us space. And friendly when we did run into him!
The campsites do vary quite a bit from one another, so make sure you read the descriptions and look at the pictures to get a sense before booking.
See more
c
cheryl
2 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
Quiet and charming spot in the country. Enough light to see when you’re getting set up. Plenty of places to sit and the bird sign in the morning is delightful.
See more
F
Frank
2 weeks ago
Tent
Creekside 1 was a beautiful and peaceful site, and the entire campground was incredible. We saw many deer and turkey, and it was fun listening to the owls at night. I look forward to coming back!
See more
N
Noah
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Wonderful site, and secluded enough to feel like our own private campsite.
See more
B
Bethany
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Beautiful campsite!! And had a great time with my dog. Quite and private, easy to find. Will definitely be back :)
See more
Christine
2 weeks ago
32 ft travel trailer
Really good stop, so close to the highway and a great spot to park. Nice people, good communication and everything was just as listed.
See more
Bonnie
2 weeks ago
14 ft truck camper
Great experience all the way around. Easy to book, great rate, excellent instructions/easy to find. I really appreciated the firewood provided and how spaced out/private the campsites are. The campground is clean and well maintained. A perfect retreat for the nature enthusiast and convenient for travelers! I look forward to coming back!
See more
F
Frank
2 weeks ago
15 ft toy hauler
Really sweet wooded area near a small stream. Extremely quiet. Campsites a couple hundred feet apart, all with power hookups, picnic tables, fire pit, free split firewood. Only one other camper on the 10 sites. 30 wooded acres with several hiking trails
See more
Russell
2 weeks ago
Tent
We arrived well after nightfall and couldn't find the camp entrance. We managed to get Brady on the phone and he kindly guided us into the campground.
Once there everything was perfect! Both the shower and outhouse were short walk from the camp. But the highlight was the babbling creek gently singing us to sleep.
See more
C
Chris
3 weeks ago
21 ft Class B
Beautiful and peaceful spot in the woods. We loved staying here for the night and wish we could have stayed longer.
See more
P
Phy
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Desperately needed some R&R in nature so we decided to hop on Hipcamp and kick off the season! Katie was such a sweet soul and was so welcoming! We enjoyed our stay and will be back.
See moreR
Robert
3 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very nice place comfortable accommodation and the host is very friendly.
See more
S
Sydney
3 weeks ago
Tent
We had a lovely stay tent camping! The creek was beautiful, and firewood was provided. It was a great place for swimming, exploring, and relaxing. Would definitely stay again!
See more
