- Riverside Camping
The best river, stream, or creek camping near Rolling Meadows
96% (226) • 613 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Rolling Meadows
A Creek Runs Through It
1. A Creek Runs Through It
94%
(16)
19mi from Rolling Meadows · 1 site · Tent, RV
I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$41
/ night
The Aloha Ranch
2. The Aloha Ranch
100%
(19)
35mi from Rolling Meadows · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle.
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.
Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
Bear Bottom Ranch
3. Bear Bottom Ranch
92%
(129)
42mi from Rolling Meadows · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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
from
$35
/ night
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
4. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
State park 28mi from Rolling Meadows · 185 sites
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
5. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
83%
(9)
State park 27mi from Rolling Meadows · 224 sites
Illinois’ only beach ridge shoreline sits within an hour of the city.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Millbrook Trail Rides
6. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(111)
43mi from Rolling Meadows · 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
from
$27
/ night
Painted Turtle Campsite
7. Painted Turtle Campsite
100%
(6)
34mi from Rolling Meadows · 1 site
Waterfront Tent Site on Lake Mary’s Channel
Pitch your tent and launch your kayak just steps from your site.
Enjoy a private, peaceful camping experience with direct water access. Whether you’re hanging a hammock between the trees or gathering around the campfire, this site serves as your personal gateway to the beautiful Twin Lakes.
The Waterfront & Access
• Paddle-In Paradise: Launch your kayaks directly from the campsite. It’s a scenic, easy 850-foot paddle through the shallow channel out to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Mary.
• Explore Two Lakes: Another, much shorter channel connects Lake Mary to Lake Elizabeth—perfect for low-profile watercraft to glide under the footbridges and explore both lakes in one trip.
• Pristine Water: Lake Mary is known for its incredible clarity and lack of seaweed/algae, making it a dream for paddlers.
• Complimentary firewood for your campfires, all I ask is that you please be respectful of how much you use because I want to offer this amenity to all guests this summer!
Local Fun at Lance Park (2-Min Drive / 15-Min Walk)
A safe sidewalk or quiet neighborhood stroll leads you to Lance Park, which offers:
• Swimming: A wonderful public beach with great water quality.
• Entertainment: Catch the famous “AquaNut” Water Show every Wednesday and Saturday night during the summer!
• Convenience: Lance Park’s bathrooms are open from 7am to 10pm, 24/7 access to a clean, handicap-accessible porta potty facility porta potty, with ample parking.
The Twin Lakes Lifestyle
Experience the charm of a classic lake town. The site is just minutes away from:
• Downtown Twin Lakes: A cute Main Street with local shops and energy.
• Dining: Several popular restaurant-bars are located right on the shores of Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth.
Note: The channel is too shallow to launch large, power boats, and it is too shallow for swimming directly at the campsite. The public beach at Lance Park is your go-to spot for a dip!
Pets
Campfires
from
$49
/ night
Rolling Oaks Campground
8. Rolling Oaks Campground
48mi from Rolling Meadows
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
Channahon State Park
9. Channahon State Park
State park 46mi from Rolling Meadows · 25 sites
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
10. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 49mi from Rolling Meadows · 92 sites
Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
11. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 49mi from Rolling Meadows · 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
96% (226) • 613 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Rolling Meadows
A Creek Runs Through It
1. A Creek Runs Through It
94%
(16)
19mi from Rolling Meadows · 1 site · Tent, RV
I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$41
/ night
The Aloha Ranch
2. The Aloha Ranch
100%
(19)
35mi from Rolling Meadows · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle.
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.
Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
Bear Bottom Ranch
3. Bear Bottom Ranch
92%
(129)
42mi from Rolling Meadows · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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
from
$35
/ night
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
4. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
State park 28mi from Rolling Meadows · 185 sites
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
5. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
83%
(9)
State park 27mi from Rolling Meadows · 224 sites
Illinois’ only beach ridge shoreline sits within an hour of the city.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Millbrook Trail Rides
6. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(111)
43mi from Rolling Meadows · 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
from
$27
/ night
Painted Turtle Campsite
7. Painted Turtle Campsite
100%
(6)
34mi from Rolling Meadows · 1 site
Waterfront Tent Site on Lake Mary’s Channel
Pitch your tent and launch your kayak just steps from your site.
Enjoy a private, peaceful camping experience with direct water access. Whether you’re hanging a hammock between the trees or gathering around the campfire, this site serves as your personal gateway to the beautiful Twin Lakes.
The Waterfront & Access
• Paddle-In Paradise: Launch your kayaks directly from the campsite. It’s a scenic, easy 850-foot paddle through the shallow channel out to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Mary.
• Explore Two Lakes: Another, much shorter channel connects Lake Mary to Lake Elizabeth—perfect for low-profile watercraft to glide under the footbridges and explore both lakes in one trip.
• Pristine Water: Lake Mary is known for its incredible clarity and lack of seaweed/algae, making it a dream for paddlers.
• Complimentary firewood for your campfires, all I ask is that you please be respectful of how much you use because I want to offer this amenity to all guests this summer!
Local Fun at Lance Park (2-Min Drive / 15-Min Walk)
A safe sidewalk or quiet neighborhood stroll leads you to Lance Park, which offers:
• Swimming: A wonderful public beach with great water quality.
• Entertainment: Catch the famous “AquaNut” Water Show every Wednesday and Saturday night during the summer!
• Convenience: Lance Park’s bathrooms are open from 7am to 10pm, 24/7 access to a clean, handicap-accessible porta potty facility porta potty, with ample parking.
The Twin Lakes Lifestyle
Experience the charm of a classic lake town. The site is just minutes away from:
• Downtown Twin Lakes: A cute Main Street with local shops and energy.
• Dining: Several popular restaurant-bars are located right on the shores of Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth.
Note: The channel is too shallow to launch large, power boats, and it is too shallow for swimming directly at the campsite. The public beach at Lance Park is your go-to spot for a dip!
Pets
Campfires
from
$49
/ night
Rolling Oaks Campground
8. Rolling Oaks Campground
48mi from Rolling Meadows
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
Channahon State Park
9. Channahon State Park
State park 46mi from Rolling Meadows · 25 sites
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
10. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 49mi from Rolling Meadows · 92 sites
Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
11. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 49mi from Rolling Meadows · 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
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Mitch
3 days ago
Tent
With pets
This was a beautiful site right on the creek, as advertised! There were a few great spots to pitch a tent and hang a hammock. Though the host's home is visible, it's far enough away to feel somewhat private. She left us a good-sized table firepit that cooked up food for two well and we had plenty of kindling available nearby. We brought our own firewood so I'm not sure if the host offers any. Plenty of room to park and there were lots of nice animal noises throughout the day & night for that wilderness feel. I'd recommend this for a low-key site that feels close to nature.
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B
Brian
November 2025
Tent
Site 1 was perfect. We had a couple nice days before the snowstorm hit to enjoy the trails and bonfire pit. We were there to winter camp so snow was a plus. Plenty of down limbs if run short on wood. Stores were close and bbr was easy to find. Recommend if you like privacy.
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J
Jawad
November 2025
Tent
This is a beautiful site just 1.5 hours from downtown. Also, didn't knew silver springs state wildlife park was just 5 mins from here. I would come here in spring and summer when the creek level is enough for paddling.
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Jimmy
November 2025
16 ft car
Extremely private as described. Nice area. We didn't get to spend much time there but we would recommend it to anyone looking for a private spot. 2WD accessible even with a sedan. Thanks!
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K
Katie
October 2025
Tent
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! :)
See moreS
Santos
October 2025
Tent
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.
See moreC
Carlos
October 2025
12 ft pop-up camper
Un lugar hermoso que se disfruta lo unico traer tu propio generator si quieres luz
See moreJ
Jonathan
October 2025
13 ft travel trailer
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!
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M
Megan
October 2025
Tent
With kids
My family and I had an awesome time camping at Steve’s thoughtfully laid out campground. The ground was soft and level so the tents were super comfy. Lots of seating on stumps surrounding a clean fire pit. Watching the moon reflect on the water was magical!
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M
Mike
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
A really great spot and a really amazing experience being around the horses. Can't wait to visit again.
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D
Deanne
September 2025
Tent
With kids
My daughter and I love camping and horses and this was the perfect mix!! Loved our site, we were able to set up hammocks and have a nice fire. The train is loud at night but it kinda makes it more of an adventure. The horses coming into our site was just the most epic and amazing thing. Host is so sweet and we cannot wait to come back to do a trail ride! Note: the road to the site is very bumpy so keep this in mind with vehicle. Recommend!!
See moreM
Malaika
September 2025
Tent
Steve’s campsite was a lovely quiet spot that was private enough that we felt comfortable sleeping in the tent without the cover up. It was really peaceful and the trees covering the spot made it very secluded despite being in a neighborhood! Steve was very responsive and attentive as a host. 11/10 would stay there again!
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Dave
September 2025
15 ft travel trailer
Wonderful piece of property fantastic hosts my third or fourth time here had a great time every single trip will highly recommend this
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s
sarah
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Wonderful place- private and so special with the horses and other animals on the property nearby! Kids love to play in the creek and meet the horses!
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S
Stephanie
September 2025
8 ft travel trailer
Our pups loved this place! Three sites that were a good distance apart, no one bothered us, and the site was well maintained. You could definitely fit a couple tents per site if you're going with family!
Porta poty was very clean and easily accessible.
See moreC
Carlos
September 2025
12 ft pop-up camper
With kids
It is a beautiful place for camping.
It is very quiet.
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M
Megan
August 2025
Tent
If you’re looking for a peaceful and untouched place to camp, the Aloha Ranch is it! Bobby was very communicative, and went out of her way to ensure we enjoyed our stay. She helped set us up at a local fishing venue with a beautiful castle and we spent two days enjoying the weather and solitude. Our campsite also had excellent stargazing! Highly recommended to anyone looking for a private getaway.
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Y
Yasmine
August 2025
Tent
This spot is perfect for a one tent camp. You could tell the owner put a lot of work into this spot. The two dogs we brought did really well off leash and loved diving off the docks at Lake Mary.
Check out Cup of Joe in town for good coffee. Make sure to bring your kayaks ( we did not ) as the little creek does take you straight to the lake.
Lastly this spot is hidden within a neighborhood just as an fyi, but I definitely think it’s worth trying out.
See moreI
Imad
August 2025
Tent
Second time this summer. Great spot! Peaceful, clean, well taken care of, and surrounded by nature. Meredith was a wonderful host and made everything easy. Highly recommend!
See moreC
Christy
August 2025
Tent
We had an incredible time!!! The train bridge made it feel so magical, and waking up the grazing horses near our tent was the delight of my trip so far!!!!
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