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95% (241) • 1,388 campsites
Top-rated RV parks near Sterling
Avalon Unity Garden
1. Avalon Unity Garden
97%
(16)
13mi from Sterling · 1 site · Tent, RV
This garden is intended to help people connect to Mother Earth. There is room for yoga or meditation with the plants. You can sleep in a tent, or your vehicle.
It has a walkable spiral, an 18’ Mother Earth sculpture, an earth lodge for ceremonies and a hexagon swing area. It’s located in a very small farm community. We are about a mile from the Hennepin canal where you can walk, fish or canoe.
Pets
Crooked Creek Ranch
2. Crooked Creek Ranch
100%
(15)
25mi from Sterling · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
3. Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
100%
(18)
27mi from Sterling · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Fin and Feather is a rustic campground located right on the banks of the Mississippi River backwaters, known for its true “camping in nature” experience. Every site looks out over the water with a beautiful sunset view! These primitive sites are large, shaded, and hammock-friendly.
The ground is sandy, but the beach is not known as a swimming location. Fin and Feather sits where Big Slough of the Mississippi River meets Spring Lake, part of the Upper Mississippi River Refuge.
The Great River Bike Trail runs parallel to the campground. We offer canoe and kayak rentals (message us to arrange a rental in advance of stay) and the lake is an great place to paddle but be aware there is a lot of plant life in backwaters (closes to all boat traffic on October 1st as part of the wildlife refuge during hunting season). Firewood is available for purchase.
t's is a work in progress as we renovate this campground. We only have a few sites listed currently. The camp store has limited hours but nearby towns of Thomson and Savanna offer additional supplies. There’s so much to do in the area, such as hiking at Mississippi Palasades State Park, "troll hunting" in Clinton, IA, shopping in Fulton or Galena etc but with the peacefulness of the campground, you may just want to relax and enjoy the view!
We are a small privately owned campground. The grounds are separated into two regions. as you enter the property off off Riverview Road, there is a "T" intersection. As Hipcampers, you will turn right. The north side of the campground is for Hipcamp drop in camping only; tents and small campers like teardrops etc exclusively. (The south end of the campground is for our seasonal campers with bigger Rvs.) You will turn right and drive past the small camp store, a vintage trailer we are renovating and one Rv that is ours. The beach sites listed here are on the left along the shore line. We offer well maintained port a potties and there are water spigots on property as well.
*There is no power or water at the sites,
*pets are allowed- 2 per site maximum, must be leashed and no excessive barking allowed
*while maximum capacity 4, if you are a family with more kids please submit a specific request. We can make exceptions for families camping with their children.
Pets
Morrison-Rockwood State Park
4. Morrison-Rockwood State Park
100%
(1)
State park 14mi from Sterling · 59 sites
Enjoy a quiet lakeside retreat just two and a half hours west of Chicago.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Prophetstown State Recreation Area
5. Prophetstown State Recreation Area
State park 15mi from Sterling · 43 sites
Prophetstown State Recreation Area is a 53-acre flat and wooded area along the south bank of the Rock River. Tree life largely consists of maple, cottonwood, oak and walnut you will likely encounter squirrels, rabbits, ducks, muskrats, raccoons and deer during your visit.Anglers use a convenient concrete boat ramp to cast lines in the Rock River and fish for smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, bullhead, carp, sauger and walleye. There are no limitations to how powerful your motor is, but you can also cast lines into nearby Coon Creek for a change of pace. Swimming is prohibited, but there is an indoor pool only four blocks away from the park. The town of Prophetstown may be tiny, but it likes to Party In The USA more than Miley Cyrus and is known for its annual Fourth of July fireworks display.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Vintage Spring Lake Campground
6. Vintage Spring Lake Campground
98%
(133)
28mi from Sterling · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Spring Lake Campground was est. in 1943. This “vintage campground” has provided a place for families to relax in nature and make memories for generations. The lake is a backwater Mississippi River refuge, so there is always something to see and learn about. The Great River Bike Trail runs right through, so bring your bike! It’s a beautiful ride from the campground to nearby Savanna, IL. We rent kayaks and canoes through September. The lake is great to paddle but be aware there is a lot of plant life on the backwaters. (The lake closes for all boat traffic Oct 1 to provide a refuge for migrating birds during duck hunting season. If you enjoy birding, plan a trip during October) There is so much to do in the surrounding area: hiking and climbing at Palisades State Park, restaurants, bars and shopping in Savanna, "Troll hunting" in Clinton, IA, museums and more. But enjoying a peaceful time at the campground, having a bonfire, watching the sunset on the lake and seeing the stars at night is really what it’s about. True old school camping, enjoying the wildlife sanctuary. Instead of pavement, we have trees. Our best amenity is nature! Get outside, unplug and relax.
*While is says maximum capacity 4, if you are a family with more kids submit a specific request. We can make exceptions for families camping with their children.
*We DO allow small campers on the peninsula like teardrops and Scamps but no generators please.
*We ask that our campers please arrive before dark to find their site and set up to avoid disrupting other campers. It gets really dark! We do not have street lights so people can see the stars.
*please note you are Requesting the site not instantly booking. We will respond to your request ASAP and all requests are pending.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping
7. Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping
100%
(12)
29mi from Sterling · 28 sites · Tents, RVs
These campsites are located along the lower half of our property and are tucked into fun little sites bordering our off road trail built for Jeeps, Broncos, and other similar off road vehicles. These are primitive style sites and cell phones likely will not work on any of our sites. This is truly a way to get away and just disconnect for a while! There is a VERY steep entrance into the camping area and a small water crossing is also necessary. Low clearance vehicles, cars, campers/trailers, and RV's will not be able to access the zone. If you'd like to camp at one of our sites and have a vehicle that won't qualify -- we do have friendlier parking but it will require quite a hike to get to your site or we can offer you a ride as well.
Pets
Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
8. Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
99%
(36)
31mi from Sterling · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Whispering Pines, a family focused campground to help you get away from the daily grind.
Surround yourself amongst tall pine trees as you hear the wind whisper tranquility all around you.
We are a family owned campground with a heart to serve people and provide a peaceful environment where families and individuals can enjoy making new memories. Whispering Pines is an event and retreat center that offers lodging and camping amenities. We also have a chapel ready to host your ceremony. We have RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, a lodge, and an event center. We can help you create a package to fit your needs and budget.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Geneseo Campground
9. Geneseo Campground
96%
(39)
32mi from Sterling · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests.
If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi.
Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground!
For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 309-442-2662.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Green River State Wildlife Area
10. Green River State Wildlife Area
State park 15mi from Sterling · 100 sites
Popular for its, well, wildlife, Green River provides diversions for all types of outdoor enthusiasts: from hunters and hikers, to birders and amateur oglers. Camping is available within the 2,565 acres, the topography varying from flat to gently rolling. Swampy slough areas dominate nearly a third of Green River’s acreage (so maybe avoid pitching your tent there). The remaining habitats are active prairie restorations, open fields, cultivated areas or timberlands. Native vegetation is often planted to provide more food and cover for the animals. Critter sightings might include: pheasant, rabbit, quail, dove, squirrel, crow, fox, raccoon, coyote, turkey, opossum, skunk and deer, so grab your binoculars and your Audubon Guide!
Sewer hookup
Pets
Lowden State Park
11. Lowden State Park
100%
(2)
State park 25mi from Sterling · 89 sites
Explore where legendary Chief Black Hawk once lived with his people.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Mississippi Palisades State Park
12. Mississippi Palisades State Park
100%
(3)
State park 34mi from Sterling · 241 sites
See the mighty Mississippi River from a unique vantage point at this state park.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
13. Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
State park 34mi from Sterling · 97 sites
There’s nothing quite like a day outdoors, are we right or are we right!? For an exceptional day outdoors, head out to Johnson-Sauk Trail Recreation Area. Don’t let the name trip you up, it’s all smooth sailing when you’re on the lake or take to the trails. Visit the Ryan’s Round Barn for a look at a historic and...interesting take on barn architecture. Swing by any day of the year, winter or summer. Close your eyes and breathe in the fresh air.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Brown Rusk Ranch
14. Brown Rusk Ranch
100%
(10)
45mi from Sterling · 3 sites
We have 5 acres with 112 trees. 3 pasture where people may camp. Dry camping with self contained RVs under 30 ft. We have an outhouse for tent campers. Water is available and have a huge fire pit area. Sheep goats and a cat. Numerous parks for hiking. Rockford is only 15 miles and Winnebago is 6 miles for any supplies. We have a car cottage that looks like the 50s diner. On a busy road but quiet at night. Many whimsical additions to our little ranch!
Pets
Limestone Bluff
15. Limestone Bluff
100%
(2)
26mi from Sterling · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We live on 17 acres in northern Illinois. A little over half of our property is wooded, and we also have a rolling hayfield and a year-round stream that runs through the lower part of the property. There are numerous mowed hiking paths around the hayfield and through the woods. One path leads down a limestone bluff to a picnic and camping area near the Leaf River—a big name for a nice-sized creek—that crosses the property.
Wildlife is abundant and includes deer, turkeys, coyotes, herons, and the occasional bobcat. It is not unusual to see bald eagles or red-tailed hawks overhead, and at night, you can often hear owls and coyotes.
We have numerous campsites available. Some are accessible by vehicle, while others are best reached on foot unless you have a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and don't mind a few potential scrapes and scratches from branches along the trail.
As with any wooded or grassy property, bugs can be an issue depending on weather conditions. Mosquitoes, ticks, and biting gnats are common, so bug spray is recommended to help you fully enjoy the outdoors.
Safety is especially important, particularly when children are present. The limestone bluff can be a fall hazard, creek banks may give way, poison ivy grows in the woods, and fire pits can cause burns. We maintain the trails to help minimize these risks, but common sense and close supervision of children will help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable stay.
There is a nice shallow area of the creek where children and adults can play, though water shoes are recommended. Please be aware that leeches may also be present. To help preserve the natural beauty of the property, we ask that guests do not climb on the limestone bluffs.
We have a dog named Poppy who has free run of the property. She may bark, but she is friendly and not aggressive. It's best to simply ignore her, and please do not feed her. If she becomes a problem, send us a message and we'll bring her back to the house.
We also have three barn cats that may wander by. If they bother you, simply clap your hands to shoo them away. As always, let us know if they're causing any issues.
Pets
Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary
16. Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary
88%
(4)
26mi from Sterling · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to a quiet stretch of nature where time slows down.
Our private Reserve features a peaceful 3-acre pond surrounded by 33 acres of open meadows and natural wildlife habitat. Wake up to birdsong, watch deer move through the grass, and end your day with unforgettable sunsets reflected on the water.
We offer simple, nature-focused camping with:
• Fresh water hookup
• Septic dump access
• No electricity — just a chance to truly unplug
This is a place to breathe, recharge, and move at your own pace. Whether you’re tent camping under the stars or bringing a self-contained camper, you’ll find space, privacy, and a deeper connection to nature.
Cone enjoy the quiet🍃
Water hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Sun Retreats Rock River
17. Sun Retreats Rock River
32mi from Sterling · 236 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Sun Retreats Rock River, formerly known as Sunset Lakes Resort, provides a premiere camping experience in Hillsdale, Illinois. At this award-winning resort, campers can set up their RV on our new seasonal sites with concrete pads and patios. You can also stay in one of our fully furnished two-bedroom vacation cottages.
Cool off in our huge outdoor swimming pool, or stay active with outdoor recreations like a gem mining, basketball, horseshoes, tennis, and our rolle bolle court. Our pet-friendly campground also features a dog park for your four-legged family members. You'll find exciting attractions in The Quad Cities including riverboat cruises on the along the Mississippi River, just 15 minutes away.
Pets
Full hookups
Private Sanctuary
18. Private Sanctuary
100%
(1)
39mi from Sterling · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to The Sanctuary
Your own private, gated 1-acre paradise.
This secluded hilltop retreat sits in the driftless region of Jo Daviess County, offering privacy, beauty and sweeping views.
Until now, we have kept it as a private getaway for friends and family.
Now available to the camping public.
Ideally located, just 25 minutes from Galena or Savanna and only 10 minutes from Stockton, Elizabeth, or Hanover.
It is the perfect base for exploring the area by car or bike.
From the moment you pull out of the hidden driveway you’ll be greeted by some of the most scenic landscapes in Jo Daviess county.
Just 5 minutes away you’ll find Massbach Winery and Big Sky Nature Area.
On-Site Features
• Hammock, multiple seating areas, and a firepit with supplied wood
• Professional stainless steel gas grill provided (bring your own 16oz disposable green propane canisters)
• Two-stall changing room with camp sink (filled prior to your stay)
• Two hanging camp shower bags + 5-gallon supply of fresh water
• Small former livestock shed for temporary storage of bikes or gear (not weatherproof)
Camping Options
The site is suitable for Class B campers, primitive camping, or small clamshell trailers.
Pets
Spring Creek Organic Farm
19. Spring Creek Organic Farm
79%
(19)
44mi from Sterling · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful country setting in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois. Dating from 1890, this land has never been plowed or disturbed. Beautiful nightscapes of stars and constellations and nearby lakes and rivers make this an ideal camping spot. The permaculture gardens and the land need constant care and upkeep. When a tree dies it becomes home to the redhead woodpecker. The hummingbird loves the trumpet vine! We never spray chemicals and would appreciate it if you did not smoke or vape.
Lake Le-Aqua-Na is just 3 miles away and reopened in 2022 with brand new roads, nature walks, and swimming hole. Other lakes nearby are Apple River Canyon and Mt Carroll. Shop in nearby Lena, Cedarville or Freeport, IL and Monroe, Wisconsin.
Learn more about this land:
The trees shade the camping sites at Spring Creek Farm. The wood swing can be enjoyed by guests as they relax and enjoy the view. Birds frequent the property and you may be visited by our ginger male cat as he surveys his territory. Night skies are beautiful, and on clear nights the Milky Way is visible along with the Big Dipper and other constellations.
There is an outdoor fire pit to cook meals, or you can use a low copper fire pit for campfire enjoyment. Parking is available on the campground for smaller cars. Please leave your campsite clean so no woodland creatures are harmed and the landscape is kept in a safe condition for the next camper.
The Composting Toilet (weather permitting) is available and plenty of potable water from our Spring-fed Well.
We recycle in the country so please separate trash, paper, glass, and plastic into separate bags which can be left on the driveway when you leave.
Please let Dr. Wanona know if you'd like to join for a gentle flow yoga mat class, 30 or 60-minute massage, or a Permaculture Garden Tour. Add a deeper experience to your stay at Spring Creek Farm!
Pets
1951 Dream
20. 1951 Dream
79%
(7)
44mi from Sterling · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is an 82 acre property of approximately 65 percent old growth forest, 20 percent row crop and 15 percent of alfalfa/vegetable garden. It is a working farm which naturally takes people, but it is unlikely you will encounter any other campers. Please keep in mind, the only running water is the creek and the only electricity comes from a single solar panel. We truck water in for showers and provide enough port-a-potties to match the event.
Pets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
Charmaine
2 weeks ago
21 ft travel trailer
Great folks. Easy parking in a healthy grass
Tour of the property and classic cars was offered and accepted.
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S
Steve
3 weeks ago
18 ft campervan
With pets
Awesome winery in the hills just outside Galena. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming.
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Nate
May 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
The view is beautiful! The host is very friendly and welcoming. We got to listen to some good live music too. It looked like they had a large wine selection. I don’t really drink wine, so I had some beers and their wine slushy. That wine slushy hit the spot on a warm day! We had one of their appetizer platters and pizza with no complaints.
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L
Lindsay
May 2026
35 ft Class A
With kids
We loved the quiet spot just outside of town! The showers were clean and spacious. The yard space, playground, and game room were awesome for our three kids!
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J
Jennifer
May 2026
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
Site is located at a camp, so you get the advantages of that. Hammocks, playground, air hockey, bags and ping pong. Very nice and clean bathrooms. There were times when there were a lot of people around, and times when we had the whole place to ourselves.
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Alex
May 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
I loved my stay at Whispering Pines. They were attentive and responsive to our messages via the app. Their campsite felt safe and was clean. The facilities were spacious and clean. My dog loved the walking trail that ran along the outside of the campsite. I would definitely recommend this place to family and friends.
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Stephanie
December 2025
29 ft Class A
With pets
We loved Whispering Pines! It was peaceful & quiet. There were showers & bathrooms on site. It had a walking trial, playground, basketball hoop, chapel & event space. There are also rooms & cabins for rent. They had a fire pit, water & electric. It was private since we were there in the winter. In the summer, I would think it could have more people. I would recommend Whispering Pines & would stay here again!
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Sunny
October 2025
20 ft campervan
I arrived later than I anticipated and was able to find everything really well with the instructions provided. It is a nice camping park with some facilities like bathrooms and showers. I enjoyed my stay thank you!
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J
Joel
October 2025
17 ft campervan
I was a quick stay but found the campground to be clean, quiet, with updated well lit and pristinely kept bathrooms/showers. It was easy to find and a late check in wasn’t a problem. Communication was rock solid from the team, who provided easy to follow directions with a map to the site. I also grabbed a voodoo burger from Raelyn’s pub nearby—awesome food and staff!
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Patrick
September 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
Loved it. Beautiful place, great people. Lots of fun things to do on the property. Well maintained.
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Ragan
September 2025
24 ft travel trailer
Super campsite! Riley was very helpful and showers and bath emaculant?
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Robert
August 2025
24 ft campervan
Well maintained, quiet with clean shower/restrooms.
Hosts were exceptional at helping us find our way in the dark during a monster rainstorm.
See moreM
Mark
August 2025
14 ft travel trailer
Nice quiet campground with 30A & water, bathroom and showers, and pull-through sites.
See moreM
Matthew
August 2025
28 ft travel trailer
With pets
Whispering Pines was very shaded, well kept and peaceful. Though on a main road, it was very quiet. 30/50 Amp power and water made it a very easy stay. No question, we would do it again if in the area!
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Peter
July 2025
16 ft car
Incredible hospitality in the middle of a downpour! Nice place to stay!
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DELETED
July 2025
25 ft pop-up camper
Had a wonderful stay! ..quiet and peaceful.. hookups and amenities were great.. will definitely reach out next time in the area.. highly recommended 👍🏻
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Sarah
July 2025
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great space! My kids loved the hammocks and all the play areas!
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Angela
June 2025
13 ft campervan
With kids
Very clean grounds and facilities. Never met the hosts because of our schedule, but they were helpful and responsive on the app. Kids loved the playground
See moreB
Bruno
June 2025
20 ft Class B
Very quiet and well maintained spot. Very warm and welcoming. Loved it!
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Michael
June 2025
16 ft travel trailer
I had a great stay! The Ranch is a wonderful
Quiet and pretty country setting. The hosts were very friendly and welcoming. Would definitely recommend it
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