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98% (162) • 998 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Viola
Geneseo Campground
1. Geneseo Campground
96%
(41)
29mi from Viola · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Frakers Grove Farm
2. Frakers Grove Farm
100%
(49)
31mi from Viola · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Frakers Grove Farm has been part of my family since the 1980s, but its history extends back to 1828, when Michael Fraker arrived and negotiated a peaceful settlement with the local Native American tribes, becoming the first settler in Northeastern Knox County. His grave, along with those of approximately 26 relatives and friends, is located on the property.
Camp on a 250-acre farm in Western Illinois, featuring a 1.5-acre pond stocked with bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, catfish, and resident grass carp, plus a small creek. The property also has trails and abundant wildlife, including deer, American river otters, beavers, geese, wood ducks, and raccoons.
A floating dock with a ladder sits on the pond, and a jon boat is available for guest use. Swimming and boating are at your own risk, there is no lifeguard on duty, and life jackets are not provided, so please bring your own if you plan to swim or use the boat.
We offer two campsites: Pondside (drive-in, by the water's edge) and Grove Behind the Pond (walk-in, in a wooded grove), each with a fire ring. Guest WiFi is available near the buildings.
Assistance with transporting tents and supplies to and from your campsite on check-in and check-out days is available upon request, using our side-by-side.
Facilities include a porta potty near the pole barn. Please note: neither campsite has water, electric, or sewer hookups, and there is no dump station on the property, guests should plan to be fully self-sufficient.
We maintain the property using a Yarbo robotic lawn mower. Feel free to ask us about it, or even see a demo! If it's actively mowing, please stay at least 20 feet away, as some obstacle detection is turned off in certain areas of the farm.
Note: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during spring and fall. We have chickens on the property. If it's rained recently, 2WD vehicles may have difficulty reaching the campsites due to our dirt and grass access roads.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
3. Whispering Pines Events & Lodging
98%
(45)
31mi from Viola · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River - Pools 11-22
4. Mississippi River - Pools 11-22
100%
(2)
Park 27mi from Viola · 152 sites
Discover the scenic splendor of Mississippi River - Pools 11-22.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River
5. Mississippi River
100%
(1)
Park 27mi from Viola · 97 sites
Discover a scenic section of one of America's most iconic rivers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Miss Effie's Country Flowers
6. Miss Effie's Country Flowers
100%
(37)
35mi from Viola · 1 site
Ms. Effie’s Flower Farm is a gated you pick flower farm located in beautiful rural countryside. Peace and tranquillity is what you will find when you are surrounded by amazing flowers and rolling farm fields. The cornzebo is a unique gathering spot with romantic lighting and comfortable seating. It’s a great place to watch the sun come up! The fire pit is also available for use.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
1951 Dream
7. 1951 Dream
81%
(8)
18mi from Viola · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Toilets
Campfires
Cottage on the Bay
8. Cottage on the Bay
100%
(3)
22mi from Viola · 1 site
This Sears kit home was originally built in 1941 and has been remodeled to give it a more cabin like feel. It sits on 1.38 acres of land with mature trees and direct access to Boston Bay which connects to the Mississippi River. Enjoy the view from the new deck or take your boat or jet ski down the road to one of 3 public boat launches. This area is known for boating, fishing, hunting, camping and snowmobiling.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Sun Retreats Rock River
9. Sun Retreats Rock River
100%
(2)
31mi from Viola · 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
Toilets
Full hookups
Wildcat Den State Park
10. Wildcat Den State Park
100%
(1)
State park 24mi from Viola · 28 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Wildcat Den State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
11. Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
State park 37mi from Viola · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Prophetstown State Recreation Area
12. Prophetstown State Recreation Area
State park 47mi from Viola · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Jubilee College State Park
13. Jubilee College State Park
State park 49mi from Viola · 107 sites
It’s called Jubilee for a reason, people! You’re going to want to shout from the rooftop once you set your sights on the natural landscape and abundant wildlife. Whether you want to go hunting, hiking, fishing, or biking (we’re poets and we know it) Jubilee is the place to be. Bring your horse or bike to the trails for an added level of fun. Don’t just make this a spring/summer visit: swing by in the cooler months for a taste of snow activities! Jubilee sounds almost too good to be true.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Oak Tree Homes
14. Oak Tree Homes
100%
(1)
36mi from Viola · 3 sites
Authentic Iowa homestead and hobby farm experience! Come enjoy a peaceful stay surrounded by chickens, guineas, peacocks, goats, and sheep.
Please let us know in advance if you need a 50 amp, 30 amp, or 20 amp hookup, and whether you’re flexible between 50 or 30 amp. We currently have (1) 50 amp hookup, (2) 30 amp hookups, and multiple 20 amp options. Knowing your needs ahead of time helps us get everyone settled comfortably.
While we’re not a traditional campground, we enjoy sharing our calm and welcoming space with fellow travelers. Our electricity is powered by our on-site solar array. Fresh water, recycling, and limited trash disposal are also available.
No dogs allowed without prior coordination, please.
We love dogs and have a working Great Pyrenees named Hank. He’s a friendly 120-pound “puppy” who can get very excited around other dogs and may be a bit overenthusiastic when greeting newcomers. While he is not aggressive, he is still in training and has been known to jump up, including on vehicles.
If you are approved to bring a dog, please understand it is at your own risk. For safety, we recommend keeping windows up as you arrive. Hank is contained by an underground wireless fence and won’t approach vehicles on the road, but once you enter the driveway, you’re in his territory. Introducing dogs carefully is encouraged.
We are a working farm family sharing our home—not a commercial campground—so we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you’re uncomfortable around large, energetic dogs, this may not be the best fit. That said, well-behaved traveling pups are welcome with prior approval.
There’s plenty of space to relax and explore, plus a fire pit with wood provided, beautiful sunsets, and a swing set for the kids.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Buffalo Shores
15. Buffalo Shores
19mi from Viola
Buffalo Shores stands out as a unique recreational gem, offering a sprawling twenty-five-acre area along the scenic Mississippi River, just off State Highway 22 and downstream from Buffalo, Iowa. This picturesque location is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
The park features a convenient double boat ramp, making it easy for visitors to launch their boats and explore the river. Families can enjoy a free beach area, ample parking, and essential amenities such as restrooms and water facilities. The day-use area is ideal for picnicking, allowing guests to savor meals amidst nature.
For those looking to extend their stay, Buffalo Shores offers a well-equipped 65-site campground. Each site is designed for comfort, featuring 50-amp electrical service, water access, and concrete patios. Campers can choose from beachfront sites, enjoy a modern shower house, and let children play at the on-site playground. Additionally, a dump station is available for added convenience.
With its combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Buffalo Shores is a perfect destination for families and outdoor lovers alike. Whether you're fishing, swimming, or simply soaking in the serene surroundings, this campground promises an unforgettable experience.
Citizens Lake Campground
16. Citizens Lake Campground
21mi from Viola
Discover a unique camping experience at our site, where you can enjoy the convenience of 30 fully-equipped service sites, each offering essential amenities such as water, electricity, and sewer connections. This makes our campground an ideal choice for those seeking comfort while immersing themselves in nature.
Our facilities include clean bathroom amenities featuring hot showers, ensuring you can refresh after a day of outdoor adventures. Whether you're hiking nearby trails, swimming in local swimming holes, or exploring the stunning natural features of the area, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you engaged.
In addition to the natural beauty surrounding our campground, you'll also have access to nearby restaurants and shops, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine and pick up any supplies you may need during your stay. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at our campground, where every visit promises to be memorable.
Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
17. Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
21mi from Viola
Loud Thunder is a unique campground that offers visitors an expansive natural retreat, encompassing 1,480 acres of pristine wilderness. Originally established in 1944 with the acquisition of a 1,240-acre ranch from Charles Searle, the preserve has grown over the years through the addition of adjacent properties, enhancing its appeal and privacy.
The development of this remarkable preserve began in the 1950s, when campgrounds, trails, and parking lots were thoughtfully created to accommodate outdoor enthusiasts. A significant milestone occurred in 1967 when the Big Branch Creek was dammed, resulting in the formation of Lake George. This beautiful lake not only provides a stunning backdrop but also offers opportunities for swimming and fishing, making it a favorite spot for families and nature lovers alike.
With its diverse landscapes and abundant recreational activities, Loud Thunder is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure or relaxation in nature. Nearby attractions include scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and charming local restaurants and shops, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a memorable outdoor experience.
Colona Scott Family Park
18. Colona Scott Family Park
22mi from Viola
Colona Scott Family Park stands out as a hidden gem in rural Colona, IL, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure and serene relaxation. Owned by the City of Colona since 2013, this park is the perfect escape for those eager to reconnect with nature and enjoy a variety of recreational activities.
Visitors can choose from six cozy cabins or set up camp in a tent or RV, providing options for every type of outdoor enthusiast. The park features a tranquil pond ideal for fishing and kayaking, while a refreshing swimming pool awaits on those hot Midwest summer days. For those who enjoy staying active, numerous hiking trails and sports courts are available to explore and enjoy.
Our spacious Lodge Clubhouse and Pavilion are perfect for hosting small gatherings, barbecues, and celebrations, making it an excellent venue for family events or friendly get-togethers. We appreciate your interest in Colona Scott Family Park and look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable outdoor experience!
West Lake Park Scott County Park
19. West Lake Park Scott County Park
22mi from Viola
West Lake Park stands out as a unique 620-acre destination, offering a perfect blend of aquatic and terrestrial activities for outdoor enthusiasts. With four picturesque lakes, visitors can enjoy fishing or swimming in a serene environment. The park features a convenient boat dock, ample parking, a handicap-accessible fishing dock, a sandy beach area, and paddle boat rentals, catering to water lovers of all ages.
For those who prefer to stay on land, West Lake Park provides excellent picnic facilities, well-maintained playgrounds, and modern restrooms. Additionally, the park boasts two campground areas equipped with electrical, water, and sewer hook-ups, ensuring a comfortable stay for all campers. Both camping sites include handicap-accessible comfort stations, making them welcoming for everyone.
Whether you're looking to cast a line, relax by the water, or enjoy a family picnic, West Lake Park offers a diverse range of activities and amenities that make it an ideal spot for a day of fun or a weekend getaway. With its beautiful natural features and recreational opportunities, this park is a must-visit for anyone seeking outdoor adventure.
Fourth Pumping Plant Recreation Park
20. Fourth Pumping Plant Recreation Park
25mi from Viola
The 4th Pumping Plant Recreation Area, situated north of Burlington, stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. Nestled along the scenic banks of the Mississippi River, this campground offers a unique experience with its picturesque views and diverse recreational opportunities.
With a total of 46 campsites available, visitors can choose from a variety of options to suit their needs. Among these, 22 campsites are equipped with electrical hookups, making it convenient for RVers and tent campers alike. The area is perfect for picnicking, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the river.
In addition to its well-maintained facilities, the 4th Pumping Plant Recreation Area is surrounded by a wealth of outdoor activities. Guests can explore nearby hiking trails, take a refreshing dip in local swimming holes, or enjoy fishing and boating on the river. The proximity to Burlington also provides access to charming restaurants and shops, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, this campground has something for everyone.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Roger
1 week ago
16 ft campervan
With pets
Very quiet.
Hot showers!
Close to a lovely downtown.
Great stay!
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Britney
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Our favorite place to be!! Larry and crew are the absolute best. Second year of doing our Labor Day group trip here and we will definitely be coming back every year.
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J
Jennifer
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
I enjoyed my stay. The property was clean and well kept. Dennis, the host, was great as always (been here numerous times).
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Isaac
2 weeks ago
With pets
Easy access, neat clean cabins, as described, would stay again
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Laura
2 weeks ago
25 ft Class C
With pets
Beautiful, quiet, clean, friendly and easy to access. We were just passing through, and they made it easy. A longer stay would have been special there too!
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K
Karin
August 2026
Tent
Beautiful setting. Thoughtful host. Great set up. Accomodating.
See moreC
Curt
July 2026
25 ft campervan
Super friendly host. Quiet and safe. Clean bathrooms and showers. Geneseo has a small but vibrant downtown that is close by and has good dining and drinking options.
See morek
kaitlyn
July 2026
With kids
Me and my Kids loved this camp. It was queit, cute, and full of activities. There is hammocks, a game room, outside games, a play ground, and so much more. The cabin and restrooms were clean and well kept and the staff was easy to work with. We have a hard time in some places with my autistic daughter and she loved this one. 10/10
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Erin
July 2026
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
We only stayed one night while cross country traveling. The campground was easy to get to from I-80, the bathrooms were clean, and the campground manager was very helpful. We appreciated that the campground was very quiet (there was only one other campsite in use while we were there).
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Emma
July 2026
Tent
With kids
Beautiful as always, and my kids loved the stop. Her overly friendly cat tried to sleep with us in the orchard. We got to see lovely flowers and talk to the ducks.
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Z
Zach
July 2026
Tent
Awesome space and great natural environment!! Is perfect for a couple get away!!
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Kathleen
July 2026
32 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very nice campground. We had an RV problem and the maintenance guy Mike found someone to help us. We were stressed about that so did not really explore the area but we heard it is very nice. All in all the campground is quiet and clean, showers were clean.
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J
Jennifer
June 2026
33 ft travel trailer
The campground was beautiful and very well taken care of. There was a lot of amenities and activities we didn’t get to check out because of our short stay but would definitely like to come back and explore more!
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Renee
June 2026
Tent
I loved my stay at the retreat center. The grounds are well kept and the facilities are clean and spacious. I hammock camped with ease at the front of the property near the RV sites. This is not a ‘private’ stay but the amenities are great! I walked the perimeter of the property and harvested berries to eat. Yum! Staff members met me with a welcome package that included treats and information. There is a screen enclosed game room stocked with ping pong and many board games that I would have totally used had I not been on a solo trip :) and I saw others out on the basketball court shooting a few hoops for fun.
The owner (I am SO bad with names) stopped by to chat in the morning and I mentioned how I love a good fire in the evenings. Later, when I returned from my days excursion there was firewood sitting at my site. I stayed for two nights and was sad to leave. So peaceful. I will definitely return to this camp when in the area again. ❤️
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A
Alyson
June 2026
Weekend Trip to Geneseo Campground
I can not wait to come back!!
The area, cabin, store, playground, kayak, fishing, was all everything and more!!
Our cabin fit us perfectly- it’s small but you hardly spend any time in there anyways.
The store was perfect for anything you might have forgotten- staff was so kind.
The playground was just enough to keep our 6 year old entertained. We rented a kayak for half a day and so affordable. We left and said “we can’t wait to go back” it was perfect
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H
Heather
June 2026
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful, serene spot to shed the stress! Wonderful animals. Excellent hosts. Town is close if you want to venture in to Wilton. Recommend!
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Justine
June 2026
With pets
Beautiful place, very clean and kept up. Plenty for my kids to do. Cant wait to go back!
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Patrick
June 2026
20 ft truck camper
Fantastic site and Dennis is a great host! Had a very warm welcome and nice cozy stay by the pond!
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daniel
June 2026
20 ft Class B
We had 2 very beautiful and peaceful nights. Dennis was a great host. We will be back!
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S
Shayla
May 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Very private and beautiful land and the pond was amazing! The dock is so nice to lay out on, an overall great experience. Portapotty was clean and I got a ton of firewood!
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