The best river, stream, or creek camping near Wickliffe

Camping along the rivers near Wickliffe puts you right on the water, with over 300 sites to choose from. Average price per night sits at $30, though you can snag a spot for as low as $25. You’ll find campsites that let you build a fire, bring your dog, and don’t skimp on basic toilets. Fishing, swimming, and hiking are the main draws—expect locals casting lines at dawn and families cooling off in the shallows by midday. Top spots like Wine Trail Wilderness (509 reviews), The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews), and Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews) get high marks for friendly hosts and easy river access. Bring bug spray and plan for mud after a rain—these riverside camps don’t always stay dry. If you’re here for the water, you’re in the right place.

99% (770) • 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Wickliffe

1. Wine Trail Wilderness

49mi from Wickliffe · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.

Electrical hookup

2. The Art Farm

17mi from Wickliffe · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)

Electrical hookup

3. The Hickory Chicken

8.8mi from Wickliffe · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to The Hickory Chicken — Hard to find, worth the search! Tucked away in the peaceful countryside, The Hickory Chicken is your ideal escape for outdoor fun, family bonding, and Southern charm. Named after the beloved "hickory chicken" — a local nickname for the elusive and tasty wild morel mushroom — our campsite captures that same spirit of hidden treasure and down-home discovery. At The Hickory Chicken, you'll find full access RV sites perfect for weekend warriors or long-haul adventurers, plus cozy cabin rentals if you're looking to rough it just a little less. Spend your days casting a line at our well-stocked fishing spots, cooling off with a stroll through the creek, or cooking up something special in our outdoor kitchen space. Whether you're into s'mores or smoked brisket, we’ve got you covered. Outdoor lovers will find plenty to enjoy — and hunters especially will appreciate the area's abundant wildlife and public hunting grounds. We're also just minutes from both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, offering scenic views and endless recreational opportunities. History buffs and trail enthusiasts will love being a stone’s throw from Columbus-Belmont State Park and Wright’s Area 252 Ride Park. Working nearby? The Hickory Chicken is a short, easy drive from the Four Rivers Nuclear Plant, Phoenix Paper Mill and James Marine Wickliffe division — making it the perfect home base whether you’re here for business or pleasure. So pack your boots, your bike, or just a cooler full of snacks. However you like to camp, The Hickory Chicken is ready to welcome you with open arms.

4. Columbus-Belmont State Park

34 sites · Columbus, Kentucky

Discover Columbus-Belmont State Park's rich history and scenic trails.

Electrical hookup

5. Fort Massac State Park

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

6. Red Gate Farm, LLC

49mi from Wickliffe · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp! Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment! If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.

7. Indian Camp Campground, LLC

11mi from Wickliffe · 25 sites · Tents, RVs

We are located in the Kentucky Great River Road Region. Less than 1/2 mile from Area 252 riding park and approximately 5 miles from Columbus Belmont State Park. Access to the Mississippi River Trails of Kentucky connecting with Carlisle County trail system.

Electrical hookup

8. Shawnee National Forest

172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois

Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.

Electrical hookup

9. Trail of Tears State Forest

14 sites · Alto Pass, Illinois

Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.

10. Trail of Tears State Park

52 sites · Missouri

River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.

Electrical hookup

11. Dixon Springs State Park

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.

Camping along the rivers near Wickliffe puts you right on the water, with over 300 sites to choose from. Average price per night sits at $30, though you can snag a spot for as low as $25. You’ll find campsites that let you build a fire, bring your dog, and don’t skimp on basic toilets. Fishing, swimming, and hiking are the main draws—expect locals casting lines at dawn and families cooling off in the shallows by midday. Top spots like Wine Trail Wilderness (509 reviews), The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews), and Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews) get high marks for friendly hosts and easy river access. Bring bug spray and plan for mud after a rain—these riverside camps don’t always stay dry. If you’re here for the water, you’re in the right place.

99% (770) • 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Wickliffe

1. Wine Trail Wilderness

49mi from Wickliffe · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.

Electrical hookup

2. The Art Farm

17mi from Wickliffe · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)

Electrical hookup

3. The Hickory Chicken

8.8mi from Wickliffe · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to The Hickory Chicken — Hard to find, worth the search! Tucked away in the peaceful countryside, The Hickory Chicken is your ideal escape for outdoor fun, family bonding, and Southern charm. Named after the beloved "hickory chicken" — a local nickname for the elusive and tasty wild morel mushroom — our campsite captures that same spirit of hidden treasure and down-home discovery. At The Hickory Chicken, you'll find full access RV sites perfect for weekend warriors or long-haul adventurers, plus cozy cabin rentals if you're looking to rough it just a little less. Spend your days casting a line at our well-stocked fishing spots, cooling off with a stroll through the creek, or cooking up something special in our outdoor kitchen space. Whether you're into s'mores or smoked brisket, we’ve got you covered. Outdoor lovers will find plenty to enjoy — and hunters especially will appreciate the area's abundant wildlife and public hunting grounds. We're also just minutes from both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, offering scenic views and endless recreational opportunities. History buffs and trail enthusiasts will love being a stone’s throw from Columbus-Belmont State Park and Wright’s Area 252 Ride Park. Working nearby? The Hickory Chicken is a short, easy drive from the Four Rivers Nuclear Plant, Phoenix Paper Mill and James Marine Wickliffe division — making it the perfect home base whether you’re here for business or pleasure. So pack your boots, your bike, or just a cooler full of snacks. However you like to camp, The Hickory Chicken is ready to welcome you with open arms.

4. Columbus-Belmont State Park

34 sites · Columbus, Kentucky

Discover Columbus-Belmont State Park's rich history and scenic trails.

Electrical hookup

5. Fort Massac State Park

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

6. Red Gate Farm, LLC

49mi from Wickliffe · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp! Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment! If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.

7. Indian Camp Campground, LLC

11mi from Wickliffe · 25 sites · Tents, RVs

We are located in the Kentucky Great River Road Region. Less than 1/2 mile from Area 252 riding park and approximately 5 miles from Columbus Belmont State Park. Access to the Mississippi River Trails of Kentucky connecting with Carlisle County trail system.

Electrical hookup

8. Shawnee National Forest

172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois

Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.

Electrical hookup

9. Trail of Tears State Forest

14 sites · Alto Pass, Illinois

Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.

10. Trail of Tears State Park

52 sites · Missouri

River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.

Electrical hookup

11. Dixon Springs State Park

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

View from picnic table at Hickory Ridge Winery. Stunning winter landscape, but very warm day.

Jackie

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We've stayed here several times. Continues getting better. Although the star of the show this time was star-gazing during 65 degree weather the day after Christmas! Thx again Jon for wonderful place to stay.

See more

Wine Trail Wilderness

A

Adam

2 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Jon and Carla were wonderful hosts. Jon had everything we could want and more! We had a lovely stay. Would definitely book again.

See more

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

J

James

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Great sites and great hosts! John was super helpful and accommodating, taught us how to play bocce ball on the court there, and even helped us with a maintenance issue on my camper. The grainzebo was awesome!!! Can't wait to go back.

See more

Casita good time

Wilson

November 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Our experience at Wine Trail Wilderness was great despite plunging temperatures this past weekend. The roomy site allowed for our 2 young dogs to zoom around the field and the pavilion and outhouse were experiences of themselves. Jon was a great host and fun to talk to when he was walking his dog Norton. The location between 2 of our favorite wineries was a bonus. The scenery with the fall colors was beautiful to see. We can’t wait to come back. Becky and Wilson

See more

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

F

Frank

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Wine Trail Wilderness

It was fantastic camping on Jon’s land he was the perfect host, very attentive and was willing to work with our schedule. It made for a great weekend of climbing at holy boulders… it’s like 15min from the boulders!

See more

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

Kyle

November 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

This is the third time I've stayed at WTW. It was the first time staying in the far away field and we loved it. Jon checked in and would deliver firewood (if needed). I'm sure we will be back!

See more

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

B

Bryson

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Beautiful campground with an awesome host! Will definitely stay again next time we are out this way!

See more

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

M

Molly

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

John and Carla were amazing hosts. They lead us to our site on their 4-wheeler, and even gave us a wine opener to borrow after we forgot to bring one. The campsite had everything we needed and was super clean, level, and open yet wooded. They came by to check on us after the first night. We were able to order firewood and wine from them ahead of time so it was at the site when we got there. This was amazing because we are usually trying to find space in the truck for firewood. They also provide ice water in a 5 gallon jug which saved us some packing space. We came with two dogs so we asked for one of their more private sites and they delivered. Didn’t see any other campers the entire weekend. Location is awesome for a variety of activities. I would love to return with my coworkers and this would be a perfect spot for our yearly camping trip. We also noticed lots of materials staged around the property so it seems like they are planning some improvements to their already amazing place. This wasn’t a problem for us but I wanted to mention as I know it can be a deal breaker for some. There was not a bathroom with running water, just a private privy in one of those little portable tents. It was cleaned and stocked and very much appreciated.

See more

Wine Trail Wilderness

S

Samuel

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

The area was very accessible and was set up in a really nice convenient way. Jon met us at the driveway, greeted us with a warm smile and helped us get our water situated. After that he assisted me getting the trailer leveled and ready to go and made sure we had firewood. On Saturday, he came and checked on us and he's an incredible host and this was one of the best trips we had. Being within walking distance of a winery and a very short drive to another one is amazing and it was so quiet. And for the record I've never seen anybody have a better portable toilet outside than at Jon's property (Plus the bocce ball court was amazing and we had a great time playing with some people we met there as well this weekend). Suffice to say, we will definitely come back and visit Jon again and for anybody who may want a really great camping experience there is none better than what Jon provides.

See more

Our favorite spot.

Travis

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We love WTW! We camp here multiple times a year and it's always well deserving of the best in Illinois title! Everything is taken care of and we just get to setup camp and relax.

See more

Wine Trail Wilderness

M

Mimi

October 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back!! Wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back JON was extremely accommodating and his land was ideal For hip camp travelers! Thank you WTW !

See more

Wine Trail Wilderness

K

Kari

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

I enjoyed the evening on Jon's land. He was very helpful amd the site was beautiful! He had a big jug of ice water ready at the site too! There was a ready fire pit, but I chose not to have a fire since I was exhausted and wanted to sleep and get an early start the next day.

See more

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

p

patrick

October 2025

4 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We had a great time camping here. Jon was a great host. Checked on us every day. The campground was private. the other guests were very friendly. The trails nearby were very scenic. Would recommend it to any of my friends. We will camp here again I hope.

See more

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

Kate & Austin

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Excellent communication from the hosts! Very nice and accommodating people!

See more

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

S

Spence

October 2025

33 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

what you see online is what you get… Absolutely fantastic! John was awesome, the property is awesome. Secluded in a great back to nature. . I will be back with friends.

See more

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

P

Paul

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Great spot, great location, wonderful host. What more can I say. We came for Snake Road, Little Grand Canyon, Wine Trail and Vulture Fest. Central location for all of the above!

See more

Simple and everything we need

J

Jenny

October 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Wonderful camping area with extras! The sites are well maintained with cold water waiting, firewood ready upon request, picnic tables and a table and chairs. It’s like an all inclusive resort of primitive camping! My family and I really enjoyed playing bocce ball and were very thankful for the owner of the property to come take the time to teach us how to play. It is also in a great location for visiting hiking trails and climbing areas. Thanks for having us!

See more

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

Kate

October 2025

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Enjoyed my RV stay and our host’s hospitality. Jon was a great host who is working hard to make his property a nice place for guests. Well located to explore the Wine trial or western Shawnee hiking/biking.

See more

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Jon was a fantastic host and made sure we had everything we needed. The site was spacious and beautiful. Highly recommend!

See more

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

D

David

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Jon really went to great lengths to make Wild Trail Wilderness a great camping experience. It's a beautiful property, nestled between 2 wineries, and close to the Little Grand Canyon hiking trail. This was our first time using Hipcamp and Jon set the bar very high for those that will follow. He is now the yardstick by which all others will be measured. We plan on going back.

See more

Value Prop

Value Prop

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Wickliffe trips

Camping with wifi provided

Dog-friendly camping

Camping with wildlife watching

Top parks near Wickliffe

Chickasaw State Park

Fort Pillow State Park

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Montgomery Bell State Park

Pea Ridge National Military Park

Bledsoe Creek Camping State Park

Arkansas River - David D. Terry Lock and Dam

Cumberland Mountain State Park

Top cities near Wickliffe

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me

Best RV camping near me

Best glamping near me