Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- You can reserve one of 60 non-electric or 210 electric RV/tent sites at Rock Cut State Campground online.
- Reservations are possible from May through October; camping is available on a walk-in basis only from November through March.
- Campsite reservations open six months in advance and must be made three days before arrival.
When to Go
Outdoor adventures are possible year-round. Peak season runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, when swimming and water sports draw lake crowds. Wildflowers bloom in the forests through spring and summer, but the most stunning views are in fall, when the hardwoods shed their colorful coats. Visiting in winter? Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and ice fishing are all popular.
Know Before You Go
- Rock Cut State Park is just north of Rockford and about an 80-minute drive northwest of Chicago.
- There is no admission fee to visit Illinois state parks, but camping reservation fees apply.
- You can bring your own boat or watercraft to Pierce Lake (engines over 10 HP must operate at no-wake speed), where there are two boat launches. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards are available to rent in summer. Swimming is only allowed at Olsen Lake, and a daily admission fee applies for the swimming beach.
- Park facilities include a camp store and food concession stand, restrooms and picnic areas, a playground, and a dump station. Skis and snowshoes can be rented through winter.
- Accessible day-use areas, trails, campsites, fishing piers, and restrooms are available.
Rock Cut State Park
Four seasons of fun await at this rock-cut wilderness within day-trip distance of Chicago.
As you explore the rambling woodland trails and gleaming lakes of Rock Cut State Park, it’s hard to believe that Illinois’ state capital is little more than an hour’s drive away. Hidden away in the hardwood forests of Winnebago County, this all-natural retreat has six miles of mountain biking trails, 40 miles of hiking trails, and 25 miles of equestrian trails to keep you busy. Afterward, take to the water at Pierce Lake or Olsen Lake to swim, fish, or paddle, then pitch your tent by the lakeside. Rock Cut Campground also has equestrian sites, electric sites, and a rustic cabin.
As you explore the rambling woodland trails and gleaming lakes of Rock Cut State Park, it’s hard to believe that Illinois’ state capital is little more than an hour’s drive away. Hidden away in the hardwood forests of Winnebago County, this all-natural retreat has six miles of mountain biking trails, 40 miles of hiking trails, and 25 miles of equestrian trails to keep you busy. Afterward, take to the water at Pierce Lake or Olsen Lake to swim, fish, or paddle, then pitch your tent by the lakeside. Rock Cut Campground also has equestrian sites, electric sites, and a rustic cabin.
Activities in the park
1 campground in Rock Cut State Park
Rock Cut Campground provides several overnight camping options including Class A and B premium sites. There is also equestrian camping restricted to a site on Hart Road. Just be aware that this isn’t the place to party like it’s 1999. This campground is alcohol-free and the rules are strictly enforced. Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- You can reserve one of 60 non-electric or 210 electric RV/tent sites at Rock Cut State Campground online.
- Reservations are possible from May through October; camping is available on a walk-in basis only from November through March.
- Campsite reservations open six months in advance and must be made three days before arrival.
Read more...Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Outdoor adventures are possible year-round. Peak season runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, when swimming and water sports draw lake crowds. Wildflowers bloom in the forests through spring and summer, but the most stunning views are in fall, when the hardwoods shed their colorful coats. Visiting in winter? Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and ice fishing are all popular.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —