The best camping near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Shabbona Lake adventure.

100% (4 reviews)
100% (4 reviews)

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

97%
(244)

East Woods on the IL River

3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ottawa, IL
This 25 acre parcel was once owned by a sand mining company. There are mounds and valleys all along the Illinois River. We purchased the property in 1987, and cut in the road. The city of Ottawa recently annexed the property into the Ottawa city limits. It's like owning our own wild park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
98%
(26)

Bear Bottom Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Millbrook, IL
Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! 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. Ifare looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have two unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property, keeping to ourselves. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
98%
(161)

Welcome to our Magical Woods

9 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · IL
Peaceful & enchanting. Very rustic and private. 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
98%
(246)

Escape to Nature

8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Huntley, IL
This property is located on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard. What to do here: Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks. If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking. Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit. The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. Kids love Thomas the train and Percy too! When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants. We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff. Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com. FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂 Here are some answers to common questions. We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent. Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour. ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door. WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done. CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing. WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood. PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits. INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent. HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage. EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking. ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night
90%
(90)

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Ottawa, IL
we allow primitive tent camping, tear drop campers, pop up campers and campervans we are right on the illinois river across from Starved Rock State Park. Towering views of St. Peters sandstone bluffs, soaring bald eagles and sandy islands. We are primitive. no water no electric. Just beautiful riverside camping with ultra clean pimped out porta potties that have wipes, underarm spray deodorant, air freshener and hand sanitizer. Please note kayak rentals or guided kayak tours are not included but may be purchased onsite or from our website kayak starved rock campground KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND Camping Rules Our Rules are to promote a family friendly and safe camping experience We reserve the right to evict anyone without refund for improper behavior or failure to observe our rules and regulations. All Campers must check in/show ID at the KSRC office and sign a waiver and receive a parking pass/wristband. WE DO NOT ALLOW GUESTS! ANYONE ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE REGISTERED AHEAD OF TIME AS A CAMPER AND PAID FOR! All Campers are required to wear wristbands. All vehicles must have a Parking pass on the dashboard. Anyone within camp area must have a wristband on. You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation. If anyone in the camping reservation is under 21 then someone 20 years older must be present at all times camping with the person(s) under 21 NO GENERATORS!!!!! NO MUSIC IS TO BE PLAYED THROUGH SPEAKERS AT ANY TIME QUIET HOURS ARE FROM 10PM TO 7AM THAT MEANS NO NOISE WHATSOEVER. Strictly Enforced Vehicular entry/exit is not permitted between these hours. Children should be on campsite by 9:00 pm. If you violate this rule you will be evicted without refund and you will be banned from ever camping again. IF YOUR CAR DOES NOT HAVE A PARKING PASS IT WILL BE TOWED AT YOUR EXPENSE! Check-in is at 3:00 pm. Check-out time is 3:00 pm. Footwear must be worn at all times in the camping area. The speed limit is 10mph in the campground. We have Jumbo wood bundles for sale($8) at the front office. You may not use any wood(>3”diameter) found within the campground for your campfire. Swimming is prohibited from any beach in the campground. You may wade up to your thighs however, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON AND BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES we do allow well behaved leashed dogs at this campground(please be advised that Eagles can harm small dogs. we are not responsible if your dog inflicts harm/and or injures Glass containers/bottles of any sort are prohibited in the campground. Garbage must be bagged and placed into the Dumpster within the Campground upon leaving. If any garbage is left at your site you will be charged a $50 cleaning fee. No fires permitted except in fire rings. Absolutely no firearms or fireworks! IF FOUND YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE. No ATVs, dirt bikes, motorized scooters (battery or gas) WE are not responsible for damage or theft of your personal belongings. Please leave all valuables at home. WE DO ALLOW WELL BEHAVED LEASHED DOGS AT THIS LOCATION ONLY 2 DOGS MAX PER CAMPSITE
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$39
 / night
100%
(52)

Rockford Ski Club Camp Site

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Rockford, IL
Learn more about this land:The Ski Club has 33 acres of prairie, forest, garden, and field. Beautiful forests with deer, turkey, and fox. The property leads to the Kishwaukee River where people can kayak or canoe. There is a view of the river valley from the camping field. The Ski Club has been a cooperative club for decades and members still ski and sled here. We are hosting a camping event for friends and Hip-campers Labor Day weekend (September 3rd - September 6th). The Club is easy to access off of Interstate 39. There is a gas station a half mile away and the city of Rockford is only a 10-15 minute drive away. People can camp in tents, car/vans, campers, or RVs in the mowed grass area. There is a well with limited amounts of water that is not drinkable but can be used to wash. There is electricity for phones, lights, games, etc. but will not power RVs. The club president can be reached at 8159794872
Pets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
98%
(61)

Rancho Comienzo

3 sites · Tents57 acres · Sheridan, IL
Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays. Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities! We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
100%
(13)

Angel Creek

15 sites · Tents18 acres · Sheridan, IL
Angel Creek is a stunningly forested primitive campground that provides an array of tent camping spaces suitable for couples, family gatherings, and everything in between. Owned and managed by the Garcia family, campers will undoubtedly recognize and appreciate the meticulous hard work and attention to detail dedicated to each site, trail, and overall experience at Angel Creek.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
96%
(13)

A Creek Runs Through It

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Elgin, IL
When I first stepped foot on this property I literally fell to my knees in awe of the beauty. There were many offers on it but I had to have it so I offered well over asking price. It has been an adventure making it my own over the past 4 years. I even got a pet pig - Alice! I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. It's rare to have property of this size with this beauty in a Chicago suburb. 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
Trash
from 
$45
 / night
100%
(17)

Kayak Morris Riverside Tent Campsit

23 sites · Tents10 acres · Morris, IL
Enjoy your stay on our sandy wooded shores of the Illinois river. Spend your time kayaking, hiking, biking, fishing, geocaching. Forgot something? Starbucks, Walgreens, jewel and Walmart are only 2 miles away. Stroll 2 blocks away to historic downtown Morris and peruse antique shops specialty stores or take in a cold one at one of the many local watering holes Kayak Morris Campground Camping Rules Our Rules are to promote a family friendly and safe camping experience We reserve the right to evict anyone without refund for improper behavior or failure to observe our rules and regulations. All Campers must check in/show ID at the Kayak Morris kayak Rental office and sign a waiver and receive a parking pass/wristband. All Campers are required to wear wristbands. All vehicles must have a Parking pass on the dashboard. Anyone within camp area must have a wristband on. You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation. If anyone in the camping reservation is under 21 then someone 20 years older must be present at all times camping with the person(s) under 21 NO GENERATORS!!! Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am and is Strictly Enforced Vehicular entry/exit is not permitted between these hours. Children should be on campsite by 9:00 pm. If you violate this rule we may call the police file a report, you will be evicted without refund and you will be banned from ever camping again. IF YOUR CAR DOES NOT HAVE A PARKING PASS IT WILL BE TOWED AT YOUR EXPENSE! Check-in is at 3:00 pm. Check-out time is 3:00 pm. Footwear must be worn at all times in the camping area. No vehicles may be driven within the area where tents are placed at any time. You must park your vehicle next to the road behind the barriers(which is only steps from your tent.) The speed limit is 10mph in the campground. We have Jumbo wood bundles for sale($8) at the front office. You may not use any wood(>3”diameter) found within the campground for your campfire. Swimming is prohibited from any beach in the campground. You may wade up to your thighs however, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON AND BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES Glass containers/bottles of any sort are prohibited in the campground. Garbage must be bagged and placed into the Dumpster(opposite campsite #3) within the Campground upon leaving. If any garbage is left at your site you will be charged a $50 cleaning fee. No fires permitted except in fire rings. Absolutely no firearms or fireworks! IF FOUND YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE. No ATVs, dirt bikes, generators, motorized scooters (battery or gas) or trailers in the park. power boats or jet skis are only allowed in campsites 12 and up. Dogs are NOT allowed in the Campground or in any rented boat(at this location) WE are not responsible for damage or theft of your personal belongings. Please leave all valuables at home.
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$36
 / night
100%
(8)

Forest Fairy's Paradise

2 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Rockford, IL
This Homestead was built in 1918 and was named Tullock's Farm after the family who owned all the land nearby. It totals 6.6 Acres and has walking trails on the property. There are lots of black walnut trees, raspberries, mulberry trees and other fruits and veggies that grow on this land. We also raise chickens and sell the eggs. We love living here and want to share the hidden beauty.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your rv in the small patch of forest in back. You will have access to a campfire area and walking trails around the property. The main house is a 1 minute walk away but we will give you as much privacy as you like. There is a barn separating the campfire ring and the main house which has chickens in it and will be closed off, and also gives you the feel of a little more privacy. We have lots of different beautiful birds that visit the property as well as other animals. We also have two silos on the property that you are free to take photos with before leaving. The rock river is a short drive away with multiple places to put your boat in. There are also many parks and attractions close by as well. Family friendly environment.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
93%
(14)

Bollman Lake

6 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Nelson, IL
This is part of my grandparents farm that was used to build the bridge along the tollway.Learn more about this land:7 acre lake along interstate with a total of approximately 13 acres to camp on. Lake is used to jet ski, canoe, and kayak on. Your are welcome to have a small fire as long as it is not a fire hazard or fall when nearby crops are dry.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

The best camping near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

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.

Top cities near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping.

Download the Hipcamp App

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.