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Shabbona Lake Campground

100%

92 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging

Chicago’s busy city bustle got your head spinning? Get out for some fresh air at Shabona Lake Campground. With hard-to-beat access to the pristine waters and plenty of forested beauty around, you’ll be filled up with camp vibes in no time. This spot is the perfect base camp to explore the goodness of Mother Nature, with dancing meadows, undisturbed marshlands, and wooded terrain waiting to be explored. Come experience this perfectly unspoiled atmosphere for yourself!

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewer hookups

No electric hookups

92 sites

RV, Tent, Lodging

Explore 486 campgrounds near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

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Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Angel Creek

98%

(189)

21mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 20 sites

Angel Creek is a carefully manicured, 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, hiking trail, and overall experience at Angel Creek. We are a weekend only campground and not at will. You must book a reservation before arriving. We are not able to provide booking details after 9pm; do not book after 9pm.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Welcome to our Magical Woods

98%

(301)

29mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Peaceful and enchanting. Very rustic and private. we are in the best part of the Illinois wilderness. Our woods transport you a world away, yet you are just a short walk from your vehicle and a short drive to Starved Rock, numerous parks, lakes, hiking, fishing and boating sites, stores, and restaurants. Campsites rentals benefit Acres Of Peace Center which provides free mental health programs to Veterans since 2004(located on our farm) We have 5 well spaced campsites complete with fire pit, picnic table and a couple of chairs ready for you at your campsite. Rent 1 or rent them all! Just bring your tent or your hammock! Your initial firewood . lighter, trash and recycling cans, and firestarters are brought to your site before you arrive. Our "camp host" Tiller the big lovable doggo will patrol to scatter any trash pandas that might happen by. We keep track of him using GPS, so we know if He is hanging with you around the campfire. When his collar lights up and plays a tune, it's time for him to come home! Please send him on his way - thank you. We are dedicated to being inclusive. We all LOVE nature and Everyone is welcome here. Message us when you are 30 minutes out, so we can you our tractor to help bring your things to your site. Same at check out. Just let us know 30 mins before you are ready to go and we will help you pack out! Sorry you will not be able to drive your vehicle to your site. This keeps the woods quiet for all of our guests. Each site is just a few hundred feet from the parking area. The magical woods is located along the bridle trails behind our horse farm. Sorry, we do not offer trail rides as we have show horses. However you are welcome to arrange a visit to meet the animals when you arrive. We have horses, a miniature horse, a mule, a miniature sheep and a very sweet goat named Hairy. There are about 30 chickens wandering the yard all day and we have 4 dogs and 3 cats that are always around. They are used to other dogs. At night we have a lovely lullaby of owls, night birds, insects and frogs. Sometimes you can even hear sounds from the Illinois River and railway miles away. Barges, trains (not many) tug boats, and the interesting sounds that come with them. Listen carefully, can you tell them apart?

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Bear Bottom Ranch

94%

(182)

19mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! Our entrance is marked by 2 cross crossed American flags. 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. If you looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have 3 unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

99%

(210)

45mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 8 sites

🐐 Hungry World Farm: Glamping, Camping & Animal Encounters on a Working Regenerative Farm Looking for something more meaningful than just a campground? Welcome to Hungry World Farm—175 acres of forests, pastures, gardens, creeks, and animals where every visit connects people with the land, food, and each other. Just two hours west of Chicago, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park, our nonprofit educational farm offers a totally different overnight experience—one rooted in regeneration, organic farming, community, and joy. What Makes Hungry World Farm Different? You don’t just sleep under the stars—you wake up to the sound of goats bleating, chickens scratching, and the scent of dew on rich, healthy soil. Our 16 new glamping tents and campsites (cabin and apartments too) are nestled across rolling pastures and forests, offering sweeping views and proximity to daily farm life. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a family adventure, you'll be immersed in: 🐐 Baby Goat Snuggling & Animal Encounters 🌱 Working Regenerative Farm Experiences 🍕 Wood-Fired Pizza Nights on select Saturdays 🌳 Trails, Playgrounds, and Stargazing Opportunities Lodging Options: 🛖 Glamping Tents – Furnished with queen beds and solar electric, some deep in forest on ridges, some near playground/flat lawn for families w/small children. Some remote, others next to each other or families vacationing together. ⛺ Rustic Campsites – Private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature 🏡 Cabin, Apartments – So your friends that need AC/shower can have those comforts Other Experiences: 🐄 Guided Farm Tours of gardens, animals, and pastures 🛠️ Volunteer Days and Hands-On Learning Projects 📚 Seasonal Workshops in gardening, composting, and more 🥬 Farmstand Access (in-season) with eggs, produce, and preserves Perfect For: 2 or more families/friends, Nature lovers and first-time campers, Eco-friendly wedding parties. On-Site Amenities: - Fire pits at every site, with wood and other camping needs available for purchase- Portapotties and a public restroom located on the farm (not officially part of the campground but accessible)

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Millbrook Trail Rides

97%

(132)

19mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 1 site

We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

East Woods on the IL River

97%

(354)

26mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Campfires

Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

97%

(74)

18mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Peaceful, but not always the most quiet; as a farm does have animals, and the woods do have animal night life that live there. We also reside here. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand and wood sales on site for 7 a large bundle (2 for small bundles while supplies last). Feel free to pull wood from the land yourself as well. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Each site has a picnic table and chairs. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA (have to use while they are open. I am not responsible for their hours). Need to drive to get to showers and go when the facility is open. Possible to and may see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less from Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open early this year Feb 19th through October 31st (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay. Message to confirm after October.) The end of the season this year will be on or about October 31st (but if we say open on the site after feel free to reach out and confirm book). And then we will be closed for the winter until on or about May first (again if open you can book before this date, feel free to do so); Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean Coffee close by. Local forest preserve has toilets (within driving distance and use while open before sundown) or bring your own porti-john (I find a bucket and a garbage bag do wonders). Camp with your dogs and horses!! Animals welcome (trails at the local preserve). Set up a temp spot for them with owner permission. We have the space. There is riding allowed (not paid rides this is a trail system if you bring your own horses) at the forest preserve right around the corner, and a local farm spot where you can call and pet horses at Steinke Farms (have to call and set up with them- Google should give you a listed number). We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A hammock. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, gardens, or themselves. 💕🙏 Again offering substantial fire wood bundles for 7 dollars a bundle and smalls for 2 while supplies last. New egg and farm stand added this year. New picnic tables added to each site. Well water available upon request for those that have travel tanks to refill (ask the owner and schedule a time to use the hose or get a bucket for cooking dropped off). Disclaimer that animals make noises on a farm. Roosters do not just crow during the day. Dogs bark. Coyotes howl. Cats are present and might greet you. Jericho is a busy country road. The drive way is shared with the house. This means as we come and go there is traffic on the gravel road. We live here, so we might run a mower or get packages delivered.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(34)

22mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An stocked fishing pond horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. Meet our lovely silkie roosters Muppet and his buddy Snickers! 🐔❤️

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Escape to Nature

97%

(336)

36mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Each reservation includes firewood that is rough cut. Always call ahead when you are planning to enjoy a local attraction. This property is located on the outskirts of the village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. This is a kid-friendly and pet friendly location. 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. Check out these amazing area attractions! -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. (http://www.IRM.org) -Tower Hills Stables, Trail Rides, Horseback Riding Camp (ages 5 to 14), Riding Lessons, just 8 miles drive, (https://www.towerhillstables.net/.) -Summerfield Farm and Zoo, a privately owned zoo in rural Belvidere, IL, 3088 Flora Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008, a 30 minute drive. (https://summerfieldfarmandzoo.com/.) -Safari Lake Geneva, 45 minute drive to the north, Visit Safari Lake Geneva, Wisconsin's original drive through animal park. Feed and interact with a variety of animals from the comfort of your car (https://safarilakegeneva.com/). Additional suggestions include Santa's Village Amusement and Water Park in West Dundee, Randall Oaks Zoo, in Dundee on Randall Road, Minor League Baseball with Schaumburg Boomers or Kane County Cougars, Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Sullivan Mobile massage, Belvidere Park in Belvidere, IL, Volo Auto Museum, Department of Natural Resources Bike and Hiking Trails and fishing. 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

Toilets

Campfires

Gypsi Acres

95%

(32)

19mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape to Nature's Sanctuary at Gypsi Acres Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of our 3-acre camping oasis, nestled amidst lush landscapes and soothing water views. Open Field Camping: Pitch your tent under starry skies with breathtaking sunset views Wooded Wonderland. Discover secluded campsites surrounded by towering trees and vibrant wildlife **Creek Side Serenity*: Unwind to gentle water flows and enjoy creek-side camping with tranquil views **Primitive Camping*: Immersive nature experience with no hookups **Portable Toilets*: Clean facilities for your convenience **Campfire Rings*: Cozy up to starry nights with friends and family **Stargazing*: Unobstructed views of the night sky Tent Camping RV/Trailer (no hookups) Book Your Nature Escape: Call/Text [331-575-2398] or Email [ karen88rodriguez@yahoo.com Property can also be rented as an event venue for parties with a barn

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Creekside Kickback

100%

(16)

13mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a small family farm that grows sweet corn and pumpkins. We are two families that have become great friends and use this property for growing a small crop each year, as well as for friend and neighbor gatherings, and lots of fun and memories for our kids. In the summer, we love spending time hanging out at our tiki hut, which we have lovingly nicknamed “The Smut Hut.” “Smut” is a mushroom-type delicacy that sometimes grows on sweet corn, as we have learned. Bonfires and grilling out are some of our favorite things to do. Our kids have built some great trails and jumps for anyone who enjoys trail or bicycle riding. So, if you are looking for time overlooking a creek or pond, fishing, hiking, sitting around a fire, and relaxing, we invite you to come and stay with us. Sometimes we may be there hanging out, picking corn or pumpkins, or grilling with friends, and we hope you might join us. Or you may have the place to yourself to watch the birds and beavers, and if you’re lucky, you may spot the turtle that lives in the pond. We have two RV sites with electric hookups available, and several tent sites. Many have fire rings and picnic tables. We also have grills and a portable toilet available for guest use. Firewood is available for purchase, hand-chopped by our teenager, and during the in-season, we will have sweet corn and pumpkins available for purchase. Please be sure to bring cash if you want to purchase firewood, corn, or pumpkins. Thanks!! We are located about a half mile from Route 30, and just a few miles from a dump station at Vacationland. Nearby attractions include Plowman’s Park, the Sandwich Fairgrounds, Raging Waves Water Park, the Big Rock Quarry, Rich Harvest Farms Golf Course, and Bliss Creek Golf Course.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Avalon Unity Garden

97%

(17)

48mi from Shabbona Lake Campground · 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

Toilets

Campfires

More to explore nearby

100%

4 ratings · 1 review

June 2017

Ok in a pinch. We rolled in at 10pm, the party had already started at this strict no alcohol allowed campground. The sites are very close together so our entertainment for the evening was the drunk ramblings of the teenagers next to us. It's wooded and the pitches each have a table and a fire pit but they are not generous with the space you get. There is a nice lake but the restrooms scattered around the grounds are pit toilets. The showers are powerful (4 stalls)but could use a good cleaning. I'm guessing because of the lack of supervision by the camp hosts, many people left food out so we were woken several times by rival gangs of raccoons roaming the grounds stealing what they could. We paid $25 for one night tent camping. Dog friendly

LocationShabbona Lake Campground, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, Illinois, United States

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What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewer hookups

No electric hookups

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me

Best RV camping near me

Best glamping near me

92 sitesRV, Tent, Lodging