# Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

See photos, check availability, and book on Hipcamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/illinois-bear-creek-farm-and-ranch-gzwjh99l

- **Location:** Palmer, Illinois, United States
- **Price:** from $35.00/night
- **Rating:** 100% recommend (600 reviews)
- **Sites:** 4
- **Size:** 103 acres
- **Host:** Debbie D.

## Overview

We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm.

 In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land.

 The property has a greenhouse and about a half acre of field that we raise vegetables and fruit on.

 We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim and boat in. We have some news for everyone from new campers to those that have visited before, we had our pond dredged this fall and winter (2025-2026). this was a much needed improvement for the ecology of the pond and it's inhabitants. We do want everyone to know it will look different for a while. There were trees that had to be removed from the north and east side of the pond, and until we can get the soil moved that came out of the pond, there will be piles of soil around the pond. The depth of the pond will be low until we receive enough rain to fill it back up (we didn't drain it completely, but it is much lower right now). We are keeping site 2 closed for 2026 so the grass has a chance to grow back. We will be adding a few more sites once the pond area is landscaped. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them.

 Plenty of wildlife, hiking and mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised and/or made on the farm for folks to purchase. 
Ice is available at the farm $5/8 pound bag.

 Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm, Anderson Cemetery and Witch's Bridge.

Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks, in Taylorville.

Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield, is 35 miles from the farm.

## Highlights

- **Best Hipcamps in Illinois:** Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2026.
- **Amazing views:** Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
- **Family-friendly:** Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
- **Best in Illinois: Finalist:** Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
- **Staff verified:** Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
- **Debbie is a Star Host:** Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
- **Creature comforts:** Enjoy the comforts of home—including flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen.
- **Private sites:** 100% of recent Hipcampers say the sites felt private.

## Amenities

- **Amenities:** Pets, Potable water, Toilets, Campfires, Showers, Trash, Cooking equipment
- **Activities:** Biking, Boating, Fishing, Hiking, Paddling, Off-roading (OHV), Swimming, Wildlife watching
- **Terrain:** Forest, Lake, River, stream, or creek, Swimming hole, Field, Farm, Ranch

## Sites

- **Site 3 - Ponds Edge** (tents, up to 12 guests, $35.00/night)
- **Site 2 - Ponds Edge** (rv-tent, up to 12 guests, $35.00/night)
- **Site 1 - Ponds Edge** (rv-tent, up to 12 guests, $35.00/night)
- **Cottage in the woods** (cabin, up to 10 guests, $150.00/night)

## Recent reviews

> I enjoyed my first evening here enough to stay another nite. The hosts were great and I'll definitely stay here again!
>
> - Ron C., November 3, 2026

> Debbie and Matt are wonderful hosts. Gracious and super helpful. The cottage was well appointed and very clean. All amenities were fully stock and ready for us! Couldn’t have been better!
>
> - Michael C., October 25, 2026

> We camped at Site 1 and it was one of the best experiences ever! The site was well kept and had a great view towards the pond. We hiked, paddled the canoe and the kayak, fished, and had a great weekend. The site was quiet and very private with ample space for a large group. Debbie and Matt were the nicest hosts as well! They were very helpful and really made an effort to make sure we had a great time at their Ranch. Matt even took his time in the morning to take us around the ranch to show us the hiking trails, and Debbie introduced us to their beautiful horses and mules. We would definitely c…
>
> - Rajeev K., October 19, 2026

> Tia was a lovely host. It was amazing having a sky dark enough to see all the stars.
>
> - Nad G., October 16, 2026

> Nice place! Beautiful land and a great view of the star-filled sky!
>
> - Jackie M., October 12, 2026