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Frakers Grove Farm

Hosted by Dennis · La Fayette, Illinois

20 guests max

100%

47 reviews

Best Hipcamps in Illinois

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.

Dennis is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

All to yourself

96% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.

Frakers Grove Farm has been part of my family since the 1980s, but its history extends back to 1828, when Michael Fraker arrived and negotiated a peaceful settlement with the local Native American tribes, becoming the first settler in Northeastern Knox County. His grave, along with those of approximately 26 relatives and friends, is located on the property. Camp on a 250-acre farm in Western Illinois, featuring a 1.5-acre pond stocked with bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, catfish, and resident grass carp, plus a small creek. The property also has trails and abundant wildlife, including deer, American river otters, beavers, geese, wood ducks, and raccoons. A floating dock with a ladder sits on the pond, and a jon boat is available for guest use. Swimming and boating are at your own risk, there is no lifeguard on duty, and life jackets are not provided, so please bring your own if you plan to swim or use the boat. We offer one campsite: Pondside (drive-in, by the water's edge) Guest WiFi is available near the buildings. Facilities include a porta potty near the pole barn. Please note: neither campsite has water, electric, or sewer hookups, and there is no dump station on the property, guests should plan to be fully self-sufficient. We maintain the property using a Yarbo robotic lawn mower. Feel free to ask us about it, or even see a demo! If it's actively mowing, please stay at least 20 feet away, as some obstacle detection is turned off in certain areas of the farm. Note: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during spring and fall. We have chickens on the property. If it's rained recently, 2WD vehicles may have difficulty reaching the campsites due to our dirt and grass access roads.This is a Pondside Tent Site nestled right by the water's edge, perfect for relaxing, fishing, or just unwinding by the campfire. Ideal for 1–8 tents, or a Jeep, 4WD/AWD vehicle, camper van, truck camper, or pop-up camper, with rooftop or vehicle-based camping. An off-road teardrop trailer made it here in the past when towed by a Jeep, so it may be possible for small, off-road capable tow-behinds with adequate ground clearance and 4WD. Not suitable for standard RVs, trailers, or low-clearance vehicles. Access is via a dirt road and grassy lane with a moderate hill, which may become soft or slick in wet conditions. If you're unsure about your setup, feel free to message me before booking! This spot offers a private and rustic experience, just be sure your vehicle can handle a bit of country terrain.

Rig suitability

Vehicles under 20 feet allowed

Best for Jeep or truck camping—rooftop tents, bed tents, or small overland-style setups. A very small teardrop trailer (under 20 ft total length) may work if towed by a capable 4WD vehicle with good clearance. Not suitable for standard RVs, travel trailers, or low-clearance vehicles. Max length: 20 feet (total length including trailer + tow vehicle). The access road is a dirt/grass lane with a hill, and may become impassable for 2WD vehicles after rain. If you're unsure whether your rig can make it, please message me before booking.

Allowed rigs: pop-up campers, class B RVs, campervans, cars, truck campers, and rooftop tents

Best suited for Jeep/truck camping with rooftop tents, truck bed setups, slide-in truck campers, camper vans (Class B), or pop-up campers, all with sufficient ground clearance for a dirt road and hill. A very small, off-road teardrop trailer (under 20 ft) may be possible if towed by a capable 4WD vehicle. Not suitable for standard RVs, trailers, or low-clearance vehicles. Important: If it's rained recently, 2WD vehicles may not be able to reach this site due to the dirt road and hill. No services on site: there is no water, electric, or sewer hookup, and no dump station on the property. Guests must be fully self-sufficient (bring your own water, manage your own waste, etc.).

Back-in site

Back-in required. Access involves backing down a gentle incline with a tree and an open-sided lean-to structure near the parking area. The turn-in is not wide or straight, so some experience backing up with a campervan or small trailer is strongly recommended. Not suitable for long trailers or guests unfamiliar with reversing in tighter spaces.

Surface type: Grass or field

Surface levelness: Requires leveling

The site has a slight overall slope rather than being perfectly level. Some guests have needed to use leveling blocks or ramps, while others have not, depending on their vehicle or setup. No guests have reported issues, but if you're concerned about leveling for your specific rig, please message me before booking.

No class A RVs, class C RVs, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers

Doesn't accommodate slideouts

Generators allowed

Generators are allowed, but we strongly recommend whisper-quiet or inverter-style models to preserve the peaceful atmosphere for everyone. Please limit use to essential needs and avoid running them during quiet hours (10 PM – 6 AM). If you're unsure whether your generator is suitable, feel free to reach out.

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

No sewage hookup

No TV hookup

What to expect

4WD recommended

A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for best access.

RV/tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

20 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firepit, private

Toilet available

Portable toilet. Effective 5/31/2023 we now have a Porta Potty available for our guests to use located up by the Pole Barn.

Pets allowed

Off leash. Pets are welcome and may be off-leash at the campsite itself. Please note the area has tall grass, so ticks are common, you may want to check your pet after walks. Near the main house, dogs must be kept on-leash, as we have chickens free-ranging in that area and our own two dogs, who stay off-leash within an invisible fence boundary around the buildings. Max is mouthy and loves to bark, he's just announcing himself, not being aggressive, and Juliette just wants pets. If you'd like your dog to meet ours, please ask first so we can do a controlled introduction.

Potable water available

Spigot, pump or well. Water Hydrant is located next to the pole barn.

Bins available

Trash bin. A 5 yard dumpster is available up by the house. Please ensure to take all trash to that dumpster upon your departure.

Wifi available

Guest Wifi is available close to the buildings.

No showers

Bathe in lake

Cooking equipment absent

Picnic table absent

Laundry absent

Hot Tub absent

No playground

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

Late check-out may be available

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy:

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 12 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 5 vehicles

4WD recommended

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Select a site

RV/tent sites

1 site

Pond Side

100%

(41)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 20 · Vehicles under 20 ft

This is a Pondside Tent Site nestled right by the water's edge, perfect for relaxing, fishing, or just unwinding by the campfire. Ideal for 1–8 tents, or a Jeep, 4WD/AWD vehicle, camper van, truck camper, or pop-up camper, with rooftop or vehicle-based camping. An off-road teardrop trailer made it here in the past when towed by a Jeep, so it may be possible for small, off-road capable tow-behinds with adequate ground clearance and 4WD. Not suitable for standard RVs, trailers, or low-clearance vehicles. Access is via a dirt road and grassy lane with a moderate hill, which may become soft or slick in wet conditions. If you're unsure about your setup, feel free to message me before booking! This spot offers a private and rustic experience, just be sure your vehicle can handle a bit of country terrain.

4WD recommended

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

Reviews

100% Recommend52 ratings · 47 reviews

Camping at Dennis's place is a relaxing retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Guests consistently highlight the tranquil atmosphere, the well-maintained pond, and Dennis's friendly and accommodating nature. The site offers a peaceful escape where visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply unwinding by the water. With clean facilities and a genuine sense of privacy, it's a spot that encourages repeat visits.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· October 2026

Tent · Group trip

The spot is beautiful and the fishing is real good (caught a 5lb bass within 30mins of arrival) Dennis was super nice and very helpful. 10/10

Recommends

· October 2026

Tent · With kids

We loved our stay by the pond! So quiet and lovely stargazing!

Recommends

· September 2026

Peaceful

Tent · With pets

I enjoyed my stay. The property was clean and well kept. Dennis, the host, was great as always (been here numerous times).

Recommends

· July 2026

Romantic night away

Tent

Awesome space and great natural environment!! Is perfect for a couple get away!!

Recommends

· June 2026

20 ft truck camper

Fantastic site and Dennis is a great host! Had a very warm welcome and nice cozy stay by the pond!

Recommends

· June 2026

20 ft Class B

We had 2 very beautiful and peaceful nights. Dennis was a great host. We will be back!

Recommends

· June 2026

16 ft car · With pets

Very private and beautiful land and the pond was amazing! The dock is so nice to lay out on, an overall great experience. Portapotty was clean and I got a ton of firewood!

Recommends

· May 2026

FANTASTIC Spot!

Tent · With kids

Dennis’s spot is great. We’ve gone back a few times now. The pond is clean and well stocked for fishing. Perfect for our younger boys toodling around on their kayaks or swimming. It’s a super quiet and peaceful space. It feels very private and secluded. Dennis is very quick to communicate and respond to any questions. Would definitely recommend!

Recommends

· May 2026

Camping

16 ft car

Was a great camping trip like always ! Was able to be the first one to use his new dock for fishing. Caught some good ones . Once again thank you for the stay!

Recommends

· May 2026

16 ft car

Dennis was very easy to communicate with and was a really nice guy. The property is incredibly tranquil and pretty. I spent an afternoon just reading by the pond and listening to all the birds that populate the area. This was a great option to get out of the city for a couple days for some solitude.

Recommends

· October 2025

Relaxing and fishing

20 ft campervan · With pets

Always a beautiful stay here. The host is very welcoming and the sunrise is beautiful. There’s a walking path around the pond to explore the property.

Recommends

· September 2025

Thank you again for an amazing expe

Tent · Group trip

Stars at night were awesome host was very accommodating. area was private and quiet

Recommends

· September 2025

Camping pond side Frakers Farm

Tent

Me and my wife really enjoyed the time we spent at this farm! Beautiful, nice and a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city life. Dennis was an awesome guy and responsive to all of our question's we had. We stayed for 3 nights and look forward to coming back in the spring. Dennis explained what he wanted to do with the pond (adding a dock and dredging) to make it an even better experience. We did not take his hospitality for granted. It is an awesome thing that a farmer would lend out a piece of his land right on a private pond for you to enjoy. Truly remarkable thing and one we will never forget. Thank you Dennis for being yourself and inviting us in! For those that stay here just remember to leave it just the way you came. I know that’s a given but some people just don’t think about that stuff so just a friendly reminder. This place is gorgeous!

Recommends

· September 2025

Rooftop Camping and

Tent

Amazing place Dennis was a amazing host ! Spot was beautiful . Wood was provided as charged ! Nothing to complain about ! Loved it ! Need to leave chicago do it this is the spot ! God blessed!

Recommends

· August 2025

Tent

Thank you Dennis for your hospitality and sharing your beautiful property. We had a great time staying on the pond side site. It was very quiet and relaxing. Very much enjoyed the view and quiet relaxing nature all around. Also Thank you for the good conversations and sharing information and insight on your beautiful farm.

Recommends

· August 2025

Tent

Another fun fishing/camping trip in the books with my sons!

Recommends

· August 2025

Great one day stay

Tent

Pond side is remote, grass is nicely kept. No mosquitoes! Portajon too! We camped, had breakfast and hit 18 holes at Midland GC. Great weekend! Totally accessible by car to your campsite

Recommends

· July 2025

Pleasantly peaceful

Tent · With pets

This was one of the most peaceful and pleasant campsites that I have stayed at. The site was spacious, level, and had everything that you could want! A beautiful view, pond, huge fire ring, and picnic table. I will definitely be staying here again in the future! I have drone footage that I will add later showing just how perfect this site is.

Recommends

· July 2025

Awesome site, great host!

16 ft campervan · With pets

We had a fantastic stay, the Pond Side site truly is right there on the pond. Lots of birds, frogs at night, fireflies everywhere, very quiet, clean, and secluded. Dennis is a great host, super friendly and easy communication, will definitely stay here again!

Recommends

· May 2025

Tent

I had a great experience camping with my friend,nice and peaceful good privacy and the fishing is great, there's some monster fish in that water

Recommends

· May 2025

Great spot, repeat camper

20 ft campervan

I had a wonderful stay at Dennis’s pond-side campsite! The location is peaceful - perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. I caught a few fish right from the shore and spent time just enjoying the wildlife and beautiful sunsets. Dennis is a great host—friendly, welcoming, and helpful without being intrusive. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway with a bit of fishing, fresh air, and natural beauty, this spot is a gem. Highly recommend!

Recommends

· September 2024

Relax

20 ft campervan

Return camper because I love the calm! Beautiful site to just relax, watch the fish jump and listen to the wildlife around you.

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

Great site and easy communication! I enjoyed the solitude of the grove behind pond.

Recommends

· September 2024

14 ft campervan

This site offers 1 Walk-in Camp Site and 1 Drive-In Site by the pond, each with a fire ring. RV camping is currently in a trial phase; This area provides primitive wooded camping behind and around the pond. Dennis is a great host for this family owned working farm, gracious enough to share a quite place away from the 'big campgrounds'

Recommends

· September 2024

A hip camp

Tent

It was peaceful and clean. Rustic. I felt safe there. It's out in the country, so there are critters out there. Unlike some other warn out bald spots with rock, this camp site has beautiful lush grass. A hidden and romantic gem. I'm almost afraid to share this secluded spot. I suggest read up on other nice attractions within the same county to make it a 2-3 day weekend of it. The host is "hip", no pun intended Hipcamp.

Recommends

· August 2024

Great camping trip

Tent

Dennis was friendly and very hospitable. Directions were clear and easy to follow. Beautiful land, with amazing views. Very peaceful and enjoyable camping trip! Definitely would recommend. Tent camped at the pond location. Access was easy.

Recommends

· August 2024

13 ft campervan

its was a very quiet place to relax place was clean dennis was cool host thank you will be back again 👍👍👍

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent

My sons and I enjoyed our stay on the pond. Very well maintained grounds. The shelter gave us additional shade and protection from rain. There is a two seater Jon boat that allowed us to go around the pond and throw frogs for bass. Dennis was a great host and enjoyed the chats with him. We will be back and excited about his future add ons!

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent · With pets

Beautiful spot right next to the pond. We had to leave early due to unforeseen circumstances and Dennis still refunded us for the day we missed. The boat and pond and fishing were great, would definitely recommend.

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent

Had an awesome weekend here! Dennis's land is gorgeous and very peaceful. We enjoyed our time relaxing and fishing the pond (caught many bass, crappie, and bluegill) We will definitely be back!

Location

La Fayette, Knox, Illinois, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Hosted by Dennis B.

Joined in December 2022

Frakers Grove Farm

Things to know

Select a site

RV/tent sites

Pond Side

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Dennis B.

Things to do nearby

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