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97% (6.7K) • 8,988 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Illinois
Horseshoe Bend
1. Horseshoe Bend
99%
(774)
Roanoke, IL · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
WE ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026 SEASON!!
Family owned private campground since the 1940's. Very secluded and private. We offer a very unique experience that you will not find any public campground. I many ways we have a "private state park".
Nice trails for hiking or biking. There is even a small "race track" in the bottom bowl near the creek. There are several direct access points to the creek for fishing or wading. We have miles of marked trails that are easy for everyone.
Horseshoe Bend Main is a larger campground with four dispersed sites which a very spread out. This site has (3) 30 amp outlets for RV's. Porta potties are also provided.
The Horseshoe Bend Creekside sites are designated spots that are on the West Panther creek bank. There are porta potties, but no electric or water.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
2. Riverview Fin & Feather Campground
100%
(27)
Thomson, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Fin and Feather is a rustic campground located right on the banks of the Mississippi River backwaters, known for its true “camping in nature” experience. Every site looks out over the water with a beautiful sunset view! These primitive sites are large, shaded, hammock and dog friendly.
The ground is sandy, but the beach is not known as a swimming location. Fin and Feather sits where Big Slough of the Mississippi River meets Spring Lake, part of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge.
The Great River Bike Trail runs parallel to the campground. We offer canoe and kayak rentals (message us to arrange a rental in advance). The lake is a great place to paddle but be aware there is a lot of plant life in backwaters (closes to all boat traffic on October 1st as part of the wildlife refuge during hunting season). Firewood is available for purchase. The water in spigot is tested and "potable" but we recommend using it for hand washing and bringing drinking water. The nearby towns of Thomson and Savanna offer additional supplies. There’s so much to do in the area, such as hiking at Mississippi Palasades State Park, "troll hunting" in Clinton, IA, shopping in Fulton or Galena etc but with the peacefulness of the campground, you may just want to relax and enjoy the view!
We are a small privately owned campground. The grounds are separated into two regions. as you enter the property off off "Riverview" Road, there is a "T" intersection. As Hipcampers, you will turn right. The north side of the campground is for Hipcamp drop in camping only; tents and small campers like teardrops etc exclusively. (The south end of the campground is for our seasonal campers with bigger Rvs.) You will turn right and drive past the small camp store, a vintage trailer we are renovating and one Rv that is ours. The beach sites listed here are on the left along the shore line. We offer well maintained port a potties and there are water spigots on property as well.
*There is no power or water at the sites ("primative")
*pets are allowed- 2 per site maximum, must be leashed and no excessive barking allowed
*while maximum capacity 4, if you are a family with more kids please submit a specific request. We can make exceptions for families camping with their children.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Linden Camprground
3. Linden Camprground
96%
(753)
Apple River, IL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We bought the farmette with much work outside and home interior remodel to complete. We slowly turned the property into our family oasis. We neighbor a pasture with cows. There are free range chickens running around during the day. Geese greet us every evening and morning at the pond...as do the many bullfrogs. Occasionally you'll hear the coyotes, but they keep their distance. The stars shine peacefully and the sunsets are picturesque (most afternoons). The pond is a great place to swim and fish. The hillside is a nice walk for exercise or take the easier route and sit under the great oak tree in the other pasture. Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. You won't find a sign...we keep it simple.
We allow pets at the sites for a $5 per pet/per night. If you would like to bring a pet, please add the Pet Fee which is listed on the Extra during the booking process.
We have firewood available for sale, $5.55/bundle. This is located in the Extra section during the booking process.
Lastly, there is free range chicken eggs available for purchase, $3.50/dozen. This is also located in the Extra section during the booking process.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shawnee National Forest
4. Shawnee National Forest
95%
(30)
National forest in Illinois · 172 sites
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Illini State Park
5. Illini State Park
100%
(7)
State park in Illinois · 100 sites
Pack a picnic basket for a romantic or family-filled lunch on the shores of the Illinois RIver.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Private Sanctuary
6. Private Sanctuary
100%
(1)
Elizabeth, IL · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to The Sanctuary
Your own private, gated 1-acre paradise.
This secluded hilltop retreat sits in the driftless region of Jo Daviess County, offering privacy, beauty and sweeping views.
Until now, we have kept it as a private getaway for friends and family.
Now available to the camping public.
Ideally located, just 25 minutes from Galena or Savanna and only 10 minutes from Stockton, Elizabeth, or Hanover.
It is the perfect base for exploring the area by car or bike.
From the moment you pull out of the hidden driveway you’ll be greeted by some of the most scenic landscapes in Jo Daviess county.
Just 5 minutes away you’ll find Massbach Winery and Big Sky Nature Area.
On-Site Features
• Hammock, multiple seating areas, and a firepit with supplied wood
• Professional stainless steel gas grill provided (bring your own 16oz disposable green propane canisters)
• Two-stall changing room with camp sink (filled prior to your stay)
• Two hanging camp shower bags + 5-gallon supply of fresh water
• Small former livestock shed for temporary storage of bikes or gear (not weatherproof)
Camping Options
The site is suitable for Class B campers, primitive camping, or small clamshell trailers.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Willowthorne
7. Willowthorne
97%
(276)
Lynwood, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the Charm of Willowthorne: Your Rustic Sanctuary Amid Natural Beauty. Willowthorne invites you to revel in the natural allure and organic rhythm of life on the farm, fostering enduring memories that extend long after your visit.
Nestled within a serene 9-acre organic blueberry farm , Willowthorne emerges as an idyllic escape where the sunsets are sublime, and the night sky brims with twinkling stars, and the hosts are charming and delightful. This unique getaway marries the essence of organic farming, educational pursuits, and warm hospitality to create an unparalleled outdoor experience.
Catering to tent camping aficionados and retreat groups, our pastoral campgrounds are graced with picturesque views of a tranquil pond and willow trees. While our space welcomes the modest charm of tents, small RVs, and campers, we maintain a rustic essence without power hook-ups, encouraging guests to connect with nature. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a personal fire ring and table for your convenience.
Our area offers an incredible variety of recreational and sightseeing activities. Find peace and tranquility among nature or travel just 25 miles north to visit the heart of Chicago! We are central to many Illinois, Indiana and Michigan State Parks and beaches. Several good restaurants and breweries are also nearby.
PLEASE NOTE:
Please drive slowly and cautiously through our property. We are an active farm with a lot of activity all year round.
Please pitch your tent in the designated campground area.
In support of conservation of the natural ecosystem, please refrain from broadcast pesticides, i.e. Raid, Yard Guard, etc. Spraying skin, clothing, and personal property with mosquito repellent in your designated camping is fine.
Our farm has beehives placed at a safe distance from the campsites to ensure guest safety. Obey posted signs and please stay out of designated work areas
OBSERVE FIRE SAFETY.
Leave fire ring in designated spot.
Never leave fire unattended.
No fires on windy days.
Extinguish fire before leaving campsite.
Please read: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fire-safety
For Your Convenience:
Firewood:
Purchase bundles of wood on site as non-local wood can disrupt the local ecosystem through disease or invasive species. Feel free to collect any small, fallen twigs for kindling. (Wood in stacked piles is not for burning but reserved for mushroom cultivation and other projects.)
Honey:
We offer honey harvested from blueberry blossoms in spring and the rich flavors of black locust and clover in late summer.
Blueberries:
Come July, partake in our U-pick blueberry farm, an experience seamlessly woven into your stay.
Misc.
We also offer a variety of organic garden vegetables and herbs throughout the growing season. Kindly inquire on availability upon arrival if you are interested in any of these farm fresh goodies.
Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome.
We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Escape to Nature
8. Escape to Nature
98%
(388)
Huntley, IL · 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
Grand Chain Vineyards
9. Grand Chain Vineyards
89%
(27)
New Grand Chain, IL · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
The RV Resort at Grand Chain Vineyards features 25 full-hookup pull-thru campsites nestled in the center of Grand Chain Vineyards overlooking the Ohio River. Grand Chain Vineyards is a 60+ acre estate of rolling hills and vineyards overlooking the beautiful Ohio River with on-site Winery, RV Resort, Event Venue, Cabins & Rooms, and Restaurant "Due South" BBQ & Grill.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Rock Cut State Park
10. Rock Cut State Park
100%
(6)
State park in Illinois · 266 sites
Four seasons of fun await at this rock-cut wilderness within day-trip distance of Chicago.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
11. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park in Illinois · 92 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sand Ridge State Forest
12. Sand Ridge State Forest
100%
(3)
State forest in Illinois · 46 sites
Think Central Illinois is one big corn field? Sand Ridge State Forest begs to differ.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Shelbyville
13. Lake Shelbyville
100%
(4)
Park in Illinois · 322 sites
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
McCully Heritage Project
14. McCully Heritage Project
98%
(466)
Kampsville, IL · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The McCully Heritage Project is a 940- acre environmental center located one mile south of Kampsville, Illinois in beautiful and remote Calhoun County.
We are a private non-profit left as the legacy of Howard and Eva McCully.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
15. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals
99%
(192)
Tiskilwa, IL · 9 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
Gypsi Acres
16. Gypsi Acres
93%
(21)
Sheridan, IL · 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
Millbrook Trail Rides
17. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(125)
Newark, IL · 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
Wine Trail Wilderness
18. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(711)
Pomona, IL · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa".
Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest.
It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy.
Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes.
We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit.
We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.
Wine Trail Wilderness HipCamp was just honored with the "Top 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America" this year! We're honored to receive that distinguished title, and look forward to seeing y'all come out and camp in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
19. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
86%
(172)
Ottawa, IL · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Waterfront Rustic Primitive(no water/no electric/no showers) Camping we allow primitive tent camping(whole campground), tear drop campers, pop up campers(sites 60 and up) and campervans(whole campground) 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 rugged natural 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. showers are available nearby at Ottawa or Oglesby swimming pool for a small fee
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
Check-in time
Mon-Thurs 3:00 pm-5:30PM
Friday-Sun 3:00PM-7:30PM
Check-out time is 3:00 pm.
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.
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Vintage Spring Lake Campground
20. Vintage Spring Lake Campground
98%
(136)
Savanna, IL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Spring Lake Campground was est. in 1943. This “vintage campground” has provided a place for families to relax in nature and make memories for generations. The lake is a backwater Mississippi River refuge, so there is always something to see and learn about. The Great River Bike Trail runs right through, so bring your bike! It’s a beautiful ride from the campground to nearby Savanna, IL. We rent kayaks and canoes through September. The lake is great to paddle but be aware there is a lot of plant life on the backwaters. (The lake closes for all boat traffic Oct 1 to provide a refuge for migrating birds during duck hunting season. If you enjoy birding, plan a trip during October) There is so much to do in the surrounding area: hiking and climbing at Palisades State Park, restaurants, bars and shopping in Savanna, "Troll hunting" in Clinton, IA, museums and more. But enjoying a peaceful time at the campground, having a bonfire, watching the sunset on the lake and seeing the stars at night is really what it’s about. True old school camping, enjoying the wildlife sanctuary. Instead of pavement, we have trees. Our best amenity is nature! Get outside, unplug and relax.
*While is says maximum capacity 4, if you are a family with more kids submit a specific request. We can make exceptions for families camping with their children.
*We DO allow small campers on the peninsula like teardrops and Scamps but no generators please.
*We ask that our campers please arrive before dark to find their site and set up to avoid disrupting other campers. It gets really dark! We do not have street lights so people can see the stars.
*please note you are Requesting the site not instantly booking. We will respond to your request ASAP and all requests are pending.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Mark
2 days ago
14 ft truck camper
This was the perfect site to relax and unwind. Great size campsite that is tucked away on the peninsula right on the water. Enjoyed watching the egret hanging around for my whole stay. So peaceful and chill.
The host Danica is so personable and kind and made sure to let me know that if I needed anything to just let them know. Also educated me on the local ecosystem and landmarks that I made sure to check out before I left the area.
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L
Liz
4 days ago
22 ft campervan
With pets
We loved this campsite! It was nice and shaded for the summer heat and took less than a 10 min walk to get to a good creek spot for my dogs. It was very nice to have firewood provided at the site.
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Bryanna
4 days ago
Tent
Clean, secluded, so nice. Owner was very friendly and helpful. Shower house was clean and wonderful to use after a long day outside. Absolutely will be back. Got to see two river otters and caught a few fish. Truly the best weekend away from society. So lucky to have found this spot!! Thank you!!
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B
Ben
5 days ago
Tent
Great spot with fun trails to bike and near a creek as well. Thanks for a fun night.
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Q
Qasim
1 week ago
Tent
It's a very nice place to party with friends. It's very quiet. The owner of this place is very nice. This is the second time I've been to this place in two months.
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H
Hannah
1 week ago
Tent
10 out of 10! The land was beautiful, the campsite was huge, and we loved how close we were to the water and wildlife. Bring the bug spray (the area in general is marshy, so it comes with the territory) and your binoculars (so many birds and we had beaver neighbors!). Danika and her husband were both so kind and communicative. And I appreciated the outdoor shower in this heat. We’ll be back!
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D
DEMIAN
1 week ago
13 ft toy hauler
With pets
Amazing location to just Relax ! Electrical connection was on point with no issues ! Clean, private, and with lots of land to explore ! Great for dog lovers !
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Sharon
1 week ago
26 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Amazing spot with shade and beautiful trails! Brady was amazing and brought us a heap of fire wood when we first arrived. The grounds are so well kept! We loved this stay and will definitely be back next time we’re through the state.
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E
Evan
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Brady took care of us as always! Would come back again!
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Rainey
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Our kids had an absolute blast out here playing on the water, very pretty place and the owners were very nice and accommodating. Definitely recommend checking it out and we will be back.
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D
Danylo
1 week ago
Tent
This is a very clean and well-maintained camping spot. The campsites were also nicely spread out, there was some free firewood, and Brady gave good instructions prior to arriving, so it was a great experience.
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A
April
1 week ago
With kids
I spent a weekend at the cottage with my family and my friend and her family, there were four adults and four kids total. We had a lovely time. The land is peaceful and well cared for. The cottage is great (the photos don't do it justice) and was well stocked for 8. The walk to the pond was such a nice opportunity to see flora and fauna. We spent a long day at the water on the canoe and kayak, fishing and playing. It was idyllic and restorative.
We were greeted by Matt who was very helpful throughout our stay. We learned a lot about the land in that area and hope that it is always stewarded by such thoughtful people. We briefly met Deb and Tia and always felt welcomed, but not watched. They were generous and we were able to try some of the incredible farm fresh food as well.
It was easy to navigate, but felt spacious and adventuresome. I feel lucky to have stayed there and recommend it to all.
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W
Wesley
1 week ago
12 ft rooftop tent
With kids
This was such an incredible experience! The campsites are nicely spread out so you have a space that feels like your own. Danika was very responsive and a pleasure to talk too! We will definitely be returning to the sandy oasis we called home briefly (campsite 2). Bonus was a very long sunset!
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M
Marian
1 week ago
Tent
We had a wonderful time camping here! The campsite is beautiful, peaceful, and very close to the water with amazing views. It was easy to find, and everything was exactly as described.
One thing to know is that the water near the shore is shallow, so if you want to fish, it's best to bring or rent a boat or kayaks. That's exactly what we did, and it worked out great. You can rent them right on-site, which is very convenient.
The owner is very friendly and welcoming. She answered all of our questions and was incredibly helpful. She even saved us by lending us a lighter because we forgot ours!
We truly enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back. Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a relaxing camping
experience!
★★★★★
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S
Scott
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
We loved our stay at Danika and James' Fin and Feather property on Spring Lake - Danika was a super communicative host, easy to reach and talk to and it's really cool how they're rehabing this old camp into something that feels quieter, more special, and more connected to the ecosystem around it. We stayed in site 2 with our large dog, and had a neighbor with kids in site 3, but never felt too cramped as can often happen at larger sites in state parks. This truly felt like our own special experience. The sites are spacious, and the available firewood, kayaks and canoes, water spigot, picnic tables with fire rings and grill grates, and CLEAN porta-jons make the stay a breeze for new and experienced campers alike. This is a considered a primative site primarily for tent camping, however the conveniences and proximity to many great locations, make it a very comfortable stay without feeling intrusive. We really like what Danika and James have got going on here and wish them all the best!
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JoAnn
2 weeks ago
30 ft pop-up camper
Absolutely beautiful property. Stayed twice for one night each trip on our way traveling through. We were camping with our two labs, the creek is beautiful, dogs loved it. Had the property to ourselves on the Tuesday we were headed home. Will definitely stay here again.
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Javier
2 weeks ago
12 ft rooftop tent
Here’s a polished version of your review:
We had a great stay at this campground! The location is beautiful, right on the waterfront, and it has all the basic amenities you need for a comfortable visit. The owner was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. Firewood was conveniently available on-site, which made our campfires even more enjoyable. We had a wonderful time and are already looking forward to coming back again soon. Highly recommend!
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Ann Marie
2 weeks ago
With kids
Being first-time campers, I was a bit anxious about surviving 4 nights in the summer heat. I thought not a lot of families would do a camping trip for the July 4th weekend due to the heat (and the previous heat wave), but I was wrong! I picked the Firefly Yurt for our family of 3. Because it is located at the south of the wooded area, it gets full sun and felt like an oven in the middle of the day—making it perfect for a spring or fall trip. However, it still worked out great for us because we brought a portable solar panel to charge our mini-refrigerator and cooler. Thankfully, the air-conditioned Learning Center is just steps away. We lounged there when we weren't away hiking at the Relic Prairie Trail or paddling at Starved Rock. The Learning Center is also where we used the bathroom, took showers, and accessed the shared fridge and water cooler (though we still opted to use our own setup). One of my absolute favorite parts was the large hammock nestled in the trees right next to our yurt—I loved hanging out there!
Sam was incredibly helpful. When I asked for a firepit grill, he delivered a few more options for our grilling needs, which was pleasantly over the top! Overall, it was a wonderful experience. I really enjoyed buying fresh eggs and vegetables from the Farmstead to cook for our meals. True farm-to-table camping!
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Emma
2 weeks ago
Tent
Brady was incredibly responsive, helpful, and kind bringing us dry firewood after a storm and helping tow our car when it got stuck. The land and all amenities were beautiful and well kept. We will be back!
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Jerry
2 weeks ago
32 ft travel trailer
With pets
Due to the flooding my site was inaccessible. They made it right and set me up on one of their other properties high and dry. It all worked out great.
See moreIllinois camping guide
Where to go
Chicago & Around
Once you’ve marveled at the skyscrapers and filled up on hot dogs in Chicago, you’ll find several of Illinois’ most impressive state parks within day-trip distance of the Windy City. Cool off at Illinois Beach State Park along the shores of Lake Michigan, hike to waterfalls and camp in the woods at Starved Rock State Park, or admire the fall foliage in Matthiessen State Park. For winter campers, Rock Cut State Park is a hotspot for cross-country skiing.
Great Rivers Country
Nineteenth-century towns, vineyards, and scenic river valleys provide a change of pace in Western Illinois. Hop between towns like Peoria, Moline, and Galena along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers; spot bald eagles in Grafton, or rent a cabin at nearby Pere Marquette State Park. Mississippi Palisades State Park is another regional highlight, where you can hike, rock climb, or cross-country ski, depending on the season.
Land of Lincoln
Illinois’ bucolic heartland was the long-time home of Abraham Lincoln, and historic sites are scattered around the countryside between Springfield, Bloomington, and Decatur. If you’re up for one of the world’s most famous road trips, drive your RV on down to Springfield, the birthplace of Route 66, or if woodland views and lake fishing are more your jam, head to Walnut Point State Park, Wolf Creek State Park, or Sangchris Lake State Park.
South Illinois
The rambling Shawnee National Forest stretches over much of southern Illinois, encompassing miles of hiking and horseback riding trails between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Take your pick of some of the state’s most rewarding hikes, including the River to River Trail and the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, and don’t miss the extraordinary rock formations of the Garden of the Gods. First-come, first-served campsites are available at several NF campgrounds, or you can pitch your tent or park your RV in the dispersed camping areas.
