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Sand Ridge State Forest

The best camping in Sand Ridge State Forest, IL

100% (3)

Think Central Illinois is one big corn field? Sand Ridge State Forest begs to differ.

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Stories from the community

Lisa

2 weeks ago

35 ft fifth wheel

With pets

1 night at The City Farm - RV Stop

Nice location! Easy to get into and out! Recommended!

Rachel

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Posey Ridge

Shane is amazing good times been there several times. Wouldn't go anywhere else. Amazing land amazing people

Andrea

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Posey Ridge

Shane was a terrific host & his property is beautiful! Would definitely recommend & plan to return!

Jennifer

October 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Frakers Grove Farm

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.

Anatol

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Posey Ridge

Shane was great, and the campsite was perfect for our needs

Angie

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Posey Ridge

I loved tent camping here! The property was beautiful and many fish were caught in the lake. The pavilion, picnic tables, and fire pit were amazing. Next time we come, we're going to rent out the entire place! I will definitely visit again. I highly recommend renting the pedal boats.

Christopher

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at Posey Ridge

We had brought a party of eight adults and two children with us, and could not have asked for a better experience. Shane is an outstanding host who accommodated any request we made. The site is beautiful, the fishing was rewarding, and the kids had a blast frog hunting all day long. We will be returning next year. 10 out of 10!

Greta

September 2025

16 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Horseshoe Bend

If you’re looking for a getaway and the vibe of a public campground is not appealing, this is the place for you. All of the reviews here are spot on. An enjoyable drive through scenic farmland takes you to the oasis of Horseshoe Bend. Despite dry conditions in the area the grounds were green with a cool morning mist. Brady is a great host helping me pick the perfect spot and making sure there was enough firewood on hand. Highly recommend!

Tammy

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Horseshoe Bend

We loved our tent camping weekend at Horseshoe Bend. We have a camper and decided to tent camp since we haven't in many years. We picked the perfect place!! Our site was right on the creek and next to an old bridge. Perfect! The site was very spacious with plenty of trees for shade and hammock hanging. We listened to the wildlife all day (and night. The sound of birds & coyote are exactly what we were looking for:) The stars at night were amazing! We walked the trails through the woods with our dog and just had such a peaceful weekend. If you're looking for a reset this is exactly what you will find. Everywhere we went it was clean & quiet. There were other people there but only saw a few because the sites are so spread out. We had an amazing time and will definitely return!!

Zain

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Frakers Grove Farm

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

sherry

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Grain Inn

Perfect for photographers, beside beautiful homemade rustic cozy Silo-home, with hot tub, beautiful the wildflowers views😍 Very clean and feel like living in cabin.. So-Quiet and peaceful!!

Jerry

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Frakers Grove Farm

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!

Lucy

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Horseshoe Bend

This was a gorgeous spot in a large property situated in the wooded area near various farms. The campground was full of thoughtful touches (super clean porta potty, hot shower, well-mowed sites and trails, stacked firewood) that made it very easy to stay a few days and give our city pup the trip of her life! Will definitely be back as soon as as we can.

Lacie

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Horseshoe Bend

This was a beautiful place to stay! We enjoyed the private woods. The bathroom facility was very clean!

Amy

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Horseshoe Bend

Very quiet, well kept and peaceful property. We stayed in a tent at Main 1 because we wanted power and it was perfect. In late September there weren’t many other campers around but even if it were “crowded” you wouldn’t feel it because the sites are very spread out. Walked the HB property one day and spent another at Starved Rock. A great weekend and a real gem of a spot.

Iris

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Horseshoe Bend

This was my second stay at Brady’s place and he’s always so accommodating. He was super nice about us arriving late after car trouble and even brought us dry wood after a downpour. The Deep Woods site wasn’t as private as I expected since the main site is visible, but the neighbors were friendly. Porta potty was very clean (and the sanitizer even smelled good!). Worth noting; you will hear pigs yelling throughout the day. Overall a great stay despite the rainy weather.

Suzette

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Horseshoe Bend

Thank you for sharing your piece of heaven! My dog and I enjoyed the quiet, the trails and nature. Firewood being supplied was an added bonus, the fire rings had grates available for you to use and a picnic table. Each campsite is very spacious and away from the next. We saw deer and a fawn, a blue heron in the creek, pileated woodpecker, listened to the owls and watched the squirrels playing in the trees. The only time we saw other people was when we went for a hike. It was exactly what I was looking for - a place to unplug.

Todd

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Posey Ridge

What a great place to relax and also do some fishing. Accommodations in the sleep 3 unit were superb. Shane is top notch with all he does for his visitors.

Lana

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Horseshoe Bend

THIS place is incredible. It is actually like going to the forest to camp. Everything was great and it felt private and just a blessing to have this little forest oasis! I would definitely book again. Brady was the best!

Emily

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Sheep Flower Farm

We had such a wonderful time celebrating our anniversary here with our toddler. You can tell how much love is put into this land and we enjoy it so much here! We had a very rainy night and the cabin stayed cozy and dry. The land is quiet and was perfect for letting our little one run around. We will definitely be back 😘

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Sand Ridge State Forest

100%

(3)

Pine Campground

1.5mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sand Ridge State Forest

Oak Campgound

1.3mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 2 sites · in Sand Ridge State Forest

Horseman's Park Campground

1.6mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 20 sites · in Sand Ridge State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Black Sheep Flower Farm

97%

(73)

14mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 5 sites · Lodging · Lewistown, IL

Million Dollar view! Stargazers & birdwatchers' dream! Black Sheep Flower Farm is a chemical free flower farm overlooking the Spoon and Illinois River valley. Beautiful hiking trails at Dickson Mounds and the Nature Conservancy (Emiquon) wetland preserve. We aim to provide an affordable and safe space where people feel free to be themselves and enjoy nature. Chill vibes. Quiet and romantic getaway! No homophobia, transphobia, racism or misogyny!

Posey Ridge

96%

(103)

34mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Danvers, IL

I have a lake with lots of fish to go fishing, canoeing, kayaking. I also have small jon boat available for fishing. My property also has a outdoor his and hers privys..(bathrooms) No water though. I also have two construction trailers that we remodeled with couches chairs tables and refrigerators and TV's. These have a microwave in them to. These are available for people to stay in if wanted. They also have heat and AC. No water though. They cost extra to stay in.There's also places with camper plug ins. So power is available. Also have horseshoe pit and overhead cooking area. Great place for tent camping also. Have fire pit. And fire rings available. Also have access to firewood. Just no water. Great quiet enjoyable place for getaway to go fishing,canoeing or kayaking. Conveniently located between Peoria and Bloomington Illinois. Only about 3/4 from the Mackinaw river. For those who love to canoe and kayak on the river. Paddle boats will be available please inquire. ** PLEASE CONTACT HOSTS ABOUT PETS**

Secluded Springfield Stay

94%

(18)

41mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Springfield, IL

On the outskirts of Springfield lay a secluded, peaceful piece of property perfect for a quick night or a weekend getaway. For those that don't wish to go all the way into the woods, our property is a great way to get that camping feel while still being in perfect vicinity to town for any basic needs or food chains. Nearby attractions: Carpenter Park that has beautiful hiking trails and Sangamon River access (5 min drive) Riverside Park - very dog friendly, fishing, Sangamon river access, hiking, horseback riding, etc. (3 minute drive) The Rail Golf Course (5 min drive) Weebles Bar and Grill being only a short walk away Blake and Aiden, the couple who own this land, are LGBTQ+ friendly, in their mid-20's, pet friendly, and also love to camp, hike, rock climb, and travel. They would be happy to answer any questions about nearby hiking, local attractions, restaurants, etc.

Horseshoe Bend

99%

(650)

47mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Roanoke, IL

WE ARE CLOSED OCTOBER 1, 2025 - JANUARY 30, 2026 FOR THE 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 creel 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.

Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

98%

(31)

47mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 3 sites · Tents · Washburn, IL

Great place for train lovers! Many train enthusiasts come and take pictures and videos Great place for fishing and relaxation! Kayaking down the creek Our specified 2 acres has been turned into a park like setting with beautiful trees and the creek around it! Small town near by with amenities ..

Frakers Grove Farm

100%

(41)

48mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · La Fayette, IL

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 North Eastern 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 Blue Gill, Crappie, Wide Mouth 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 Jon boat is available for use on the pond. We offer 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; your feedback is invaluable. This area provides primitive wooded camping behind and around the pond, with the RV site located next to the pole barn. Note: The RV site listing is not normally active, so please reach out in advance if interested. Guest WiFi is available near the buildings. Assistance with transporting tents and supplies to and from the campsite on check-in and check-out days is available upon request. Facilities include a Porta Potty and potable water from a yard hydrant, both located near the Pole Barn. NOTE: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during the spring and fall. We currently have chickens and are taking a break from pigs. The newly established pasture is expected to yield grass hay this year to help fund new fencing, a preparatory step for introducing cows.

The City Farm - RV Stop

98%

(22)

49mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 1 site · RV · Bloomington, IL

Residential farm with active crop production. RV parking with 50 amp electric and water. VERY close proximity to I-74 and I-55; The farm is located adjacent to the Interstate, I-74. Very close to amenities in Bloomington/Normal Illinois. 10 minutes to ISU, State Farm, Grossinger Motors Coliseum, the Castle Theater and other music venues. Fitness trail on property 0.5 mile walking trail around the outside of the crops

The Grain Inn

100%

(1)

19mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · Lewistown, IL

The Grain Inn...Silo home, beautifully decorated & featuring eclectic furniture in each room, with a stunning black & white tiled shower for two. The kitchen is fully stocked. DVDs, board games & Wi-Fi are provided. Message us for hot tub availability. $150 Xtra fee. Enjoy sunsets around the campfire or through the large picture windows. Conveniently just 3 mi from Lewistown, & close to several attractions, including 3 local vineyards, a variety of restaurants & shops, & the Spoon River.

Peaceful Stay on Spoon River

24mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Ipava, IL

Step back into time as you enjoy a peaceful stay on the Spoon River. The Yellow Submarine offers unique decor thematic to all things late 60's to early 70's. Guests will enjoy a newly renovated space that includes wood flooring, granite counter tops, and a 70' flat screen television. Whether you are kayaking up the Spoon River, fishing off our newly constructed deck, or journeying on a hike, the Yellow Submarine has an adventure for everyone. Guests are welcome to fish in the pond. Please be sure to only catch and release in the pond.

The "Land" - Virginia, Illinois

94%

(8)

34mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Virginia, IL

Welcome to our piece of paradise. Our family bought “The Land” when our kids were young and it became our weekend camping, fishing, and exploring retreat. We now want to share our rolling hills, fishing ponds and country life with you. Hidden down a farm lane, our land is perfect for spending time in nature. We have well-maintained grass walking trails, two 1-2 acre spring fed, 35 ft deep, well stocked fishing ponds, kayaks, row boats, fishing dock and waders for walking in the creek. We invite you to indulge yourself in the complete quiet of the country and enjoy the serenity of nature. You are far enough away from the big city to see thousands of stars at night, but close enough to get anything you need. You are less than 20 minutes from Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Park, 30 minutes from Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge and Dickson Indian Mounds, 40 minutes from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and historic sites.

Evening Star Camping Resort

8.5mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 42 sites · Topeka, IL

Evening Star Camping Resort stands out as a hidden gem in the charming town of Topeka, Illinois, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for campers of all ages. This picturesque campground features expansive open spaces ideal for exploring, hiking, biking, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets and stargazing. Guests can indulge in a variety of onsite activities, including swimming, horseshoes, fire truck rides, basketball, and pool games. The resort also hosts hay rides and themed weekends packed with fun. Kids will love engaging in activities such as tie dyeing, talent competitions, poker runs, auto races, golf cart games, haunted houses, and harvest potlucks, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment. Beyond the campground, visitors can discover a wealth of local attractions. Explore the Jake Wolf Fish Hatchery, Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, Brown's Oakridge Zoo, New Salem Village, and the Spring Lake Fish and Wildlife Area, all just a short drive away. Evening Star Camping Resort offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay, including full water and electric hookup sites, tent camping options, a snack bar, ice and wood sales, locally sourced produce, camping supplies, gas, laundry facilities, a dump station, and a pavilion. We look forward

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Webb's Valley View Campground

11mi from Sand Ridge State Forest · 17 sites · Lewistown, IL

Discover the unique charm of Webb's Valley View Campground, where the perfect blend of comfort and convenience awaits you. Nestled in a picturesque setting, our campground offers a range of amenities designed to enhance your experience and ensure your stay is truly unforgettable. At Webb's Valley View, you can enjoy spacious sites that provide ample privacy, allowing you to unwind in a serene environment. Our facilities include clean restrooms, hot showers, and picnic areas, making it easy to relax and enjoy your time outdoors. Explore the surrounding natural beauty, with nearby swimming holes and hiking trails that cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. After a day of adventure, you can indulge in local dining options and visit charming shops that showcase the area's unique offerings. We invite you to explore our website for more information about our campground and the exciting activities available nearby. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us. We look forward to welcoming you to Webb's Valley View Campground!

Pets

Toilets

The best camping in Sand Ridge State Forest, IL guide

Overview

About

Need a refreshing taste of unspoiled nature? Just minutes southwest of Peoria, the largest state forest in Illinois offers a variety of outdoor adventures. The arid landscape hosts a diversity of plants and animals typically found in the Southwest.

The conservation area covers 7,100 acres of oak-hickory forests and pine plantations. That's a lot of raw wilderness to explore!

Enjoy panoramic vistas and miles of hiking, backpacking and horseback-riding trails. There are a hand trap shooting facility and an archery range. Winter brings snowmobiling fun.

This birdwatcher's paradise offers rustic Pine Campground with 27 Class "C" sites. Oak Campground hosts groups and Horseman's Park has equestrian camping. Backcountry campers find 12 primitive sites along 55 miles of pristine wilderness trail.

100%

3 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· August 2017

Pine Campground

In the summer ticks are bad!