The best camping in Hennepin Canal State Trail, IL

Name: Hennepin Canal State Trail
Address: Hennepin Canal State Trail

From boating to biking to snowmobiling, year-round adventures and spectacular scenery await.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hennepin Canal State Trail adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Hennepin Canal State Trail

Hennepin Canal Campground

1. Hennepin Canal Campground

Campground in Hennepin Canal State Trail · 10 sites

Whoever said, “you can’t have it all”? At Hennepin Canal Campground, you can camp, picnic, hike, bike, fish, boat… need we go on? Whether it’s you and your pals or you and your horse, they’re sure to have the option you’re looking for

Top-rated campsites near Hennepin Canal State Trail

Avalon Unity Garden

1. Avalon Unity Garden

97%

(16)

12mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 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.

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Crooked Creek Ranch

2. Crooked Creek Ranch

100%

(11)

25mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 1 site · Tent, RV

Wooded acres. Driving range. Starry sky's. Walking trails. Creek. Sledding hill. Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, fox, turkey, beaver, birds, to name a few. Abundant wood for fires.

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Vintage Spring Lake Campground

3. Vintage Spring Lake Campground

98%

(126)

29mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 5 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 here as well. (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, 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. *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.

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Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

4. Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

99%

(34)

31mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Whispering Pines, a family focused campground to help you get away from the daily grind. Surround yourself amongst tall pine trees as you hear the wind whisper tranquility all around you. We are a family owned campground with a heart to serve people and provide a peaceful environment where families and individuals can enjoy making new memories. Whispering Pines is an event and retreat center that offers lodging and camping amenities. We also have a chapel ready to host your ceremony. We have RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, a lodge, and an event center. We can help you create a package to fit your needs and budget.

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Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

5. Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

100%

(11)

31mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 28 sites · Tents, RVs

These campsites are located along the lower half of our property and are tucked into fun little sites bordering our off road trail built for Jeeps, Broncos, and other similar off road vehicles. These are primitive style sites and cell phones likely will not work on any of our sites. This is truly a way to get away and just disconnect for a while! There is a VERY steep entrance into the camping area and a small water crossing is also necessary. Low clearance vehicles, cars, campers/trailers, and RV's will not be able to access the zone. If you'd like to camp at one of our sites and have a vehicle that won't qualify -- we do have friendlier parking but it will require quite a hike to get to your site or we can offer you a ride as well.

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Geneseo Campground

6. Geneseo Campground

96%

(38)

32mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests. If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground! For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 309-442-2662.

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Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

7. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

99%

(180)

36mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 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)

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Goatland

8. Goatland

99%

(166)

44mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 4 sites

Fifteen acre livestock farm in NW IL with a creek and pond. We raise sheep, goats, chickens, guineas, peafowl, fancy pheasants, Tom's pet trout, and two ridiculous dogs. (But we no longer raise cattle, or keep a donkey.) If you like nature, and animals, up close, this is the spot. You can respectfully interact with the livestock, or not, as you choose. We're pretty hands off, but are happy to talk about the animals if you ask. We welcome and are a safe space for LGBTQ+ visitors. We also are familiar with, and are usually able to accommodate, ND/ASD sensory concerns.

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The Lichen Pod - 26' 1974 Argosy

9. The Lichen Pod - 26' 1974 Argosy

100%

(20)

45mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 1 site

+ The Lichen Pod is only large enough for single campers!+ Learn more about this land: The southern Driftless Area is one of rolling hills of farmland, prairie and woodlands. The camper is parked near a line of pines with both beautiful light and fresh breezes, located on a working ecological farm. Land is stewarded by an ecologist who grows food and medicinal plants, tends ducks, chickens, quail and honey bees. Agroecological methods used in growing. Woodland, grassland and prairie habitat creation and restoration on going. Learn more about this land: Explore the southern Driftless Region with prairie and woodlands. Lichen Pod trailer is next to allée of eastern white pine and several mature apple trees. Enjoy late morning sun and afternoon shade. Wide open skies and viewing platforms for stargazing. Mown paths for walking through prairie and grasslands. Jane Adams bike path 5 minute ride away for many hours of biking., Bikes available free for use.  Canoe and Kayaks for rent to put in the Pecatonica or Sugar Rivers. Shared barn kitchen with propane cooking surface, cooking utensils and pans, toaster, cooking oil, and myriad cooking ingredients. Two fire circles for building fires. Firewood bundles and fresh eggs available for sale. Boats available to rent if you'd like to paddle a river, wood sauna can be fired up for a fee.

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Pachamanka Prairie + Woodland

10. Pachamanka Prairie + Woodland

100%

(11)

45mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 3 sites

Land is stewarded by an ecologist who grows food and medicinal plants, tends ducks, chickens, quail and honey bees. Agroecological methods used in growing. Woodland, grassland and prairie habitat creation and restoration on going. Learn more about this land: Explore the southern Driftless Region with prairie and woodlands. Pitch your tent between an allée of eastern white pine and several  mature apple trees and enjoy late morning sun and afternoon shade. Wide open skies and a viewing platform for stargazing. Mown paths for walking through prairie and grasslands. Jane Adams bike path 5 minute ride away for many hours of biking., Bikes available free for use.  Canoe and Kayaks for rent to put in the Pecatonica or Sugar Rivers. Shared barn kitchen with propane cooking surface, cooking utensils and pans, toaster, cooking oil, and myriad cooking ingredients. Two fire circles for building fires. Firewood bundles and fresh eggs available for sale. Boats available to rent if you'd like to paddle a river, wood sauna can be fired up for a fee.

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RWH Farm

11. RWH Farm

100%

(15)

47mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 23 sites · Tents, Lodging

This property is a 150 year old working farm, which has seen six generations. We are happy to share a piece of land with you. Whether you are a first time or experienced camper wanting to sleep outdoors. We have the perfect spot for you to rest, relax, and recharge while camping under the stars surrounded by trees in a four acre wooded area located on a quiet country road within a vast working farm in the heart of Jo Daviess, County. Listen to the sounds of nature white spotting a variety of wildlife. Watch the sunrises, sunsets, comets, meteor showers, sometimes the northern lights, and the full moon rising over the hills. Watch the leaves turn color in autumn. We offer three types of sites: basic Glamping, preset tent, and rustic. Check out the descriptions of the sites to see which site is for you. Limited sites - first come basis. We try to make each site as secluded as possible.. There are firewood stations throughout the sites with attached fire extinguisher. We are creating a gravel trek around the sites with two entrances and gravel parking planned be completed by 2028. We are working on flushable outhouses and possible showers. Children’s play area by 2027. There isn’t any swimming or fishing available on the farm property. There is a private lake three miles from the sites - see details under extras. We are located ten miles from the Wisconsin border and villages with their unique shops and museums. 20 minutes from Galena, 45 minutes from the Mississippi River and Dubuque. Iowa. Three hours from Chicago. DNR - department of natural resources have properties a mile north of the farm with nice trails to walk near the Apple river, which is stocked twice a year for fishing tournaments. As well as the Boy Scout campgrounds located nearby. Locals have caught crayfish and swam in the Apple river, we are unfamiliar with current spots. People have tubed and canoed down the Apple river. There are numerous state parks within driving distance for hiking, sight seeing, eagle watching etc. Immerse yourself in the vast history of the area. Again we encourage you to come rest relax and recharge in this peaceful spot.

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Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary

12. Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary

100%

(2)

25mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to a quiet stretch of nature where time slows down. Our private Reserve features a peaceful 3-acre pond surrounded by 33 acres of open meadows and natural wildlife habitat. Wake up to birdsong, watch deer move through the grass, and end your day with unforgettable sunsets reflected on the water. We offer simple, nature-focused camping with: • Fresh water hookup • Septic dump access • No electricity — just a chance to truly unplug This is a place to breathe, recharge, and move at your own pace. Whether you’re tent camping under the stars or bringing a self-contained camper, you’ll find space, privacy, and a deeper connection to nature. Cone enjoy the quiet🍃

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Water hookup

Limestone Bluff

13. Limestone Bluff

26mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

We live on 17 acres in Northern Illinois. A little over half of our property is wooded and we also have a rolling hayfield and a year-round stream that runs through the lower part of the property. There are numerous mowed hiking paths around the hay field and through the woods. The path also goes down a limestone bluff to a picnic/camping area near the Leaf River, a big name for a nice-sized creek, which crosses the property. There is abundant wildlife in the area including deer, turkeys, coyotes, herons and an ocassional bobcat. It is not unusual to see bald eagles or red tailed hawks flying by and at night it is common to hear owls and coyotes. We have numerous campsites available. Some can be driven to and some are best to hike to unless you have 4-wheel drive and are not afraid of a few potential scrapes and scratches from branches near the path. As with any wooded/grass land property, depending on weather conditions bugs can be an issue including mosquitos, ticks and biting gnats. Bug spray is sometimes helpful to fully enjoy the outdoors. Safety is very important especially if children are present. The limestone bluff can be a fall hazard, the banks along the creek can give way, there is poison ivy in the woods and, of course, fire pits are a burn hazard. We maintain trails to help minimize the hazards but common sense behavior and supervision of children will help ensure a good time will be had by all. There is a nice shallow area of the creek for children, and adults, to play in, but water shoes are recommended. Be aware of the possibility of leaches, as well. We also ask, for the preservation of the beauty of the area, that there be no climbing on the limestone bluffs. We have a dog, named Poppy, who has free run of our property. She will likely bark but she is not aggressive. It's best to simply ignore her but please don't feed her. If she's a problem, please message me and we'll bring her to the house. We also have 3 barn cats who may wander down. If they bother you, just clap at them to chase them away. Again, let me know if they're a problem.

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River Lodge

14. River Lodge

28mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 1 site

The River Lodge at Wide River Winery is a spacious three-bedroom home with spectacular views of the Mississippi River. Guests are invited to the winery to sample our award-winning wines and to select a complimentary bottle to enjoy during their stay. A Bluff Trail is available for hiking, and guests may tour the vineyard and winery to see where it all happens. Dogs are welcome to stay for an additional fee. Please provide detailed information regarding the number of pets and guests in your party. The space The home features three bedrooms: The master suite has a king bed and an adjoining bathroom. The second bedroom has a queen bed. The third bedroom has two twin beds. There is also a second full bathroom located in the hallway. Guest access Guests have use of the entire house, including the front terrace overlooking the Mississippi River and the back terrace, which features a charcoal Weber grill. Other things to note We have a strict no smoking policy.

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Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

15. Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

100%

(6)

28mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 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 and stunning sunsets. Every site looks out over the water with a beautiful sunset view! These primitive sites are large, shaded, and hammock-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 Refuge. There’s plenty of wildlife to watch and endless nature to enjoy. The Great River Bike Trail runs parallel to the campground, with direct access from camp. We offer canoe and kayak rentals (please message us to arrange a rental in advance of stay) and the lake is an excellent place to paddle (it closes to all boat traffic on October 1st as part of the wildlife refuge during duck hunting season). Firewood is available for purchase. Fin and Feather is a work in progress as we renovate this beautiful little camp ground. We only have a few sites listed currently. The camp store has limited hours but 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! As a campground overview, 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.) So 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 on Hipcamp will be on the left along the shore line in the cluster of trees. There are a lot of other open sites available as we are renovating the campground and lots of space to spread out. We offer well maintained port a potties and there are water spigots on property as well.

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Sun Retreats Rock River

16. Sun Retreats Rock River

32mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 236 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Sun Retreats Rock River, formerly known as Sunset Lakes Resort, provides a premiere camping experience in Hillsdale, Illinois. At this award-winning resort, campers can set up their RV on our new seasonal sites with concrete pads and patios. You can also stay in one of our fully furnished two-bedroom vacation cottages. Cool off in our huge outdoor swimming pool, or stay active with outdoor recreations like a gem mining, basketball, horseshoes, tennis, and our rolle bolle court. Our pet-friendly campground also features a dog park for your four-legged family members. You'll find exciting attractions in The Quad Cities including riverboat cruises on the along the Mississippi River, just 15 minutes away.

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Private Sanctuary

17. Private Sanctuary

40mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 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.

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1951 Dream

18. 1951 Dream

75%

(6)

45mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This is an 82 acre property of approximately 65 percent old growth forest, 20 percent row crop and 15 percent of alfalfa/vegetable garden. It is a working farm which naturally takes people, but it is unlikely you will encounter any other campers. Please keep in mind, the only running water is the creek and the only electricity comes from a single solar panel. We truck water in for showers and provide enough port-a-potties to match the event.

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Spring Creek Organic Farm

19. Spring Creek Organic Farm

78%

(18)

45mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Beautiful country setting in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois. Dating from 1890, this land has never been plowed or disturbed. Beautiful nightscapes of stars and constellations and nearby lakes and rivers make this an ideal camping spot. The permaculture gardens and the land need constant care and upkeep. When a tree dies it becomes home to the redhead woodpecker. The hummingbird loves the trumpet vine! We never spray chemicals and would appreciate it if you did not smoke or vape. Lake Le-Aqua-Na is just 3 miles away and reopened in 2022 with brand new roads, nature walks, and swimming hole. Other lakes nearby are Apple River Canyon and Mt Carroll. Shop in nearby Lena, Cedarville or Freeport, IL and Monroe, Wisconsin. Learn more about this land: The trees shade the camping sites at Spring Creek Farm. The wood swing can be enjoyed by guests as they relax and enjoy the view. Birds frequent the property and you may be visited by our ginger male cat as he surveys his territory. Night skies are beautiful, and on clear nights the Milky Way is visible along with the Big Dipper and other constellations.   There is an outdoor fire pit to cook meals, or you can use a low copper fire pit for campfire enjoyment. Parking is available on the campground for smaller cars. Please leave your campsite clean so no woodland creatures are harmed and the landscape is kept in a safe condition for the next camper. The Composting Toilet (weather permitting) is available and plenty of potable water from our Spring-fed Well.  We recycle in the country so please separate trash, paper, glass, and plastic into separate bags which can be left on the driveway when you leave. Please let Dr. Wanona know if you'd like to join for a gentle flow yoga mat class, 30 or 60-minute massage, or a Permaculture Garden Tour.  Add a deeper experience to your stay at Spring Creek Farm!

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Brown Rusk Ranch

20. Brown Rusk Ranch

100%

(9)

45mi from Hennepin Canal State Trail · 3 sites

We have 5 acres with 112 trees. 3 pasture where people may camp. Dry camping with self contained RVs under 30 ft. We have an outhouse for tent campers. Water is available and have a huge fire pit area. Sheep goats and a cat. Numerous parks for hiking. Rockford is only 15 miles and Winnebago is 6 miles for any supplies. We have a car cottage that looks like the 50s diner. On a busy road but quiet at night. Many whimsical additions to our little ranch!

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Lindsay

1 week ago

35 ft Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

We loved the quiet spot just outside of town! The showers were clean and spacious. The yard space, playground, and game room were awesome for our three kids!

Jennifer

1 week ago

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

Site is located at a camp, so you get the advantages of that. Hammocks, playground, air hockey, bags and ping pong. Very nice and clean bathrooms. There were times when there were a lot of people around, and times when we had the whole place to ourselves.

Elizabeth

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

We spent two wonderful nights primitive camping on Sarah and her family’s beautiful property. Sarah was a great host, welcoming, helpful, and friendly. The property is peaceful and a perfect alternative to crowded campgrounds if you want to truly enjoy nature and privacy. We loved our stay and would definitely come back again!

Lucas

1 week ago

15 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

Everything was so amazing. Super hospitable and always making sure we were good! Amazing spot and the off roading was very fun! We will be coming back in the near future.

Nicholas

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

5 stars! It was a fantastic place to stay for the night. Extremely clean!

Alex

2 weeks ago

20 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

I loved my stay at Whispering Pines. They were attentive and responsive to our messages via the app. Their campsite felt safe and was clean. The facilities were spacious and clean. My dog loved the walking trail that ran along the outside of the campsite. I would definitely recommend this place to family and friends.

Tiffany

2 weeks ago

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Absolutely loved it here! Hosts are amazing! Super private! We will definitely be back! Fishing in the creek with the kiddos was a ton of fun caught a ton of fish. The horses are so sweet and their dog is awesome!

Cheryl

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

The Foley family is extremely helpful, they welcome all. The trails well let me say you dont be disappointed. The amount of work and effort they put into creating a huge play land for your off road vehicle is by far superior. Oh and be sure to say hi to Dale (Emu) and Pretty boy (Turkey). Highly recommend visiting Foleys.

Peter

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

Fin and Feather Campground was a great place for us to camp. You are right alongside the river/lake, which means you can pitch your tent on soft, comfortable sand. Instructions for getting to camp were clear and easy to follow. Everything was quiet and mellow. It's great to look out on the river in the evening while the fire is blazing. Great to see it first thing in the morning as well. The host was friendly and helpful, checking to see that everything was good after we had set things up.

Omar

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

I had a great weekend camping here! The sunset views were beautiful, the fishing was great, and the whole place had a peaceful, relaxing vibe. The hosts were very friendly , which made the stay even better. We would definitely come back again!

Morgan

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

The firefly glamping tent site felt very private while also having everything we needed within walking distance. The giant hammock by the tent was awesome and the bed was very comfortable. We really enjoyed our stay!

Mary

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

We stayed at the cabin. Happy that there was access to a battery pack to light a lamp and charge phones. The cabin was cozy, bed comfortable. Bed was made up with linens and blankets. There were chairs by the fire ring. We enjoyed visiting the chickens and sheep at their pens. We will definitely be returning some day.

Jeff

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary

Absolutely fantastic site , great pond with lots of birds. Hosts were awesome. Will for sure stay here again next time I'm in the area.

Georgia

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Beautiful spot! The wildflowers were amazing and there was firewood available.

Dami

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

Other reviews are spot on. Comfortable place to "glamp" with all the amenities one could need, including, but not limited to, clean indoor flush toilet, indoor shower, fridge/freezer, microwave, lights, ac/heater, blankets, towels, chairs, campfire, hammock, couches, board games, electricity, and firewood. It rained with heavy wind during our stay but we stayed dry and safe inside our yurt till it passed. The farm host, Sam, is passionate about regenerative farming (we should all be!) and provides a great low-key farm tour/short hike. Don't have any myself but this seems like a great place to bring respectful kids! Be sure to check yourself for ticks after being outside, we did find two on the window flaps of the tent. Can't wait to come back. Thank you again, Sam!

Andrew

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Great spot to get away to. The site was private, which was perfect for me and my dogs, and nice for adventuring to the creek. I also appreciated the firewood provided and welcoming host.

Moriah

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

We had such a nice stay! My husband and toddler stayed in a tent we set up on the lawn and I stayed with my baby in the cabin. The wood stove kept us plenty warm for the chilly nights. We felt like the spaces were private enough but also part of the community. The farm is great, Sam is very knowledgeable and passionate about the work being done there. We got to meet baby goats and sheep and enjoyed hiking nearby.

Tony

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

Danica was our first Hip Camp host. She was very accommodating and welcoming. She let us know about some of the local area and recommended some food and great sightseeing. It was a beautiful sight on the banks of the Mississippi and would highly recommend to anyone traveling that way.

Joe

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Perfect place to stay. We were just passing through so spent the night Sandra was very helpful. Very nice private area very quiet would be a nice place to stay for a couple of days.

Damon

May 2026

Tent

1 night at Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

Great spot to get away.. James went out of the way to make our trip happen. Had a good time and we will be back

Hennepin Canal State Trail camping guide

Overview

About

Step back in time in this sprawling 104.5-mile park, spanning five Illinois counties. Bridges and locks built from 1892 to 1907 provide lots to explore on the water. On land, a 155-mile smooth trail runs from the Illinois River to Rock River.

You can choose how you want to get around the park. Visitors can canoe, boat, hike, bike or ride horseback along the canal. Some parts of the trail also are open for snowmobiling in the winter.

Fishing in this regularly stocked waterway yields a wealth of bluegill, crappie, and bass. A playground is near the Visitor Center, and picnic tables are scattered along the canal. The Visitor Center also has displays that illustrate the canal’s history and its engineering innovations.

Class C and youth campsites are located at several points along the canal. Equestrian camping also is available. None of the campgrounds accept reservations.