The best glamping sites in Kankakee River State Park, IL
100% (2)
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
100% (2)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Kankakee River State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Kankakee River State Park
Potawatomi Campground
1. Potawatomi Campground
100%
(1)
Follow your canoe’s nose or your hiking boots to the sweet shores of Potawatomi Campground
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Top-rated campsites near Kankakee River State Park
CSC Permaculture Project
1. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
20mi from Kankakee River State Park · 1 site
8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors
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Bear Bottom Ranch
2. Bear Bottom Ranch
92%
(131)
40mi from Kankakee River State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! Our entrance is marked by 2 cross crossed American flags. Come and enjoy our 32 acres of wooded property where a creek runs through. We have gorgeous oak trees and walnut trees all throughout the property. If you looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have 3 unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!
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Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
3. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
44mi from Kankakee River State Park · 2 sites
This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away.
Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet
25 dollars for 2nd pet (75)
2 max pets
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RC River Retreat
4. RC River Retreat
21mi from Kankakee River State Park · 1 site
Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax.
With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system.
2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock.
Non-smoking.
The space
We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs.
Guest access
The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners.
Other things to note
There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four).
So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.
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Historic Route 66 Hideaway
5. Historic Route 66 Hideaway
48mi from Kankakee River State Park · 2 sites
Traveling Route 66? Just passing the area? Come enjoy a one-of-a-kind destination camping experience just one mile off historic US Route 66! This property features 7.5 acres of prairie farmland with a creek running along the north side of the camping area. To the west, in a separate pasture, are cattle living their best lives!
This property has easy access off a county road, with spacious parking. A short walk down the property and you're at the private camping area. Each site has plenty of space and privacy, which includes a fully stocked camper with bedding, towels/washcloths, hotel-style toiletries, and kitchens stocked with all the essentials.
Since this is a boondocking setting, we provide a full fresh water tank, along with a quiet generator at each campsite for power (first full tank is on us).
Site 1 hosts a 2021 Rockwood Geo Pro 20BHS Camper. It accommodates up to 6 people, but fits 4 most comfortably. An outside, camper-mounted grill is included, which utilizes the onboard propane system. TV is included in the main sleeping area, the back area has 2 single bunks along with the middle area dinette, which also converts into a sleeping area. The full bathroom is in the rear of the camper, with the cooking area placed across from the dinette.
Site 2 hosts a 2020 Coleman Lantern 215BH Camper. It accommodates up to 6 people, but fits 4 most comfortably. Outside, the camper has an outdoor kitchen equipped with a mini fridge, a griddle, and a 2-burner cooktop which utilizes the onboard propane system. TV is included in the main sleeping area, the back area has 2 oversized bunks along with the middle area dinette, which also converts into a sleeping area. The full bathroom is in the rear of the camper, with the cooking area placed across from the dinette.
The outside area also features a full power awning with an LED light strip for additional lighting, and the camping space has a family-style picnic table.
Come enjoy the Midwest's peacefulness right off Route 66 in this relaxing venue that you're sure to enjoy!
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Raquel
October 2025
Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project
This was my favorite camping experience yet. The host was very helpful and hands on. The set up was perfect for sunny and rainy days. It was sooo cozy and had a private feel to it. The stars were sooo bright and clear. I enjoyed walking around the sight. I had everything I needed. I will come back to this site again!
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Ben
October 2025
With kids
This is the second visit to CSC. It’s a great, quiet, place. No other campers around. If you’re primary goal is to enjoy time at camp, and perhaps take some walks/short hikes around the property, it’s perfect. Planning to return again.
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Camilla
October 2025
With pets
We had a wonderful stay. Nice to have a getaway like this so close to the city. We enjoyed the site- absolutely beautiful view of ponies and goats. Camper was worn and comfortable and very well stocked. There’s some highway noise but it becomes like white noise- I didn’t notice it really. The host was incredibly nice and helpful and communicative. We hope to return.
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Weslynne
September 2025
With kids
Wonderful, peaceful stay at CSC. First time in the earth shelter site, which made this such a comfortable sleep. Lots of space for tents too. We fished, biked, had dinner and games at the campfire, and overall had a wonderful relaxing visit. Bill helped us out with many small things that really made the visit extra special, like loaning us bug spray, getting my kids new fishing gear sorted and helping fix an issue with my car. Can't wait to go back!
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smita
September 2025
With kids
We had such a wonderful stay here! Derek is a very helpful and responsive host. My daughter absolutely loved all the animals — cats, dogs, horses, and goats — which made the trip extra special. The location is perfect, close to the beach and just a short drive from Chicago, so it was both relaxing and convenient. We would definitely love to come back again.
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Todd
September 2025
With pets
The Tipi spot was absolutely wonderful. It was a big space with room for our dog to run off leash, surrounded by beautiful woods. There was a wonderful sunrise over a hill on the east side of the property. The porta potty is far enough that you don’t have to look at it from your site, but close enough that it’s a short walk. The potable water is a little further walk but again, not that bad. The tipi itself was incredible. Our kids slept in it but could easily fit our family of four. There was a picnic table and a nice big fire ring. There were campers at the other spots but we still felt private and secluded.
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Jonathon
September 2025
Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project
My spouse and I had a great time at this camp - Bill gave us an excellent tour of the space and talked to us about their philosophy on permaculture.
The cabin was comfortable - great place to get out of Chicago for a bit.
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Xavier
August 2025
3 nights at CSC Permaculture Project
I originally booked this property simply as a place to film, expecting just a small house and some land to move around on. What I actually found was something far beyond that: a magical piece of earth, a community with a fascinating history, and hosts who were kind, inspiring, and deeply connected to the land.
The property itself is breathtaking—everywhere I turned felt alive with meaning, from the gardens to the woods to the stars overhead. Within minutes of being here, I realized this wasn’t just a backdrop for my project—it was a character in the story itself. I learned about permaculture, about the unique history of the community, and left with new friends and a new perspective on what sustainable living can look like.
My hosts were wonderful. They made me feel welcome, answered every question, and even took the time to give me a tour that changed the way I look at both farming and community. Their generosity and openness made this more than a stay—it was a life experience.
If you’re looking for a getaway where the land feels alive, where every corner holds a story, and where you can breathe in something truly unique, this is it. I came here thinking I’d just make a film. I left with inspiration, gratitude, and a genuine connection to a place I’ll never forget.
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Amanda
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
Love this place so much, this was my second time back and plan to come again next summer. Beautiful spot and beautiful beach 10 min away. It’s close to Illinois so it’s a short drive. Highly recommend
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Eden
August 2025
1 night at Bear Bottom Ranch
The most beautiful property, lovely horse pasture views, and peaceful sleep in the tipi. Perfectly private and accessible.
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David
August 2025
With kids
What a great trip! Loved the beautiful cabin with tons of ambience. Lots of firewood available. Site has good privacy, although I highly recommend chatting with the friendly hosts and learning more about the permaculture. They've done really beautiful work creating a meaningful and abundant space. Cheers!
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Mika
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch
Had the best time at the Tipi site. Very peaceful and nice scenery with the horses. We felt very safe. Make sure you bring bug repellent. Also hope the toilet wasn't too far from the site but other than that, we loved it.
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Erinn
August 2025
With kids
I Loved camping at Rocking Horse Camp. Derek is a wonderful host. It is such a a peaceful place. I can't wait to go back!
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Wes
August 2025
With kids
Great place to camp!! Teepee was one of the more unique campsites I've been to.
Great place for kids and families
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Sara
July 2025
With kids
We enjoyed staying by Derek's RV with our 3 kids. It is cozy, comfortable and romantic with the animals and nice nature. The highway is quite close, you can hear it, but otherwise everyting was great. Nice beaches, restaurants are close. Derek is very helpful and kind. I recommend it!
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Ben
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
Great host, great place! Tips: bring bug spray and the water heater is a 6 gallon dudad. Great for camping, though. Enjoyed the rocking swing.
See moreAmanda
July 2025
With pets
I loved this place sooo much. The location was perfect and the private beach that we were able to go to from the Host was AMAZING! I unfortunately had to come later and leave earlier but I already booked another stay cause I cannot stop thinking about it! This was absolutely needed after a rough week. Cannot wait to go back. Highly recommend.
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Lindsey
July 2025
With kids
This spot is a gem on the outskirts of Gary, IN that you would never know was there. Our family of four enjoyed camping here. It was a hot July so we were thankful for the camper with AC. The camper was well supplied with bath towels and bedding provided. It was so nice to step out onto the porch and see horses and goats grazing as well as listen to the birds and wildlife. We enjoyed the fire with supplied firewood. It’s close enough to Chicago that we took a day there. Most of the time we went to the beach. The host was so kind to allow us to park in town for free and walk to the beach. We were there for the Fourth of July and Marquette beach park was a great spot to watch fireworks. Our stay was pretty smooth despite a few hiccups but the host was readily available and helpful if we ever needed him. I would stay here again.
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Dr. Melissa
June 2025
2 nights at CSC Permaculture Project
My husband and I loved staying at the CSC's Earth Shelter. It was a beautiful site with lots of signs of thoughtful preparation by our hosts! There were benches around the firepit and on the porch, extra chairs to move around, a picnic table, plenty of firewood and dry kindling, and even a chiminea for a cozy porch fire in case the weather wasn't right for the firepit. The Earth Shelter was inspiring! We loved seeing it in person to appreciate all the care and expertise that went into building it. Very comfortable and well-maintained. We highly recommend it! Our hosts were wonderful as well- we had our choice of fresh-grown produce from their garden and a lovely tour of the land and area.
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Lori
May 2025
With pets
The land was beautiful; my girls enjoyed petting the goats. The cabin was charming.
See moreReviews for Kankakee River State Park Campgrounds
100%
2 ratings · 2 reviews
August 2023
Kankakee river state park
https://share.icloud.com/photos/007VBmP4fJ8XSKQ_YS97HKjow
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Dave Y.
2 years on Hipcamp
November 2016
Chippewa Campground is where my friends and I would all spend our summer nights camping in high school. While the campgrounds themselves aren't that impressive, Kankakee State Park is beautiful. There's a secret little spot where you can "cliff jump" from a twenty foot ledge, or if you're in a more chill mood, you can float down the creek on inner tubes. The park is also a popular place for local slackliners to set up. The hiking isn't extensive, so I'd recommend this weekend spot for people who also have other interests, like kayaking or fishing.
Alexandra V.
9 years on Hipcamp
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