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The best camping in Prophetstown State Recreation Area, IL

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Prophetstown State Recreation Area adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Prophetstown State Recreation Area

Prophetstown Campground

1. Prophetstown Campground

Campground in Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
Quirky and kitschy, Prophetstown Campground is raining local attractions
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Top-rated campsites near Prophetstown State Recreation Area

Avalon Unity Garden

1. Avalon Unity Garden

97%
(16)
7.7mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

2. Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

99%
(36)
16mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Geneseo Campground

3. Geneseo Campground

96%
(39)
18mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Toilets
Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

4. Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

100%
(25)
26mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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 & 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.
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Vintage Spring Lake Campground

5. Vintage Spring Lake Campground

98%
(134)
28mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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.
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Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

6. Yurt Glamping Tents + Farm Animals

99%
(190)
35mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

7. Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

100%
(12)
36mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Miss Effie's Country Flowers

8. Miss Effie's Country Flowers

100%
(34)
37mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 1 site
Ms. Effie’s Flower Farm is a gated you pick flower farm located in beautiful rural countryside. Peace and tranquillity is what you will find when you are surrounded by amazing flowers and rolling farm fields. The cornzebo is a unique gathering spot with romantic lighting and comfortable seating. It’s a great place to watch the sun come up! The fire pit is also available for use.
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Toilets
Potable water
Crooked Creek Ranch

9. Crooked Creek Ranch

100%
(15)
39mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Campfires
Frakers Grove Farm

10. Frakers Grove Farm

100%
(47)
40mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Frakers Grove Farm has been part of my family since the 1980s, but its history extends back to 1828, when Michael Fraker arrived and negotiated a peaceful settlement with the local Native American tribes, becoming the first settler in Northeastern Knox County. His grave, along with those of approximately 26 relatives and friends, is located on the property. Camp on a 250-acre farm in Western Illinois, featuring a 1.5-acre pond stocked with bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, catfish, and resident grass carp, plus a small creek. The property also has trails and abundant wildlife, including deer, American river otters, beavers, geese, wood ducks, and raccoons. A floating dock with a ladder sits on the pond, and a jon boat is available for guest use. Swimming and boating are at your own risk, there is no lifeguard on duty, and life jackets are not provided, so please bring your own if you plan to swim or use the boat. We offer two campsites: Pondside (drive-in, by the water's edge) and Grove Behind the Pond (walk-in, in a wooded grove), each with a fire ring. Guest WiFi is available near the buildings. Assistance with transporting tents and supplies to and from your campsite on check-in and check-out days is available upon request, using our side-by-side. Facilities include a porta potty near the pole barn. Please note: neither campsite has water, electric, or sewer hookups, and there is no dump station on the property, guests should plan to be fully self-sufficient. We maintain the property using a Yarbo robotic lawn mower. Feel free to ask us about it, or even see a demo! If it's actively mowing, please stay at least 20 feet away, as some obstacle detection is turned off in certain areas of the farm. Note: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during spring and fall. We have chickens on the property. If it's rained recently, 2WD vehicles may have difficulty reaching the campsites due to our dirt and grass access roads.
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1860's Botanical Homestead

11. 1860's Botanical Homestead

97%
(174)
48mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Happy to announce we’ve won "the best of" properties to visit in Iowa! We hope to keep striving and adding more amenities as we go! Thank you to our wonderful guests and hello to future guests! 👋🏽 Built in 1860 by its first caretaker botanist, this homestead was propagated over its many years of life and is busting at the seams with medicinal and edible herbs. We now run a flower farm and vegetable gardens on our homestead. If you’d like to learn about herbs or gardening/ homesteading, we love sharing our knowledge. If you’d just like some farm fresh eggs and enjoy your time alone amongst the songbirds, that's just fine too :) The property is built into the stone hillside allowing for breathtaking views but also stairs to get to the campsites. Please wear comfortable shoes (not flip flops 😉). If you have mobility issues property access will be difficult. Please no children under 5. !CLASSES! We run our small school/business: HOMESTEAD and HAMMER from the property and are bringing classes to YOU! Look in the "EXTRAS" for classes you can partake in on your visit OR for more information on what's included on class weekends check out our website below! Classes include, forAging wild edibles, mushroom identification, homesteading skills, soap making, forging metals and many more! Website: www.homesteadandhammer.com *For guest and host safety property managed 24-7 by video and security services*
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Sun Retreats Rock River

12. Sun Retreats Rock River

100%
(1)
17mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Full hookups
River Lodge

13. River Lodge

21mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary

14. Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary

88%
(4)
26mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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
1951 Dream

15. 1951 Dream

79%
(7)
30mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Limestone Bluff

16. Limestone Bluff

100%
(2)
39mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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 hayfield and through the woods. One path leads down a limestone bluff to a picnic and camping area near the Leaf River—a big name for a nice-sized creek—that crosses the property. Wildlife is abundant and includes deer, turkeys, coyotes, herons, and the occasional bobcat. It is not unusual to see bald eagles or red-tailed hawks overhead, and at night, you can often hear owls and coyotes. We have numerous campsites available. Some are accessible by vehicle, while others are best reached on foot unless you have a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and don't mind a few potential scrapes and scratches from branches along the trail. As with any wooded or grassy property, bugs can be an issue depending on weather conditions. Mosquitoes, ticks, and biting gnats are common, so bug spray is recommended to help you fully enjoy the outdoors. Safety is especially important, particularly when children are present. The limestone bluff can be a fall hazard, creek banks may give way, poison ivy grows in the woods, and fire pits can cause burns. We maintain the trails to help minimize these risks, but common sense and close supervision of children will help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable stay. There is a nice shallow area of the creek where children and adults can play, though water shoes are recommended. Please be aware that leeches may also be present. To help preserve the natural beauty of the property, we ask that guests do not climb on the limestone bluffs. We have a dog named Poppy who has free run of the property. She may bark, but she is friendly and not aggressive. It's best to simply ignore her, and please do not feed her. If she becomes a problem, send us a message and we'll bring her back to the house. We also have three barn cats that may wander by. If they bother you, simply clap your hands to shoo them away. As always, let us know if they're causing any issues.
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Private Sanctuary

17. Private Sanctuary

100%
(1)
42mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 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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Fergedaboudit Vineyard and Winery

18. Fergedaboudit Vineyard and Winery

100%
(3)
45mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Family-owned vineyard and winery in breathtaking Hanover, IL. Join us for indoor and outdoor wine tastings, live music, and more! Take a drive down a winding gravel road and discover the charm of Fergedaboudit Vineyard & Winery, nestled among rolling hills and scenic vines. Our Tuscan-style tasting room, with its inviting patio and vineyard views, offers a warm and welcoming escape. Step inside to hear the story behind our family-owned winery, explore our handcrafted wines, and enjoy an unforgettable tasting experience. Whether you're here for a casual afternoon, a special celebration, or live music under the stars, we invite you to relax, sip, and savor the magic of Fergedaboudit. Feel free to walk through the vineyard after closing but please do not touch the vines. Please ask before using any hookups as they are not designed to run RV/Campers. We are dog friendly, we just ask that you pick up after your pets before you leave. We can't wait for your stay at Fergedaboudit Vineyard and Winery!
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Picnic table
Crow Valley Campground

19. Crow Valley Campground

9.2mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area
Nestled in the picturesque town of Sterling, Illinois, Crow Valley Campground stands out as a unique destination for campers seeking both adventure and relaxation. This beautiful campground offers a serene outdoor environment, where visitors can breathe in the fresh air while enjoying the scenic views by the water. At Crow Valley, campers can immerse themselves in a variety of exciting activities, including fishing, golfing, biking, boating, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The campground is equipped with a range of amenities to enhance your stay, such as a boat launch, firewood for sale, garbage bins, a playground, pool access, propane refills, a convenience store, restrooms, RV sanitation, and partial 30/50 amp hookup sites. Additionally, guests can enjoy clean showers, water access, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Beyond the campground, there are numerous local attractions to explore. Visitors can discover the Dillon Home Museum, delve into history at Sterling Rock Falls Historical, or enjoy a day of fun at Blackhawk Amusements. For entertainment, the Midway Drive-In Theater offers a nostalgic movie experience, while dining options like The Precinct Bar and Club, Kelly's Irish Pub, Mom's Diner, Smoked on 3rd, and Dead Tree Tavern provide a taste
Ruffit Park Campground

20. Ruffit Park Campground

11mi from Prophetstown State Recreation Area
Ruffit Park stands out as a unique campground that offers families a chance to escape the chaos of daily life and reconnect with nature. Established in 1965 by Chuck and Maxine Gaumer, this beloved destination was designed for children to embrace the outdoors, play freely, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Chuck and Maxine believed that true fun didn’t require modern luxuries; instead, it could be found in the joy of “ruffin’ it.” Even after Chuck's passing, Maxine, affectionately known as the Candy Lady, continued to run the campground alongside her four sons, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families to bond and create lasting memories. As we look to the future in 2022, my husband and I are committed to revitalizing Ruffit Park to provide the same cherished escape that my great aunt Maxine offered for so many years. Our vision is to create a space where parents can unwind and socialize while their children engage in outdoor play, free from the distractions of electronics. We have exciting plans in store, including the opening of a general store, an arcade room, and the eventual reopening of the pool. We are also eager to revisit past events that have made Ruffit Park a special place for campers. While it may take time

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Prophetstown State Recreation Area camping guide

Overview

About

Prophetstown State Recreation Area is a 53-acre flat and wooded area along the south bank of the Rock River. Tree life largely consists of maple, cottonwood, oak and walnut you will likely encounter squirrels, rabbits, ducks, muskrats, raccoons and deer during your visit.

Anglers use a convenient concrete boat ramp to cast lines in the Rock River and fish for smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, bullhead, carp, sauger and walleye. There are no limitations to how powerful your motor is, but you can also cast lines into nearby Coon Creek for a change of pace. Swimming is prohibited, but there is an indoor pool only four blocks away from the park. The town of Prophetstown may be tiny, but it likes to Party In The USA more than Miley Cyrus and is known for its annual Fourth of July fireworks display.

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