The best RV sites in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, IL
100% (4)
100% (4)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
Shabbona Lake Campground
1. Shabbona Lake Campground
100%
(4)
Chicago’s busy city bustle got your head spinning? Get out for some fresh air at Shabona Lake Campground
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Top-rated campsites near Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
1. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers
99%
(50)
17mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand and wood sales on site for 7 a large bundle. Feel free to pull wood from the land yourself as well. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. Need to drive to get to showers and go when the facility is open. Possible to see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less from Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open early this year Feb 19th through Sept 30th (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be on or about September 30th (but if we say open on the site after feel free to book). And then we will be closed for the winter until on or about May first (again if open you can book before this date); Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean Coffee close by. Local forest preserve has toilets (within driving distance and use while open before sundown) or bring your own porti-john (I find a bucket and a garbage bag do wonders). Camp with your dogs and horses!! Animals welcome (trails at the local preserve). Set up a temp spot for them with owner permission. We have the space. There is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner and a local farm spot where you can call and pet horses. We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A hammock. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, gardens, or themselves. 💕🙏 Again offering substantial fire wood bundles for 7 dollars a bundle. New egg and farm stand added this year. Two new picnic tables added. Well water available upon request for those that have travel tanks to refill (ask the owner and schedule a time to use the hose).
Pets
Millbrook Trail Rides
2. Millbrook Trail Rides
96%
(118)
19mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site
We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!
Pets
Bear Bottom Ranch
3. Bear Bottom Ranch
92%
(138)
19mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 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!
Pets
Gypsi Acres
4. Gypsi Acres
92%
(13)
20mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to Nature's Sanctuary at Gypsi Acres
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of our 3-acre camping oasis, nestled amidst lush landscapes and soothing water views.
Open Field Camping: Pitch your tent under starry skies with breathtaking sunset views
Wooded Wonderland. Discover secluded campsites surrounded by towering trees and vibrant wildlife
**Creek Side Serenity*: Unwind to gentle water flows and enjoy creek-side camping with tranquil views
**Primitive Camping*: Immersive nature experience with no hookups
**Portable Toilets*: Clean facilities for your convenience
**Campfire Rings*: Cozy up to starry nights with friends and family
**Stargazing*: Unobstructed views of the night sky
Tent Camping
RV/Trailer (no hookups)
Book Your Nature Escape:
Call/Text [331-575-2398] or
Email [ karen88rodriguez@yahoo.com
Property can also be rented as an event venue for parties with a barn
Electrical hookup
Pets
Paradise Quarry
5. Paradise Quarry
95%
(55)
21mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our beautiful property! This is a very special place, located an hour from Chicago and only minutes from the west suburbs, you will be transported to another time! This has to be the best “swimming/ fishing hole” in Chicagoland and you can have it all to yourself.
The property features 20 acres of woods, prairie and an 8 acre lake!!! The lake is crystal clear because it’s so deep (reportedly 125 ft) and is sandy on the bottom. We created a massive beach area with many camping spots to choose from. The kids will love exploring the trails on foot and on bike. Everyone will love lounging under the umbrellas on the comfy chaise lounges and enjoying the views.
You won’t want to leave, but if you need to restock, there a gas station 1/4 mile away and full service grocery store and restaurant under a mile away. We even get pizza delivered! There’s a nice driveway of gravel that leads to a nice open field for RV campers. Tent campers can continue to the beach and set up in style.
The property was once an active quarry and was then basically abandoned for 40-50 years. Nature took over over, Trees matured, the stocked lake grew some massive fish. A few years ago we started camping out there and just loved it. We’ve worked hard to make it amazing and we want to share it with you.
Pets
Crooked Creek Ranch
6. Crooked Creek Ranch
100%
(11)
23mi from Shabbona Lake 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.
Pets
East Woods on the IL River
7. East Woods on the IL River
97%
(342)
27mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This 25 acre parcel was once owned by a sand mining company. There are mounds and valleys all along the Illinois River. We purchased the property in 1987, and cut in the road. The city of Ottawa recently annexed the property into the Ottawa city limits. It's like owning our own wild park.
Pets
A Creek Runs Through It
8. A Creek Runs Through It
95%
(19)
31mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!
Pets
Escape to Nature
9. Escape to Nature
98%
(372)
36mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Each reservation includes firewood that is rough cut.
Always call ahead when you are planning to enjoy a local attraction.
This property is located on the outskirts of the village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. This is a kid-friendly and pet friendly location.
Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard.
What to do here:
Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks.
If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking.
Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit.
Check out these amazing area attractions!
-The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. (http://www.IRM.org)
-Tower Hills Stables, Trail Rides, Horseback Riding Camp (ages 5 to 14), Riding Lessons, just 8 miles drive, (https://www.towerhillstables.net/.)
-Summerfield Farm and Zoo, a privately owned zoo in rural Belvidere, IL, 3088 Flora Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008, a 30 minute drive. (https://summerfieldfarmandzoo.com/.)
-Safari Lake Geneva, 45 minute drive to the north, Visit Safari Lake Geneva, Wisconsin's original drive through animal park. Feed and interact with a variety of animals from the comfort of your car (https://safarilakegeneva.com/).
Additional suggestions include Santa's Village Amusement and Water Park in West Dundee, Randall Oaks Zoo, in Dundee on Randall Road, Minor League Baseball with Schaumburg Boomers or Kane County Cougars, Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Sullivan Mobile massage, Belvidere Park in Belvidere, IL, Volo Auto Museum, Department of Natural Resources Bike and Hiking Trails and fishing.
When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants.
We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff.
Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com.
FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂
Here are some answers to common questions.
We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent.
Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour.
ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door.
WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done.
CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing.
WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood.
PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits.
INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent.
HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage.
EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking.
ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.
Pets
Barrington Camp Close to Town
10. Barrington Camp Close to Town
97%
(18)
47mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 4 sites
Small farm property conveniently located 10 minutes from town, bike trails, recreation center, hospital, train to downtown Chicago, and restaurants including a popular marina bar/grill/ music venue called the Broken Oar.
Property includes access to large shared fire pit, bicycles, and electric/water hook ups (no sewage). Hipcampers are welcome to fill water tanks as needed, but constant connection is not always available. Note: campers have access to 15 & 30 amp electrical power via extension cords.
We welcome horses and pets, but clean up by visitors is required. For the safety of all Hipcampers and their pets, supervised off-leash playtime is expected. Please be outside with your pets while they are off-leash. The country-like property is a setting with wildlife, neighbors, pets, and free range chickens.
Owners Sam and Sylvia also reside on the property in the red home.
Enjoy your stay and thanks for visiting our listing!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
The Commons Oak Savanna
11. The Commons Oak Savanna
92%
(25)
47mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
(NOTE) Greenwood Rd and Illinois Rt 120 are the same...Google uses Greenwood Rd, and the State prefers Illinois Rte 120)
Get away from it and commune with nature in a pre-settlement natural oak savanna with oaks and hickories of 200-400 years. 25-acre woodland completely fenced and surrounded by cropland and woods with no homes or roads within a half mile. Experience the land as the nomadic Indian tribes saw it. Trails cross the property. Hawks, owls, turkeys, and occasional bald eagles, along with finches, woodpeckers, doves, and martins that fill the sky; while deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits roam the grounds. Only two camps are available to keep the setting pristine and primitive and a third site can be used behind the farmstead facing the North-Fourty, in case you encounter unexpected weather or for rigs too large for the primative sites.
Woodstock is a destination location, with its noted Victorian charm and historic square. It's the only place famous movie actor Orson Welles called home, as does the groundhog of Bill Murray movie Groundhog Day fame.
Pets
Avalon Unity Garden
12. Avalon Unity Garden
97%
(16)
48mi from Shabbona Lake 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.
Pets
The Aloha Ranch
13. The Aloha Ranch
100%
(19)
49mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle.
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.
Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.
Pets
Creekside Kickback
14. Creekside Kickback
100%
(2)
13mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a small family farm that grows sweet corn and pumpkins. We are two families that have become great friends and use this property for growing a small crop each year, as well as for friend and neighbor gatherings, and lots of fun and memories for our kids.
In the summer, we love spending time hanging out at our tiki hut, which we have lovingly nicknamed “The Smut Hut.” “Smut” is a mushroom-type delicacy that sometimes grows on sweet corn, as we have learned. Bonfires and grilling out are some of our favorite things to do. Our kids have built some great trails and jumps for anyone who enjoys trail or bicycle riding.
So, if you are looking for time overlooking a creek or pond, fishing, hiking, sitting around a fire, and relaxing, we invite you to come and stay with us. Sometimes we may be there hanging out, picking corn or pumpkins, or grilling with friends, and we hope you might join us. Or you may have the place to yourself to watch the birds and beavers, and if you’re lucky, you may spot the turtle that lives in the pond.
We have two RV sites with electric hookups available, and several tent sites. Many have fire rings and picnic tables. We also have grills and a portable toilet available for guest use. Firewood is available for purchase, hand-chopped by our teenager, and during the in-season, we will have sweet corn and pumpkins available for purchase.
We are located about a half mile from Route 30, and just a few miles from a dump station at Vacationland.
Nearby attractions include Plowman’s Park, the Sandwich Fairgrounds, Raging Waves Water Park, the Big Rock Quarry, Rich Harvest Farms Golf Course, and Bliss Creek Golf Course.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Walnut Woods Farm
15. Walnut Woods Farm
100%
(6)
22mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping.
Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive.
And yes — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️
Pets
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
16. Kayak Starved Rock Campground
87%
(171)
30mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Waterfront Rustic Primitive(no water/no electric/no showers) Camping we allow primitive tent camping(whole campground), tear drop campers, pop up campers(sites 60 and up) and campervans(whole campground) we are right on the illinois river across from Starved Rock State Park. Towering views of St. Peters sandstone bluffs, soaring bald eagles and sandy islands. We are primitive. no water no electric. Just rugged natural beautiful riverside camping with ultra clean pimped out porta potties that have wipes, underarm spray deodorant, air freshener and hand sanitizer. Please note kayak rentals or guided kayak tours are not included but may be purchased onsite or from our website kayak starved rock campground. showers are available nearby at Ottawa or Oglesby swimming pool for a small fee
You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation. If anyone in the camping reservation is under 21 then someone 20 years older must be present at all times camping with the person(s) under 21
Check-in time
Mon-Thurs 3:00 pm-5:30PM
Friday-Sun 3:00PM-7:30PM
Check-out time is 3:00 pm.
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND Camping Rules
Our Rules are to promote a family friendly and safe camping experience
We reserve the right to evict anyone without refund for improper behavior or failure to observe our rules and regulations.
All Campers must check in/show ID at the KSRC office and sign a waiver and receive a parking pass/wristband. WE DO NOT ALLOW GUESTS! ANYONE ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE REGISTERED AHEAD OF TIME AS A CAMPER AND PAID FOR! All Campers are required to wear wristbands. All vehicles must have a Parking pass on the dashboard. Anyone within camp area must have a wristband on.
NO GENERATORS!!!!!
NO MUSIC IS TO BE PLAYED THROUGH SPEAKERS AT ANY TIME QUIET HOURS ARE FROM 10PM TO 7AM THAT MEANS NO NOISE WHATSOEVER. Strictly Enforced Vehicular entry/exit is not permitted between these hours. Children should be on campsite by 9:00 pm. If you violate this rule you will be evicted without refund and you will be banned from ever camping again.
Pets
Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary
17. Wildlife-Water-Nature Sanctuary
100%
(2)
41mi from Shabbona Lake 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🍃
Water hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Autumn Hill (Under Construction)
18. Autumn Hill (Under Construction)
41mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Please forgive the roughness of the property. It's a foreclosure that is being rehabilitated. Come back and see the progress.
A little video showing some of what Rockford has to offer: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1460816965783215
We are outside of Rockford near Lockwood Park and an easy drive to the east side of town. The BMX race track is at Searls Park just 4 minutes from my place. Bike routes that go to or around the city and others that also connect to Wisconsin and Iowa routes are nearby—a great place to camp during the Ironman race during the summertime. Go hiking with the goats in Pecatonica; 15 minutes to Anderson Gardens and the downtown Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens at Sinnisippi Park, and the Klehm Arboretum is about 12 minutes away.
Currently under rehabilitation and not fancy yet; rustic and farm-like. The RV spots are located in a field and wooded area, without a concrete or gravel pad. Plenty of available firewood. I've been cutting down trees to make more usable space on the property. I’m in the middle of rehabbing the house, outbuildings, and landscaping the 2 acres. Shade spots are available away from the house. Must be self-sustainable. Not a paved path nor a landing, but it is mowed grass. A tree line and forestry path around the back of the property. It makes a nice walking path. The property goes back much further than the photos show, and I’ve widened the path. Lots of birds to greet you in the morning, and at night, crickets will sing you to sleep. I’m off a main four-lane road with a long driveway with ample room to drive to the back of the property. I’ll navigate you around the septic area when you get here. No guests or alcohol consumption without prior authorization. This is a quiet, relaxed family property.
A few helpful links to local attractions:
https://andersongardens.org/
Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens https://nicholasconservatory.com/
Klehm Arboretum https://klehm.org/
Lockwood Park https://www.facebook.com/LockwoodParkRockfordParkDistrict/
Searls Park https://rockfordparkdistrict.org/searls-park
Burpee Museum of Natural History https://burpee.org/
Discovery Center Museum https://discoverycentermuseum.org/
For things to eat, see, and do while in Rockford go the the website https://www.gorockford.com/
Pets
Limestone Bluff
19. Limestone Bluff
43mi from Shabbona Lake 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 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.
Pets
Brown Rusk Ranch
20. Brown Rusk Ranch
100%
(9)
47mi from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area · 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!
Pets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Theresa
4 days ago
21 ft Class B
Lovely setting.
Friendly and welcoming.
Nice location.
See more
Tim
March 2026
31 ft Class C
Very friendly and helpful. They were even kind enough to give us three farm fresh eggs that were great.
See more
R
Raquel
March 2026
22 ft fifth wheel
With kids
We had an amazing stay on Sam’s land. We camped in winter (end of Feb), and had the lot to ourselves. Sam was friendly and helpful to get the power hooked up. Our 5yo had a blast playing in the yard, we can only imagine how fun that must be in summer. He got to peek inside the hen house and even got to take some fresh eggs. Make sure to bring an adapter from 110V/15A to 30/50 depending on your RV - it gives you more freedom to put up your RV anywhere in the yard.
If you are looking for a good dinner spot close by we recommend checking out Neoteca.
See moreS
Sunny
November 2025
26 ft travel trailer
Lovely quiet spot. Easy to find, easy to park, close to the train to the city.
Sam was a very nice host. I’ll be back next year.
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K
Kristin
August 2025
27 ft Class C
With pets
Sam and Sylvia’s property is really beautiful. It’s so quiet and peaceful. And they are such a sweet pair. They were generous and kind.
See moreJ
Jimmy
August 2025
35 ft travel trailer
Nice place to park. Better marking by the road for location would help. Gate to the area is a little tight but definitely doable. Great host!
See moreT
Tim
August 2025
14 ft travel trailer
We had a fantastic stay. Beautiful place, incredibly friendly hosts. We even left with some fresh eggs!!
Highly recommended
See moreB
Ben
August 2025
26 ft Class B
With kids
Sam was the perfect host, helpful but not overbearing. The site is beautiful, secluded but close (5 min drive) to Barrington station which was great for trains into Chicago to explore. Our 2 year old loved playing on the slide, trampoline and feeding the chickens. Highly recommend.
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Jay
July 2025
25 ft Class A
With pets
A beautiful quiet farm
Gracious host with Sam and Sylvia. Our dog loved area to romp around.
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P
Peter
July 2025
16 ft car
Incredible hospitality in the middle of a downpour! Nice place to stay!
See moreT
Tyson
July 2025
25 ft travel trailer
With kids
Sam was very friendly and welcoming! Close to Chicago for driving into the city and nice and quiet location!
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B
Brad
June 2025
35 ft Class A
Wonderful quiet spot with lots of space. Sam and his wife are amazing and friendly hosts . The pasture is wide open and separated enough from the main house to feel some privacy and space for dogs to run around outside. Added bonus was the various chickens which we enjoyed and were lucky enough to get some free eggs. This is ideal to much of the what north and west suburbs has to offer and about an hour to the city.
If you’re prepared for a few logistics this is an ideal spot. We could not believe it was in Chicago.
1. Don’t follow Google Maps marker. It will put you next door. Use Apple Maps or the physical address.
2. There are 2 NARROW gates. Our full-size RV managed to drive through but go slow and straight and pay attention to mirrors
3. This is boondocking - fill up on water at the front of the property before you head back. 30amp service is on the barn which won’t help unless you need to park and charge batteries for a little bit. 110v is available with extension cords if you’re tent or popup camping and just want to run devices. Dump station is not to far away.
It was summer so we parked in back and ran the generator and so ended up fine but we had enough fuel in the tanks to do that so I’m posting the above tips so you come prepared and enjoy the property and the hospitality.
We would absolutely return when camping in Chicago area!
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Michael
June 2025
16 ft travel trailer
I had a great stay! The Ranch is a wonderful
Quiet and pretty country setting. The hosts were very friendly and welcoming. Would definitely recommend it
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Michele
June 2025
23 ft Class C
With pets
Beautiful spot a short drive from Chicago (and opposite from the worst of the traffic!) The site is meticulously clean, has beautiful gardens, and is filled with kitchy, quirky, adorable art at every turn. Grassy site was level and dry, is set up for fully self-contained campers, but there is a picnic area and firepit - and there are sheep and a friendly family of cats. What more could one ask? (Well, you could also ask for a tour of the host's garage, which my husband got - he has restored some BEAUTIFUL classic cars.)
Across the street from Four Lakes Winnebago County Forest Preserve - great catch-and-release fishing at the lakes, well-stocked with tiny but feisty bluegill. Lovely rural area with horses and cows dotting the landscape, but still only about a 15 minute drive to Rockford if you need city amenities. Both Love's Truck Stops in the area have sewer dumps and propane available for campers.
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Donald
June 2025
23 ft Class C
With pets
Very unique location to spend a quiet night on the road. We found that if you go back near the fire pit and park your rig parallel to the road that the spot is totally level. Recommend you stay if traveling through. 50’s diner very cool too.
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Richard
June 2025
9 ft Class C
This is a wonderfully tranquil place to stay.. the host is brilliant too! Thanks!!
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Robert
June 2025
16 ft car
Amazing experience camping on Pat's land. They have classic cars. Sheep on the land. The cat had a litter of kittens and we got swarmed by little cuties. camp fire, great folks, and amazing times. Would recommend this place to anyone.
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Francine
May 2025
40 ft Class A
With pets
Sam and his wife are truly amazing hosts! They make sure you get settled and help you with anything you need. We are pretty large rig of a 41 foot motorhome and a 22 foot cargo trailer that pulls our car and we were able to fit comfortably in his pasture site. The location is so peaceful and serene, gorgeous big trees. Fantastic location in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Very close to downtown barrington for groceries and restaurants. We have a small child and they have a great playground he was able to use. We just couldn’t recommend this site enough for future travelers!
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Jessica
May 2025
30 ft Class C
With pets
Very kind, communicative, friendly hosts. We had the place to ourselves! Plenty of room for our dogs to freely run & play. Quiet, nestled-in, level site for our 30 ft class C.
See moreReviews for Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area Campgrounds
100%
4 ratings · 1 review
June 2017
Ok in a pinch. We rolled in at 10pm, the party had already started at this strict no alcohol allowed campground. The sites are very close together so our entertainment for the evening was the drunk ramblings of the teenagers next to us. It's wooded and the pitches each have a table and a fire pit but they are not generous with the space you get. There is a nice lake but the restrooms scattered around the grounds are pit toilets. The showers are powerful (4 stalls)but could use a good cleaning. I'm guessing because of the lack of supervision by the camp hosts, many people left food out so we were woken several times by rival gangs of raccoons roaming the grounds stealing what they could. We paid $25 for one night tent camping. Dog friendly
D
Denise B.
9 years on Hipcamp
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