When you think of Illinois, the first thing that probably comes to your mind is Chicago.
Although an urban escape in the country's third-largest city is a popular choice for vacationers travelling to Illinois, there are many other astonishing sites and activities that don't involve high rise buildings overlooking Lake Michigan. Take advantage of your time in the Prairie State and explore all it has to offer beyond its bustling metropolis!
If you're searching for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, look no further than the breathtaking campgrounds in Illinois! Whether you seek state-run or privately owned sites, there are countless phenomenal options to pick from. Plus, whatever adventure activity your heart desires--from kayaking to hiking and beyond!--can be found right here in this beautiful area. So immerse yourself in nature's beauty and take advantage of all that Mother Nature has to offer with an Illinois wilderness retreat!
Here are the eight best campgrounds in Illinois.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Phone: +18475462228
Address: 32223 N US Hwy 12, Volo, IL 60073
Activities:
Pool
Hot tub
Fishing
Named for the sparkling Fish Lake, this family-oriented campground is teeming with amenities. Whether you're a sports buff or an outdoor enthusiast, there's something here for everyone! Sports fans can play mini golf and basketball, volleyball and softball - then relax at the heated pool or hot tub afterwards. Those who love being on the lake have plenty of options too: swimming, boating, kayaking & paddle boarding are all available. There's also a beach featuring swingsets as well as picnic areas; playgrounds; grills; and even a leash-free dog park! Lastly (but not least!), fishing fanatics will find ample opportunity to catch bluegill crappie bass northern pike catfish striper carp...and more!
Let your young ones have a splashing good time in our kiddie pool, with themed weekend activities specially organized for them! For those planning to stay overnight, we provide various camping options - water and electricity or full hook-up RV sites; each of which is equipped with its own fire ring and picnic table. Furthermore, you can even choose from park model rentals for added convenience!
Giant Goose Ranch – Best for Fishing
Phone: +13093384595
Address: 25369 N Goose Ranch Rd, Canton, IL 61520
Activities:
Fishing
Boating
Swimming
Enjoy the unique and unforgettable experience of Sugar Knolls Campground - a family-run vacation mecca that combines elements of camping, sport fishing, resorting, ranch work, and recreational farming. With over 50 surrounding lakes providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun such as fishing with traditional methods; this campground first opened its doors in 1954. For those wishing to stay overnight at Sugar Knolls there are multiple options – from cozy cabins offering spectacular lake views or RV sites equipped with 30/50 amp service right up to water & sewer hookups! All sites are equipped with a picnic table and have plenty of open space for your outdoor activities. Unfortunately, tent camping is no longer an option here.
Embrace the opportunity to borrow a boat and golf cart while visiting this campground! Should you seek more of an adventure, venture off towards Wildlife Prairie Park, Luthy Botanical Garden or Caterpillar Museum. With so much to do in one place, it'll be impossible for boredom to set in during your stay.
Matthiessen State Park
Phone: +18156674868
Address: 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348
Activities:
Archery Field
Geocaching
Hiking and equestrian trails
Matthiessen Park and its surrounding landscape are arguably the most mesmerizing in all of the state. From enchanting canyons to ravishing waterfalls, this region is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise! Not only does it offer a plethora of activities such as hiking trails for exploration, but also allows visitors to truly connect with nature.
For those looking for a rustic and economical getaway, camping is the perfect solution. Campsites are extremely affordable per night, making it easy to plan your budget-friendly vacation. Plus, with each campsite comes picnic table and charcoal grill so that you can cook up some delicious campfire meals! For added convenience during your stay, feel free to bring along a generator as well.
Countless visitors have been absolutely smitten by the majestic beauty and serene ambiance of Matthiessen State Park. From exploring the stunning attractions to basking in its untouched campground, tourists are ecstatic about their experiences here - it's no wonder that so many guests leave glowing reviews! Not only is nature at its finest here, but utmost cleanliness has also become a trademark of this picturesque park.
Blackwell Family Campground
Phone: +16309337200
Address: West Chicago, IL 60185
Activities:
Hiking
Programs for kids and adults
Fishing
Despite being near the bustling metropolis of Chicago, this campground is a haven for nature lovers. Wrapped in lush greenery, the Blackwell Forest Preserve offers wandering pathways and crystal-clear waterscapes - like stunning Spring Brook and serene Lake - plus miles upon miles of hiking trails. It's hard to believe that one can step out their tent and be so far removed from civilization!
Blackwell Family Campground provides multiple options for any type of camping that you can think of. Whether you're after wooded or semi-wooded sites, each spot comes complete with a gravel parking pad, firepit and picnic table - plus electricity hookup! The campsites are close together; though it might get noisy during the peak season, this is usually not an issue throughout most times of the year.
Reviews rave about the tranquil serenity at this campground, as well as its cleanliness and the abundance of facilities. If you're searching for an ideal camping spot, then look no further - because it doesn't get much better than this!
Castle Rock State Park
Phone: 8157327329
Address: 1365 W Castle Rd, Oregon, IL 6106
Activities:
Hunting
Boating
Hiking and Geocaching
The area around the campground is as untouched and pristine as can be. Not only are there trails that remain unspoiled by cars or other vehicles, but you won't find any businesses nearby either; leaving a stunningly austere beauty about it all.
If you're looking for a unique camping experience, look no further than this campground! Accessible solely by kayak or canoe, it's an RV-free zone that ensures peace and tranquility. There are no cars to disturb your restful state either - just rustic campsites with all the charm of Mother Nature at her best. Cherish life away from the hustle and bustle of modern technology - come relax in nature’s haven today!
Numerous reviews of the trails at this park overflow with love and admiration - no surprise there! Visitors relish in its small-town, peaceful atmosphere and plethora of scenic walking paths. Even though some bugs may be present, the picturesque area is delightfully charming. Be sure to peruse through all the quaint antique shops before leaving too!
Whittington Woods Campground
Images by enjoyillinois.com
Phone: 6184353401
Address: 14297 IL-37, Whittington, IL 62897
Activities:
Shopping just minutes away
Water activities on and around Rend Lake
Golfing
This campground offers not just a natural setting but also plenty of ways to take cover from the sun. Surrounding Rend Lake encourage water sports and biking, while only minutes away are shopping centers, golf courses, dance halls, and wineries – all adding to your experience here!
Whittington Woods Campground offers something for everyone - cabins, tents and RVs. Whether you're in the mood to rough it or have a glamorous camping experience (glamping!), they have an option that will work best for you. Plus, if you fall head-over-heels in love with this campground, there's always the choice of renting by month!
Not only do the hosts at Whittington Woods Campground provide incomparable hospitality and a pristinely-maintained campground, they also offer something truly special - free range chickens! It's an exciting quotient that you don't come across every day. Plus, those eggs taste incredible! Most reviews of this magnificent place celebrate its remarkable chicken coop more than anything else.
Ferne Clyffe State Park
Phone: 6189952411
Address: 90 Goreville Rd, Goreville, IL 62939
Activities:
Rock Climbing
Hiking and Equestrian Trails
Metal Detecting
Nestled amongst stunning waterfalls and awe-inspiring trails, Ferne Clyffe State Park is a pristine campground like no other. If exploring spectacular nature scenes is your thing then you'll want to book here! Outfitted with exceptional sites boasting plenty of shade, the park also features unique plant communities that thrive along its hiking paths. Here at Ferne Clyffe State Park, every adventure brings something new - don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience!
If you're longing for an adventurous getaway, our campground has something for everyone! Whether you prefer modern amenities such as electricity hook-up or a more rustic feel of primitive camping - we've got it all. We offer youth groups, backpackers and equestrian options too. Our beautiful grounds are divided into different regions so there's plenty of room to explore and find the perfect spot that suites your needs best.
Adventure abounds in the form of beautiful trails through a nearby nature preserve, perfect for dog walking, horse riding and biking. Visitors rave about the lush environs that envelop this campground, full of wildlife and wildflowers to explore. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking restful peace in tranquil settings, this campground will not disappoint!
Crazy Horse Campground
Phone: 2178862089
Address: 2113 Crazy Horse Rd, Ashland, IL 62612
Activities:
Fishing
Participating in planned crafts and activities
Visiting Historical Sites
With its majestic lake, this campground is already a stunning spot to stay - but what really sets it apart from other campsites are the incredible Abraham Lincoln monuments that can be found here! From statues and museums to historic sites galore, Crazy Horse offers unparalleled opportunities for visitors eager to learn more about America's past. With so much history surrounding you in every direction, there's no better place than Crazy Horse Campground for an educational getaway!
Planning a trip to the countryside? Worry not, for we have just what you're looking for! We offer tent sites, RV sites and cabins at incredibly low prices. Plus, if amenities don't interest you - no need to pay extra; simply find an accommodation that fits your budget easily. With us on board, rest assured of having an enjoyable and memorable stay!
Reviews of the campground often speak to its access to water sports - and it's true, you can fish in the pond or take a swim. But that’s not all! Folks from near and far come for the Bluegrass Festival, celebrating great food, music and fun.
Starved Rock State Park
Phone: 8156674726
Address: 2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
Activities:
Boating and Kayaking
Hunting
Hiking and Exploration
Although the landscape of Matthiessen and Starved Rock State Parks are quite similar, there is one principal difference: the latter park is more tourist-friendly. If you're looking for a beautiful destination that also features nearby attractions such as cafes or gift shops, then this might be your ideal destination! Both parks boast stunning waterfalls and canyons to explore; however, only at Starved Rock will you find all these amenities in addition to your adventure.
Are you looking for luxurious camping sites with all the amenities? Look no further than Starved Rock State Park! Unlike Matthiessen, each campsite has a gravel parking pad and an RV hook-up. If your dream of experiencing nature in a camper or RV was crushed when finding out that's not allowed at Matthiessen, then this is just what you need to turn it into reality.
Reviews often marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty that this campground has to offer. With its breathtaking trails, majestic waterfalls and stunning natural vistas, it's easy to understand why visitors are so captivated by this place! Whether you're looking for a pleasant hike or just simply want to contemplate nature in all its glory, this campground is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Hebron Hills Camping
Image by Roverpass.com
Phone: 2173463385
Address: 14349 N Co Rd 2350 E, Oakland, IL 61943
Activities:
Hiking
Concerts
Badminton, Volleyball and Basketball
Come and bask in the serenity of Hebron Hills, situated beside Brush Creek's stunning views! Wooded campsites are yours to explore or simply relax among open spaces. Enjoy a tranquil wilderness experience with access to activities such as fishing, swimming, paddle boating and field sports. Whether it be small creek or wide-open space you crave for your outdoor adventure – Hebron Hill will not let you down!
From primitive campsites to full hook-ups, we invite RVers and tent campers alike. Additionally, if you desire something a little more cozy than camping in nature's elements, then our cabins are comfortable alternatives! Cleanly kept without running water, yet still cosy one room spaces.
The most gratifying reviews speak of Hebron Hills Camping's spotless grounds and their extraordinarily hospitable owners. Beyond the many activities, sights, and sounds to experience at this charming campground - what lingers longest in one’s memory are feelings of warmth and comfort that its kindhearted team have provided. Whether you yearn for complete relaxation or desire a peaceful escape from the hustle & bustle – look no further than Hebron Hills Camping!
Don't restrict yourself to stereotypes about Illinois; it's not just for city-lovers and college students. Whether you're looking for a rustic adventure or pampering glamping, Illinois should be at the top of your vacation list. It offers something for every traveler - from remote wilderness experiences that'll make you feel like an intrepid explorer, to luxury camping sites with all the comforts of home!
Everyone can appreciate the spectacular scenery and recreational activities available in Illinois. Home to countless rivers, lakes, and even Lake Michigan on its border; water sports are more than welcome here - swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking or canoeing - you name it!
The stunning hiking trails found in reserves and forests are an invitation to any outdoor enthusiast, yet if water sports float your boat there's plenty of opportunity for those too. Campers of all ages can explore the wonders that these natural environments have to offer with the help and support of kind, knowledgeable staff members - it's no surprise they get so many positive reviews!