Ranch camping in Illinois with fishing
From Lake Michigan beaches to Shawnee National Forest trails—campers have options in Illinois.
98% (987 reviews)
- Illinois
98% (987 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Illinois
Available this weekend
Under $50
10 top ranch campgrounds in Illinois with fishing
97%
(189)
Welcome to our Magical Woods
9 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Marseilles, IL
Cicadas 2024 are GONE It's so quiet! Except for the birds and other soft singing insects. LOTS of tree frogs are chirping.
Grundy County Fair July 3 - 7 in Morris, IL. Fireworks from stadium seating July 3rd. Every day there is a carnival, horse show, truck/tractor pulls, auto races and more! https://grundycountyfair.org/
Nearly every local town has something going on for 4th of July, from very small towns to our larger cities in this area - just ask!
LaSalle County 4H Fair July 10 - 14 Tractor and truck pulls, rodeo, demolition derby and of course lots of critters and kids. Best lemon shake ups on the planet https://www.facebook.com/lasallecountyjrfair/
Stargazers delight! We have very little light interference out here which makes for excellent stargazing!
Upcoming celestial events:
Comet 13P/Olbers Visible beginning 6/29/24 The comet is currently approaching its perihelion — its closest point to the sun. It will reach that point on Sunday, June 30. It will reach its closest point to Earth on July 20
More here: https://wgntv.com/news/comet-not-seen-since-1956-set-to-fly-by-earth/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0aLalFEmpJV7zTJP3RG-LVLfChe6COXzKPHX8oXK-YrA6zVXdpkqbdPZg_aem_Df1Swwdh287nWq04ev5N_g
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Peaceful and enchanting. Very rustic and private. we are in the best part of the Illinois wilderness. Our woods transport you a world away, yet you are just a short walk from your vehicle and a short drive to stores, sites and restaurants.
Our campsites are treated with a light essential oil to help repel bugs, like mosquitoes and ticks. Our pond is treated weekly for mosquitoes. We work hard so that you are comfortable. Your campsite is clean and stocked for you with a picnic table, five pieces of firewood, a lighter, fire starters, a couple of chairs and peace and quiet. A clean port a potty is available at the trail head and next to the stables. There is a stocked handwashing station next to the port a potties.
No bears, no wolves, no mountain lions. Plenty of owls, birds, frogs, and small critters plus the shy deer are all about.
Our "camp host" Tiller the big lovable doggo will patrol to scatter any trash pandas that might happen by. We keep track of him using GPS, so we know if He is hanging with you around the campfire. When his collar lights up and plays a tune, it's time for him to come home! Please send him on his way - thank you.
Cicadas 2024 are GONE It's so quiet! Except for the birds and other soft singing insects.
Up coming events:
Marseilles Fundays Now - June 30th. Carnival, food, fun, fireworks and Sunday PARADE https://www.cityofmarseilles.com/marseilles-fun-days-2024/
Grundy County Fair July 3 - 7 in Morris, IL. Fireworks from stadium seating July 3rd. Every day there is a carnival, horse show, truck/tractor pulls, auto races and more! https://grundycountyfair.org/
Pets
Potable water
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from
$35
/ night
100%
(786)
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents103 acres · Palmer, IL
We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm.
In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land.
The property has a greenhouse, high tunnel and about
a half acre of field that we raise vegetables & fruit on.
We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim & boat in. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them.
Plenty of wildlife, hiking & mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised & made on the farm for folks to purchase.
Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm.
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from
$35
/ night
93%
(59)
Bear Bottom Ranch
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Yorkville, IL
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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from
$35
/ night
96%
(667)
Linden Camprground
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Apple River, IL
We bought the farmette with much work outside and home interior remodel to complete. We slowly turned the property into our family oasis. We neighbor a pasture with cows. There are free range chickens running around during the day. Geese greet us every evening and morning at the pond...as do the many bullfrogs. Occasionally you'll hear the coyotes, but they keep their distance. The stars shine peacefully and the sunsets are picturesque (most afternoons). The pond is a great place to swim and fish. The hillside is a nice walk for exercise or take the easier route and sit under the great oak tree in the other pasture. Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. You won't find a sign...we keep it simple.
We allow pets at the sites for a $5 per pet/per night. If you would like to bring a pet, please add the Pet Fee which is listed on the Extra during the booking process.
We have firewood available for sale, $5.55/bundle. This is located in the Extra section during the booking process.
Lastly, there is free range chicken eggs available for purchase, $3.50/dozen. This is also located in the Extra section during the booking process.
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from
$28
/ night
99%
(78)
Rancho Comienzo
3 sites · Tents57 acres · Sheridan, IL
Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays.
Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities!
We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!
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from
$42.75
/ night
98%
(27)
Harmony Hill Acres
35 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Centralia, IL
Ranch lands of a prior Horse Ranch at the edge of town is conveniently located. Most of the property is pasture area but plenty of yard for tent camping and LOTS of space for those who want to pitch a tent in the pastures. We have small goats, chickens, and turkeys on-site (please do not enter barn or animal pens). There are no hookups for water or power, but we can accommodate some use of water from our spigots.
We live about 2 miles from our local lake, which has boat access and paddling access.
The beautiful view of sunsets and sunrises are spectacular more times than not. We host large herd of deer traveling and sometimes bedding down in our pastures, so be sure to watch early mornings for them to be on the move.
We are very close to town, but the 18-acre site brings a serene aspect to the grounds.
***WE ARE BRINGING IN A PORTA-POTTY OR 2 FOR THE TENT CAMPERS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 4/6/24 SOLAR ECLIPSE. WE ALSO HAVE A COTTAGE KITCHEN AND WILL HAVE A FEW BREAKFAST ITEMS, BREADS, AND SWEET BREADS FOR ORDER.
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$20
/ night
100%
(32)
Stunning View at Galena River Ranch
1 site · RV, Tent600 acres · Galena, IL
Learn more about this land:A peaceful respite with a breathtaking view of the Galena and Mississippi River valleys. The secluded campsite is situated on a high point on Pilot Knob that overlooks the entire valley with 180 degree views to the South, West and North. The tent site is a flat 20'x20' spot next to a Birch tree, fire ring and table; plenty of room for two tents and a car or two. In the foreground is a natural field with small Cedar trees, Scrub Oak, Sumac and prairie grasses where deer often eat and bed. The site is situated on about 25 acres - plenty of space to take a walk through the fields. Further out are natural woods, and in the distance is the entire Mississippi River valley South to Bellevue, IA and North of Dubuque, IA. Sunsets are absolutely breathtaking from this vantage point.
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$50
/ night
99%
(34)
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Eldorado, IL
Off the Historic Goshen Trail that runs from mid-Illinois thru here to Alton, IL which is close to St.Louis,MO. Oldest house on the trail. 1922 farmhouse but homestead older than that.Learn more about this land:Tent or small camper welcome. Peaceful, farm work around you, fresh eggs available and friendly farmers. Firewood can be found in piles around the farm. Very quiet, wildlife crossings and lots of berries to pick.
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from
$30
/ night
100%
(2)
Little Texas Farm and Lodge
1 site · Lodging600 acres · Grantsburg, IL
Located in the Southern Illinois Ozarks, this lodge and 600 acres are part of the Cache River Drainage area, an area recognized internationally as being ecologically unique. The Barn is located atop a limestone bluff; the property includes upland flora, wetland wildlife, row-crop fields, and has access on 2 sides to the Shawnee National Forest. Conveniently located to participate in the natural opportunities of S. Illinois.Learn more about this land:Bring the hot dogs and the beans, but leave the sleeping bag and tent behind. At Little Texas, you will spend your down-time in a 1600 foot, 3 BR, 3 bath lodge located 2/3 mile off the closest gravel road. Little Texas is a place for those who love the isolation of camping but also the amenities of a lodge/home. Full kitchen. Sleeps 8. Step outside for a view of the yard, the working windmill, the fields, trees, and the pond. Test your skill at sorting constellations from the spectacular array of stars. Located in Southernmost Illinois, the property sits on a limestone outcrop of the Ozarks which extend from Arkansas and Missouri across S. Illinois into westernmost Kentucky. Bordered on 2 sides by the 260,000 acre Shawnee National Forest, nature is literally just outside the door. When the hiker sits still, nature comes alive: deer, turkey, raccoons, skunks, beavers, and lots of birds.
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$160
/ night
Vogt Farm
3 sites · Tents4 acres · Carterville, IL
Multiple tent spots available! Nestled in the heart of southern Illinois, our property offers a picturesque setting with a wildlife refuge, lakes, waterfalls, and proximity to top wineries. Explore the beauty of the Shawnee National Forest through stunning hiking and biking trails or satisfy your adventurous side with ATV parks for mud enthusiasts. Take in the iconic Bald Knob Cross, enjoy riverside activities, indulge in hunting and fishing, or unwind with a round of golf. Our property caters to a variety of interests, ensuring there's something for everyone in the breathtaking landscape of southern Illinois. Need to get reservation in ASAP the spot's will fill quickly $100 deposit required we accept cash app and chime or ask for a different payment method.
Campsite RULES
A liability waiver must be signed at arrival
420 friendly, drinking is permitted belligerent will not be accepted.
Porta potty will be accessible, firewood will be available for campfires.
Trash cans will be provided.
We ask for all campers to respect the property owners and your fellow camper
No pets allowed sorry. We do have dogs on our property and are very friendly but will be managed during the event.
Toilets
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$500
/ night
Dog-friendly getaways
Star Hosts in Illinois
Ranch camping in Illinois with fishing guide
Overview
Illinois might be notoriously flat—the state’s highest natural point, Charles Mound, is easily eclipsed by Chicago's Willis Tower—but there are still plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures in the Land of Lincoln. Head to the windswept shores of Lake Michigan, grab your backpack and hit the trail in the Shawnee National Forest, or hop in your RV and set out along Route 66. With more than 300 state parks to explore, and a huge choice of campgrounds, glampsites, and cozy cabin rentals, campers have options to suit all four seasons. Summer is peak season, so book well in advance.
Where to go
Chicago & Around
Once you’ve marveled at the skyscrapers and filled up on hot dogs in Chicago, you’ll find several of Illinois’ most impressive state parks within day-trip distance of the Windy City. Cool off at Illinois Beach State Park along the shores of Lake Michigan, hike to waterfalls and camp in the woods at Starved Rock State Park, or admire the fall foliage in Matthiessen State Park. For winter campers, Rock Cut State Park is a hotspot for cross-country skiing.
Great Rivers Country
Nineteenth-century towns, vineyards, and scenic river valleys provide a change of pace in Western Illinois. Hop between towns like Peoria, Moline, and Galena along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers; spot bald eagles in Grafton, or rent a cabin at nearby Pere Marquette State Park. Mississippi Palisades State Park is another regional highlight, where you can hike, rock climb, or cross-country ski, depending on the season.
Land of Lincoln
Illinois’ bucolic heartland was the long-time home of Abraham Lincoln, and historic sites are scattered around the countryside between Springfield, Bloomington, and Decatur. If you’re up for one of the world’s most famous road trips, drive your RV on down to Springfield, the birthplace of Route 66, or if woodland views and lake fishing are more your jam, head to Walnut Point State Park, Wolf Creek State Park, or Sangchris Lake State Park.
South Illinois
The rambling Shawnee National Forest stretches over much of southern Illinois, encompassing miles of hiking and horseback riding trails between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Take your pick of some of the state’s most rewarding hikes, including the River to River Trail and the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, and don’t miss the extraordinary rock formations of the Garden of the Gods. First-come, first-served campsites are available at several NF campgrounds, or you can pitch your tent or park your RV in the dispersed camping areas.
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