Private sites camping in Illinois

From Lake Michigan beaches to Shawnee National Forest trails—campers have options in Illinois.

99% (108 reviews)

United States
—
Illinois

99% (108 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Illinois

Under $50

Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Grant Park, IL

Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided

East Woods on the IL River

3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ottawa, IL

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.

Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Rockford, IL

Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.

Horseshoe Bend

11 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Roanoke, IL

Family owned private campground since the 1940's. Very secluded and private. Nice trails for hiking or biking. There is even a small "race track" in the bottom bowl near the creek. There are several direct access points to the creel for fishing or wading. We have miles of marked trails that are easy for everyone. Horseshoe Bend Main is a larger campground with four dispersed sites which a very spread out. This site has (3) 30 amp outlets for RV's. Porta potties are also provided. The Horseshoe Bend Creekside sites are designated spots that are on the West Panther creek bank. There are porta potties, but no electric or water.

Peaceful Prairie Tent Camping

3 sites · Lodging, Tents19 acres · Decatur, IL

We live on a 19 acre hobby farm with chickens, ducks, a goose, a pig and a pair of sheep and miniature donkeys. There is a pond full of frogs and turtles. We have a swimming pool that we share with guests. We have a tree house with nature games and books, a wildflower labyrinth, a creek and about 3/4 mile of trails in the woods. We are located very near several conservation areas with extensive hiking opportunities (Rock Springs and Sand Creek). Decatur has a water park (Splash Cove) and Overlook Adventure Park has batting cages, miniature golf and a ropes course. The Children's Museum of IL and Scovill Zoo are also fun for the kids. The Decatur Wellness Collective is located nearby and offers massage, yoga, meditation, reiki and Float therapy. There are also several local breweries (Door 4 Brewing, Decatur Brew Works and Golden Fox Brewing). We are certain that you will enjoy your stay here!

Star Hosts in Illinois

East Woods on the IL River

3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ottawa, IL

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.

Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Rockford, IL

Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.

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.

Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Grant Park, IL

Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided

Horseshoe Bend

11 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Roanoke, IL

Family owned private campground since the 1940's. Very secluded and private. Nice trails for hiking or biking. There is even a small "race track" in the bottom bowl near the creek. There are several direct access points to the creel for fishing or wading. We have miles of marked trails that are easy for everyone. Horseshoe Bend Main is a larger campground with four dispersed sites which a very spread out. This site has (3) 30 amp outlets for RV's. Porta potties are also provided. The Horseshoe Bend Creekside sites are designated spots that are on the West Panther creek bank. There are porta potties, but no electric or water.

12 top campgrounds in Illinois

Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Rockford, IL

Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.

East Woods on the IL River

3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ottawa, IL

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.

Horseshoe Bend

11 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Roanoke, IL

Family owned private campground since the 1940's. Very secluded and private. Nice trails for hiking or biking. There is even a small "race track" in the bottom bowl near the creek. There are several direct access points to the creel for fishing or wading. We have miles of marked trails that are easy for everyone. Horseshoe Bend Main is a larger campground with four dispersed sites which a very spread out. This site has (3) 30 amp outlets for RV's. Porta potties are also provided. The Horseshoe Bend Creekside sites are designated spots that are on the West Panther creek bank. There are porta potties, but no electric or water.

Cooking equipment

Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Grant Park, IL

Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided

Peaceful Prairie Tent Camping

3 sites · Lodging, Tents19 acres · Decatur, IL

We live on a 19 acre hobby farm with chickens, ducks, a goose, a pig and a pair of sheep and miniature donkeys. There is a pond full of frogs and turtles. We have a swimming pool that we share with guests. We have a tree house with nature games and books, a wildflower labyrinth, a creek and about 3/4 mile of trails in the woods. We are located very near several conservation areas with extensive hiking opportunities (Rock Springs and Sand Creek). Decatur has a water park (Splash Cove) and Overlook Adventure Park has batting cages, miniature golf and a ropes course. The Children's Museum of IL and Scovill Zoo are also fun for the kids. The Decatur Wellness Collective is located nearby and offers massage, yoga, meditation, reiki and Float therapy. There are also several local breweries (Door 4 Brewing, Decatur Brew Works and Golden Fox Brewing). We are certain that you will enjoy your stay here!

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.

Liberty Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Monmouth, IL

Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 5 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA and Galesburg,IL.

Black Sheep Flower Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Lewistown, IL

Million Dollar view! Stargazers & birdwatchers' dream! Black Sheep Flower Farm is a chemical free flower farm overlooking the Spoon and Illinois River valley. Beautiful hiking trails at Dickson Mounds and the Nature Conservancy (Emiquon) wetland preserve. We aim to provide an affordable and safe space where people feel free to be themselves and enjoy nature. Chill vibes. Quiet and romantic getaway! No homophobia, transphobia, racism or misogyny!

R & T Farms

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · IL

Your stay will be on our small 5 acres farm where we raise Cows, Pigs, Chickens and Guineas. We also have dogs and cats. You can experience life on a farm with all the sounds and smells but not all the work! Absolutely breath taking sun sets. The one and only spot we have is very secluded and private. You will have electric and SEWER HOOK UP and can fill your water tank at our house for full service facilities. We are only 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Come and stay with us, you will not be disappointed.

RWH Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents360 acres · Stockton, IL

Rich history in this property. The land was purchased from the railroad in 1865 through 1869. Also purchased land from neighboring farms. It was establishes as a farm under the Roberts name in 1872. Our family has seen six generations born and raised on this land in the past 150 years. American Indian tribes use the land for their burial ground ceremonies. Elders from a Wisconsin tribe came to the farm through the 1960s to trek the land and perform a ceremony to honor their ancestors. Many arrow heads were found in the fields of the land. The American Indians told stories of how the little spring fed creek running through our land was a small river flowing towards the Apple River which flows into the Mississippi River. The Apple river runs northwest of the farm. In 2001, the land hosted a small budget film crew for the scenes and setting of the 2002 film “Stray dogs” with Genevieve Turner. Learn more about this land: Hiking and camping under the stars surrounded by trees with the sounds of nature. Spotting variety of wildlife. Watching the most spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and the moon rising over the hills. Classified as “D” for dry camping or boondocking. Upgrades will be made available with interest. For more info about how to check out campendium.com. Feel free to ask about long term discounts on all available sites.

Camp Ondessonk

9 sites · Tents983 acres · Ozark, IL

Operating since 1959, Camp Ondessonk is a non-profit youth camp on 983 acres of beautiful wooded property adjacent to the Shawnee National Forest. Guests have access to several miles of paved road for walking and cycling, 15 miles of on-site hiking and biking trails, and access to a huge network of public Shawnee National Forest trails including the River-to-River Trail. Our property is home to the tallest free-falling waterfall in Illinois, Cedar Falls, as well as rock bottom creeks, canyons, prairies, forests, and hills. Detailed trail maps of our property and the surrounding area are available. Guests are welcome to stroll the grounds, observe our horses grazing in the pastures, enjoy views of our lakes and forests, or relax by the campfire. Stop by the Camp Store at the Trading Post to purchase Ondessonk apparel, souvenirs, or essential items. To schedule a guided hike, boating, archery, or horseback riding program, or test yourself on our high challenge course or climbing wall, contact Ondessonk staff for program availability and more information. The Camp Kitchen can prepare certain meals for you; contact us for meal availability and more information.

CSC Permaculture Project

5 sites · Lodging, Tents9 acres · Cabery, IL

8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors

Cooking equipment

Available this weekend

East Woods on the IL River

3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ottawa, IL

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.

Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Rockford, IL

Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.

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.

Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Grant Park, IL

Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided

Liberty Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Monmouth, IL

Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 5 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA and Galesburg,IL.

Dog-friendly getaways

Peaceful Prairie Tent Camping

3 sites · Lodging, Tents19 acres · Decatur, IL

We live on a 19 acre hobby farm with chickens, ducks, a goose, a pig and a pair of sheep and miniature donkeys. There is a pond full of frogs and turtles. We have a swimming pool that we share with guests. We have a tree house with nature games and books, a wildflower labyrinth, a creek and about 3/4 mile of trails in the woods. We are located very near several conservation areas with extensive hiking opportunities (Rock Springs and Sand Creek). Decatur has a water park (Splash Cove) and Overlook Adventure Park has batting cages, miniature golf and a ropes course. The Children's Museum of IL and Scovill Zoo are also fun for the kids. The Decatur Wellness Collective is located nearby and offers massage, yoga, meditation, reiki and Float therapy. There are also several local breweries (Door 4 Brewing, Decatur Brew Works and Golden Fox Brewing). We are certain that you will enjoy your stay here!

Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Grant Park, IL

Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided

Rockford Ski Club Camping Area

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Rockford, IL

Here's a refined version of the description for the Rockford Ski Club: Discover the Rockford Ski Club: Nestled on 33 acres of diverse landscape, the Rockford Ski Club offers a unique blend of prairie, forest, gardens, and open fields. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and foxes, and leads directly to the Kishwaukee River—perfect for kayaking or canoeing adventures. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley from the camping field, and embrace the spirit of community that has made this cooperative club a local treasure for decades. Members continue to ski and sled here, keeping tradition alive. Conveniently located just off Interstate 39, the club is only a 10-15 minute drive from Rockford, with a gas station just half a mile away. Camping options are available for tents, cars, vans, campers, or RVs in our maintained grassy area. While there is a well for non-potable water (suitable for washing), we recommend bringing your own drinking water. Electricity is available for basic needs like charging phones or powering lights and small devices, but it is not sufficient for RVs. For more information, feel free to reach out to our club president, Steve, at (815)-979-4888.

East Woods on the IL River

3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ottawa, IL

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.

Horseshoe Bend

11 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Roanoke, IL

Family owned private campground since the 1940's. Very secluded and private. Nice trails for hiking or biking. There is even a small "race track" in the bottom bowl near the creek. There are several direct access points to the creel for fishing or wading. We have miles of marked trails that are easy for everyone. Horseshoe Bend Main is a larger campground with four dispersed sites which a very spread out. This site has (3) 30 amp outlets for RV's. Porta potties are also provided. The Horseshoe Bend Creekside sites are designated spots that are on the West Panther creek bank. There are porta potties, but no electric or water.

Value Prop

Value Prop

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Private sites camping in Illinois guide

Overview

Looking for private campsites in Illinois? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 60 options in Illinois alone, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent, park your RV, or cozy up in a cabin. Check out top-rated campsites like Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews), CSC Permaculture Project (57 reviews), and Goatland (57 reviews). Whether you're into wildlife watching, hiking, or paddling, there's something for everyone. And with average prices starting at $35 per night and options as low as $12, camping has never been more affordable. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and showers as you soak in the beauty of the Illinois countryside. Happy camping!

Popular Illinois trips

Rv parks & camping with electricity hookup and water hookup

Lakeside camping

Rv parks & camping

Camping with hiking

Top parks in Illinois

Shawnee National Forest

Cave-In-Rock State Park

Giant City State Park

Starved Rock State Park

Beaver Dam State Park

Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

Clinton Lake State Recreation Area

Top cities in and near Illinois

States near Illinois

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Hipcamps ready for RVs near me

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Recreate Responsibly

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