Discover the best river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Illinois

United States
—
Illinois

97% (2248 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Illinois

Available this weekend

Under $50

99%

(258)

Horseshoe Bend

6 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.

100%

(477)

Wine Trail Wilderness

16 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, IL

The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Ottawa, IL

we allow primitive tent camping, tear drop campers, pop up campers and campervans 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 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 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. 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 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. IF YOUR CAR DOES NOT HAVE A PARKING PASS IT WILL BE TOWED AT YOUR EXPENSE! Check-in is at 3:00 pm. Check-out time is 3:00 pm. Footwear must be worn at all times in the camping area. The speed limit is 10mph in the campground. We have Jumbo wood bundles for sale($8) at the front office. You may not use any wood(>3”diameter) found within the campground for your campfire. Swimming is prohibited from any beach in the campground. You may wade up to your thighs however, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON AND BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES we do allow well behaved leashed dogs at this campground(please be advised that Eagles can harm small dogs. we are not responsible if your dog inflicts harm/and or injures Glass containers/bottles of any sort are prohibited in the campground. Garbage must be bagged and placed into the Dumpster within the Campground upon leaving. If any garbage is left at your site you will be charged a $50 cleaning fee. No fires permitted except in fire rings. Absolutely no firearms or fireworks! IF FOUND YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE. No ATVs, dirt bikes, motorized scooters (battery or gas) WE are not responsible for damage or theft of your personal belongings. Please leave all valuables at home. WE DO ALLOW WELL BEHAVED LEASHED DOGS AT THIS LOCATION ONLY 2 DOGS MAX PER CAMPSITE

98%

(27)

Bear Bottom Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Millbrook, IL

Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! 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. Ifare looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have two unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property, keeping to ourselves. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!

Welcome to our Magical Woods

9 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Marseilles, IL

Peaceful & enchanting. Very rustic and private.

12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Illinois

99%

(258)

Horseshoe Bend

6 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.

Wine Trail Wilderness

16 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, IL

The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Ottawa, IL

we allow primitive tent camping, tear drop campers, pop up campers and campervans 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 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 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. 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 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. IF YOUR CAR DOES NOT HAVE A PARKING PASS IT WILL BE TOWED AT YOUR EXPENSE! Check-in is at 3:00 pm. Check-out time is 3:00 pm. Footwear must be worn at all times in the camping area. The speed limit is 10mph in the campground. We have Jumbo wood bundles for sale($8) at the front office. You may not use any wood(>3”diameter) found within the campground for your campfire. Swimming is prohibited from any beach in the campground. You may wade up to your thighs however, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON AND BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES we do allow well behaved leashed dogs at this campground(please be advised that Eagles can harm small dogs. we are not responsible if your dog inflicts harm/and or injures Glass containers/bottles of any sort are prohibited in the campground. Garbage must be bagged and placed into the Dumpster within the Campground upon leaving. If any garbage is left at your site you will be charged a $50 cleaning fee. No fires permitted except in fire rings. Absolutely no firearms or fireworks! IF FOUND YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE. No ATVs, dirt bikes, motorized scooters (battery or gas) WE are not responsible for damage or theft of your personal belongings. Please leave all valuables at home. WE DO ALLOW WELL BEHAVED LEASHED DOGS AT THIS LOCATION ONLY 2 DOGS MAX PER CAMPSITE

100%

(2)

175 Acre Farm: Glamp Tents & Cabin

3 sites · Lodging175 acres · Tiskilwa, IL

Hungry World Farm is a nonprofit 175 acre farm that inspires and educates people on the benefits of regenerative agriculture. Our farm is located in Central Illinois about 2 hours west of Chicago along I-80, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park. The beautiful topography includes bluffs, valley, Plow Creek, 100 acres of forest, and over 50 acres of pasture, market garden, crops, barns, playground, nature preserve, animals, playground, commercial kitchen, outdoor wood-fired pizza oven, and a produce packing center. Uniquely, for many years the farm was an Intentional Community and has 10+ Airbnb rentals with additional building, glamping tents, RV and camping sites. Our market garden and livestock operations provide delicious and nutrient dense food to thousands of people every year. So many of our guests just need an escape, from traffic, from electronics, from the things that keep their families from being together. We provide a uniquely, peaceful and unforgettable experience, where they can walk through the woods, pet the animals, dig their hands in the soil, and gaze at the stars. Here are some things we offer: 1. Wood Fired Pizza Nights, Friday nights from 5 - 8pm with some live music 2. Breakfasts on the Farm, Saturday 8:30 - 10am 3. Peaceful Overnight Stays for up to 35 guests in a variety of lodging including Cabin, Apartments, Retreat Center, RV spots, Glamping & Camping Available. These can be booked via the Hungry World Farm Website directly for special requests, as well as Airbnb, and Hipcamp. 4. Tours of the Farm Garden, Homestead Animals, Farmstead Livestock, with special focus on Regenerative Farming & forest and prairie Conservation 5. Volunteer Opportunities - to garden, build, raise animals, conserve pastures and forests, and build trails. 6. Workshops - Gardening, Homesteading, And Regenerative Agriculture Workshops including IVCC extension classes. 7. Groups of visitors holding Reunions, Youth events, Groups, special retreats, and wedding parties are welcome! 8. People can also buy farm produce at the Peoria Riverfront Market, May - September, and may be able to purchase value added products at the farm. Discover the farm - an unforgettable escape for you, your family, church group, or wedding party. Reconnect with nature. Gaze at the stars. Fall in love. Restore your soul. Our Cabin, Rooms, & Apartment are now on AirBnB and Hipcamp (with more to come.)

Bear Bottom Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Millbrook, IL

Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! 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. Ifare looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have two unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property, keeping to ourselves. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!

Welcome to our Magical Woods

9 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Marseilles, IL

Peaceful & enchanting. Very rustic and private.

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, we swim in the pond, 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 to purchase. Supposedly the house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm.

95%

(43)

Railroad creek camp ground

5 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Hamilton, IL

Learn more about this land:Come enjoy primitive camping while you commune with nature and hunt geodes and fossils in the famous Keokuk Geode region. Property is within close proximity to Nauvoo, Illinois and within a very short distance to the Mississippi River. The camping area is level ground and surrounded by trees. The property has a hillside geode mine on it and there is a creek running through it that has a lot of geodes in it.

97%

(247)

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.

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!

98%

(24)

Sugar Tree Farm

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents250 acres · Allendale, IL

Welcome to "Sugar Tree" farm, where nature's beauty is abundent. Situated on 160 acres of picturesque farmland and an additional 100 acres of enchanting forest along the Wabash River, our property provides an idyllic setting for celestial enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Marvel at the unobstructed views, rolling hills, grass pastures, and serene creeks that paint a breathtaking panorama. The riverfront offers a tranquil retreat, while the diverse landscapes invite wildlife to flourish. Witness the majestic flight of bald eagles, the graceful presence of blue herons, the rhythmic tapping of woodpeckers, and the gentle grazing of white-tailed deer and turkeys. Squirrels, rabbits, and the rich variety of Wabash River fish complete the vibrant tapestry of our farm. Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend trip, the short 15-minute drive to Mt. Carmel, Lawrenceville, or Vincennes ensures easy access to supplies. Join us at "Sugar Tree" farm, where the tranquility of nature will create an unforgettable experience along the Wabash River.

99%

(97)

1912 Vintage Barn Experience

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Niantic, IL

The 1912 Barn is a 110 historic post and beam barn that makes a wonderful backdrop for a night out in the country. Located only 25 minutes from Springfield historic sites and 10 minutes from Decatur, IL this location makes it easy to tour during the day and relax by the camp fire in the evening. Decatur has a mini golf course, splash cove water park, children's zoo and museum, a governor's mansion for tours and 3 museums to visit. Milikin University offers local college level sports. Decatur has a great lake for paddle boarding, boating and fishing with canoe trips down the local Sangamon River. Several local breweries and cute market areas makes Decatur a great place to visit. Take a ride on the trolley and learn out our history. Springfield sites are only a hop and skip away with many things to see and learn. Museums offer great programs and the New Salem Park is a fun day trip with the kids to learn about historic living. Lincoln's sites around in several counties are great to see

Dog-friendly getaways

90%

(90)

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Ottawa, IL

we allow primitive tent camping, tear drop campers, pop up campers and campervans 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 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 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. 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 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. IF YOUR CAR DOES NOT HAVE A PARKING PASS IT WILL BE TOWED AT YOUR EXPENSE! Check-in is at 3:00 pm. Check-out time is 3:00 pm. Footwear must be worn at all times in the camping area. The speed limit is 10mph in the campground. We have Jumbo wood bundles for sale($8) at the front office. You may not use any wood(>3”diameter) found within the campground for your campfire. Swimming is prohibited from any beach in the campground. You may wade up to your thighs however, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON AND BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES we do allow well behaved leashed dogs at this campground(please be advised that Eagles can harm small dogs. we are not responsible if your dog inflicts harm/and or injures Glass containers/bottles of any sort are prohibited in the campground. Garbage must be bagged and placed into the Dumpster within the Campground upon leaving. If any garbage is left at your site you will be charged a $50 cleaning fee. No fires permitted except in fire rings. Absolutely no firearms or fireworks! IF FOUND YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE. No ATVs, dirt bikes, motorized scooters (battery or gas) WE are not responsible for damage or theft of your personal belongings. Please leave all valuables at home. WE DO ALLOW WELL BEHAVED LEASHED DOGS AT THIS LOCATION ONLY 2 DOGS MAX PER CAMPSITE

Welcome to our Magical Woods

9 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Marseilles, IL

Peaceful & enchanting. Very rustic and private.

Wine Trail Wilderness

16 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, IL

The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.

Horseshoe Bend

6 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.

Bear Bottom Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Millbrook, IL

Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! 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. Ifare looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have two unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property, keeping to ourselves. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!

Star Hosts in Illinois

100%

(738)

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, we swim in the pond, 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 to purchase. Supposedly the house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm.

Railroad creek camp ground

5 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Hamilton, IL

Learn more about this land:Come enjoy primitive camping while you commune with nature and hunt geodes and fossils in the famous Keokuk Geode region. Property is within close proximity to Nauvoo, Illinois and within a very short distance to the Mississippi River. The camping area is level ground and surrounded by trees. The property has a hillside geode mine on it and there is a creek running through it that has a lot of geodes in it.

Welcome to our Magical Woods

9 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Marseilles, IL

Peaceful & enchanting. Very rustic and private.

Wine Trail Wilderness

16 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, IL

The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.

Horseshoe Bend

6 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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Shawnee National Forest

Elizabethtown, Illinois

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Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Shelbyville, Illinois

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Mississippi Palisades State Park

Savanna, Illinois

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Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

Channel Lake, Illinois

White Pines Forest State Park

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Starved Rock State Park

North Utica, Illinois

River, stream, or creek camping in Illinois guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, we've got you covered. If you're looking for a camping experience near the beautiful rivers of Illinois, we have over 360 options just for you! From serene riverfront views to exciting water activities, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your preferences. Check out top-rated campsites like Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews), and Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews) to see what others have enjoyed. With popular amenities like trash disposal, campfires, and pet-friendly locations, your stay will be comfortable and convenient. Plus, you can explore nearby historic sites, take a refreshing swim, or even try your hand at surfing. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in Illinois!