The best star host campgrounds in Illinois

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.

99% (3.8K) • 166 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Illinois

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.

99% (3.8K) • 166 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Illinois

1. RWH Farm

100%

(15)

24 sites · Tents, Lodging · Apple Canyon Lake, IL

This property is a 150 year old working farm, which has seen six generations. We are happy to share a piece of land with you. Whether you are a first time or experienced camper wanting to sleep outdoors. We have the perfect spot for you to rest, relax, and recharge while camping under the stars surrounded by trees in a four acre wooded area located on a quiet country road within a vast working farm in the heart of Jo Daviess, County. Listen to the sounds of nature white spotting a variety of wildlife. Watch the sunrises, sunsets, comets, meteor showers, sometimes the northern lights, and the full moon rising over the hills. Watch the leaves turn color in autumn. We offer three types of sites: basic Glamping, preset tent, and rustic. Check out the descriptions of the sites to see which site is for you. Limited sites - first come basis. We try to make each site as secluded as possible.. There are firewood stations throughout the sites with attached fire extinguisher. We are creating a gravel trek around the sites with two entrances and gravel parking planned be completed by 2028. We are working on flushable outhouses and possible showers. Children’s play area by 2027. There isn’t any swimming or fishing available on the farm property. There is a private lake three miles from the sites - see details under extras. We are located ten miles from the Wisconsin border and villages with their unique shops and museums. 20 minutes from Galena, 45 minutes from the Mississippi River and Dubuque. Iowa. Three hours from Chicago. DNR - department of natural resources have properties a mile north of the farm with nice trails to walk near the Apple river, which is stocked twice a year for fishing tournaments. As well as the Boy Scout campgrounds located nearby. Locals have caught crayfish and swam in the Apple river, we are unfamiliar with current spots. People have tubed and canoed down the Apple river. There are numerous state parks within driving distance for hiking, sight seeing, eagle watching etc. Immerse yourself in the vast history of the area. Again we encourage you to come rest relax and recharge in this peaceful spot.

2. Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

98%

(31)

3 sites · Tents · Washburn, IL

Great place for train lovers! Many train enthusiasts come and take pictures and videos Great place for fishing and relaxation! Kayaking down the creek Our specified 2 acres has been turned into a park like setting with beautiful trees and the creek around it! Small town near by with amenities ..

3. Barrington Camp Close to Town

100%

(14)

4 sites · RVs · Barrington, IL

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!

4. Riverview Fin & Feather Campground

2 sites · Tents · Thomson, IL

Fin and Feather is a rustic campground located right on the banks of the Mississippi River backwaters, known for its true “camping in nature” experience and stunning sunsets. Every site looks out over the water with a perfect sunset view! These primitive sites are large, shaded, and hammock-friendly. The ground is sandy, but the beach is not known as a swimming location. Fin and Feather sits where the main channel of the Mississippi River meets Spring Lake, part of the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife and Fish Refuge. There’s plenty of wildlife to watch and endless nature to enjoy. The Great River Bike Trail runs parallel to the campground, with direct access from camp. We offer canoe and kayak rentals, and the lake is an excellent place to paddle (it closes to all boat traffic on October 1st as part of the wildlife refuge during duck hunting season). Firewood is available for purchase. A small camp store on-site carries essentials like ice, and the nearby towns of Thomson and Savanna offer additional supplies. There’s so much to do in the area—but with the peacefulness of the campground, you may just want to relax and enjoy the view!

5. Tall Tree Lake

98%

(48)

62 sites · Tents, RVs · Buncombe, IL

We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Sunny

November 2025

26 ft travel trailer

20 nights at Barrington Camp Close to Town

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.

n

nicholas

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

We had a nice private escape enjoyed the creek water and our dog met a new friend the owners dog Willie!

Shar

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

Second time camping there this year, the camp site is very nice and The host are very welcoming and nice. Would definitely love to come back again.

R

Rishi

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

Had a wonderful time. Lots of space and our dog loved having a buddy to run around with. The family was really nice and meeting them was a treat. We hope to be back.

K

Kristin

August 2025

27 ft Class C

With pets

6 nights at Barrington Camp Close to Town

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.

Brenda

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to RWH Farm

We really enjoyed staying at Joan’s and jean’s! The farmhouse has everything you need games, basketball, a full stocked kitchen! We enjoyed being in a rural area and looking at the stars. Joan and Jean were super nice and helpful with everything. We enjoyed seeing the cows so close! And teddy the dog who hanged out with us and was super friendly and adorable 🥰

J

Jimmy

August 2025

35 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Barrington Camp Close to Town

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!

New parking pad and side walk for your convenience

A

Antoine

August 2025

Group trip

1 night at RWH Farm

We loved our stay at this peaceful countryside ranch! The setting was absolutely gorgeous, with rolling fields and farm animals adding to the charm. The fully renovated ranch was cozy, comfortable, and beautifully maintained, blending modern amenities with a quaint, rustic feel. We came to stargaze for the Perseid meteor shower, and the clear, dark skies made for an unforgettable night under the stars. It was the perfect spot to relax, unplug, and enjoy the quiet. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a serene getaway.

T

Tim

August 2025

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Barrington Camp Close to Town

We had a fantastic stay. Beautiful place, incredibly friendly hosts. We even left with some fresh eggs!! Highly recommended

K

Kristen

August 2025

40 ft Class B

With pets

3 nights at Tall Tree Lake

This quiet site was perfect for our family trip. We loved the sunsets on the lake and hanging out by the fire. Highly recommend!

N

Nicole

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

This place is so much fun and very secluded. The water is clear and my kids had fun swinging on the rope and swimming, we also did some light fishing. The hosts are so friendly and helpful. They have a friendly dog that visits, so keep your food up. Only thing I would complain about is my own phone, I had no signal (att). We will be back!

B

Ben

August 2025

26 ft Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Barrington Camp Close to Town

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.

G

Goda

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

We enjoyed our quick getaway at this campsite. For about $50 per night, you’ll get a semi-private site, direct parking & creek access, fire pits & spend some time with their dog. I wish both sites had their own access to the creek, however, for more privacy. (My bf & I expected to relax alone, but the pit toilet is between the two sites & there was only access to the creek from our side, so the other family staying walked through our site often.) The creek and animals were gorgeous & the trains didnt bother us at all, though they came through frequently. The owner came down to check on us when we arrived & when we were set to leave, but they were flexible on check in/out times. Would come back for sure!

Jay

July 2025

25 ft Class A

With pets

5 nights at Barrington Camp Close to Town

A beautiful quiet farm Gracious host with Sam and Sylvia. Our dog loved area to romp around.

C

Catherine

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

We loved the site. I got to go swimming in the creek and we had a wonderful fire. Unfortunately our tent stopped being waterproof during a storm so we had to leave early but we'll be back!

T

Tyson

July 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Barrington Camp Close to Town

Sam was very friendly and welcoming! Close to Chicago for driving into the city and nice and quiet location!

B

Brad

June 2025

35 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to Barrington Camp Close to Town

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!

J

Jerry

June 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

6 nights at Tall Tree Lake

It was a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

Justin

June 2025

26 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at Tall Tree Lake

Tall Tree Lake worked perfectly as a base camp for our weekend exploring the local state parks. Aside from two other RVs, who we only saw one night, we had the place to ourselves. We never saw or spoke to the host, but that could have been because we left early each morning, and stayed gone until evening. We did leave a message at the number provided when we first arrived & never received a call back, but prior to booking, my questions were answered via the app almost immediately. We were unsure if there were any requirements on how & where to park, but with no call back we just did what worked. For those curious, there was potable water as well as a dump station available on site near the barn, neither of which (I don't believe) were shown on the Hipcamp listing. There are also bathrooms and showers in the barn, that while usable, made me glad we had our own in our motorhome. The access road leading to the sites was packed gravel, and we had no issues in our Class C. I was glad, however, that we didn't have the sites further back, as like many of the local access roads in the area, it has suffered a bit of washout lately and might have made for an interesting ride. All told, if we plan a trip to the area in the future, we are likely to look this place up. Once again, its central location and private setting made for a perfect base camp for our weekend getaway.

D

Delilah

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Foreaker Farm/Creek Side Valley

I just want to say if you've been thinking about staying here... Do it! This place is beautiful, with plenty to do! My son had so much fun playing with willy, and he made him feel super safe while missing his big puppies. Wonderful hosts!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping in Illinois guide

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.