Discover the best forest campgrounds near Galena, Illinois

United States
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Illinois
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Galena

97% (373 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Galena

Available this weekend

Under $50

78%

(18)

Spring Creek Organic Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Winslow, IL

Beautiful country setting in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois. Dating from 1890, this land has never been plowed or disturbed. Beautiful nightscapes of stars and constellations and nearby lakes and rivers make this an ideal camping spot. The permaculture gardens and the land need constant care and upkeep. When a tree dies it becomes home to the redhead woodpecker. The hummingbird loves the trumpet vine! We never spray chemicals and would appreciate it if you did not smoke or vape. Lake Le-Aqua-Na is just 3 miles away and reopened in 2022 with brand new roads, nature walks, and swimming hole. Other lakes nearby are Apple River Canyon and Mt Carroll. Shop in nearby Lena, Cedarville or Freeport, IL and Monroe, Wisconsin. Learn more about this land: The trees shade the camping sites at Spring Creek Farm. The wood swing can be enjoyed by guests as they relax and enjoy the view. Birds frequent the property and you may be visited by our ginger male cat as he surveys his territory. Night skies are beautiful, and on clear nights the Milky Way is visible along with the Big Dipper and other constellations. There is an outdoor fire pit to cook meals, or you can use a low copper fire pit for campfire enjoyment. Parking is available on the campground for smaller cars. Please leave your campsite clean so no woodland creatures are harmed and the landscape is kept in a safe condition for the next camper. The Composting Toilet (weather permitting) is available and plenty of potable water from our Spring-fed Well. We recycle in the country so please separate trash, paper, glass, and plastic into separate bags which can be left on the driveway when you leave. Please let Dr. Wanona know if you'd like to join for a gentle flow yoga mat class, 30 or 60-minute massage, or a Permaculture Garden Tour. Add a deeper experience to your stay at Spring Creek Farm!

1860's Botanical Paradise

2 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Bellevue, IA

Happy to announce we’ve won 2nd best property to visit in Iowa! We hope to keep striving and adding more amenities as we go! Thank you to our wonderful guests and hello to future guests! 👋🏽 Built in 1860 by its first caretaker botanist, this homestead was propagated over its many years of life and is busting at the seams with medicinal and edible herbs. We now run a flower farm and vegetable gardens on our homestead. If you’d like to learn about herbs or gardening/ homesteading, we love sharing our knowledge. If you’d just like some farm fresh eggs for breakfast and enjoy your time alone amongst the songbirds, that's just fine too :) The property is built into the stone hillside allowing for breathtaking views but also stairs to get to the campsites. Please wear comfortable shoes (not flip flops 😉). If you have mobility issues property access will be difficult. Please no children under 5. !CLASSES! We run our small school/business: HOMESTEAD and HAMMER from the property and are bringing classes to YOU! Look in the "EXTRAS" for classes you can partake in on your visit OR for more information on what's included on class weekends check out our website below! Classes include, forAging wild edibles, mushroom identification, homesteading skills, soap making, forging metals and many more! Website: www.homesteadandhammer.com *For guest and host safety property managed 24-7 by video and security services*

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(6)

Wooded Retreat Tiny House

1 site · Lodging35 acres · La Motte, IA

Imagine this: a wooded creekside. Bird song and wildflowers. Campfire and starlight. Our 8' x 16' tiny house offers the essentials for a back-to-nature getaway without the trouble. We provide a full bed, cookstove, outdoor eating area, firepit, and hammock. Bath facilities are on the rustic side including a shower bag and port-a-potty. Short hiking path into the woods and up to the meadow are marked. Creek stomping and fossil hunting are encouraged. Caves, state and county nature areas, canoeing and kayaking are all nearby.

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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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(66)

#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

11 sites · Tents15 acres · Oxford Junction, IA

Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people? Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site. We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing! Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully. We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available. Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill. Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely. **Property Owner is certified in Massage, offering sessions at the property.

12 top forest campgrounds near Galena

99%

(66)

#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

11 sites · Tents15 acres · Oxford Junction, IA

Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people? Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site. We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing! Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully. We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available. Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill. Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely. **Property Owner is certified in Massage, offering sessions at the property.

1860's Botanical Paradise

2 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Bellevue, IA

Happy to announce we’ve won 2nd best property to visit in Iowa! We hope to keep striving and adding more amenities as we go! Thank you to our wonderful guests and hello to future guests! 👋🏽 Built in 1860 by its first caretaker botanist, this homestead was propagated over its many years of life and is busting at the seams with medicinal and edible herbs. We now run a flower farm and vegetable gardens on our homestead. If you’d like to learn about herbs or gardening/ homesteading, we love sharing our knowledge. If you’d just like some farm fresh eggs for breakfast and enjoy your time alone amongst the songbirds, that's just fine too :) The property is built into the stone hillside allowing for breathtaking views but also stairs to get to the campsites. Please wear comfortable shoes (not flip flops 😉). If you have mobility issues property access will be difficult. Please no children under 5. !CLASSES! We run our small school/business: HOMESTEAD and HAMMER from the property and are bringing classes to YOU! Look in the "EXTRAS" for classes you can partake in on your visit OR for more information on what's included on class weekends check out our website below! Classes include, forAging wild edibles, mushroom identification, homesteading skills, soap making, forging metals and many more! Website: www.homesteadandhammer.com *For guest and host safety property managed 24-7 by video and security services*

Circle M Farm Stay Camp n Glamp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Blanchardville, WI

Camp in style on a beautiful Driftless Farmstead! This tiny valley farm once had stanchions to milk 8 cows in the barn. That was in 1890. Now we are home to dozens of sheep, steers, goats, hogs, cats, dogs, chickens and geese and myriad wild critters and pollinators and migrators. We are a conservation farm and on a mission to heal our wetland, improve our trout stream and bring people out to the land. We are in Driftless Southwest Wisconsin - gorgeous hills and quilted cropland bisected by oak woods and switchback rivers. Pitch your tent, park a small camper/rv, or stay in our vintage camper as close as the backyard or further away by the sheep pasture or frog pond. You will share an indoor bathroom, or our open-to-the-sky hot outdoor shower, and an outdoor sink with other campers. We have a Cedar Sauna you can reserve. This is easy camping with a view of the stars, nestled in a farm-to-table farm community with lots of goods to buy. We LOVE our Driftless neighborhood in SW Wisconsin and can recommend many amazing activities for everyone from fisherman to families! We live on a 20 acre farm bisected by a small river and a great trout stream, adjacent to 150 acres of restored prairie. We're close to shopping, antiquing, Amishing and good eating. We're within a half hour of 3 great rail trails, two state parks and one amazing ATV rental. Go to an old-fashioned drive in movie, a local farmers market, dirt-track stock care races, tractor pulls, a u-pick apple farm or a Toy Train Museum. Go tubing, kayaking, boating or biking - you can rent what you need. Or sit on one of the porches to watch the chickens peck and the pigs dig. We can't wait to introduce you to all the livestock, cats, our Great Pyrrannees pups, Waylon and Willie, and our Border Heeler, Dolly! We are a five minute walk from our cute downtown with a playground, library and several great places to eat. Ten minutes from New Glarus Brewery and Argyle (Pec Time Tubing). A half hour from Mineral Point (Fall Art Tour), Mount Horeb (Troll Way), Dodgeville (House on the Rock) and Monroe (Cheese Days). Fifteen minutes from hiking, fishing and boating at Yellowstone Lake State Park. Campfire with s'mores every night, coffee and scones in the morning. Wifi is reliable on some spots on the property, and a sure thing on the front breakfast porch. We do require a two-night minimum to stay in the campers. Tent camping we have no minimum. Please reach out to us on the app to see what is available.

Wooded Retreat Tiny House

1 site · Lodging35 acres · La Motte, IA

Imagine this: a wooded creekside. Bird song and wildflowers. Campfire and starlight. Our 8' x 16' tiny house offers the essentials for a back-to-nature getaway without the trouble. We provide a full bed, cookstove, outdoor eating area, firepit, and hammock. Bath facilities are on the rustic side including a shower bag and port-a-potty. Short hiking path into the woods and up to the meadow are marked. Creek stomping and fossil hunting are encouraged. Caves, state and county nature areas, canoeing and kayaking are all nearby.

The Lichen Pod - 26' 1974 Argosy

2 sites · Lodging49 acres · Freeport, IL

Learn more about this land:The southern Driftless Area is one of rolling hills of farmland, prairie and woodlands. The camper is parked near a line of pines with both beautiful light and fresh breezes, located on a working ecological farm.

RidgeRiverView Acres

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Sherrill, IA

160 y/o six generation farm that has been documented and illustrated in both National Geographic and Picture magazines. Site of original log cabin. 20' deep spring fed pond excavated in 2010. 47 acres of trails,trees and wildlife.

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Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Hanover, IL

Escape from the ordinary as you immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of our hidden sanctuary. Tucked away on a sprawling 40-acre haven of natural beauty just outside Galena, Illinois, our retreat unfolds in the heart of the stunning Driftless Area. Embrace tranquility by the serene pond, explore the meandering trails through 26 acres of protected forestry, and encounter the delightful presence of our charming residents - from chickens and guinea fowl to the gentle hum of honey bees. Meet Oxford, our friendly Great Pyrenees, who adds an extra touch of warmth to our idyllic setting. The Driftless Area beckons with its renowned geological wonders, presenting a captivating landscape of rolling hills, picturesque bluffs, and unparalleled scenic beauty. Delight your senses with the award-winning flavors of local Galena wines at nearby vineyards, where each sip is a celebration of the region's rich terroir.

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.

97%

(19)

Coyote Springs Farm

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Dodgeville, WI

Visit our historic farmland nested in a peaceful valley in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Rocky bluffs surround open pasture dotted with beautiful Oak trees, with a pristine spring-fed stream winding through the property. Enjoy mowed paths through pasture and hayfields and proximity to Governor Dodge State Park for miles of hiking in woods and prairie, swimming, boat rentals, fishing and waterfall viewing. Stay in a large, 16' canvas bell tent with an organic matress on a wooden bed frame appointed with solar twinkle lights, wool rugs, leather lounge chairs and option of adding a second bed or two. Our Tent sits above the ground on a wood platform, and looks over a private area complete with a fire ring and picnic table, just steps from a spring bursting from a hillside next to the creek, which you have access to dip your toes in or look for frogs. Leave your car in sight and walk your items down a mowed path with the assistance of a hand-cart. Watch the stars at night, listen to the frogs sing, the coyotes howl and the whip-or-will sing. We are a homestead farm, with a small flock of chickens and ducks. We live on the property with our 4 kids and two dogs. We are restoring the land we live on, adding prairie and managing the fields and pasture while raising strong resilient kids. We'd love to meet you, or let you stay in solitude and peace. Nearby Spring Green and Dodgeville offer restaurants and services, and we are just 40 minutes from Madison.

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WILD3R Farm

5 sites · Lodging40 acres · Mount Horeb, WI

This Driftless Area property is just shy of 40 acres with about 11 acres farmed as cropland, over 25 acres wooded with some steep slopes, and the rest as lowlands with a stream. We believe it is one of the most beautiful, enchanting pieces of land in the area and are set out to help restore the strength of its ecosystem while nurturing health and wellness in the people that come to visit WILD3R Farm. Camp for a Cause! This listing supports the development of a new non-profit (The CEDAR Center) aimed at nature-based healing and restoration for marginalized people and communities. This starts with YOU! Enjoy birding, wildlife, hiking, campfires, stargazing and some amazing sunsets, as well as a view of Blue Mounds. Sit on one of our rocky bluffs, a classic feature of the Driftless Area landscape. Explore approximately 30 acres of hiking trails and hilltop views. Bringing kids or in touch with your inner child? Explore the woods to find our enchanted forest creatures and totems! Our glamping sites include a set-up Sibley 450 Bell Tent, chopped and stacked wood, a fire pit, comfortable beds and bedding, and other stylish furnishings to support your stay. Plus, we have extras available! We can introduce you to our horses, arrange sunset yoga, provide art experientials, take you on a hike at a nearby county or state park, and more! Camping at its absolute finest, with all intentions to provide a healing, connected experience. Note: this glamping experience comes with the feel of a backpacking trip. The hike to the tents is steep but we do our best to make sure that you only have to bring your clothes and your food. Let us know if there is anything you need to be comfortable during your stay. Tips for booking with extras: Book Site 1 if you are adding on the Romance Package. Book Sites 1 and 2 if you are adventuring as two groups/families and want to be close enough to share a community fire spot. Book Site 3 if you are planning to bring a dog (and let us know in advance). Book Site 4 if you are adding the Kids Kit. Pro Tip: Bring Slippers for use inside the tent! :) Access to Blue Mounds State Park, Steward Lake, Donald Park (with equestrian trails), and Tyrol Basin are all within 15-20 minutes drive. Easy access to downtown Mount Horeb cafes and shopping. All profits and donations will contribute to the start up costs of establishing the WILD3R Farm non-profit (the CEDAR Center). www.cedarcenter.org

Spring Creek Organic Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Winslow, IL

Beautiful country setting in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois. Dating from 1890, this land has never been plowed or disturbed. Beautiful nightscapes of stars and constellations and nearby lakes and rivers make this an ideal camping spot. The permaculture gardens and the land need constant care and upkeep. When a tree dies it becomes home to the redhead woodpecker. The hummingbird loves the trumpet vine! We never spray chemicals and would appreciate it if you did not smoke or vape. Lake Le-Aqua-Na is just 3 miles away and reopened in 2022 with brand new roads, nature walks, and swimming hole. Other lakes nearby are Apple River Canyon and Mt Carroll. Shop in nearby Lena, Cedarville or Freeport, IL and Monroe, Wisconsin. Learn more about this land: The trees shade the camping sites at Spring Creek Farm. The wood swing can be enjoyed by guests as they relax and enjoy the view. Birds frequent the property and you may be visited by our ginger male cat as he surveys his territory. Night skies are beautiful, and on clear nights the Milky Way is visible along with the Big Dipper and other constellations. There is an outdoor fire pit to cook meals, or you can use a low copper fire pit for campfire enjoyment. Parking is available on the campground for smaller cars. Please leave your campsite clean so no woodland creatures are harmed and the landscape is kept in a safe condition for the next camper. The Composting Toilet (weather permitting) is available and plenty of potable water from our Spring-fed Well. We recycle in the country so please separate trash, paper, glass, and plastic into separate bags which can be left on the driveway when you leave. Please let Dr. Wanona know if you'd like to join for a gentle flow yoga mat class, 30 or 60-minute massage, or a Permaculture Garden Tour. Add a deeper experience to your stay at Spring Creek Farm!

The Nature Nest

1 site · Tent40 acres · Greeley, IA

We invite you to come experience rest, reflection, and recreation as you connect, and enjoy the zen of the forest. The Nest is tucked away in a flourishing hardwood timber of Northeast Iowa. It’s a space to enjoy some downtime and quiet your heart from the extra noise of everyday life. This natural spot offers plenty of exploration, and adventures for all ages. We invite you to walk guided trails, and experience flowing creeks, rock formations, and natural springs. Enjoy many sit spots for resting, soaking in the native wildlife, and organic flora.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(3)

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Savanna, Illinois

100%

(4)

Maquoketa Caves State Park

Baldwin, Iowa

100%

(1)

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area

Lena, Illinois

My favorite trail at Governor Dodge is the Lost Canyon Trail that starts with the decent to the gorgeous Stephen's Falls. My favorite time of year to go is around Mid-May when the leaves are G R E E N and the bugs are minimal.

97%

(17)

Governor Dodge State Park

Dodgeville, Wisconsin

100%

(1)

Morrison-Rockwood State Park

Morrison, Illinois

Bellevue State Park

Iowa

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

Hampton, Illinois

Wapsipinicon State Park

Anamosa, Iowa

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping near Galena guide

Overview

Looking to camp near Galena, Illinois in the forest? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 420 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect campsite that suits your preferences. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin, a spacious tent site, or an RV spot, Hipcamp has got you covered. The average price per night is $45, with options as low as $10 per night. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews), Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), and Shady Rest Acres (171 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as campfires, pet-friendly sites, and trash disposal. And don't forget to take advantage of popular activities like biking, swimming, and hiking. Start planning your forest camping adventure with Hipcamp today!