Camping near St Charles with wildlife watching
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98% (959 reviews)
- St Charles
98% (959 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds near St Charles with wildlife watching
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Escape to Nature
8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Huntley, IL
Each reservation includes firewood that is rough cut.
Always call ahead when you are planning to enjoy a local attraction.
This property is located on the outskirts of the village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. This is a kid-friendly and pet friendly location.
Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard.
What to do here:
Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks.
If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking.
Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit.
Check out these amazing area attractions!
-Stingray Bay Public Aquatic Center, 2 minute drive from here. (https://www.huntleyparks.org/aquatics/).
-The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. (http://www.IRM.org)
-Tower Hills Stables, Trail Rides, Horseback Riding Camp (ages 5 to 14), Riding Lessons, just 8 miles drive, (https://www.towerhillstables.net/.)
-Summerfield Farm and Zoo, a privately owned zoo in rural Belvidere, IL, 3088 Flora Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008, a 30 minute drive. (https://summerfieldfarmandzoo.com/.)
-Safari Lake Geneva, 45 minute drive to the north, Visit Safari Lake Geneva, Wisconsin's original drive through animal park. Feed and interact with a variety of animals from the comfort of your car (https://safarilakegeneva.com/).
Additional suggestions include Santa's Village Amusement and Water Park in West Dundee, Randall Oaks Zoo, in Dundee on Randall Road, Minor League Baseball with Schaumburg Boomers or Kane County Cougars, Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Sullivan Mobile massage, Belvidere Park in Belvidere, IL, Volo Auto Museum, Department of Natural Resources Bike and Hiking Trails and fishing.
When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants.
We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff.
Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com.
FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂
Here are some answers to common questions.
We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent.
Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour.
ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door.
WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done.
CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing.
WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood.
PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits.
INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent.
HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage.
EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking.
ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.
Pets
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from
$29.25
/ night
98%
(181)
Willowthorne
6 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Lynwood, IL
Discover the Charm of Willowthorne: Your Rustic Sanctuary Amid Natural Beauty. Willowthorne invites you to revel in the natural allure and organic rhythm of life on the farm, fostering enduring memories that extend long after your visit.
Nestled within a serene 9-acre organic blueberry farm , Willowthorne emerges as an idyllic escape where the sunsets are sublime, and the night sky brims with twinkling stars, and the hosts are charming and delightful. This unique getaway marries the essence of organic farming, educational pursuits, and warm hospitality to create an unparalleled outdoor experience.
Catering to tent camping aficionados and retreat groups, our pastoral campgrounds are graced with picturesque views of a tranquil pond and willow trees. While our space welcomes the modest charm of tents, small RVs, and campers, we maintain a rustic essence without power hook-ups, encouraging guests to connect with nature. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a personal fire ring and table for your convenience.
Our area offers an incredible variety of recreational and sightseeing activities. Find peace and tranquility among nature or travel just 25 miles north to visit the heart of Chicago! We are central to many Illinois, Indiana and Michigan State Parks and beaches. Several good restaurants and breweries are also nearby.
PLEASE NOTE:
Please drive slowly and cautiously through our property. We are an active farm with a lot of activity all year round.
Please pitch your tent in the designated campground area.
In support of conservation of the natural ecosystem, please refrain from broadcast pesticides, i.e. Raid, Yard Guard, etc. Spraying skin, clothing, and personal property with mosquito repellent in your designated camping is fine.
Our farm has beehives placed at a safe distance from the campsites to ensure guest safety. Obey posted signs and please stay out of designated work areas
OBSERVE FIRE SAFETY.
Leave fire ring in designated spot.
Never leave fire unattended.
No fires on windy days.
Extinguish fire before leaving campsite.
Please read: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fire-safety
For Your Convenience:
Firewood:
Purchase bundles of wood on site as non-local wood can disrupt the local ecosystem through disease or invasive species. Feel free to collect any small, fallen twigs for kindling. (Wood in stacked piles is not for burning but reserved for mushroom cultivation and other projects.)
Honey:
We offer honey harvested from blueberry blossoms in spring and the rich flavors of black locust and clover in late summer.
Blueberries:
Come July, partake in our U-pick blueberry farm, an experience seamlessly woven into your stay.
Misc.
We also offer a variety of organic garden vegetables and herbs throughout the growing season. Kindly inquire on availability upon arrival if you are interested in any of these farm fresh goodies.
Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome.
We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!
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from
$49.50
/ night
99%
(70)
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.
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from
$28
/ night
97%
(273)
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.
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from
$36
/ night
92%
(53)
Bear Bottom Ranch
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Yorkville, IL
Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! Our entrance is marked by 2 cross crossed American flags. Come and enjoy our 32 acres of wooded property where a creek runs through. We have gorgeous oak trees and walnut trees all throughout the property. If you looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have 3 unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!
Pets
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from
$35
/ night
99%
(75)
Rancho Comienzo
3 sites · Tents57 acres · Sheridan, IL
Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays.
Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities!
We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!
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$42.75
/ night
95%
(74)
Millbrook Trail Rides
1 site · Tent50 acres · Newark, IL
We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!
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$27
/ night
100%
(11)
The Aloha Ranch
10 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · Harvard, IL
We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle.
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.
Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.
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from
$50
/ night
96%
(14)
The Commons Oak Savanna
2 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Woodstock, IL
Learn more about this land:
(NOTE) Greenwood Rd and Illinois Rt 120 are the same...Google uses Greenwood Rd, and the State prefers Illinois Rte 120)
Get away from it and commune with nature in a pre-settlement natural oak savanna with oaks and hickories of 200-400 years. 25-acre woodland completely fenced and surrounded by cropland and woods with no homes or roads within a half mile. Experience the land as the nomadic Indian tribes saw it. Trails cross the property. Hawks, owls, turkeys, and occasional bald eagles, along with finches, woodpeckers, doves, and martins fill the sky; while deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits roam the grounds. Only two camps are available to keep the setting pristine and primitive and a third site can be used behind the sheds if you encounter unexpected weather.
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$45
/ night
100%
(8)
Forest Fairy's Paradise
2 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Rockford, IL
This Homestead was built in 1918 and was named Tullock's Farm after the family who owned all the land nearby. It totals 6.6 Acres and has walking trails on the property. There are lots of black walnut trees, raspberries, mulberry trees and other fruits and veggies that grow on this land. We also raise chickens and sell the eggs. We love living here and want to share the hidden beauty.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your rv in the small patch of forest in back. You will have access to a campfire area and walking trails around the property. The main house is a 1 minute walk away but we will give you as much privacy as you like. There is a barn separating the campfire ring and the main house which has chickens in it and will be closed off, and also gives you the feel of a little more privacy. We have lots of different beautiful birds that visit the property as well as other animals. We also have two silos on the property that you are free to take photos with before leaving. The rock river is a short drive away with multiple places to put your boat in. There are also many parks and attractions close by as well. Family friendly environment.
Pets
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$38
/ night
97%
(81)
R&L Farm with Tent & RV Camping
5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Marseilles, IL
The property has
sloped grass areas and a
level hard packed gravel driveway with 1 pedestal 50A, 30A,
and 110 + outlets + $5.
There's a small pond and ravines. The
property is less than 1 mile from The Cliffs Insane Terrain Off Road Park and is
2.5 miles to downtown Marseilles. Downtown Marseilles has several bars, restaurants, a bowling alley, and ice cream.
Walmart 13 miles away and there's a boat launch to Illinois River approx. 5 miles. We have cheap firewood. We have chickens and farm fresh eggs that are $4 a dozen.
Pets
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from
$45
/ night
100%
(3)
Shore lakefront
1 site · Tent1 acre · Mundelein, IL
Learn more about this land:Beautiful peaceful and serene. Lakefront property-1 hour to Chicago- or Milwaukee. Great America 15 minutes - Chicago botanical gardens 40 minutes. Train station 5 minutes- local downtown eateries
Pets
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Cooking equipment
from
$160
/ night
Under $50
Dog-friendly getaways
Camping near St Charles with wildlife watching guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience near St Charles, Illinois, with a focus on wildlife watching, we've got you covered. With over 321 options specifically tailored to your preferences, you'll find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious beginner, you can choose from top campsites like Mulln-Heim Vineyards (342 reviews), Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews), or East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like pets, toilets, and potable water. So pack your binoculars and get ready to explore the incredible wildlife near St Charles, Illinois!
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