Discover Illinois: Top Camping Destinations and Experiences Across the State
Explore Illinois like never before.
From the shores of Lake Michigan to the lush woodlands of Shawnee National Forest, camping in Illinois provides an array of scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities. Whether you're looking to hike through dramatic canyons, fish in tranquil lakes, or explore charming small towns, Illinois has something for every camper. With a diverse selection of campgrounds from rustic retreats to glamping getaways, read on to find the perfect place to set up camp in Illinois.
Exploring the Best Attractions in Illinois
One of the standout attractions for Illinois campers is Starved Rock State Park. Located along the Illinois River, this park is famous for its stunning sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls. With over 13 miles of hiking trails, visitors can explore the park's diverse terrain, including the St. Louis Canyon and the panoramic views from Starved Rock itself. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
In southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is a must-visit for those seeking rugged natural beauty and unforgettable landscapes. The Garden of the Gods, with its towering rock formations, provides breathtaking views and excellent hiking opportunities. For a more challenging adventure, the Little Grand Canyon offers a strenuous hike through a striking gorge with waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The forest is also home to numerous lakes and streams, ideal for fishing and kayaking.
For a unique blend of urban and natural experiences, head to Chicago. This vibrant city boasts a stunning lakefront along Lake Michigan, where visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sailing, and picnicking. Chicago's numerous parks, including Lincoln Park and Grant Park, offer green spaces within the urban landscape, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Don't miss the chance to visit the city's renowned museums, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, or experience a breathtaking view of the city from the iconic Willis Tower.
Activities and Adventures in Illinois
Illinois offers a wide range of outdoor activities to suit every interest. Anglers can take advantage of the state's abundant fishing opportunities, with lakes and rivers teeming with a vast variety of fish. Lake Michigan in particular is a prime spot for fishing, with species such as salmon, trout, and bass. The lake also provides excellent opportunities for boating and kayaking, offering stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
For cycling enthusiasts, the Illinois Prairie Path is a network of trails that stretches over 60 miles through scenic landscapes and charming towns. This multi-use trail is perfect for both casual rides and more challenging adventures, passing through forest preserves, wetlands, and prairies.
Birdwatchers will find Illinois to be a paradise, with its diverse habitats attracting a wide variety of bird species. The Cache River State Natural Area in southern Illinois is a renowned bird-watching destination, home to unique wetlands and a rich array of birdlife. The area's boardwalks and observation platforms provide excellent vantage points for spotting migratory birds and native species.
The Allure of Glamping and Lodging in Illinois
For those who prefer a more comfortable and luxurious camping experience, glamping in Illinois offers the perfect solution. Vacation rentals in Illinois and a variety of glamping options provide a convenient and unique accommodation choice. Whether you're looking for a rustic cabin in the woods, a charming cottage in a small town, a stylish glamping tent, or a hotel room, these lodging rentals offer a home-away-from-home experience. These vacation rentals are ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends, offering plenty of space and packed with amenities for everyone in your Illinois camping crew.
Where to Stay
Whispering Pines Events & Lodging | Geneseo
Immerse yourself in the serene embrace of Whispering Pines Events & Lodging, a haven of tranquility nestled amidst towering pines. This Illinois campground caters to every camping style, offering cabins, spacious RV sites, hotel rooms, and traditional tent sites. Beyond camping, the resort shines as an event and retreat center, complete with a charming chapel and versatile event space. Unwind with basketball, volleyball, or boating, or explore the nearby towns. Located just 68 miles from the stunning Starved Rock State Park, campers can easily explore its breathtaking canyons and waterfalls. Just a short drive from Whispering Pines, the historic town of Geneseo captivates visitors with its beautifully preserved Victorian homes and vibrant downtown area. Explore unique shops, local eateries, and cultural landmarks in this charming community. Additionally, the scenic Hennepin Canal, located only two miles from the campground, offers a range of outdoor activities. Enjoy kayaking along the tranquil waters, fishing in the well-stocked canal, or biking on the scenic trails that wind through picturesque landscapes. With these attractions nearby, Whispering Pines stands out as an ideal camping destination in Illinois.
Jellystone Park™ Pine Lakes | Pittsfield
With its vast selection of accommodation options for camping in Illinois, Jellystone Park™ Pine Lakes offers RV sites, cabins, tent sites, glamping sites, cottages, and houses, including the spacious Ranger’s Lakeside Retreat with its private Koi Pond and the newly added Ranger's Family Retreat Pool House, perfect for larger groups. Campers can enjoy an inflatable water playground, swimming pool, splash pad, and sandy beach, ensuring plenty of ways to cool off. With amenities like a dog park, snack bar, and a full schedule of planned activities, Jellystone Park™ Pine Lakes delivers a comprehensive outdoor experience. Beyond the park, attractions such as Hannibal’s historic sites, Springfield's Lincoln Presidential Museum, and Quincy’s family-friendly activities provide additional exploration opportunities, making this campground a well-rounded destination for anyone looking to visit Illinois.
Camp Lakewood Campground | Effingham
This family-owned campground is ideally situated within a mile of I-70 and I-57, making it a prime location to enjoy nearby recreation opportunities in Illinois. Campers can choose from RV sites equipped with 50 amp hookups to spacious tent sites for an authentic woodland camping experience. Whether exploring nearby attractions like The Cross at Crossroads and My Garage Museum or enjoying on-site amenities such as the sandy beach, kayaking, and fishing, Camp Lakewood offers something for everyone. With a full range of facilities including a game room, laundry, and a pet-friendly environment, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to explore and camp in Illinois.
Northwoods RV Resort | Garden Prairie
Northwoods RV Resort is a hidden gem for those seeking a serene escape just over an hour from the bustling city of Chicago. Found along the Kishwaukee River, this Illinois campground offers a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty for an unforgettable camping experience. With over 200 RV sites featuring full hookups, plus a cabin for a more rustic stay, campers can enjoy a range of comforts including a swimming pool, hot tub, and a charming log pergola patio with a crackling fire pit. For those interested in activities, the resort boasts facilities such as a game room, playground, and basketball courts, alongside planned events and activities to socialize and make lasting memories. Just a little over an hour's drive away, Starved Rock State Park and the breathtaking St. Louis Canyon awaits exploration.
Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park | New Athens
Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park offers a picturesque retreat with RV sites and tent sites, providing scenic waterfront views. Situated 45 miles from Shawnee National Forest, this campground provides a gateway to outdoor adventures, from scenic hiking trails to fishing at Peabody River King State Fish and Wildlife Area. This Illinois campground features pet-friendly spaces, picnic areas, and evening fire pits for socializing. Explore local trails for hiking and biking or visit historical sites like Lincoln’s New Salem for an insightful glimpse into the region's history. Whether relaxing by the river or venturing into nearby natural wonders, Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park offers the perfect blend of comfort and outdoor exploration.
Pack your gear and plan your camping trip to Illinois, where the beauty of nature and the comforts of glamping and vacation rentals await. Book your ideal camping or glamping experience today through Spot2Nite and start planning your Illinois adventure. Spot2Nite allows you to customize your camping accommodation search with a variety of amenity and experience filters to find the perfect fit for your next adventure in just a few clicks.
