Best Camping in Illinois

Camping in Illinois

By Alex Murphy

Illinois is full of great destinations to explore, from the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan and the bustling metropolis of Chicago. Further afield, visitors will find open plains and the Shawnee National Forest, a lush landscape dotted with historical landmarks.

So whether you're looking for Camping near Chicago or a quiet campsite in a state park, Illinois has a lot to offer guests.

See a map of all camping in Illinois.

Illinois State Parks

There are more than 60 Illinois State Parks that cover everything from waterfalls to fishing and luxury cabins. The best part about camping in the Land of Lincoln is campgrounds in Illinois vary greatly depending on the region.

Starting in the northern half of the state, Rock Cut State Park has miles of trails and is a popular hunting destination. The park is named for the rocky terrain found in the region.

Illinois Beach State Park sits on Lake Michigan with beach access and is only a short distance north of Chicago.

Fort Massac State Park is the oldest state park in Illinois. Visitors can enjoy disc golf and historic sites.

National Parks in Illinois

When it comes to federal land, history is king in Illinois.

The Pullman National Monument in Chicago is focused on the Pullman company, known for building train cars during the Westward Expansion in the late 1800s. The site was later home to a massive riot which led to important changes for U.S. workers.

Nearby campsites provide easy access to other parts of Chicago and include two county parks, Camp Sullivan and Camp Bullfrog Lake.

Another well-known historic site is the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in the state's capital of Springfield. There are a few nearby campgrounds that can provide easy access to the original home of Abraham Lincoln, including Illinois State Fair Campground and the Springfield KOA.

Free Camping in Illinois

Unlike some nearby states, there isn't a lot of free camping in Illinois. Most visitors will have to stick to businesses that allow overnight parking. Other options include highway rest stops like Rend Lake Rest Area found not far from the Missouri and Kentucky state lines.

National Forests in Illinois

Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest Camping is carved by the flowing water from the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. For hiking fans, the River to River Trail is a 160-mile path connecting the two rivers through the forest. The area is also known for scenic drives for those who prefer to stay in the car.

Redbud Campground and Shawnee Forest Campground are both located within the National Forest and are great for tent camping or RVers. Another option is the private Tall Tree Lake Campground which has waterfront campsites.

RV Parks in Illinois

There are many Illinois RV Parks to choose from in the state, including some that offer camping near Chicago.

Campers can get a free hotel breakfast at the Hollywood Casino Hotel and Resort and have easy access to the casino. Also just over the Indiana state line is Emerald Trails Campground, which is located near a lake.

Outside St. Louis, MO, there are many RV campsites, including Cahokia RV Parque, which is a short drive from downtown St. Louis. Further, into the state of Illinois, you'll find RV and tent sites at Boulder Recreation Area that also have great lake views.

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Recent Illinois Campground Reviews

Mar 14, 2024

"Absolutely Perfect Stop Off The Highway"

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Couldn’t say enough good things about this spot. We needed somewhere to stay for a week and work remote on our way from FL to CO. We picked this RV park because it looked like starlink would work well (and it did), but this is also the only park I’ve ever stayed at where the park wifi was actually usable for work! Just a clean, easy spot to stay...
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Julia Welborn
15 reviews
Mar 12, 2024

"Nice Stay"

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Spent 2 nights at the campground. We had a very nice dinner at the Lodge. We were able to ride our bikes on the paved trail and visit the exhibit at the Pere Marquette visitor center. Early March and the water was on in the bathroom/shower area. Clean restrooms made for a pleasant stay. Hang out at the lodge and play some games. Be sure to...
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camper-913441
1 review
Troy, IL

Cracker Barrel

Mar 01, 2024

"Great Quite Night"

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Great Night With Little Noise. One Other Camper. Manager Said Ok To Stay Overnight As Long As Not Blocking Trucks. We We’re In A Rv/bus Space In Back With Lots of Room. Dinner And Breakfast At Cracker Barrel Was Great Too

Jeff
2 reviews
Hampshire, IL

TA RV Dump Station

Feb 28, 2024

"Dump Station"

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Dump station is open, water has a sign to see cashier.

camper-903647
5 reviews
Feb 27, 2024

"Easy Access For The Dump And Water. On The Side Of The Truck Parking "

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The dump was easy to access and does have the water in the same spot. As you pull up to the circle K you’ll notice the truck parking side. Won’t be hard to spot since it does have the yellow cement cones or whatever they’re called. There was already a water hose attached when we arrived.

camper-903647
5 reviews