The best camping near Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area

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Kayak Starved Rock Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Ottawa, IL
we allow primitive tent camping, tear drop campers, pop up campers and campervans we are right on the illinois river across from Starved Rock State Park. Towering views of St. Peters sandstone bluffs, soaring bald eagles and sandy islands. We are primitive. no water no electric. Just beautiful riverside camping with ultra clean pimped out porta potties that have wipes, underarm spray deodorant, air freshener and hand sanitizer. Please note kayak rentals or guided kayak tours are not included but may be purchased onsite or from our website kayak starved rock campground Check-in time Mon-Thurs 3:00 pm-5:30PM Friday-Sun 3:00PM-8PM Check-out time is 3:00 pm. KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND Camping Rules Our Rules are to promote a family friendly and safe camping experience We reserve the right to evict anyone without refund for improper behavior or failure to observe our rules and regulations. All Campers must check in/show ID at the KSRC office and sign a waiver and receive a parking pass/wristband. WE DO NOT ALLOW GUESTS! ANYONE ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE REGISTERED AHEAD OF TIME AS A CAMPER AND PAID FOR! All Campers are required to wear wristbands. All vehicles must have a Parking pass on the dashboard. Anyone within camp area must have a wristband on. You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation. If anyone in the camping reservation is under 21 then someone 20 years older must be present at all times camping with the person(s) under 21 NO GENERATORS!!!!! NO MUSIC IS TO BE PLAYED THROUGH SPEAKERS AT ANY TIME QUIET HOURS ARE FROM 10PM TO 7AM THAT MEANS NO NOISE WHATSOEVER. Strictly Enforced Vehicular entry/exit is not permitted between these hours. Children should be on campsite by 9:00 pm. If you violate this rule you will be evicted without refund and you will be banned from ever camping again. IF YOUR CAR DOES NOT HAVE A PARKING PASS IT WILL BE TOWED AT YOUR EXPENSE! Check-in time Mon-Thurs 3:00 pm-5:30PM Friday-Sun 3:00PM-8PM Check-out time is 3:00 pm. Footwear must be worn at all times in the camping area. The speed limit is 10mph in the campground. We have Jumbo wood bundles for sale($8) at the front office. You may not use any wood(>3”diameter) found within the campground for your campfire. Swimming is prohibited from any beach in the campground. You may wade up to your thighs however, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON AND BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES we do allow well behaved leashed dogs at this campground(please be advised that Eagles can harm small dogs. we are not responsible if your dog inflicts harm/and or injures Glass containers/bottles of any sort are prohibited in the campground. Garbage must be bagged and placed into the Dumpster within the Campground upon leaving. If any garbage is left at your site you will be charged a $50 cleaning fee. No fires permitted except in fire rings. Absolutely no firearms or fireworks! IF FOUND YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE. No ATVs, dirt bikes, motorized scooters (battery or gas) WE are not responsible for damage or theft of your personal belongings. Please leave all valuables at home. WE DO ALLOW WELL BEHAVED LEASHED DOGS AT THIS LOCATION ONLY 2 DOGS MAX PER CAMPSITE
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$39
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(15)

175 Acre Farm: Glamp Tents & Cabin

3 sites · Lodging175 acres · Tiskilwa, IL
Hungry World Farm is a nonprofit 175 acre farm that inspires and educates people on the benefits of regenerative agriculture. Our farm is located in Central Illinois about 2 hours west of Chicago along I-80, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park. The beautiful topography includes bluffs, valley, Plow Creek, 100 acres of forest, and over 50 acres of pasture, market garden, crops, barns, playground, nature preserve, animals, playground, commercial kitchen, outdoor wood-fired pizza oven, and a produce packing center. Uniquely, for many years the farm was an Intentional Community and has 10+ Airbnb rentals with additional building, glamping tents, RV and camping sites. Our market garden and livestock operations provide delicious and nutrient dense food to thousands of people every year. So many of our guests just need an escape, from traffic, from electronics, from the things that keep their families from being together. We provide a uniquely, peaceful and unforgettable experience, where they can walk through the woods, pet the animals, dig their hands in the soil, and gaze at the stars. Here are some things we offer: 1. Wood Fired Pizza Nights, Friday nights from 5 - 8pm with some live music 2. Breakfasts on the Farm, Saturday 8:30 - 10am 3. Peaceful Overnight Stays for up to 35 guests in a variety of lodging including Cabin, Apartments, Retreat Center, RV spots, Glamping & Camping Available. These can be booked via the Hungry World Farm Website directly for special requests, as well as Airbnb, and Hipcamp. 4. Tours of the Farm Garden, Homestead Animals, Farmstead Livestock, with special focus on Regenerative Farming & forest and prairie Conservation 5. Volunteer Opportunities - to garden, build, raise animals, conserve pastures and forests, and build trails. 6. Workshops - Gardening, Homesteading, And Regenerative Agriculture Workshops including IVCC extension classes. 7. Groups of visitors holding Reunions, Youth events, Groups, special retreats, and wedding parties are welcome! 8. People can also buy farm produce at the Peoria Riverfront Market, May - September, and may be able to purchase value added products at the farm. Discover the farm - an unforgettable escape for you, your family, church group, or wedding party. Reconnect with nature. Gaze at the stars. Fall in love. Restore your soul. Our Cabin, Rooms, & Apartment are now on AirBnB and Hipcamp (with more to come.)
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$67
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(5)

Geneseo Campground

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Geneseo, IL
Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests. If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground! For more camping options - including group reservations - please visit our website at https://roam.camp/geneseo-campground or call 309-442-2662.
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$40
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83%
(3)

Kickapoo Creek Getaway

1 site · Tent4 acres · Bellevue, IL
4 acres right on the creek when the water is low there is a huge beach you can even camp on! We own both sides of the creek don't worry about getting wet or using the beach on either side if accessible. You can fish the creek there are some deep holes on some bends and near the far bank that a good fisher can spot right away. There is a big fire pit and ring usually there is enough wood around the property to get a fire going(unless everything is soaked from rain). There is a gravel parking spot just off the road (you will see our "Camp here with HipCamp" sign) that has enough room for 5 cars or so and you can park in the grass along the edge of the property by the road. There is a 20 foot steep decent from the parking to the camping area if you choose that way down or you can walk 50 yards north from the parking spot and walk down the path to the right its much eaiser. That and the ramp going down to the creek are the only hills everywhere else is pretty much flat and wooded, but you can for the most part see your vehical from anywhere except the creek and the other side of course. There are picknit tables and some trash cans there as well. Also a nice walking path around the main camping area. I don't go down there alot to keep the grass and tall stuff down so might be a jungle at times but when I do get chances I go and clear out stuff. Sometimes the cars on the road can be loud at night but that's about all you gotta worry about here. It is much quieter if you camp on the beach you can't hear the cars really just loud frogs and bugs much nicer if you get the chance to camp down there. Have Fun!
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$15
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(2)

Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

49 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Geneseo, IL
Welcome to Whispering Pines, a family focused campground to help you get away from the daily grind. Surround yourself amongst tall pine trees as you hear the wind whisper tranquility all around you. We are a family owned campground with a heart to serve people and provide a peaceful environment where families and individuals can enjoy making new memories. Whispering Pines is an event and retreat center that offers lodging and camping amenities. We also have a chapel ready to host your ceremony. We have RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, a lodge, and an event center. We can help you create a package to fit your needs and budget.
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$25
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(15)

Frakers Grove Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents250 acres · La Fayette, IL
Frakers Grove Farm has been part of my family since the 1980s, but its history extends back to 1828 when Michael Fraker arrived and negotiated a peaceful settlement with the local Native American tribes, becoming the first settler in North Eastern Knox County. His grave, along with those of approximately 26 relatives and friends, is located on the property. Camp on a 250-acre farm in Western Illinois, featuring a 1.5-acre pond stocked with Blue Gill, Crappie, Wide Mouth Bass, Catfish, and resident Grass Carp, plus a small creek. The property also has trails and abundant wildlife, including deer, American river otters, beavers, geese, wood ducks, and raccoons. A Jon boat is available for use on the pond. We offer 1 Walk-in Camp Site and 1 Drive-In Site by the pond, each with a fire ring. RV camping is currently in a trial phase; your feedback is invaluable. This area provides primitive wooded camping behind and around the pond, with the RV site located next to the pole barn. Note: The RV site listing is not normally active, so please reach out in advance if interested. Guest WiFi is available near the buildings. Assistance with transporting tents and supplies to and from the campsite on check-in and check-out days is available upon request. Facilities include a Porta Potty and potable water from a yard hydrant, both located near the Pole Barn. NOTE: This is an active farm with considerable activity involving heavy machinery during the spring and fall. We currently have chickens and are taking a break from pigs. The newly established pasture is expected to yield grass hay this year to help fund new fencing, a preparatory step for introducing cows.
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$30
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Booked 3 times

1951 Dream

1 site · Lodging82 acres · Orion, IL
This is an 82 acre property of approximately 65 percent old growth forest, 20 percent row crop and 15 percent of alfalfa/vegetable garden. Bookings are exclusive, that is, whether you are just looking to pitch a tent for the night or host a mid-summers wedding party for 250, the place is yours. You won't be sharing it with any other campers. There are three levels of booking: Ghost...Starts and hopefully ends at $35 Perfect for those who just want to pitch a tent for the night or host a picnic during the day. There is a well-maintained port-a-potty and an open-air shower. You're free to explore all 82 acres, dangle your feet in the creek, sunbathe. A popular stop with cyclists, it's called Ghost because outside of a couple grocery bags of trash in the metal can, we don't expect to even know you were there. Access to ConX7 starts at $100 Are you hosting a small group and you want a weather-secure space? Container Experiment No.7 (Conx7), is a forty-foot, high-cube intermodal container. It was built in China, carried one load of tires and has been adapted as a multi-use hospitality property. It’s camping... in a tent made of cor‑ten steel. Conx7 is off the grid, enough solar power to charge devices and LED illumination after dark. Not enough for hair dryers. A day watching thunderstorms with friends from inside ConX7 is a comfortable and pleasant experience. After dark, the container is a nightlight, an HQ for the party and home to the camp's composting toilet. Concierge Support Hands-on assistance for your event of stay. We can arrange for a generator or catering. Tenting for groups up to 250, monster wall of sound, fireworks displays, video/drone event coverage, bodyguards, we've done all that. We have a deep bench of resources in the community and we're glad to share them.
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$35
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(17)

Miss Effie's Country Flowers

2 sites · Tents2 acres · Donahue, IA
Ms. Effie’s Flower Farm is a gated you pick flower farm located in beautiful rural countryside. Peace and tranquillity is what you will find when you are surrounded by amazing flowers and rolling farm fields. The cornzebo is a unique gathering spot with romantic lighting and comfortable seating. It’s a great place to watch the sun come up! The fire pit is also available for use.
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$40
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(11)

Avalon Unity Garden

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Tampico, IL
This garden is intended to help people connect to Mother Earth. There is room for yoga or meditation with the plants. You can sleep in a tent, or your vehicle. It has a walkable spiral, an 18’ Mother Earth sculpture, an earth lodge for ceremonies and a hexagon swing area. It’s located in a very small farm community. We are about a mile from the Hennepin canal where you can walk, fish or canoe.
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$30
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88%
(4)

The Horsemeister Farm

1 site · RV, Tent30 acres · Hanna City, IL
Welcome to our thirty-acre horse farm! We are happy to host and share our farm to campers. Our farm is home to 2 Friesian stallions, who reside here year-round, alongside 15-20 mares that visit for breeding and foaling. We usually have 8-10 foals each year. Once the mares are bred back the foals and mares go to the other farm but approximately 4-5 months after birth, the foals return to our farm for weaning. Guests are invited to explore our fields, outdoor arenas, and trails at their leisure. We warmly welcome dogs. Our spacious campsite, located behind the barn, features a 30-amp plug-in, a picnic table, and a fire pit for your enjoyment. For larger groups that want MORE amenities we have the foaling apartment available for extra cost. This can be rented through airbnb. This has 2 bedrooms, a large handicap bathroom with walk in shower washer and dryer, 2 televisions, full kitchen with stove, microwave, oven large fridge and freezer with icemaker.
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$45
 / night

Foreaker Farm

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · 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 river 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 ..
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$35
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Lake Thunderbird Camping

1 site · RV2 acres · Putnam, IL
A beautiful wooded lot approximately 2 acres in size with plenty of open space, large in ground fire pit, and spacious flat driveway for larger vehicles. Adjacent to dedicated open space and park within walking distance with such amenities as frisbee golf, putting greens, and a playground. Around the corner from clubhouse with pool and lake views.
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$40
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The best camping near Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area guide

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There’s nothing quite like a day outdoors, are we right or are we right!? For an exceptional day outdoors, head out to Johnson-Sauk Trail Recreation Area. Don’t let the name trip you up, it’s all smooth sailing when you’re on the lake or take to the trails. Visit the Ryan’s Round Barn for a look at a historic and...interesting take on barn architecture. Swing by any day of the year, winter or summer. Close your eyes and breathe in the fresh air.

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