Discovering the Hidden Gems of Illinois

Best RV Campgrounds in Discovering the Hidden Gems of Illinois

Illinois is a state that can easily be overlooked when thinking about great destinations for RV camping, but the Prairie State has a lot to offer adventurous travelers. Illinois has 55 state parks, 13 state recreation areas, and many other places for outdoor enthusiasts eager to discover what Illinois has to offer. From fantastic national forests to unique rock formations, there are many hidden gems to discover in Illinois. With so many amazing places to choose from, narrowing down your choices can be a challenge. If you’re planning a trip to Illinois, here are some of the best RV campgrounds in Discovering the Hidden Gems of Illinois.

1. Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is a great place to start your RV camping adventure in Illinois. This hidden gem is situated along the Illinois River, offering stunning views of the waterfalls, canyons, and bluffs. The park has more than 13 miles of hiking trails, which take visitors through the canyons and along the river. If you enjoy birdwatching, the park is home to more than 200 bird species that can be spotted throughout the year. There are over 125 RV campsites within the park that each have electrical hookups, grill, and picnic table.

Campground Name: Starved Rock State Park Campground

Location: 2668 East 875th Road, Oglesby, Illinois

2. Pere Marquette State Park

Pere Marquette State Park, located in western Illinois, is another great RV camping destination. Situated on the bluffs overlooking the Illinois River, this park is known for its scenic beauty and miles of hiking trails. The park has 80 RV campsites with electric hookups and several water stations around the campground. The nearby river is a popular destination for fishing and boating.

Campground Name: Pere Marquette State Park Campground

Location: 13112 Visitor Center Lane, Grafton, Illinois

3. Shawnee National Forest

If you want to explore the great outdoors, Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois is the place to be. This hidden gem boasts over 280,000 acres of wilderness, including amazing rock formations, waterfalls, and rivers that offer endless recreational opportunities. The national forest has several RV campsites, including a primitive tent campground and a modern RV campground with full hookups.

Campground Name: Johnson Creek Recreation Area

Location: 3611 Forest Road 236, Belknap, Illinois

4. Eagle Point Park

Located in Dubuque, overlooking the Mississippi River, Eagle Point Park is a great destination for RV enthusiasts. The park sits atop a 500-foot limestone bluff and has breathtaking views of the river and surrounding area. In addition to the scenic views, the park has several historical landmarks and monuments that offer insight into the area’s rich history. The campground has full-hookup RV sites with electric, water, and sewage hookups.

Campground Name: Eagle Point Park Campground

Location: 2601 Shiras Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa

5. Deep River Waterpark

If you’re looking for a fun and unique camping experience for the whole family, Deep River Waterpark is a great choice. This water park and campground is located just outside of Chicago and has plenty of water attractions, including a wave pool and several water slides. The park has several RV campsites with full hookups, and guests can enjoy unlimited access to the water park within the price of camping.

Campground Name: Deep River Waterpark Campground

Location: 9001 E Lincoln Hwy, Crown Point, Indiana

6. Mississippi Palisades State Park

Mississippi Palisades State Park is a great natural wonder and historical landmark located in NW Illinois. Visitors come to hike and explore the 15 miles of trails, topography climbing the bluffs, and boulder climbing at the Palisades. As a bonus, campers can view eagles that soar around the gorge and can be seen around the area year-round. The park is accommodating with 241 camping spaces, ranging from primitive camping to offering electrical and water hookup.

Campground Name: Mississippi Palisades State Park

Location: 16327A Illinois Route 84, Savanna, Illinois

7. Chain O’Lakes State Park

If you’re looking for a water-based adventure, Chain O’Lakes State Park in northern Illinois is a great destination for RV camping adventure. The park is located near several lakes and rivers, providing plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park has several RV campsites with electric hookups, water, and restrooms facilities on-site for your convenience.

Campground Name: Chain O’Lakes State Park

Location: 8916 Wilmot Rd, Spring Grove, Illinois

8. Fox Ridge State Park

Fox Ridge State Park is another hidden gem in Illinois that is perfect for RV camping enthusiasts. Located near Charleston, the park is home to five lakes that offer plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. The park has 82 campsites with electric, water, and shower facilities to give a comfortable camping experience to visitors.

Campground Name: Fox Ridge State Park

Location: 181 4th Rd, Charleston, IL 61920

In conclusion, Illinois is filled with hidden gems that offer visitors outdoor adventures and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Whether you’re looking to hike through beautiful canyons, enjoy water activities on the river, or explore beyond the city limits, Illinois has something for everyone. From the northernmost tip to the southernmost point, there are plenty of RV camping destinations to choose from in this beautiful state, making it a perfect choice for your next outdoor adventure.