The NW Illinois Directory
Explore All 821 Places
Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties — searchable in one place.
Highlighted placements
Featured
FeaturedGreen River Oaks Camping ResortGreen River Oaks Camping Resort in Amboy offers a relaxed camping experience surrounded by the quiet countryside of Lee County. Open seasonally beginning in May, the resort provides a welcoming destination for RV travelers, tent campers, and visitors looking for a peaceful outdoor getaway. Guests can choose from spacious RV sites, tent camping areas, and comfortable cabin rentals. The property’s tree-lined setting creates a calm atmosphere for enjoying campfires, outdoor games, and time with family and friends. Whether visitors stay for a weekend or an extended trip, the campground provides a comfortable base for enjoying Northwest Illinois. Green River Oaks also features amenities designed to make camping easy and enjoyable. Visitors can take advantage of recreational areas, a swimming pool, and open green spaces throughout the resort. The nearby Green River adds to the area’s outdoor appeal, with opportunities for fishing, paddling, and exploring the surrounding landscape. Located just outside Amboy, the campground offers a convenient starting point for discovering Lee County’s small towns, scenic countryside, and outdoor recreation areas. With a mix of natural surroundings and family-friendly amenities, Green River Oaks Camping Resort is a popular seasonal destination for campers visiting Northwest Illinois.
FeaturedMississippi Palisades State ParkMississippi Palisades State Park, located just north of Savanna along the Mississippi River, offers more than 2,500 acres of rugged beauty and outdoor adventure. Towering limestone bluffs, wooded ravines, and scenic overlooks provide some of the most breathtaking views in Illinois, making the park a favorite destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. The park's dramatic landscape is part of the Driftless Area and is rich in Native American history and natural features. Visitors can explore miles of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes that wind through rock formations, forests, and river overlooks. Popular viewpoints such as Lookout Point, Ozzie's Point, and Louis' Point offer spectacular views of the Mississippi River valley. The park also features accessible trails and overlooks, making scenic experiences available to a wide range of visitors. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound throughout the year. Campers can choose from more than 240 campsites, including sites with electrical hookups and modern amenities. Rock climbers come to tackle the park's cliffs and formations, while birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts may spot bald eagles, migratory birds, deer, and other native species. Fishing, boating, geocaching, cross-country skiing, and seasonal nature exploration add even more ways to enjoy the landscape. Whether spending an afternoon taking in the river views or enjoying a weekend under the stars, Mississippi Palisades State Park provides a memorable escape into one of northwest Illinois' most striking natural settings.
FeaturedRuffit Park CampgroundRuffit Park in Sterling offers a welcoming, family-friendly camping experience with something for all ages to enjoy. Open seasonally from May 1 through October, the campground provides a comfortable setting for RV travelers, tent campers, and visitors looking for a fun and relaxed stay in Whiteside County. The park features a variety of campsite options along with camper rentals, giving guests flexibility whether they prefer a traditional camping setup or a more comfortable stay. Families can spread out and enjoy the open layout, making it easy to relax, play, and spend time together outdoors. Ruffit Park includes a range of amenities designed to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. An in-ground swimming pool offers a refreshing way to cool off during warmer days, while open green spaces and recreational areas provide room for games and activities. The campground also hosts a variety of family-friendly events during the season, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for returning guests and first-time visitors alike. While Ruffit Park is especially accommodating to guests traveling with pets—including designated dog areas—it remains a well-rounded destination focused on creating a positive experience for the whole family. Located in Sterling, the campground offers convenient access to local shops, dining, and nearby attractions while maintaining a laid-back, community-oriented feel. With its mix of amenities, seasonal activities, and flexible lodging options, Ruffit Park is a great choice for a family camping trip in Northwest Illinois.
FeaturedSeven Eagles Resort and CampgroundSeven Eagles Resort & Campground sits on the rolling hills just outside Savanna, Illinois, offering sweeping views of the Mississippi River Valley. The resort combines traditional campground experiences with comfortable cabin accommodations, making it a flexible option for both weekend campers and travelers looking for a relaxing getaway. Visitors can choose from RV sites, tent camping, or fully furnished cabins. Many sites overlook the surrounding countryside, offering guests a quiet setting to enjoy sunsets, campfires, and wide-open views of the bluff country. Cabins provide a convenient alternative for those who want the feel of a camping trip with the added comfort of indoor lodging. The resort also offers a variety of amenities designed for longer stays and family visits. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, fishing ponds, recreation areas, and open spaces for outdoor games. The property’s hilltop setting makes it a peaceful place to unwind while still being close to the attractions of Savanna and the Mississippi River corridor. Seven Eagles Resort is also located near several well-known outdoor destinations, including scenic river overlooks and hiking opportunities at nearby parks along the Mississippi River bluffs. Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring the Savanna area while enjoying a laid-back camping atmosphere. Whether visitors arrive with an RV, a tent, or plans for a cabin stay, Seven Eagles Resort & Campground offers a welcoming place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Northwest Illinois.
FeaturedWhite Pines Forest State Park385-acre park: hiking, fishing, camping, picnicking. Forest, creeks, cliffs, wildflowers, historic fords. 103 campsites, group sites, cabins/lodge, restaurant. Seasonal hunting, skiing. White Pines Forest State Park in Mt. Morris, Illinois, is one of the state’s most beloved natural getaways, known for its towering pine trees, scenic creeks, limestone bluffs, and peaceful wooded trails. Located in Ogle County, the park offers hiking paths for a variety of skill levels, including routes that wind through shaded forests, across footbridges, and past historic stone features. Seasonal beauty makes the park popular year-round, from spring wildflowers and summer greenery to colorful fall foliage and quiet winter landscapes. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, fishing access, wildlife watching, and easy opportunities to reconnect with nature just a short drive from Rockford and the greater Northwest Illinois region. The historic White Pines Lodge, located within the park, adds to the destination’s rustic charm with dining and overnight accommodations nearby. Whether exploring the trails, photographing the scenery, or simply slowing down for an afternoon outdoors, White Pines Forest State Park offers a relaxing escape in the heart of Northern Illinois.
Crow Valley CampgroundOpen April 15-Oct 15. Nothing beats a relaxing stay along the Rock River at Crow Valley Campground in Sterling, Illinois. Located just off Interstate 88 and surrounded by nature, this family-friendly campground offers a peaceful setting for RV and tent campers alike, as well as anyone looking to spend more time outdoors. Visitors can fish along the river, cool off in the swimming pool, enjoy a campfire, or simply unwind beneath the trees. The campground features electric and water hookup sites, primitive tent camping, free Wi-Fi, a game room, playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, hiking trails, and a pavilion for gatherings. Holiday weekends often include family activities and campground games, making it a fun option for both weekend getaways and longer summer stays. Its location near Sterling and Rock Falls also makes it easy to explore local restaurants, shopping, biking trails, and river recreation throughout the Sauk Valley area.
Crystal Lake Recreation & RV ParkRock Falls. Man-made lake (swimming), go-karts, aqua-golf, RV/campground (no tents), 68 full-hookup sites, Wi-Fi, meeting room, laundry, arcade, 6 family bathrooms, 350’ sandy beach, snack bar, boat/kayak rental. Year-round.
Erie Campground, Inc.Erie Campground is a public campground at 9480 Erie Road beside the Rock River and Glenn Miller Marina. Current tourism sources list electric and water service, a playground, restrooms, a dump station, pavilion, and river- or lakefront camping. Call ahead for availability and current rates.
Fin and FeatherFin and Feather is a rustic campground on the banks of the Mississippi River backwaters. It is located where the river meets Spring Lake, a wildlife and fish refuge. Known for fishing, camping and beautiful sunsets, Fin and Feather is a nature lovers perfect place. Direct access to the Great River Bike Trail. Seasonal and drop in camping options (reservation required before arrival). Boat rentals and fire wood are available for purchase.
Green River State Wildlife AreaGreen River State Wildlife Area protects 2,565 acres of wetland, native prairie, open fields, and timber about six miles northwest of Ohio, Illinois. Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the wildlife restoration area offers hiking, birding, horseback trail riding, camping, hunting, wildlife watching, parking, restrooms, and a dump station.
Hansen’s Hideaway Ranch and Campground70 campsites for tents, pop-ups, and RVs (with water/electric/full hookups). Swimming, nature trails, arcade, snack bar, playground, pavilion, restrooms, showers, dump station, fire rings, firewood, and ice. Open April 15–Nov 1.
Hickory HideawayEscape to the peaceful countryside and enjoy our fully-equipped 12 cabins located on 10 acres of partially wooded property. Just imagine soaking in a bubbly tub with your special someone while the fireplace glows in the privacy of your own cabin. If a bigger gathering is on your mind such as a family reunion or a corporate retreat, we can arrange for that too! There have been many stories shared around the campfire with friends and family. We are open year-round so you may enjoy each season with Mother Nature while making unforgettable memories.
Lake Carroll CampgroundLake Carroll Campground is a private campground available to its members. It features 135 sites situated on 113 acres in the beautiful backdrop of Carroll County. The campground has full-service electrical and water hook-up options, a newly renovated playground, a spacious shower house, camper storage, a pavilion for group events, and a waste station. Seasonal, daily/weekly, and overflow sites are available to members, with an abundant overflow area perfect for tent campers. Camper storage is also available for a fee. The campground is conveniently located near the Plumtree Lodge, the Aquatic Complex, and tennis courts.
Lake LaDonna Family Campground & CabinsFamily-friendly campground with a beach, lake, waterfall, rope swing, diving boards, slides, certified lifeguards, lodge with food, camp store, pavilion, playground, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, restrooms, showers, water/electric hookups, dump station, air-conditioned cabins with kitchenettes and full bathrooms.
Leisure Lake Campground68 full hook-up sites (32 pull-through). 20- and 30-amp hook-ups (50-amp available). Full laundry. Located around a 10-acre stocked lake. Open April 1–November 1.
Lowden State ParkNestled on the bluffs above the Rock River just north of Oregon, Lowden State Park is one of Northwest Illinois’ most scenic destinations. The park is best known for The Eternal Indian, more commonly called the Black Hawk Statue—a nearly 50-foot-tall concrete monument created by renowned sculptor Lorado Taft. Standing high above the river valley, the statue offers one of the most iconic views in Illinois and remains accessible to visitors despite ongoing preservation work. Major restoration of the landmark was completed in 2020, allowing visitors to once again experience the monument up close. Beyond the statue, Lowden State Park offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, picnicking areas, camping, fishing, boating access, and abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore wooded bluffs, enjoy panoramic views of the Rock River, and discover the rich history of the former Eagle’s Nest Art Colony, which helped shape the area’s artistic legacy. Whether stopping for a quick photo or spending the day outdoors, Lowden State Park is a must-see destination in Ogle County.
Lowden State Park CampgroundLowden State Park Campground in Oregon offers a scenic camping experience along the Rock River, set among wooded areas and open spaces within one of Ogle County’s most recognizable parks. Known for its elevated views of the river and surrounding landscape, the park provides a quiet setting for campers looking to relax and explore the outdoors. The campground includes sites suitable for tents and RVs, with basic amenities available for a comfortable stay. Visitors can enjoy easy access to picnic areas, open green space, and riverfront views throughout the park. The campground’s layout offers both shaded and more open sites, giving campers flexibility to choose based on their preferences. One of the park’s most notable features is the iconic Black Hawk Statue, which overlooks the Rock River from a nearby bluff. The surrounding trails and scenic overlooks make it easy for campers to spend time hiking, birdwatching, or simply taking in the views. Fishing and paddling opportunities are also available along the river. Located just outside Oregon, Illinois, Lowden State Park Campground provides convenient access to local shops, dining, and other attractions while still offering a peaceful, nature-focused experience. It’s a strong option for visitors looking to combine classic camping with some of the region’s most recognizable scenery.
Mendota Hills Campground130-acre campground with fishing, boating, hayrack rides, swimming beach, hiking, camp store, church services, and campfires. Rental campers, golf cart rentals, RV sites (seasonal, monthly, weekly, overnight), and tent camping. Themed weekends and frog jumping contest every Sunday.
Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground2,500-acre park at Mississippi/Apple Rivers confluence. 241 campsites (A/B), 110 w/ electric, showers, toilets, water, dump stations, youth group areas, hiking, rock formations, caves. No campsite reservations.
Morrison-Rockwood State Park Campground1,152-acre state park with fishing, boating, concessions, hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and more. 92 camping sites (electricity, grill, table), shower building, equestrian trail (14 miles, seasonal), year-round camping.
Pineview CampgroundFamily-style camping with two lakes for swimming and fishing, electric, water, and sewer hookups, showers, and flush toilets on wooded sites. Open May 1 through October. See website for details.
Prophetstown State Park Campground53-acre park along the Rock River with a scenic, historic setting. Former Indian village site. Offers camping with electrical service, dump station, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, playground, shelter, horseshoe courts, hiking trail, and fishing at Coon Creek.
River Road Camping and Marina30-acre campground in Oregon with 120 campsites, heated pool, canoe rental, boat ramp/launch, gas, store, volleyball, basketball, game room, playground. Open April–November.
- Rock River Bible Camp
Rock River Christian Camp and Retreat Center8 miles NW of Polo. Open year-round for youth/adult programming and rentals. Accommodates 15–250, housing, meals, recreation, A/V, and event space. Great for meetings, reunions, or retreats.
Spring Lake CampgroundEstablished in 1943, Spring Lake Campground in Savanna, Illinois, offers a vintage, rustic camping experience with an authentic old-school charm. As a gateway to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuge, the campground provides a natural sanctuary for wildlife and campers alike. Surrounded by nature’s best amenities: towering trees, campfires, stunning sunsets, and starry skies! This peaceful retreat offers direct access to the Great River Bike Trail for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring Lake Campground is also directly across from the Savanna Airport, for an unique opportunity to access to fly in camping! We have both seasonal sites and drop in camping sites with 30 amp power and water sites and a dump station on site. We also have primitive sites that are out on the peninsula, providing a unique exclusive tent camping experience (no big RV's or generators allowed). Escape the hustle, unplug from your phone and reconnect with nature at Spring Lake Campground. Book your stay today and embrace the simplicity of timeless camping!
Thomson Causeway Recreation Area131 campsites, 50 amp service, playgrounds, boat ramp, picnic shelters, horseshoe pits, Hidden Slough Trail, access to Great River Bike Trail. Camping May 1–4th Sunday Oct; limited winter access.
Timber Lake ResortEstablished in 1955, Timber Lake Resort is a 159-acre resort and campground in historic Mount Carroll. Offers 120 campsites (including RV sites with hookups), deluxe log cabins, lakeside rustic camping, pool, group pavilion, recreation center, general store, lakeside deck, two lakes, biking/hiking trails. Timber Lake Playhouse, Illinois’ oldest summer stock theater, is next door.
White Pines State Park Campground103 campsites, group sites, cabins, youth group campgrounds. Picnic areas, hiking, fishing, hunting, skiing, lodge/restaurant, theater. Reservations: ExploreMoreIL.