Ranch camping in Illinois

From Lake Michigan beaches to Shawnee National Forest trails—campers have options in Illinois.

98% (1286 reviews)

United States
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Illinois

98% (1286 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Illinois

Community favorites in Illinois

Stories from the community

Eli

4 days ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Glamping+Goats+Gardens 175Acre Farm

We really enjoyed the stay in Sunrise Tent we were first guests staying in this tent and it was neat and clean, there are improving some areas and there going to install another tents but still accesible to the learning center where there is a bathroom you can use 24/7. Staying in this place you can disconnect your mind from stress of the city and get connections with nature and realize what is real life, we loved the peaceful place. We tasted pizza baked with real wood and organic tomatoes was delicious. If you are Nature Lover this is the place you should go just be prepared with all necessary stuff to camp and enough food. I was no afraid of my children run and play around there because no dogs are allowed so, you can walk and sleep peacefully. I strongly recommend this place. The host was kind. Thank you and I hope return with more guests to your Farm!!!

Weekend Trip to Glamping+Goats+Gardens 175Acre Farm

My friends and I really enjoyed our stay as it was the best parts of camping without any of the bad. Saturday pizza night was so yummy and we had a farm tour right before which was very fun. The power bank that was provided did die after a couple of hours so do plan accordingly. I assume it was just new and wasn’t charged fully before being given to us though. Would stay again:)

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

My son and I had a wonderful time camping here. The host Heidi was very friendly and responsive. The camp grounds are on the backside of the property which functions as a horse farm where Heidi holds riding therapy. It was so much fun to see all the horses, and my son even got a riding lesson which he’d never done before. Heidi was so gracious in explaining how her farm works, and also sharing with us the background of all her animals. Many are rescues that she has given a loving and safe environment. We loved seeing the goat being followed around by a couple sheep everywhere, plus chickens where I got some fresh eggs for breakfast. A very friendly dog name Tiller will definitely show up at your campsite for some head scratches throughout your stay. Though there’s no fishing on site, the Illinois river is five minutes away and Heidi shared recommended fishing spots. I’ve never stayed at a place where you can’t drive up to your site, but they had a good system for transporting your gear, and it was super easy with no waiting. There’s maybe 5-6 camping sites on the trails in the woods. They all are pretty private compared to other places I’ve camped. It was nice to have a picnic table, another table, and a couple Adirondack chairs waiting for us. They also had fire starters a couple other helpful things. They delivered firewood to the site in their small tractor very quickly for the same price you’d get elsewhere. 10/10 would recommend

Weekend Trip to Glamping+Goats+Gardens 175Acre Farm

I loved the community and feeling of the farm and the tent was so cozy and fun. My stepdaughter had a ball on the farm tour feeding the baby goats. Pizza night was 💯 Thank you, Sam and fam, for a really delightful stay.

2 nights at Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Very nice place campsite was great and host was wonderful

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

We had a great time! My wife loved all the animals and my kids caught a ton of fish! Great site, very secluded. Debbie and Matt were wonderful! We will definitely be back!

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Thank you for sharing your beautiful property with us! The pond is so peaceful and impressive, much bigger than I thought. The hosts were very kind and welcoming and obviously love their little slice of heaven. We loved all the bullfrog sounds!!!

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

We had a group of 6 adults and this was the perfect camping spot. Our campsite offered more than enough room to accommodate all of us with plenty of room to spare. Very relaxing. Debbie and the rest of the crew are the best. So helpful, welcoming, and kind. Loved the tour of their greenhouse. I would definitely recommend and will return.

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

The cabin was awesome. Plenty of room to host a party and fully stocked with anything you'd need. Had rented it few years ago for a 16th birthday party and returned to do a Graduation party.

Weekend Trip to Welcome to our Magical Woods

A beautiful space, and Heidi is so welcoming. We loved our stay here.

Ryan

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Glamping+Goats+Gardens 175Acre Farm

Staying at Hungry world farms was a completely rejuvenating experience. I stayed in the Garden View Yurt with my girlfriend over the weekend and it was a wonderful time. The Yurt has a comfy bed, outlets, a couch, fans, and even a heater. It felt luxurious but still connected to nature. Sam is the executive director and is an amazing guy! We received a wonderful tour of their regenerative farming, through explanations of why it works, goat cuddles and a truly fun sunset hike. We will definitely be returning to check out more things and possibly even volunteer. 100/10 would recommend :)

1 night at Triangle H Farm, LLC

Pink boot horse made me feel safe when hearing evil noises at night. Great portapotty too. Deceivingly cute bunny but definitely evil. I woke up to a cock a doodle doo which reminded me of when I grew up on the farm. Sad memories, shed a tear.

Weekend Trip to Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

Nice clean hidden spot were no one will bother you. Host was very nice. I had a much needed peaceful break.

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

When we pulled in, there were other campers occupying site 1. So we went straight to site 2. Both sites are not within view of each other so this was a very private camp spot! We enjoyed our stay here and even got to walk around their property a bit.

Weekend Trip to Bear Bottom Ranch

Meredith’s land is beautiful and peaceful. Campsite 2 was quiet and located next to a creek and trees where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of running water and birdsongs. The fire ring was large and well-placed, and the picnic table was clean and well-maintained. The toilet box was also clean. Firewood is available throughout the site. A great spot and great host with ontime communication.

Weekend Trip to Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

Great spot with lots of open sky. Very communicative and kind host, fresh eggs and firewood were great!! Not super quiet but nothing too disruptive or loud.

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

Wonderfully quiet site. Fishing in the pond is always our favorite part.

2 nights at Glamping+Goats+Gardens 175Acre Farm

We ❤️ Hungry World Farm! Sam is a fantastic host and the land is beautiful. We enjoyed the farm and playing with the animals. Only 40 minutes from Starved Rock as well.

Weekend Trip to Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

Amazing hospitality from the host. A beautiful piece of land with a lovely night sky. The farm fresh eggs are a great addition. Spots are secluded enough to have some privacy but allow easy access. Host was very easy to work with and respond to all my questions with delight! Definitely recommend and will likely be back.

Mary

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Glamping+Goats+Gardens 175Acre Farm

We loved tent camping at Hungry World Farms! The land was beautiful and everyone was very friendly. I could not recommend the tour more, we learned so much and love seeing the animals. The wood fired pizza was so delicious. We will definitely come back to see all of the changes and upgrades Sam is putting into the farm!

12 top ranch campgrounds in Illinois

97%

(200)

Welcome to our Magical Woods

9 sites · Tents16 acres · Marseilles, IL

Peaceful and enchanting. Very rustic and private. we are in the best part of the Illinois wilderness. Our woods transport you a world away, yet you are just a short walk from your vehicle and a short drive to Starved Rock, numerous parks, lakes, hiking, fishing and boating sites, stores, and restaurants. We have 4 well spaced campsites complete with fire pit, picnic table and a couple of chairs ready for you at your campsite. Rent 1 or rent them all! Just bring your tent or your hammock! Your initial firewood . lighter, trash and recycling cans, and firestarters are brought to your site before you arrive. Our "camp host" Tiller the big lovable doggo will patrol to scatter any trash pandas that might happen by. We keep track of him using GPS, so we know if He is hanging with you around the campfire. When his collar lights up and plays a tune, it's time for him to come home! Please send him on his way - thank you. We are LBGTQ+ and Very Family Friendly. Everyone is welcome here. Message us when you are 30 minutes out, so we can you our tractor to help bring your things to your site. Same at check out. Just let us know 30 mins before you are ready to go and we will help you pack out! Sorry you will not be able to drive your vehicle to your site. This keeps the woods quiet for all of our guests. Each site is just a few hundred feet from the parking area. The magical woods is located along the bridle trails behind our horse farm. Sorry, we do not offer trail rides as we have show horses. However you are welcome to arrange a visit to meet the animals when you arrive. We have horses, a miniature horse, a mule, miniature sheep and a very sweet goat named Hairy. There are about 50 chickens wandering the yard all day and we have 3 dogs and 3 cats that are always around. They are used to other dogs. At night we have a lovely lullaby of owls, night birds, insects and frogs. Sometimes you can even hear sounds from the Illinois River and railway a miles away. Barges, trains (not many) tug boats, and the interesting sounds that come with them. Listen carefully, can you tell them apart?

93%

(69)

Bear Bottom Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Yorkville, IL

Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! Our entrance is marked by 2 cross crossed American flags. Come and enjoy our 32 acres of wooded property where a creek runs through. We have gorgeous oak trees and walnut trees all throughout the property. If you looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have 3 unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!

99%

(76)

Glamping+Goats+Gardens 175Acre Farm

9 sites · Lodging175 acres · Tiskilwa, IL

🐐 Hungry World Farm: Glamping, Camping & Animal Encounters on a Working Regenerative Farm Looking for something more meaningful than just a campground? Welcome to Hungry World Farm—175 acres of forests, pastures, gardens, creeks, and animals where every visit connects people with the land, food, and each other. Just two hours west of Chicago, 45 minutes north of Peoria, and 35 minutes from Starved Rock State Park, our nonprofit educational farm offers a totally different overnight experience—one rooted in regeneration, organic farming, community, and joy. What Makes Hungry World Farm Different? You don’t just sleep under the stars—you wake up to the sound of goats bleating, chickens scratching, and the scent of dew on rich, healthy soil. Our 16 new glamping tents and campsites (cabin and apartments too) are nestled across rolling pastures and forests, offering sweeping views and proximity to daily farm life. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a family adventure, you'll be immersed in: 🐐 Baby Goat Snuggling & Animal Encounters 🌱 Working Regenerative Farm Experiences 🍕 Wood-Fired Pizza Nights on select Saturdays 🌳 Trails, Playgrounds, and Stargazing Opportunities Lodging Options: 🛖 Glamping Tents – Furnished with queen beds and solar electric, some deep in forest on ridges, some near playground/flat lawn for families w/small children. Some remote, others next to each other or families vacationing together. ⛺ Rustic Campsites – Private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature 🏡 Cabin, Apartments – So your friends that need AC/shower can have those comforts Other Experiences: 🐄 Guided Farm Tours of gardens, animals, and pastures 🛠️ Volunteer Days and Hands-On Learning Projects 📚 Seasonal Workshops in gardening, composting, and more 🥬 Farmstand Access (in-season) with eggs, produce, and preserves Perfect For: 2 or more families/friends, Nature lovers and first-time campers, Eco-friendly wedding parties. On-Site Amenities: - Fire pits at every site, with wood and other camping needs available for purchase- Portapotties and a public restroom located on the farm (not officially part of the campground but accessible)

Eclipse by the Cattle

4 sites · Tents2 acres · Bluford, IL

Primitive tent camping across from the feed bunks offers a unique outdoor experience, blending the rustic charm of camping with the proximity to agricultural life. Nestled amidst the rolling fields and pastures, campers can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of rural existence. The close proximity to the feed bunks provides a glimpse into the daily rhythms of farm life, and the occasional lowing of cattle creating a soothing ambiance. This type of camping experience allows for a deep connection with nature, as campers wake up to the soft glow of sunrise over the fields and fall asleep to the chorus of crickets under a blanket of stars. Without the distractions of modern amenities, primitive tent camping encourages a return to simplicity and self-sufficiency. Campers can cook meals over an open fire, and truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You may have the chance to interact with local farmers, gaining insights into the challenges and rewards of rural living. Overall, primitive tent camping across from the feed bunks provides a refreshing escape from the pressures of modern society, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

97%

(16)

Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

10 sites · Tents5 acres · Big Rock, IL

Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. May see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less to Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open May 1 through Sept 30 (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be September 30th. And then we will be closed for the winter until May first. Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean close by. Local forest preserve has toilets or bring your own porti-john. Bring your horses. Set up a temp spot. We have the space. And there is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner. Camp with your HORSES! We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A tire swing. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, or gardens. 💕🙏

96%

(683)

Linden Camprground

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Apple River, IL

We bought the farmette with much work outside and home interior remodel to complete. We slowly turned the property into our family oasis. We neighbor a pasture with cows. There are free range chickens running around during the day. Geese greet us every evening and morning at the pond...as do the many bullfrogs. Occasionally you'll hear the coyotes, but they keep their distance. The stars shine peacefully and the sunsets are picturesque (most afternoons). The pond is a great place to swim and fish. The hillside is a nice walk for exercise or take the easier route and sit under the great oak tree in the other pasture. Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. You won't find a sign...we keep it simple. We allow pets at the sites for a $5 per pet/per night. If you would like to bring a pet, please add the Pet Fee which is listed on the Extra during the booking process. We have firewood available for sale, $5.55/bundle. This is located in the Extra section during the booking process. Lastly, there is free range chicken eggs available for purchase, $3.50/dozen. This is also located in the Extra section during the booking process.

100%

(802)

Bear Creek Farm and Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents103 acres · Palmer, IL

We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm. In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land. The property has a greenhouse, high tunnel and about a half acre of field that we raise vegetables and fruit on. We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim and boat in. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them. Plenty of wildlife, hiking and mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised and/or made on the farm for folks to purchase. Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm. Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks. Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield is 35 miles from the farm.

100%

(34)

Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Galena, IL

Learn more about this land:A peaceful respite with a breathtaking view of the Galena and Mississippi River valleys. The secluded campsite is situated on a high point on Pilot Knob that overlooks the entire valley with 180 degree views to the South, West and North. The tent site is a flat 20'x20' spot next to a Birch tree, fire ring and table; plenty of room for two tents and a car or two. In the foreground is a natural field with small Cedar trees, Scrub Oak, Sumac and prairie grasses where deer often eat and bed. The site is situated on about 25 acres - plenty of space to take a walk through the fields. Further out are natural woods, and in the distance is the entire Mississippi River valley South to Bellevue, IA and North of Dubuque, IA. Sunsets are absolutely breathtaking from this vantage point.

99%

(80)

Rancho Comienzo

3 sites · Tents57 acres · Sheridan, IL

Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays. Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities! We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!

Booked 4 times

Middle Eden

2 sites · Tents16 acres · Fairview Heights, IL

We are developing an agroforestry biome that mimics the original pre-Columbian oak/hickory savanna! Learn more about this land: Camp in a beautiful, 16 acre permaculture paradise, surrounded by oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberry, and black/honey locust. We have an established campfire area with free firewood. It's a short 500 foot walk from parking to the campfire area and diverse tenting locations. Our RV area is closer to the road, but there is no turn around for RVs. They must be backed in.

99%

(160)

Goatland

4 sites · Tents15 acres · Cedarville, IL

Fifteen acre livestock farm in NW IL with a creek and pond. We raise sheep, goats, chickens, guineas, peafowl, fancy pheasants, Tom's pet trout, and two ridiculous dogs. If you like nature, and animals, up close, this is the spot. You can respectfully interact with the livestock, or not, as you choose. We're pretty hands off, but are happy to talk about the animals if you ask. Just a quick note: the satellite view is 7 years old so isn't an accurate depiction. We welcome and are a safe space for LGBTQ+ visitors.

99%

(34)

Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Eldorado, IL

Off the Historic Goshen Trail that runs from mid-Illinois thru here to Alton, IL which is close to St.Louis, MO. Oldest house on the trail. 1922 farmhouse but homestead older than that. Learn more about this land: Tent or small camper welcome. Peaceful, farm work around you, fresh eggs available and friendly farmers. Firewood can be found in piles around the farm. Very quiet, wildlife crossings and lots of berries to pick.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Ranch camping in Illinois guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. If you're looking to explore the beautiful ranches of Illinois, we've got you covered with over 70 options to choose from. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, our ranch campsites offer the best of both worlds. With top-rated options like Bear Creek Farm and Ranch (273 reviews), Linden Campground (190 reviews), and Welcome to our Magical Woods (66 reviews), you can trust that you'll have an amazing stay. Plus, our campsites offer popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and pet-friendly accommodations. And with activities like fishing, boating, and paddling nearby, you'll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. So go ahead, book your next camping trip with Hipcamp and experience the beauty of Illinois ranches for as low as $15 per night.