Top-Rated Campgrounds and RV Parks in Illinois: A Comprehensive Guide
Exploring Illinois: Top Long-Term RV Parks for Full-Time Living
Illinois, a state known for its diverse landscapes, offers a wealth of options for RV enthusiasts seeking long-term stays. Whether you're looking for urban conveniences or rural tranquility, Illinois has got you covered.
While some campgrounds may allow for RV and camper access, it's essential to note that they are often more rustic in nature. For those planning to operate a business from their RV, it's important to know that this is prohibited in Illinois.
When it comes to parking an RV on a street with public right-of-way, specific city permission is required. To ensure you'll be able to park an RV or camper in a location, it's best to find a site with "RV park" in the name or double-check that the one you want to visit offers spaces for RVs and campers.
Illinois offers a variety of RV parks, catering to both urban and rural lifestyles. Urban locations provide amenities like full hookups, Wi-Fi, and access to public transportation. On the other hand, rural sites offer a more secluded, natural experience.
Some top options for Illinois camping include Carlyle Lake Dam West Campground, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, Illinois Beach Campground, Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, and Chain O'Lakes State Park. For those seeking a more extended stay, Big River State Forest, Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area, Argyle Lake State Park, Delabar State Park, Morrison Rockwood State Park, and Rice Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area are suitable for long-term RV or camper van stays.
Illinois allows full-time residency in RVs, with local regulations to be followed. Some of the best long-term RV parks in Illinois for full-time living, considering amenities, community environment, and location, include:
- Glenwood RV Resort, Marseilles, IL: This family- and pet-friendly resort boasts wooded, well-kept grounds, clean facilities, and is conveniently located near shopping and attractions. They host family-friendly weekend events, adding community value.
- Millpoint Park near Oglesby, IL: Offering spacious back-in and pull-thru sites with water, sewage, and electric hookups, Millpoint Park features a clean bathhouse, picnic tables, fire rings, a boat launch, fishing, hiking trails, and a tranquil setting on Upper Peoria Lake surrounded by nature reserve.
- Benton KOA, Benton, IL: Known for extra-long, wide pull-through sites on easy highway access, Benton KOA offers cable TV and food service options. Nearby recreational activities include boating, fishing, hunting, golfing, and bird-watching around Rend Lake, making it suitable for full-time living with a focus on outdoor lifestyle.
- Thousand Trails Pine Country: This well-maintained, clean campground offers full 30-amp hookups and many amenities in a peaceful setting, providing a long-term stay atmosphere.
- Whittington Woods Campground: Featuring a swimming pool and shaded sites near Rend Lake, Whittington Woods Campground appeals to those seeking longer stays with outdoor activities.
Additional options with full hookups and good amenities are available widely across Illinois, including private farms and state parks listed on platforms like Hipcamp, which cater to varied long-term RV living preferences with potable water, showers, and pet-friendly policies.
These parks are recommended based on their combination of site quality, services, locations near natural or recreational areas, and positive reviews highlighting suitability for extended or permanent RV living. Always verify current policies on long-term stay availability and rates directly with the parks.
So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through Illinois! Book a camper van rental from our Chicago location to start your journey through beautiful Illinois.
- For RV enthusiasts considering a home-and-garden lifestyle in Illinois, there are various RV parks offering long-term stays, such as Glenwood RV Resort and Millpoint Park.
- Those planning a long-term travel lifestyle in Illinois can find suitable RV parks that cater to outdoor activities, like Benton KOA and Whittington Woods Campground.
- The Glenwood RV Resort, located in Marseilles, IL, is one of the top options for full-time RV living in Illinois, featuring family-friendly facilities, events, and easy access to shopping and attractions.
- For RV travelers seeking a more rustic, secluded experience, the Illinois Beach Campground, located near the lakefront, offers a natural outdoor lifestyle option for long-term stays.
