What Are The Best RV/Camper Parks in IL?

Illinois is home to many attractions and offers a variety of RV and camper parks for any kind of traveler. Whether you’re hitting the road to be near bustling activity by the great city of Chicago or more serene areas like various state parks, this guide is for you! In this blog, we’ll answer some common questions about RV and camper parks in Illinois.

Can You Live in an RV in Illinois?

You are allowed to live in an RV full-time in Illinois, although there are local regulations that people must adhere to. For example, you cannot park your RV, camper, boat trailer, etc., on a street with a public right-of-way unless granted specific permission by the city. Additionally, you can’t operate a business out of your camper. 

Some people love living in their camper van or RV due to the flexibility, cost savings, and opportunity to pursue a more minimalist lifestyle. However, it also comes with challenges, such as the cost of maintaining and securing a large vehicle and the regulations governing things like parking, as mentioned earlier.

Some of the best places for long-term RV or camper van stays in Illinois include:

• Big River State Forest 
• Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area
• Argyle Lake State Park
• Delabar State Park 
• Morrison Rockwood State Park
• Rice Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

Where Can I Park an RV in Illinois?

If you’re just looking to park your RV or camper in Illinois, you’ve got many urban and rural options. Urban parking locations, such as those near Chicago, offer the convenience of being close to a major city and usually provide amenities like full hookups, Wi-Fi, and even access to public transportation. Rural spots like state parks offer more peace and quiet as well as easier access to outdoor activities. 

Here are some of the top RV parks in Illinois and popular state parks with camper accommodations: 

• Starved Rock State Park
• Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site
• Shabbona Lake State Park
• Rock Cut State Park
• Illini State Park
• Pere Marquette State Park

What Is the Difference Between an RV Park and a Campground?

Let’s clarify the difference between a campground and an RV park – a common confusion spot for travelers. While campgrounds sometimes allow for RV and camper access, they do not always and are often considered the more “rustic” option. An RV park, on the other hand, will always accommodate space for a camper van or recreational vehicle. Finding a site with “RV park” in the name or double-checking that the one you want to visit offers spaces for RVs and campers is the best way to ensure that you’ll be able to park there. Since an Escape Camper Van is classified as a passenger vehicle, not an RV, you can use either type of location.

What Is the Number One RV Park in the United States?

There are so many options for great RV parks, state parks, and campgrounds across the U.S. for you to park your camper van, whether for a short-term or long-term stay. Travelers weigh factors differently when choosing their perfect spot, considering things like natural beauty, number of campsites, and level of accommodation.

While we can’t name the number one RV park in the United States, if you’re sticking to the Prairie State, here are a few more top options for Illinois camping:

• Carlyle Lake Dam West Campground
• Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
• Illinois Beach Campground 
• Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
• Chain O’Lakes State Park

Head to a Top-rated Illinois Park with a Top-rated Camper Van

Start your journey through beautiful Illinois with one of our safe and secure camper vans. Book today from our Chicago camper van rental location to secure your ride.