How many group campsites do Illinois state parks have?

Most Illinois state parks have between 3 and 12 designated group campsites. Kankakee River State Park has the most with 12 group sites. Many parks also allow troops to book adjacent standard sites when group sites are full.

Can a scout troop reserve multiple adjacent campsites?

Yes, most Illinois state parks allow booking multiple adjacent standard sites when group sites are unavailable. Use the Tentahead campsite search to find parks where enough adjacent sites are open for your dates and group size.

What is the cheapest camping for a scout troop in Illinois?

Illinois state park tent campsites typically cost $10-20 per night. Group sites range from $30-60 per night for the entire group. Check the official reservation page for current pricing.

Scout Trip Planning

Group Camping in Illinois for Scouts

Planning a troop campout means finding parks where 15-25 people can stay together, with the right mix of activities, facilities, and accessibility. These Illinois state parks have dedicated group campsites.

What makes a park good for scouts?

Designated group sites. These are larger sites designed for 15-50 people, usually with their own fire ring, picnic tables, and sometimes a shelter.
Activities beyond camping. Hiking trails, fishing, canoeing, and nature study opportunities give troops structure for the weekend.
Restrooms and water access. Especially important for younger scouts and mixed-age troops.
Proximity to Chicago or other metro areas. Most troops drive 1-3 hours for a weekend trip. Parks within that range get more repeat use.

Kankakee River State Park

12 group sites plus 211 standard sites. River access, paddling, equestrian trails. Strong choice for large troops.

12 group sites223 total campsites

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Apple River Canyon State Park

6 group sites in a scenic canyon setting. Smaller park, good for focused troop weekends.

6 group sites58 total campsites

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Sam Dale Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

4 group sites, 194-acre lake, 5 miles of shoreline trails. Fishing and nature study opportunities.

4 group sites93 total campsites

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Kickapoo State Recreation Area

5 group sites near Danville. Mountain biking, canoeing on the Middle Fork river.

5 group sites186 total campsites

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Giant City State Park

3 group sites in southern Illinois. Massive sandstone formations, rappelling wall, nature center.

3 group sites85 total campsites

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Jubilee College State Park

3 group sites near Peoria. Mountain biking, equestrian trails, historic college ruins.

3 group sites93 total campsites

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Booking tips for troop trips

Book group sites 2-3 months ahead. Group sites are limited (3-12 per park) and popular with scouts, church groups, and family reunions.
Have a backup plan. If group sites are taken, book 4-6 adjacent standard sites. Use the Tentahead compare tool to evaluate both options.
Check fire rules. Some parks restrict campfires during dry seasons. Tentahead listings show fire pit availability and current fire rules when available.
Plan for weather. Illinois spring camping (March-May) can see 30-degree temperature swings. Check the weather normals on each park listing.

Plan your troop trip

Search for group-friendly parks near your troop's home base, or use the Scouts BSA page for troop-specific planning workflows.

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