The best outdoor activities in Illinois make nature feel like a playground. Whether it’s a state park filled with waterfalls and walking trails or an amazing overnight experience, the outdoors should be explored, enjoyed, and celebrated. What’s a more iconic experience than jumping into a lake in the heat of summer? I love spending a day on the water, but also having the option to take a break from the sun by reading or playing a game in the shade. Fortunately, no matter what your preference is there are more than enough options to choose from at the best campground in Illinois.
Hi-Tide Beach and Campground is a seasonal Northern Illinois resort campground located in Leland, found near US-34 and IL-23.
The secluded spot offers multiple camping options, including RV hookups and a special area known as The Circle where seven sites form a large lakeside circle — great for socializing or camping in large groups.
Some sites, like The Circle, offer water, electricity, and full hookups, while other spots are more primitive.
But what sets Hi-Tide apart are its incredible amenities, turning a traditional camping experience into a waterpark resort. Its private lake includes a 15-foot inflatable climbing wall known as the Iceberg, as well as a water trampoline, floating islands, and log roll.
One of the park's most beloved pastimes is a ride on the pedal carts, which can be rented out in 30-minute increments. Take a spin around the grounds on your own foot-driven vehicle.
Also on the grounds are fields for bag toss, hay rides, pavilions for bingo and kids' activities, a 0.5-mile walking path, a playground, and a kids' beach area with floating lily pads, a small slide, and Moonwalk.
Another unique feature of the campground is its glow stick dance party on Saturday nights from May through September. From 8:30-10 p.m., a DJ provides dance and pop hits perfect for some lakeside raving for all ages.
