Franklin Creek State Natural Area Campground
Open for equestrian camping. Trails and day use areas close during firearm deer hunts: November 21-23, December 4-7, and January 1-4 and 16-18. First-come, first-served; no online reservations available.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 2 at 1:48PM CDT until July 3 at 12:00AM CDT by NWS Chicago IL
* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 105 degrees. * WHERE...Portions of north central and northeast Illinois and northwest Indiana. * WHEN...Until midnight CDT tonight. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.
About
Franklin Creek State Natural Area is an 882-acre preserve in Lee County featuring hardwood forests, bedrock outcroppings, natural springs, and the scenic Franklin Creek flowing throughout. The equestrian campground provides primitive overnight accommodations for horse campers, with most sites featuring permanent tie lines. Amenities include vault toilets, scattered water hydrants, and a dump station. There are no showers or electrical hookups. The Rock River Trail and Horseman's Association maintains 12 miles of equestrian trails that wind through rolling, heavily forested terrain with slight variable grades. An outdoor show area and picnic shelter serve the equestrian community. This campground is restricted to equestrian use only; general public camping is not available. The surrounding natural area supports diverse flora and fauna and offers additional activities including hiking, fishing, hunting, seasonal cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Trails and day use areas close during firearm deer hunting seasons in November, December, and January.
Directions
From IL Route 38 on the west side of Franklin Grove, turn north on Daysville Road and go one block to Old Mill Road. Turn left (west) on Old Mill Road and proceed one mile to the State Natural Area.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (815) 456-2878 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!