Linden Campground

For Illinoisans seeking a truly unique and intimate camping experience away from the bustling crowds, Linden Campground in Apple River is a charming discovery. This isn't your typical large-scale campground; instead, it's a small, private farmette offering just eight distinct campsites, making it perfect for those who value peace, quiet, and a personal touch. Nestled in the scenic Jo Daviess County, it's a place where you can truly unwind, enjoy beautiful views, and experience genuine hospitality.

Linden Campground stands out for its tranquil ambiance and the warmth of its owners, who have cultivated this property into a beloved family oasis. Visitors consistently praise the "amazing views" and the friendly, welcoming spirit that defines this "nice little place." If you're looking for a peaceful retreat with a touch of farm charm, where you can reconnect with nature and enjoy simple pleasures, Linden Campground is a delightful option right here in our corner of Illinois.

Linden Campground is located in Apple River, IL 61001, USA, specifically at a private farmette in Jo Daviess County. While the exact street address isn't publicly listed beyond "Apple River, IL," reviews indicate that "Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. You won't find a sign...we keep it simple." This suggests a slightly more secluded and private approach, which contributes to its quiet charm.

For Illinois residents, Apple River is situated in the picturesque northwestern part of the state, known for its rolling hills, historic towns, and natural beauty. It's approximately 30 minutes from the popular tourist destination of Galena, offering easy access to its shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Nearby natural attractions include Apple River Canyon State Park, just 3 miles away, and Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area, about 13 miles distant. This provides campers with numerous opportunities for hiking, exploring, and other outdoor activities within a short drive. The location offers a peaceful rural setting while still being within reasonable reach of amenities and popular regional destinations, making it a convenient escape for many Illinois families.

Services Offered:

• Limited Campsites: Offers a small, intimate setting with only 8 spots (2 lodging sites, 3 RV/tent sites, 3 tent sites), ensuring a peaceful experience.
• Pond Access: Features a pond for swimming and fishing (stocked with panfish).
• Volleyball Net: A volleyball net is available on the beach area by the pond.
• Small Fishing Pier: A tiny fishing pier provides a spot for leisurely angling.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is available for purchase on-site, typically at $5.55/bundle.
• Fresh Farm Eggs for Sale: Guests can purchase fresh, free-range chicken eggs, typically at $3.50/dozen.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the sites for an additional fee ($5 per pet/per night).
• Shower Facilities: Showers are available (though some reviews mention potential for improvement in cleanliness, others state they are clean and well-maintained).
• On-site Farm Animals: Free-range chickens, cows in a neighboring pasture, and geese at the pond add to the farmette experience.
• Peddle Boat: Available for use on the pond.

Features / Highlights:

• Intimate & Peaceful Setting: With only 8 campsites, Linden Campground offers a uniquely quiet and tranquil experience. It's lauded as a "nice little place" and a "slice of heaven" for its peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking true relaxation away from large, bustling campgrounds.
• Scenic Views and Sunsets: Campers consistently praise the "amazing views" and "picturesque sunsets," highlighting the natural beauty of the farmette and surrounding Jo Daviess County landscape. The open air and peaceful stars are also noted as major attractions.
• Friendly Owners and Farm Charm: The campground is run by exceptionally friendly owners who are praised for their hospitality and care. The presence of free-range chickens, geese, and nearby cows adds a charming farmette feel, enhancing the unique character of the stay.
• Pond for Recreation: A central feature is the pond, which is great for swimming and stocked for panfish, offering easy on-site aquatic activities like fishing and peddle boating.
• Access to Nearby Attractions: Located close to Apple River Canyon State Park (3 miles away) and within a short drive to Galena (30 minutes), campers have convenient access to hiking, exploring, shopping, and dining in the region.
• Fresh Farm Produce: The availability of fresh, free-range chicken eggs for purchase is a delightful perk, allowing campers to enjoy farm-to-table breakfast during their stay.
• Unique Site Layout: While not a drive-through, the campsites are "one by one," offering a sense of individual space. Some sites are wooded and nicely tucked in, providing varying levels of privacy.

Contact Information:

Address: Apple River, IL 61001, USA (Exact address may be provided upon booking confirmation, as it's a private farmette)

Linden Campground primarily operates through Hipcamp, where you can find booking information and contact the hosts directly. While a phone number isn't publicly listed for direct calls, Hipcamp messaging provides a way to communicate with the owners, Kevin L. and his family.

Based on review information, the owner's name is Kevin L., and contact through the Hipcamp platform is the primary method.

For us Illinoisans, Linden Campground in Apple River offers a truly special opportunity to step away from the everyday and immerse ourselves in a peaceful, natural setting. We often look for those quiet escapes that feel genuinely authentic, and this small farmette delivers precisely that. It’s perfectly suited for those who appreciate intimacy over immensity, where the sounds of nature, like geese at the pond and occasional coyotes, replace urban clamor.

The personal touch from the friendly owners, like the possibility of fresh eggs for breakfast, adds a heartwarming dimension that larger campgrounds simply can't replicate. While it's important to remember it's a primitive-style campground with limited facilities and not a luxury resort, its charm lies in its simplicity and the genuine care put into the property. For a relaxing weekend of fishing, pond swimming, enjoying picturesque sunsets, and exploring the beauty of Jo Daviess County, Linden Campground is a unique and highly recommended "hidden gem" that offers a memorable retreat right here in Illinois. It's truly a place where you can feel the love and care the hosts put into it, making it an ideal choice for a serene local getaway.

Linden Campground

Apple River, IL 61001, USA