Harry L. Swartz Campground

Harry L. Swartz Campground is situated within the Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, Illinois' first International Dark Sky Park. This seasonal campground offers a tranquil setting for campers, surrounded by oak, hickory, and hackberry trees, with wildflowers adding to the picturesque landscape.

🏡 Accommodations

• Individual Campsites: 65 sites, 53 of which have electric hookups (30/50 AMP). Each site features a gravel parking pad, picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook

• Group Sites: Three group camping areas, one equipped with electricity, suitable for larger gatherings.

• Buddy Sites: Four pairs of adjacent sites designed for groups or families camping together.

🛠️ Amenities

• Shower House: Equipped with warm water and flush toilets.

• Pit Toilets: Available throughout the campground.

• Freshwater Spigots: Six located within the campground.

• Dump Station: Located near the campground entrance.

• Camp Store: Campground hosts sell ice and firewood at reasonable prices.

• Swimming Beach: Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, featuring a small sandy area.

• Playground: Available for children.

• Mini Library: A small lending library for campers.

• Picnic Areas: Scattered throughout the preserve.

🎯 Activities

• Stargazing: As part of a Dark Sky Park, the campground offers excellent conditions for observing the night sky.

• Hiking: Several trails, including the Oak Burl Trail (2.2 mi), Prairie View Trail (0.8 mi), and Midland Trail (1.4 mi), provide opportunities to explore the natural surroundings.

• Fishing: Multiple ponds within the preserve are available for fishing.

• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe local wildlife, including bald eagles and river otters.

💰 Rates

• Individual Sites: Approximately $14–$16 per night, depending on the day of the week and season.

• Group Sites: Rates vary; contact the campground for specific pricing.

• Reservations: Required for stays of three or more consecutive nights; first-come, first-served for shorter stays.