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White Pines Forest State Park RV & Campground Guide

Illinois

White Pines Forest State Park spans 385 acres and is located at the southern boundary of the Chicago-Iowa Trail. The park is in the Rock River Valley, with rugged rock outcroppings surrounded by forests. The outdoor activities at the park include boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, skiing, wildlife watching, camping, picnicking, and hiking. This state park was established in 1927. The property was once owned by the Sauk leader Black Hawk. A fall festival with booths and concessions is held yearly at the park.

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Weather
Spring 30–46F
Summer 64–81F
Fall 44–61F
Winter 23–31F
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RV Resorts & Campsites in White Pines Forest State Park

The White Pines Forest Campground has 115 camping spots with 30- or 50-amp electricity, water and sewage hookups, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. The campgrounds are accessible with fire rings, dump stations, and Wi-Fi, and the entire park is pet-friendly. Firewood and drinking water are available at the campground.

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What to Do at
White Pines Forest State Park

Visitors to White Pines Forest State Park enjoy many outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, horseback riding, snow sports, camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The park has a rich history, including the culture and lives of the Sauk tribe, and exhibits and historical information are available. For peaceful solitude and a break from the city, you’ll find forests, creeks, and a beach area near the river. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and boats during the summer by the hour or day.

Fishing

You can fish during the spring and fall fishing seasons, but you need an Illinois fishing license and an Inland Trout stamp. You can fish from boats on the river or wade fish in the park’s creeks. You can catch sunfish, crappie, smallmouth bass, and carp. Pay attention to posted signs because sometimes fishing is restricted to catch and release only.

Geocaching

Go to the Visitor Center for current geocaching information. You’ll find treasures throughout the park and along the hiking trails.

Nature Watching

Throughout the park, you’ll see many species of birds. They include pine thrush, ducks, geese, Henslow’s sparrows, yellow-billed cuckoos, broad-winged hawks, pileated woodpeckers, ovenbirds, Louisiana water thrush, yellow-throated warblers, kingfishers, and green and great blue herons. You’ll find many observation areas where you can take impressive images of the park’s bird species.

Stargazing

The best stargazing opportunities are at the campgrounds. On clear nights, you can see the stars, constellations, and planets with binoculars, or you can bring your telescope.

Flora and Fauna

Plants and flowers at the park include blossoming trout lily, bloodroot, Solomon's seal, blue-eyed grass, hepatica, mountain laurel, and spruce beauty. Wildlife includes squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, deer, coyotes, gophers, turkeys, beavers, muskrats, gray foxes, gray tree frogs, and salamanders. Rarely, there black bear and mountain lion sightings. Watch for warning signs and alerts.

Hiking

White Pines Forest State Park has three hiking trails, including the Sunset and Sleepy Hollow Trail Loop, which spans 2.3 miles. The White Pines State Park Loop is a moderate trail that is 2.6 miles long. The Red Squirrel Trail is the easiest of the state park’s hiking trails at just 1 mile long.

Boating

You can enjoy using canoes, kayaks, and Jon boats on the Rock River. You can bring your own boat or rent one from the on-site vendors.

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How to Get to
White Pines Forest State Park

From Mt. Morris, head south on North McKendrie Avenue toward East Hitt Street. Continue onto North Mt. Morris Road. Take a slight right onto Mount Morris Road. Turn right onto West Camp Road. Take a slight left as West Camp Road becomes Columbian Road. Turn right onto West Pines Road. Turn right at the White Pines Forest State Park entrance.

Entering White Pines Forest State Park

Enter the park through the main entrance, and park your vehicle in the parking lot. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and overnight campers must arrive before business hours end. There are accessible parking spots, and the park is mostly accessible. The maximum RV length for the campground is 30 feet, and only two vehicles are allowed at each camping spot.

White Pines Forest State Park Entry Fee : $0.0

Frequently Asked Questions About White Pines Forest State Park

What is the best time of year to visit White Pines Forest State Park?

Summer and early fall are the best times to visit the state park, as the temperatures are mild. The park often closes during spring if the ground is too soft and presents hazards. Winter is often frigid, with creeks and lakes freezing.

What kind of wildlife can be found in White Pines Forest State Park?

White Pines Forest State Park has abundant wildlife. The bird species include pine thrush, ducks, geese, Henslow’s sparrows, yellow-billed cuckoos, broad-winged hawks, pileated woodpeckers, ovenbirds, Louisiana water thrush, yellow-throated warblers, kingfishers, and green and great blue herons. You’ll find wildlife, including squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, deer, coyotes, gophers, turkeys, beavers, muskrats, gray foxes, gray tree frogs, and salamanders.

Are there designated RV camping spots in White Pines Forest State Park?

There aren’t any designated RV camping spots, but 115 camping spots are available for either RV or tent camping.

Do you have to reserve a camping spot at White Pines Forest State Park and what is the cost?

You aren’t required to reserve a camping spot, but the campgrounds reach maximum capacity during peak season, so it is a good idea. It costs $10 a night to camp at White Pines Forest State Park whether you are in an RV or use a tent.

Are pets allowed at White Pines Forest State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at White Pines Forest State Park, but you must keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet.