Camping on the Kishwaukee River at Holiday Acres

The Kishwaukee River is part of the setting at Holiday Acres in Garden Prairie, Illinois. Campers can enjoy the wooded surroundings, fish from the bank or plan a permitted paddling outing. Before making the river part of your itinerary, check current access and conditions with the campground office.

The key rule is straightforward: swimming in the river is not allowed. Use the campground swimming pool during posted hours instead. This guide explains how to plan a visit around the river while following the campground guidelines.

Plan your river time before heading out

Photos can help you picture the setting, but they cannot establish today’s water level, access or conditions. Speak with the office when you arrive. Plan around the conditions for your actual visit, and avoid treating a shallow-looking area as a place to swim or sit in the water.

You do not need an outing on the water to enjoy the setting. Take photos from a permitted accessible area or spend time at your campsite. Respect other guests’ sites and follow office instructions about access. Parents and guardians are responsible for their children throughout the campground.

Fish from the bank and bring your supplies

Bank fishing is allowed. Bait is not sold at the office, so plan your supplies before arrival. Properly dispose of fishing line, hooks and other waste rather than leaving them by the water.

Ask the office where access is appropriate for your visit. Campground permission to use an area does not replace any applicable fishing requirements; check those separately before fishing. Keep your planned outing flexible if conditions change.

Know which boats are permitted

The campground allows electric-powered boats, paddle boats, kayaks and row boats. Gas motors are not allowed. Check conditions and access with the office before launching, and make your plans around the equipment and experience of your group.

Do not assume the campground supplies or rents a boat. Contact the office before planning a trip that depends on equipment rental or transport. Historical mentions of services are not a substitute for confirming what is currently available.

Use the pool for swimming

Holiday Acres has a swimming pool, with rules and hours posted at the facility. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No lifeguard is on duty. Build pool time around the posted hours and have an adult responsible for accompanying children.

The pool is one of several options on the activities and amenities page. Volleyball, basketball and Ga-Ga ball give your group other ways to spend time outside.

Balance the river setting with campground activities

Scheduled activities have included crafts, hayrides, games and holiday celebrations. Check the events page and office for the schedule during your stay. Old calendars and photos show past activities, not promises for a particular weekend.

Miles Bar n Grill is on site, and the campground has a convenience store and laundry facilities. Ask about current hours before relying on a particular service. A relaxed visit can include a morning by the river, lunch at your campsite and an afternoon game or swim when the facilities are open.

Choose your stay and plan arrival

Explore ways to stay to compare overnight RV and seasonal camping, or contact the office about tent, dry-camping and rental options. RV sites offer electricity and water; check your selected site’s details before booking.

Campsite check-in is 2:00 p.m. and cabin check-in is 3:00 p.m. Check-out is 11:00 a.m. for both. Friday arrivals require a two-night minimum; holiday weekends require three nights. Quiet hours run from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Questions before your visit

Can I swim in the Kishwaukee River at Holiday Acres?

No. River swimming is not allowed. Use the campground pool during posted hours and follow its rules.

Is fishing allowed?

Yes, from the bank. Check access with the office, bring your bait and dispose of line and hooks properly.

Can I bring a gas-powered boat?

No. Only electric-powered boats, paddle boats, kayaks and row boats are permitted.

Does Holiday Acres rent kayaks?

Rental availability is not confirmed on the current main pages. Call the office before making plans that depend on a rental.

See the photo gallery, read the camping FAQs and check rates and availability to plan your visit.

Updated September 16, 2026. Check your reservation and current campground guidelines before travel.