Crow Valley Campground

For folks right here in Illinois looking to escape the hustle and bustle, reconnect with nature, or simply enjoy a relaxing getaway with loved ones, Crow Valley Campground in Sterling offers a compelling option. Celebrating 50 years in 2025, this family-oriented campground provides a blend of outdoor recreation and convenient amenities, all within easy reach for many residents. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a tent camping enthusiast, or looking to try camping for the first time, Crow Valley Campground aims to create memorable experiences in the heart of Northwest Illinois.

Crow Valley Campground, located at 23807 Moline Rd, Sterling, IL 61081, USA, is a well-established and highly regarded destination situated on 40 acres, approximately two miles west of the Sterling/Rock Falls area. Its prime position right on the Rock River is a significant draw, offering picturesque views and fantastic opportunities for fishing. The Rock River itself is noted for being one of the 20 cleanest rivers in the United States, boasting over 100 species of fish.

The campground prides itself on being a family-oriented environment, with a strong focus on providing a safe and clean space for all visitors. This commitment is often reflected in customer reviews. While one reviewer mentioned issues with bathroom cleanliness, another stated, "Loved the campground! Site was really good. The only complaint is the showers. I would’ve liked to have a divider in front of the showers and the toilet, but that’s about it. Will definitely come back." Other reviews highlight the "superb" staff and "fun to walk" trails. The presence of Mr. Crow, the campground's 6-foot-tall mascot, adds a unique and friendly touch to the overall experience. Open from April 15 through October 15, Crow Valley Campground invites campers to kick back, relax, and enjoy the diverse activities it has to offer.

Crow Valley Campground's address at 23807 Moline Rd, Sterling, IL 61081, USA, places it conveniently in Northwest Illinois, making it an accessible destination for many residents across the state. It's located right off I-88 on Moline Road, ensuring "easy on & off" access from the interstate. This makes it a great spot for both short stays and "long hauls" for travelers passing through Illinois. While the interstate is close, some reviews suggest that noise is minimal, with one stating, "Interstate close but I have been at much louder locations."

The campground is situated just a couple of miles from the Sterling/Rock Falls area, offering a balance between natural serenity and proximity to essential services. However, it's worth noting that "conveniences" are "several miles" away, suggesting that stocking up on groceries and supplies before arrival is a good idea. Despite being a "small park," Crow Valley is well-laid out, with a central pond adding to its appeal. For those relying on public transportation, a personal vehicle is essential for navigating to and from the campground and accessing nearby towns. The direct access to the Rock River means campers can literally "throw your line right from the campsite" if staying in a riverfront tent site, enhancing the accessibility for fishing enthusiasts.

• Diverse Campsites: Crow Valley Campground offers a variety of camping options to suit different preferences. This includes tent sites, RV sites (with back-in up to 60 feet long and pull-through up to 75 feet long), and rental camper trailers.
• Hookups: RV sites provide 30 & 50 amp electric and water hookups. Dump stations are also available for RV waste.
• Tent Camping: Unique to the Sterling/Rock Falls area, Crow Valley still offers tent camping, with sites available right along the Rock River, perfect for fishing.
• Camper Trailer Rentals: For those without their own RV, three camper trailers are available for rent, offering a convenient way to experience the campground.
• On-Site Store: A well-stocked campground store offers a wide array of camping supplies, including snacks, toiletries, worms, ice, firewood, dry goods, breakfast foods, beverages, ice cream, pizzas, plumbing supplies, and even Crow Valley apparel. Store hours are M-Th 10-6; F 10-9; Sat 9-7 & Sun 9-12.
• Outdoor Pool: An outdoor swimming pool is available for guests, typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends.
• LP Gas Exchange: Propane exchange services are available on-site for RVs and grills.
• Game Room: A dedicated game room provides entertainment for all ages.
• Family Activities: The campground organizes various family activities, including holiday weekend events like corn hole tournaments, duck plucks, raffles, bingo, trivia, and "name that tune."
• Boat Ramp: Direct access to the Rock River via a boat ramp is provided for those wishing to launch their watercraft.
• WiFi: The campground offers Wi-Fi service, which has been noted to work well.

• Rock River Access & Fishing: Being located directly on the Rock River is a major highlight, offering excellent fishing opportunities due to the river's cleanliness and abundance of fish species. Tent sites right on the river allow for direct line-casting.
• Outdoor Pool: A refreshing outdoor pool provides a great way to cool off and relax during warmer months, especially for families.
• Spacious Sites: The campground offers "spacious sites" for RVs, with lengths up to 60-75 feet, providing ample room for campers.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: The campground is designed to be family-friendly, with various playgrounds, a game room, and scheduled activities catering to all ages.
• Recreational Courts: Amenities like sand volleyball and basketball courts, as well as horseshoe pits and tetherball, offer diverse options for active recreation.
• Disc Golf: A disc golf course is available for enthusiasts.
• Serenity Pond: A tranquil non-fishing serenity pond with benches provides a peaceful spot to relax and observe koi fish, turtles, and frogs.
• Friendly and Superb Staff: Numerous reviews praise the staff for their exceptional helpfulness and welcoming demeanor, enhancing the overall camping experience.
• Walking Trails: The campground features "fun to walk" trails, allowing visitors to explore the wooded property.
• Mr. Crow Mascot: The presence of Mr. Crow, the 6-foot-tall campground mascot, adds a unique and memorable touch.
• Holiday Weekend Events: Special events on holiday weekends, such as corn hole tournaments and trivia, create a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Crow Valley Campground, being a privately run establishment, has its own rate structure and policies, which also encompass what could be considered "offers" in terms of value or specific booking requirements. Based on available information:

• Competitive Rates: The campground offers tiered nightly, weekly, and monthly rates for its sites, including:
  • 30 Amp Electric & Water: Nightly $35, Weekly $215, Monthly $560
  • Pull-Thrus & 50 Amp Electric & Water: Nightly $45, Weekly $280, Monthly $735
  • Primitive Tent: Nightly $25, Weekly $150
  These structured rates provide clarity and potential savings for longer stays.
• Seasonal Site Options: For those looking for a more permanent base, seasonal sites are available at different price points, including non-river ($1,300) and river ($1,400) options.
• Rental Trailer Deals: The rental camper trailers have a 3-night minimum for $300, with weekly ($500) and monthly ($1,200) rates, offering a convenient way to experience camping without owning an RV.
• Holiday Weekend Requirements: Holiday weekends require a 3-night minimum stay and payment in full at the time of booking. While not a "promotion," this ensures availability for those planning holiday getaways.
• No Sex Offenders or Drugs: The campground explicitly states that it does not allow sex offenders or drugs, which serves as a "promotion" of a safe and family-friendly environment.

It is always recommended to contact Crow Valley Campground directly or visit their official website for the most current rates, availability, and any specific seasonal specials or booking terms. Booking online is often available and can be the most convenient way to secure a site.

Address: 23807 Moline Rd, Sterling, IL 61081, USA

Phone Number: (815) 626-5376

Email: crowvalleycampground@gmail.com

For reservations and inquiries, you can also visit their website, which often provides an online booking system and contact form.

For Illinois locals, Crow Valley Campground in Sterling stands out as an excellent choice for a wide array of reasons. Its convenient location directly off I-88 makes it easily accessible from many parts of the state, ensuring less travel time and more time to enjoy your camping experience. Situated on the scenic Rock River, it offers unparalleled opportunities for fishing and water activities, a significant draw for many outdoor enthusiasts right here in Illinois.

The campground's strong emphasis on being family-oriented, coupled with a long list of amenities like an outdoor pool, multiple playgrounds, a game room, and organized family activities, makes it perfect for creating lasting memories with children. The consistent praise for the "superb" and helpful staff ensures a welcoming and supportive environment for all campers, fostering a sense of community. While some minor concerns about restroom dividers or occasional cleanliness have been noted, the overall cleanliness, the spacious sites, and the serene wooded surroundings centered around a pond contribute to a highly positive experience. Whether you're looking for an overnight stop on a longer journey, a weekend fishing trip, or a full-blown family vacation with plenty of activities, Crow Valley Campground provides a well-maintained, friendly, and engaging outdoor escape that truly highlights the recreational opportunities available right here in Illinois.