Hidden Ridge private campground is a truly unique camping experience that is a rare find in Illinois. This secluded private campground is located at the end of a one-lane gravel road that leads right to Otter Lake. There are no neighbors nearby and you're entirely surrounded by beautiful midwest forest (mostly walnut and oak trees). We were specifically searching for a place we could bring our 2 dogs and 3 kids and wouldn't have to worry about other campers nearby. This place did not disappoint- as the nearest person was all the way on the other side of the lake.
We also wanted a place where we wouldn't need to bring a tent. This site already has a beautiful canvas tent set up. It's built on a wood deck that includes both a front and back porch. Inside the tent there is a queen bed and table and chairs. Both the front and back porch also have seating- and the backporch overlooks the lake.
Outside of the tent is a seperate washing station, complete with HEATED running water! There is a kitchen sink, toilet, and shower area. The kitchen area is stocked with all the necessities needed for outdoor cooking and dining. The camp host provides coolers and a lock box as well. They advertise as a place where you "just need to bring food and drinking water". I recommend also bringing a cast iron if you're hoping to cook on the campfire. We came in the fall and the evenings were quite chilly- so I'd also suggest bringing extra bedding.
There is a charcoal grill, but we opted to cook in the fire pit throughout our stay. This is by far the nicest fire pit I've found at a campground. There is ample seating and they provide A LOT of free firewood. There is also cooking grates to place in the pit if needed. The pit also overlooks the lake and it was such a relaxing and beautiful place to drink my morning coffee.
We came hoping to fish and were happy that we could follow a trail down to the lake from the campsite and set up for fish. Our kiddos were able to catch some bluegill and hybrid fish. They were actively biting and kept our family engaged for a few hours each day.
The only thing to keep in mind is that there's no electricity at this site. With that being said, it's absolutely worth the stay. Our kids and dogs absolutely had a blast. My husband and I loved relaxing and living the "lake life" for a weekend. We hope to come back again! read more