Store Gulch Campground
4.686 reviewsStore Gulch Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight use Single Site: $10/night, additional vehicle fee $5/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount ("...The discount applies only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder, not to any additional fee or campsite(s) occupied by members of the pass holder's party." Payment must be made with CASH or CHECK.
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About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the pristine Illinois River, this intimate campground offers a peaceful retreat where simplicity meets natural beauty. Here, the rhythm of river life replaces modern distractions, creating an authentic wilderness experience where the essentials of camping—clean water, stunning scenery, and tranquil surroundings—take center stage.
Store Gulch Campground provides a primitive camping experience with options for standard and walk-in tent sites. RV camping, group camping, and cabins are not available.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of the seasons at this riverside haven. Winter brings crisp, cold days perfect for cozy campfires and quiet contemplation. As summer arrives, the climate transforms into a delightful mix of comfortable days and occasional sultry afternoons that make river swimming irresistible. Peak camping conditions grace the grounds during summer months and early fall, when warm days and cool nights create the perfect outdoor ambiance.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to the gentle murmur of the Wild and Scenic Illinois River flowing past your campsite. This protected waterway reveals a string of pristine beaches that beckon exploration, each bend unveiling new sandy shores perfect for afternoon picnics or sunset strolls. Towering mountains frame the horizon while hidden coves accessible only by river invite paddlers to discover secret swimming holes and peaceful alcoves where nature's soundtrack plays undisturbed.
Geological RegionSet within the protected corridor of the Wild and Scenic Illinois River, this campground occupies a special place in one of America's most treasured waterways, where untamed natural beauty has been preserved for generations of outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeThere are 4 standard campsites and 2 walk-in campsites. The size of each site is not specified.
Sites PrivacyNo information is provided about the level of privacy at individual campsites.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites next to the river offer scenic beach views, great for swimming and playing.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay: 14 days.
Groups
Group camping is not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 4 campsites with picnic tables and fire pits, and 2 walk-in campsites also equipped with picnic tables and fire pits.
Reservation PlatformsInteragency Senior/Access
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come first-serve based spots.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers basic recreational activities centered around its location by the Illinois River. Visitors can enjoy picnicking and swimming. Activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing are not explicitly mentioned but may be possible given the natural setting.
Swimming
Swimming is highlighted in user reviews as one of the main attractions. The Illinois River offers clear waters, suitable for swimming and even diving from low rocks.Beach activities
User reviews highlight the presence of beaches along the Illinois River, suitable for sunbathing and other casual beach activities.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned. Seasonal access to the campground might be limited depending on weather conditions.Water Sports
No water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted only in developed fire pits.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsScorpions are present in the area. Blue lights can reveal high levels of scorpions as mentioned by a user. Road conditions are narrow and steep.
Weather forecast
101
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere are no garbage disposal facilities. Campers must pack out all their trash and recycling.
Proximity to water featuresNear the Illinois River with multiple coves and diving rocks.
Common complaints"The Illinois gets ALOT of people. So much so, that it can be less enjoyable." - User Review.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Selma, OR, off of Highway 199 is the turn for the Illinois River Road (Forest Road 4301). Take that road approximately 9 miles to the campground. You will pass the Store Gulch Day Use Area and the Store Gulch Guard Station, the next left will take you into the campground.
"Very narrow road, in and out, that goes up mountains, on the side of cliffs. Most of the road is paved now, still some gravel sections." - User ReviewCamper Reviews
4.7
6 reviews
Store Gulch Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate a positive overall experience, particularly highlighting the campground's serene setting and the clear, beautiful water of the Illinois River. However, comments suggest that the campground can be busy during peak times and lacks some basic amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the clear waters of the Illinois River, the quiet and remote atmosphere during off-peak times, and the scenic beauty of the area. Reviewers also spoke...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, no garbage disposal facilities, and potential overcrowding during peak periods. Some users mentioned the narrow and steep access road as an...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early, especially on weekdays, to secure a site and avoid crowds. Bring your own drinking water and pack out all your trash. Use blue lights to explore scorpions at night as a fun activity.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is quieter and more enjoyable in the off-season or on weekdays. Summer weekends tend to be crowded, which can detract from the camping experience.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The river is like glass and there are beautiful beaches along the whole river.' - Adam Bratland
2. 'If you go, please pack out all your garbage, including cigarette butts. Please.' - Stephanie...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground has only six sites (4 standard and 2 walk-in). No specific reviews mention site numbers or provide details distinguishing the sites.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must be leashed. No specific reviews mention pet-related experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025