Campground

Blanding Landing

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 · HANOVER · Illinois — managed by US Army Corps of Engineers

Sites open now — checked live on Recreation.gov
Blanding Landing campground
Photo: Recreation.gov · CEMVR-OD-MN

Weekend availability at Blanding Landing

Live from Recreation.gov · checked Sep 19, 3:24 PM PT

Sold out 1 of the next 6 weekends — exactly when cancellation alerts earn their keep.

  • Fri, Sep 18
    Sold out
  • Fri, Sep 25
    Open
    35/38 sites
  • Fri, Oct 2
    Open
    31/38 sites
  • Fri, Oct 9
    Open
    33/38 sites
  • Fri, Oct 16
    Open
    35/38 sites
  • Fri, Oct 23
    Open
    36/38 sites

Friday + Saturday nights, sites bookable both nights. Counts come from a rotating sweep and can lag a cancellation by up to a day — alerts watch your exact dates within minutes.

How booked is Blanding Landing?

as of September 19

Sites are open right now — we found space out to Oct. That changes fast at a campground. We check Blanding Landing around the clock, so the moment your dates fill up and a cancellation reopens them, you'll be first to know. Weekdays still have room — for now.

Weekends (Saturday night)

Sep 26Open
Oct 3Open
Oct 17Open
Oct 24Open

Weekdays (Wednesday night)

Sep 23Open
Oct 7Open
Oct 21Open

Availability checked directly against the reservation system, out to 3 months ahead.

Campsites & amenities

Site-level details from Recreation.gov's official catalog.

Campsites
38
Electric sites
31
Max rig length
40 ft
Group Picnic AreaStandard ElectricStandard No Hookup

About this campground

Overview Blanding Landing is situated in a lush river valley on the east bank of the great Mississippi, just 13 miles from Galena, Illinois. Rich deposits of minerals line the landscape. In the early 19th century, miners from around the globe flocked to the area in search of wealth from minerals. This was the nation's first mineral rush, predating California's legendary Gold Rush.Recreation The Mississippi River draws crowds of anglers each year. The most popular species is the channel catfish. Bluegill, walleye, crappie and northern pike also live in these waters. Other activities include boating, picnicking and hunting.Facilities All campsites are on grass and most have electric hookups. A playground and showers are also available. Hardwood trees allow for natural shade in the area.Natural Features The campround is off the beaten path offering a quiet camping getaway. Nestled along the backwaters of the Mississippi River, this area is a well known birders paradise plus access to miles of great fishing. Thousands of years ago, Ice Age Glaciers divided and detoured around the northwest corner of Illinois. In their wake, clusters of rugged hills remain. Today, the winding country roads are perfect for leisurely drives. Nearby Attractions The town of Galena is 13 miles north, and attracts tourists for its quaint atmosphere, unique shops and historic buildings. Eighty-five percent of the buildings in the town are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (563) 582-0881.

Getting there

13 miles south of Galena, IL off HWY 20, turn west on Blackjack and follow directional signs. DO NOT TAKE DIGGIN HILL RD.

Elevation
604 ft
Contact
(309)794-4524
Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 office

Activities

  • DAY USE AREA
  • CAMPING
  • WILDLIFE VIEWING
  • BIRDING
  • FISHING
  • PICNICKING
  • WATER ACCESS

Nearby federal campgrounds

Never miss an opening at Blanding Landing

Popular Illinois campgrounds book out months ahead — but cancellations happen every day. We watch Blanding Landing around the clock and alert you the moment a sold-out site reopens for your dates, so you don't have to keep refreshing Recreation.gov.

Not ready to subscribe? Get a free weekend heads-up.

We'll email you if Blanding Landing opens up for a weekend you pick. No account needed.

Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office or on Recreation.gov before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.