Carroll County
Savanna
Savanna’s brick main street runs downhill toward the Mississippi, with Mississippi Palisades State Park’s limestone bluffs rising just north of town. The old Savanna Army Depot is now the Lost Mound Unit of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, and river-town antique shops and diners still anchor downtown.
Fuel the day
Eat & Drink
- SavannaKountry KettleSmall diner serving American-style cuisine since 1986. Donuts made daily on site. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ample parking for motorcycles and boats on trailers.
- SavannaManny’s PizzaFamous for tacos and pizza for over 40 years. Dine-in or takeout, featuring original recipes in Italian and Tex-Mex cuisine. Banquet rooms, reception and meeting space, outdoor seating, and experienced staff for events. Like and follow on Facebook for hours, events, and promotions.
- SavannaSippi-Side Pub & GrillPub and grill open daily 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. Great food and drinks, outdoor dining, slots, liquor store.
Out and about
Things to Do
- SavannaMississippi Palisades State ParkMississippi Palisades State Park, located just north of Savanna along the Mississippi River, offers more than 2,500 acres of rugged beauty and outdoor adventure. Towering limestone bluffs, wooded ravines, and scenic overlooks provide some of the most breathtaking views in Illinois, making the park a favorite destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. The park's dramatic landscape is part of the Driftless Area and is rich in Native American history and natural features. Visitors can explore miles of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes that wind through rock formations, forests, and river overlooks. Popular viewpoints such as Lookout Point, Ozzie's Point, and Louis' Point offer spectacular views of the Mississippi River valley. The park also features accessible trails and overlooks, making scenic experiences available to a wide range of visitors. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound throughout the year. Campers can choose from more than 240 campsites, including sites with electrical hookups and modern amenities. Rock climbers come to tackle the park's cliffs and formations, while birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts may spot bald eagles, migratory birds, deer, and other native species. Fishing, boating, geocaching, cross-country skiing, and seasonal nature exploration add even more ways to enjoy the landscape. Whether spending an afternoon taking in the river views or enjoying a weekend under the stars, Mississippi Palisades State Park provides a memorable escape into one of northwest Illinois' most striking natural settings.
- SavannaGreat River TrailThe Great River Trail offers one of the most scenic ways to explore the Mississippi River in Northwest Illinois, with a paved, multi-use path that welcomes cyclists, walkers, and casual explorers alike. In Whiteside County, the trail passes through Fulton, Illinois, running directly behind the community’s iconic Dutch windmill along the riverfront. This stretch of the trail offers wide-open views of the Mississippi River, making it a popular stop for visitors seeking a relaxed ride or a peaceful walk. The smooth, paved surface makes it accessible for all skill levels, whether you’re out for a short stroll or planning a longer biking adventure. The Great River Trail is part of a larger regional route that follows the Mississippi River through multiple communities, connecting scenic landscapes, river towns, and recreational opportunities along the way. In Fulton, it’s easy to hop on the trail, take in the surroundings, and experience a different perspective of the river at your own pace.
- SavannaHavencrest CastleTour Carroll County's grandest mansion, a 5 story, 63 room hilltop home with an eternal love story. Open for self-guided & VIP tours weekends in May and October, Self-guided 10am–4pm. (Close at 5). Dozens of themed rooms, 1000s antiques, art, & fantasy. VIP TOURS are guided by owner/artist Alan St. George limited to 10 people at 4PM sharp.
Home base
Stay
- SavannaSeven Eagles Resort and CampgroundSeven Eagles Resort & Campground sits on the rolling hills just outside Savanna, Illinois, offering sweeping views of the Mississippi River Valley. The resort combines traditional campground experiences with comfortable cabin accommodations, making it a flexible option for both weekend campers and travelers looking for a relaxing getaway. Visitors can choose from RV sites, tent camping, or fully furnished cabins. Many sites overlook the surrounding countryside, offering guests a quiet setting to enjoy sunsets, campfires, and wide-open views of the bluff country. Cabins provide a convenient alternative for those who want the feel of a camping trip with the added comfort of indoor lodging. The resort also offers a variety of amenities designed for longer stays and family visits. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, fishing ponds, recreation areas, and open spaces for outdoor games. The property’s hilltop setting makes it a peaceful place to unwind while still being close to the attractions of Savanna and the Mississippi River corridor. Seven Eagles Resort is also located near several well-known outdoor destinations, including scenic river overlooks and hiking opportunities at nearby parks along the Mississippi River bluffs. Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring the Savanna area while enjoying a laid-back camping atmosphere. Whether visitors arrive with an RV, a tent, or plans for a cabin stay, Seven Eagles Resort & Campground offers a welcoming place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Northwest Illinois.
- SavannaBluRiver Canopy2BR/1BA apt, queen beds, kitchen/living area, sectional pullout, luxury shower, smart TV, deck, bonfire, motorcycle parking. Near downtown Savanna. Rent whole house with BluRiver Nest for 6–10. Airbnb link.
- SavannaSpring Lake CampgroundEstablished in 1943, Spring Lake Campground in Savanna, Illinois, offers a vintage, rustic camping experience with an authentic old-school charm. As a gateway to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuge, the campground provides a natural sanctuary for wildlife and campers alike. Surrounded by nature’s best amenities: towering trees, campfires, stunning sunsets, and starry skies! This peaceful retreat offers direct access to the Great River Bike Trail for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring Lake Campground is also directly across from the Savanna Airport, for an unique opportunity to access to fly in camping! We have both seasonal sites and drop in camping sites with 30 amp power and water sites and a dump station on site. We also have primitive sites that are out on the peninsula, providing a unique exclusive tent camping experience (no big RV's or generators allowed). Escape the hustle, unplug from your phone and reconnect with nature at Spring Lake Campground. Book your stay today and embrace the simplicity of timeless camping!