Camping options near Arlington Heights, Illinois cluster within a 30-mile radius in the northern suburbs of Chicago. The flat terrain throughout the region sees summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping season, with frequent evening thunderstorms possible from June through August. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, with limited first-come, first-served options.
What to do
Water recreation access: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers swimming opportunities during summer months. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there," notes one camper who enjoyed the waterfront amenities.
Mountain biking trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides direct access to technical single-track trails. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," writes a visitor who discovered the extensive trail system.
Horseback riding: Several nearby state parks maintain equestrian trails with seasonal availability. "There are amazing trails through park for people to hike, bike, or ride horse on," mentions a camper who visited during summer months. Most equestrian trails require bringing your own horse as rental options are limited.
What campers like
Cleanliness and maintenance: Camp Reinberg receives consistent praise for facility upkeep. "The shower facilities were clean and the staff very friendly," notes one camper. Another adds, "This gem of a campground is run by the Cook County Forest Preserve District and the care they have for it shows! There are pavilions, air conditioned/heated dining hall, shower building, restrooms (seriously the cleanest I've ever seen, even the ceilings were cleaned!)."
Camping close to home: Several campgrounds provide convenient getaways for Chicago-area residents. "10min away from my home, this is an ideal getaway place for Chi-town people," writes one local who appreciates the proximity. Another notes, "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits."
Wildlife viewing: The forest preserves and wetlands attract diverse animal species. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," reports one nature enthusiast. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Budget considerations: County forest preserves often offer the most economical options. Blackwell Family Campground provides reasonable rates for local residents. "County park district runs it and the fees are kinda steep, 20 res/30 non-res," notes one camper, highlighting the price difference between resident and non-resident rates at some locations.
Site selection strategy: Privacy varies considerably between campgrounds and even within the same location. "Most of the sites on this loop are pretty worn, with not much privacy. We stayed in T10, but would consider T9 if we returned to this loop for a different reserved site," advises one experienced camper regarding site selection.
Seasonal conditions: Summer heat can be intense at exposed sites without shade. "No shade in the Illinois heat" can make camping uncomfortable, especially during July and August when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F. Consider booking sites with tree cover when available during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and swimming: Fox Den Campground offers multiple recreation options. "There is a lot to do at this park from hiking to water sports to horse back riding. We did a nice short hike in area," writes a family who enjoyed the variety of activities available within walking distance of their campsite.
Tick prevention: Prepare for ticks, especially with small children. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. Luckily our screen house pop up on a tarp that was sprayed ahead for tick repellent plus a blanket on top of that did the trick, but they literally fall out of the trees into people!" warns a parent who camped with a toddler.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specialized activities for children. "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water," reports a visitor who found the campground appropriate for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Turner Lake South offers more private sites compared to other loops. "We stayed in the Turner lake south loop, which has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites," notes one RVer who appreciated the layout.
Water access challenges: Some campgrounds have inconvenient water hookup arrangements. "The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience for you and them. But they do it with a good attitude," explains a camper regarding the water situation at certain sites.
Electric availability: Most campgrounds offer 30-50 amp service, but availability varies by location. "There is electrical it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise," mentions a visitor who appreciated the quiet atmosphere without the typical background noise found at many RV parks.
