Dog-Friendly Camping near Aroma Park, IL

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    Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park features spacious, private campsites with lush vegetation between sites, providing excellent separation for campers with pets. The park accommodates tent, RV, and cabin camping with electric hookups, potable water, and modern shower facilities. Kankakee South KOA offers a wider range of options including pet-friendly cabins, RV sites with full hookups, and tent sites, plus a dedicated dog park for off-leash exercise. Most campgrounds in the area maintain standard leash policies requiring pets to be secured at all times outside accommodations. Lake Alexander RV Park provides riverside camping with pet access to the Kankakee River, where dogs can swim and cool off during hot summer months. The campground's natural wooded setting creates ample opportunities for short walks with pets along the riverbank. Sites at these locations typically include fire rings and picnic tables, making them comfortable for extended stays with animals.

    Paved bike paths throughout Kankakee River State Park offer excellent pet exercise opportunities with miles of trails suitable for dog walking. The park's proximity to the Kankakee River provides water access for pets who enjoy swimming, though owners should be vigilant about river conditions and currents. Oak Lake RV Resort in nearby Fair Oaks, Indiana maintains pet-friendly policies with a seasonal operation from April 15 to October 15. Most campgrounds in the region require proof of current vaccinations upon check-in, and campers should pack waste bags as pet stations may be limited. Pioneer Family Campground, about 35 miles from Aroma Park, welcomes pets at their cabin accommodations with additional fees. Enchanted Shores RV Park provides both tent and RV options for pet owners with level sites and adequate space for pet containment. Weekend campgrounds can get crowded during summer months, affecting the tranquility for reactive dogs or pets sensitive to noise and activity.

    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Aroma Park (44)

      1. Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      4.5(17)11mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Right at the start of Osage is an entrance to the crushed gravel bike path. It gave us a great hike through the trees. You can find picnic areas and playground equipment by following the bike path."

      "There are a few water pumps and vault toilets within walking distance, but we were pretty close to the shower house, which had stalls for toilets and showers."

      2. Kankakee South KOA

      3.7(10)4mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Dog friendly lots of dogs this weekend nice size dog park! You overall great weekend"

      "We loved the dog park along with the many activities available. We come here at least once a year. Check out their information on their website."

      3. Lake Alexander RV Park

      3.8(4)11mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents

      "Lake Alexander RV Park is a quiet, spacious, family owned and operated campground located near Momence, Illinois, within a 1-hour drive of Chicago."

      "She even put me next to a fellow biker. Nice quiet place and you can walk down to the Kankakee river."

      from $33 - $43 / night

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      4. Chippewa Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      4.8(4)15mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents

      "shade canopy and an open feel Well maintained open-grass layout

       - Spacious campsites, similar to other IL State Parks we've stayed at

       - Quiet (when we visited)

       - Boat ramp is accessible via trail"

      "No water hookup .But has a swing set for the kids to play a few bike/hike trails. Quiet no street noise . They have a dump station and water too fill your camper."

      from $8 - $20 / night

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      5. Route 66 Joliet

      5.0(2)12mi from Aroma ParkRVs

      from $100 - $1000 / night

      6. Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area

      3.8(5)17mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "No real trails but if you don't mind roughing it plenty to explore, hunting, fishing, mushrooms, electric motor only boats on the lake. We bring our kayaks."

      "There’s a local bar that was still hopping nearby. Generators are allowed, so there was a hum of one running all night but it was no bother at all. Otherwise, entirely peaceful and quiet."

      7. Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground

      3.6(5)18mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents

      "The park is dog friendly. The campground is clean and quiet. There is no bath house, only port-a-potty's throughout the campground."

      "Yes, it’s an hour from the city, but I’d take the drive over the bill at a nearby hotel. There’s an outhouse and plenty of places to plug in the RV, and cars/tents are welcome too."

      from $20 - $35 / night

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      8. Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area Campground

      3.5(2)17mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents

      "Clean campground, clean bathrooms (no showers) and a nice lake. Sites do not have any utilities, but there is water available and a dump station."

      from $10 - $12 / night

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      9. Oak Lake RV Resort

      4.0(8)27mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Things changed for me I had surgery and couldn’t sit up the camper so we decided to find a camp site close to home this year."

      "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."

      from $55 - $160 / night

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      10. Pioneer Family Campground

      3.7(3)23mi from Aroma ParkRVs, Tents, Cabins

      from $35 - $65 / night

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Aroma Park, IL

    249 Reviews of 44 Aroma Park Campgrounds


    • A
      Jul. 4, 2023

      Great Falls Campground — Illini State Park

      Closed Off Tent Camping

      Although we camped in Illinois record rainfall, we still had a blast. Plenty of trees to hammock, clean bathrooms, and a great river view.

    • H
      Jun. 3, 2019

      Kankakee South KOA

      Just another weekend :)

      Small campground but very friendly. A plus was the full hookups. The sights are very close together. Management is not over bearing and very friendly. Dog friendly lots of dogs this weekend nice size dog park! You overall great weekend

    • Debbie B.
      Jun. 24, 2019

      Kankakee South KOA

      Nice enough for local camping

      Many very nice permanent sites. We loved the dog park along with the many activities available. We come here at least once a year. Check out their information on their website.

      If you want a quick local get away this is the place.

    • Iryna R.
      Oct. 6, 2024

      Leisure Lake Resort

      Ugh..

      We’ve been staying at this resort for several months now, and wanted to share some feedback based on our experience.

      The pool only opened mid-summer.

      Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day, and we’ve had to install a five-stage filtration system just to make it usable.

      We’ve also noticed that rules aren’t enforced consistently, and it sometimes feels like certain guests are treated unfairly. For example, while we were told that personal kiddie pools aren’t allowed, we’ve counted at least six others set up around the park.

      Package delivery is only permitted under special circumstances, and only if pre-approved by staff.

      Had an incident where a staff member criticized my swimsuit at the pool, despite it being modest and similar to what others were wearing. I wore this swimsuit to many pools for many years. Additionally, the beach area is often closed even during posted open hours, and pool hours or updates aren’t clearly communicated—you have to inquire to get any information.

      The storm shelter is typically locked, making it inaccessible in emergencies, which is a major concern.

      We’ve also had to fix the swing set at the playground ourselves multiple times, as it’s been broken for a while. Many of the park’s facilities and amenities are showing their age and could benefit from updates and maintenance.

      That said, there are aspects we’ve truly enjoyed, and they’re the main reasons we’ve continued our stay: the spacious layout of the RV park, a nice lake, beach, pool, gym, and a dog park.

    • Steven C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Nov. 13, 2023

      Love's RV Stop-Demotte IN 394

      Clean and convienent

      Great stop for the night, It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids. Plenty of space and Convenient. We reserved and checked in online. The only complaint I had is the site we were at showed a ground fault on the 50amp Circuit so I had to use the 30 amp circuit but it's Nov so no need to run dual ACs minor issue but still make sure your using your EPM devices.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 1, 2024

      Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859

      Easy & Convenient Roadside Pit Stop

      As we were driving eastbound on I80 that day, we spotted the Love’s RV Hookup, which is a new concept that this oversized fueling depot / travel store has been working on for the past year or so. Having checked out one of their other locations in Bloomington earlier in the year, which I have to admit, I was fairly impressed by, we decided to stop in here to have a look. Located just due east on the outskirts of little known Morris, Illinois just off I80, this little roadside stand isn’t the largest Love’s I’ve ever seen, but it sure does pack a punch. 

      If you do find yourself hustling and bustling east or west along the I80 corridor and are in need of a pit stop or an overnight stay, then the good folks at the Love’s RV Hookup have you covered. While the other Love’s I have stopped by seem enormous by comparison, this spot felt more like a corner convenience store that also had a fairly large fueling bay (4 double-sided pumps) in the front, primarily for cars and SUVs. 

      As you pull in, there’s 4 spots earmarked to the right of the entrance for RV’s. As you pull further along in front of the Love’s fueling bay, on the other side, an additional 6 or so slots exist for other RVs to park. In all, there’s 10 back-in RV slots available and inside you’ll find that there’s 7 individual shower stalls (all of which were in pristine, brand-new shape when we stopped by) along with a laundry facility, which we were happily surprised by, as well as a designated RV dump service, propane refill station and all of the typical hook-ups (water, 30 / 50 amp electric and sewage) along with WiFi. Inside, there’s of course the Love’s retail market, which was just decent, an ATM, Hardee’s and Naf-Naf (think Subway, but instead, Middle Eastern food). There’s even a small dog park here. As I hinted at, quite a lot here for such a small location. 

      If you would like something more substantial to eat, just head back west on I80 to the next exit, where if you head north there’s an IHOP, Chili’s, Bellacino’s Pizza or you can head on back to the TA Travel Center where they actually have a proper sit-down 24 hour restaurant called R-Place. If instead of heading north, you drive south on the main drag (Road 47), there’s a Buffalo Wild Wings, Pizza Hut, Starbuck’s, Wendy’s, Culver’s, Dunkin' and Burger King. But if you want something a bit more memorable, I would recommend either Morris Diner & Pancake House or La Casa Michoacana. And if you don’t mind a slightly longer drive back towards Ottawa, there’s 2 amazing places I would recommend that you won’t soon forget: Hank’s and Lone Buffalo. 

      Should you want to actually enjoy a bit of the nature around these parts, you can continue to head south on N. Division Street / Road 47 where you’ll come to 2 parks: Goold and Chapin, where either would make for a great place to stretch your legs, walk the dog or grab a picnic. If you’d like something a bit more splendid, then head on over to William G. Stratton SP or Gebhard Woods SP where you will be able to hike the I&M Canal State Trail. 

      While scoring criteria may vary from one person to the next, here are the 5 most important criteria that informed my rating of this overnight location: convenience (EZ on- and off-access), safety & security, quality (of facilities), peace & quiet and amenities (either on-site or nearby). Here’s how I ranked this particular overnight spot: 

      Convenience: 5 

      Safety & Security: 4 

      Quality: 5 

      Peace & Quiet: 4 

      Amenities: 3 

      Overall, I scored this location a 4.

      Happy Overnighting!

    • T
      Oct. 4, 2020

      Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort

      Great First Experience

      Friendly staff who were quick to respond to any issues. Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot. Pet-friendly. Pleasant park with good pad. Near busy road and shipping plant. No wi-fi found except at hotel. Good phone connection. Garbage cans throughout park. Minutes from I & M Canal entrance on Houbolt and from JJC and I-80.

    • Art S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 1, 2021

      Channahon State Park Campground

      Perfect for cyclists along the canal trail

      This campground is right in town. It is a bit away from businesses. However if you arrive by car you drive through the quaint town. 

      Arriving by bicycle is even better. The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride.

      This campground is surrounded by trees. When we showed up, a classic car gathering was going on. They even set a campfire to use throughout the morning. There are vault toilets and a picnic area too. It should also be noted that you need to walk in to the campsites (parking is really close by).

      The maintenance buildings are right next to campsites. Today they were mowing so workers were moving in camp but also out along the trail and park.

      This is a nice, shady place to stop along the I & M Canal Trail.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 1, 2024

      Glenwood RV Resort

      Midwestern Country Pasture Camping Near Illinois River

      Located just 5 minutes south of I80, which is one of the busiest highways that runs east– west through Illinois and just a couple stone’s throws north of the mighty Illinois River, you’ll find Glenwood RV Resort located on the outskirts of the very small Midwestern town of Marseilles (specifically mispronounced so as not be confused with its actual French origins, brought here by the French fur traders in the 1500 and 1600’s). While Glenwood sits on some 100+ acres with ample space for anyone hauling a 5th wheeler, driving an RV or wanting to pitch a tent, there’s lots of grassy areas to set up camp just about anywhere you look.

      What struck me as somewhat odd, although you do find this in a few campgrounds around these parts as opposed to the recreational nature of what most people think about when camping, there were quite a few seasonal residents here along with large swaths of blue-collar workers that seem to make camping here more of a residential choice. If you arrive to this place and are somewhat put off by the less than polished first impressions you will encounter, as was I, just check in here at the office and keep heading north into the campground where you will see it opens up to a pretty nice suite of amenities as well as two distinct campground neighborhoods – the center ridge and the north ridge – of which you will find some 140 or so RV parking spots.

      For mi tent-pitching bredren, keep on heading north to the Outback, where you’ll come to fresh green spots perfect for setting up your camp underneath the Midwestern starry night. As far as amenities go, there’s quite a bit: horseshoe pits, catch & release pond, covered pavilions, kitchen, telephone area, shower/ restroom facilities, game room, 2 kid’s playground, trading post, swimming lake, in-ground pool and kid’s pool with outdoor deck, tennis court, baseball diamond, volleyball and basketball court as well as an entertainment area / stage. The RV slots are full hook-ups offering 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage and there is a designated dump station upon entry / exit of the property (near the front entrance) where you will also discover horse stables for rent that come with access to a nearby horse pasture.

      Insider’s tips? Sure, here's a few: (1) While this wouldn’t be my first choice for an overnight outdoor camping adventure, in a pinch, it’s not bad with all of the amenities, proximity to Illinois River and overall affordability; (2) If you come to this area to do some hiking, you’re in great luck as there are quite a number of really great state parks nearby to check out, including Starved Rock, Matthiessen and Illini; (3) Should you want to go spinning on your bike, there’s great long flat and scenic trails all along the I&M Canal corridor that parallels Illinois River and which passes right in front of Buffalo Rock SP; (4) When you get tired of trying to conjure the next meal from the depths of your on-board mini-fridge or bear-proof, goat-clawed Cordova cooler, then nearby Marseilles will have a few joints to consider, from Ziggy’s which is like a diner, Illini Lounge and Snug Harbor Marina, which has a nice view of the Illinois River – but if you want truly an exceptional meal, head a bit further west to Ottawa to Lone Buffalo which is a micro-brewery and gastropub, of which I highly recommend the fish & chips.

      Happy Camping!


    Guide to Aroma Park

    Kankakee River State Park offers multiple campgrounds near Aroma Park, Illinois with both electric and non-electric sites. The park spans 4,000 acres along the Kankakee River with riverside trails for hiking and biking. Camping options include wooded sites at Chippewa Campground that remain open year-round while Potowatomi Campground operates seasonally with more extensive facilities.

    What to do

    Fishing along the Kankakee River: Access points throughout Kankakee River State Park provide opportunities for catching bass and other species. "There are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads. Exploring the area is pretty cool and the park is quite expansive and impressive for this state," notes Andrea F.

    Rock climbing near waterways: The park features natural formations for climbing enthusiasts. "There are some rock cliffs that are suspended over the Kankakee river and also over a creek that feeds it. These are great for climbing and scaling," according to reviews from Kankakee River State Park.

    Visit the nature center: Educational activities for children available at the main office. "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" says Linda N. from Kankakee River State Park.

    Seasonal camping at Fair Oaks: Oak Lake RV Resort operates from April 15 to October 15 with recreational pond activities. "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories," reports Nadiehsda B.

    What campers like

    Privacy between sites: Chippewa Campground offers natural spacing with minimal underbrush. "The sites are straightforward and vary quite a bit: some are huge with open green space and others I feel like just for a car and a tent. Our site was perfect with trees to hang a hammock on and for the kids to run around," explains Linda N.

    Affordable rates at wildlife areas: Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area provides budget-friendly camping. "It's $12 a night. Pretty clean campground run by the DNR, lots of acreage to explore. No real trails but if you don't mind roughing it plenty to explore, hunting, fishing, mushrooms, electric motor only boats on the lake," reports Adam M.

    Clean facilities at dog friendly campgrounds near Aroma Park: Many visitors note the well-maintained restrooms. "The shower house was good. We went during July 4th so it was busy (the toilet paper was completely out when I stopped by and it looked like some kids had a water balloon fight in there) but the team came out to clean up promptly," says a Kankakee River State Park visitor.

    Fall foliage views: Chippewa Campground particularly shines in autumn. "We stayed in the Chippewa Campground in early October... Large trees provided a high shade canopy and an open feel... Great fall colors," notes Norman V.

    What you should know

    Pet vaccination requirements: Most pet-friendly campgrounds in the Aroma Park region require current vaccination records at check-in. Bring documentation to avoid issues.

    Varying water quality: Some campgrounds have issues with water taste. "Do remember to bring power source for your phone such as a power bank and water to drink, the water there taste funny," warns a visitor to Willow Slough.

    Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds in the area close during winter months, with Oak Lake RV Resort and Pioneer Family Campground both operating from April 15 to October 15.

    Shower availability varies: Lake Alexander RV Park has well-maintained shower facilities, while others offer only vault toilets. "The bathroom and shower facility was well maintained," confirms Maaya Y.

    First-come sites: Many locations don't take reservations. "We came in without a reservation and got a nice spot for a camper, showers were decent and hosts were nice!!" reports Maya L. from Kankakee River State Park.

    Tips for camping with families

    Accessible wildlife encounters: Bring children to the nature center for interactive experiences. "My kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" at Kankakee River State Park's main office.

    Playground proximity matters: Choose sites close to play areas for convenience. At Pioneer Family Campground, "There is a small playground, and a pond for swimming and fishing," notes Amanda K., who adds they "tent camped with 8 small kiddos. One of the largest tent sites I've been on."

    Off-site recreation options: Research nearby attractions. "Near the campground is an awesome playground (Lincoln Township Park), as well as an adorable family owned Ice Cream shop (Sycamore Drive-In)," recommends a visitor to Pioneer Family Campground.

    Swimming safety: River swimming requires caution while some campgrounds offer pond alternatives. "We were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)," cautions a Kankakee River State Park visitor.

    Tips from RVers

    Big rig accommodation: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Aroma Park can handle larger vehicles. "6 people, 1 pup & a 44.4' Keystone Sprinter... Oak Lake RV Resort handled it all with ease & gave us the BEST camping trip ever! From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup," shares Nadiehsda B.

    Electrical hookup options: Check amperage availability before booking. "Kankakee South KOA Holiday in Kankakee, Illinois for a long-term stay... we were charged different rates for electric and internet," reports Jill T.

    Dump station reliability: Verify functionality before arrival. "The dump station was full and we couldn't dump our camper," warns Steve D. from Pioneer Family Campground.

    Site leveling considerations: Some locations require extra equipment. "Some sites are not level so you have to pay attention," advises Scott B. about Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Aroma Park, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Aroma Park, IL is Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 17 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Aroma Park, IL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 44 dog-friendly camping locations near Aroma Park, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.