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Abdulrahman A.
Scout
ScoutBig Rock Campground
Beautiful And Quite
Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply
Camping near Lake Barrington, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Northern Illinois camping options within reach of Lake Barrington include several established campgrounds with varying amenities and natural settings. Chain O' Lakes State Park, located about 20 miles northwest, offers multiple camping areas including Fox Den, Turner Lake South, Prairie View, and Honeysuckle Hollow campgrounds. Camp Reinberg in Palatine provides a more suburban camping experience with only four sites tucked alongside biking and walking paths through forest preserves. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort in Volo accommodates tent campers, RVs, and those seeking cabin or glamping options. These campgrounds typically feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to both wooded areas and water recreation.
Reservations through Illinois' ExploreMoreIL system are essential during peak summer months, particularly for sites with electrical hookups. One camper noted, "The full hookups fill up fast with no spur-of-the-moment camping unless it is early or late in the season." Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter accessibility. Illinois state parks enforce a strict no-alcohol policy, even at individual campsites. The region experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds, with some offering modern bathrooms and showers while others provide only basic amenities like pit toilets and communal water spigots.
Site privacy varies considerably across the area's campgrounds. Turner Lake South loop receives praise for "nice and private sites," while Honeysuckle Hollow is described as "open and row after row of RV sites." Many campgrounds feature water access, with Chain O' Lakes being particularly popular for boating and fishing. According to visitor reports, "Chain O' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season." Shade availability is another important consideration, as some newer campgrounds lack mature trees. The proximity to Chicago makes these areas popular weekend destinations, with many campgrounds filling completely on summer weekends but emptying considerably by Sunday evening. Most locations offer hiking trails, with varying widths and surfaces from natural paths to crushed gravel and paved sections.
Best Campgrounds near Lake Barrington (67)
1. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability2. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."
"We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"
from $25 / night
Check Availability3. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability4. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
"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."
"We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago."
from $43 - $73 / night
Check Availability5. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"
"Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"
6. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"We can both drive to work and then come back to relax. Close to some great places for antiquing if you don't want to hike the trails or fish."
"It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "
7. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."
"You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly. But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"
8. Chicago Northwest KOA
"You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"
"We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"
9. Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"Prairie View campground is in the Chain O Lakes State Park series. This is the no services campground. We could walk to fill up with water but no electric on site. Checking in was interesting."
"You could barely see the neighbors because of how overgrown the edges of the site were. We felt like we were in our own little bubble."
10. Mud Lake East — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"This State Park isn't too far off the beaten path which is nice. Fairly close to gas stations, convenience stores, etc. The park is clean, and has the bathrooms and utilities that would be needed."
"There are numerous sites that are on a small lake with great sunset views. Sites are decent size but not much privacy in between sites. Lots of wooded trails within the campground."
from $12 / night
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Drive Time
- 44 min from Kenosha, WI
- 50 min from Chicago, IL
- 55 min from Rockford, IL
- 56 min from Racine, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Lake Barrington, IL
218 Photos of 67 Lake Barrington Campgrounds
Glenn T.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Janet P.
Mud Lake West — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Linda M.
Escape to Nature
Heather L.
Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Aida K.
Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Brian O.
Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Scott B.
Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Christie S.
Chicago Northwest KOA
Scott N.
Thomas Woods Campground
Naomi M.
Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
Recent Reviews near Lake Barrington, IL
638 Reviews of 67 Lake Barrington Campgrounds
- HHolly B.
GuideChicago Northwest KOA
A bit of a drive
It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
Bryan A.
TravelerMuskego Park by Waukesha County Parks
Always a great time
This park has always been a go to for me. As a full time RVer, I come here a lot. The scenery is beautiful, beach right next door, fishing holes not far from here. The people who come are all very friendly and the park rangers are very welcoming and always have firewood for the visitors. Highly recommend this spot for everyone.
- MManny A.Traveler
Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
Simple and local
First time RV’ing with my wife and we were able to navigate pretty easily in our rented 30’. Arrived on a Monday, and as posted, there was no one so we checked in online(they sent an email to check in). Simple camp site with tons of space(almost double our RV), a long wood picnic table and a fire pit. Everything was great until we left. Dumping was straight forward, but the person in front of me was taking a little while to dump. They had came up to my RV and let me know the dump tank was backing up, which I had also experienced when I tried dumping. I called to ask for assistance on Thursday and they said they would send a ranger out. 45 minutes of waiting and a couple other RV’s after us and we ended up giving up and going to another site closer to home to dump. Great experience otherwise.
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendRock Cut Equestrian Campground
A Peaceful Retreat for Horse-Loving Families
If your family's perfect camping trip includes saddling up and exploring miles of wooded trails together, the Equestrian Campground at Rock Cut State Park offers a wonderfully peaceful place to spend a few days. Tucked away from the park's busier camping loops, this rustic first-come, first-served campground provides spacious sites designed for campers traveling with horses, along with nearby potable water, restrooms and direct access to more than 14 miles of designated equestrian trails. While amenities are intentionally simple (erring on non-existent), the extra room to accommodate horse trailers and the quiet natural surroundings create exactly the kind of setting many riders are looking for. One of my favorite moments was watching families quietly prepare their horses in the early morning light before disappearing beneath the trees for a day on the trails, returning later with tired horses, dusty boots and smiles that needed no explanation. Arriving early is the best way to secure a site since camping is first-come, first-served and availability is limited. This campground is ideal for equestrian families given its spacious layout, direct trail access and peaceful atmosphere that allows both riders and horses to truly unwind.
Stuart K.LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Thousand Trails Pine Country
Shaded, Family-Friendly Country Retreat
There’s something instantly calming about rolling into a campground wrapped in tall pines and soft breezes, and Pine Country had that peaceful, easy feeling that made all of us exhale before we even found our site. This campground is expansive and welcoming, with full-hookup spots laid out across wide loops, plenty of shade, clean bathrooms and a friendly mix of families settling in for weekends or longer stays. Our boys loved wandering between the fishing pond and the small recreation areas and we ended the evening sharing freshly baked chocolate chip cookies that we made over an open fire on a Camp Chef black skillet munching them down at the picnic table while listening to the trees rustle above us. For families looking for a convenient home base near Rockford with lots of room to spread out, EZ access to town for supplies and a campground that really does feel safe and relaxed, Pine Country is an EZ pick. Highly recommended for young families seeking space, shade and a low-key, gentle setting to recharge.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Sycamore RV Resort
Peaceful Lakeside Pause in the Heart of Corn Country
There’s something so comforting about pulling into Sycamore RV Resort and seeing the sunlight dance across those two spring-fed lakes, giving you that immediate exhale that only a calm Midwestern campground can bring. The property is medium-sized, incredibly tidy and thoughtfully laid out, with full-hookup RV sites circling the water, a small sandy beach for summer splashing, clean restrooms and showers, simple playgrounds and EZ walking loops that make it feel both manageable and welcoming for families. The boys were in heaven the next morning when we drove over to Elleson’s Bakery for fresh homemade donuts still warm from the oven. Later we wandered through historic downtown Sycamore during Pumpkinfest, taking in the decorated storefronts and carved pumpkins lined up like a little parade. Back at the RV Resort, from what we saw, the best campsites are any of the lakeside slots on the western shore because they offer the prettiest sunrise views and the quietest pockets of the resort. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its peaceful lakeside setting, its clean and convenient amenities and its proximity to a charming small provincial Midwestern town that makes even a simple weekend feel memorable.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Holiday Acres Camping Resort
Country Calm with a Dash of Classic Campground Fun
The moment we pulled into Holiday Acres, that cozy ‘old-school campground’ feeling washed over us, with tall trees, winding lanes and a big, friendly welcome from the office that instantly made the boys sit up and take notice. The campground is beautifully laid out with roomy sites, full hookups, a well-kept swimming pond, mini golf, a little camp store and restrooms that were impressively clean for a busy family spot. After a long drive, the boys made a beeline for the playground and the pedal carts, and later that night we all sat under the string lights eating ice cream sandwiches from the camp store while fireflies blinked and buzzed through the trees. If you’re a family looking for somewhere safe, shaded and EZ-going with just enough activities to keep the kids happily worn out, this place absolutely fits the bill. Highly recommended for its friendly atmosphere, great kid-focused amenities and peaceful, wooded setting.
Guide to Lake Barrington
Camping near Lake Barrington, Illinois focuses on rustic, forested sites within an hour's drive. Northern Illinois summer temperatures average 80-85°F, with high humidity from June through August, while winters can bring temperatures below 20°F with occasional heavy snowfall. The region's glacial topography creates rolling terrain with small ponds and marshes that attract diverse wildlife throughout camping areas.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: Chain O' Lakes State Park has over 10 miles of varied trails. "There are miles of trails. On one hike we were on paved, sifted gravel, grass and single trek trails. There are a lot of loops giving you options," notes a visitor to Paul Wolff Campground.
Water recreation: The Fox River and connected lakes system offers kayaking, fishing, and boating opportunities. A camper at Turner Lake South explains: "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds host special events during spring and fall. A visitor to Camp Reinberg notes, "Take your bikes along big park with a lot of trails. Beach was nice," while another mentions, "Btw, nice fire-spitting show at the pavilion!" The off-season provides quieter camping experiences with fewer crowds.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site isolation varies significantly between campgrounds and loops. At Prairie View, a camper shared, "The site was so cozy because it was at the very back of the circle," while another reported, "You could barely see the neighbors because of how overgrown the edges of the site were. We felt like we were in our own little bubble."
Proximity to Chicago: Most campgrounds are between 40-60 minutes from Chicago, making them popular weekend destinations. A visitor to Camp Reinberg noted it was "centrally located to the major roads (Quentin/NW Hwy) and about 10 minutes from the Palatine Metra train station," adding it's "not easy to find a place to camp this close to Chicago, let alone someplace really great!"
Wildlife viewing: The wetland areas attract diverse bird and mammal species. According to a Turner Lake visitor, "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to belive that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area just outside elgin, il." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for electric sites. A Fish Lake Beach visitor notes, "We stayed in one of the tent sites across the road from the lakefront sites. There are about 8 tent/pop up sites and the rest of the campground is for RVs. I recommend the lakefront tent sites, they are spacious and you can fish right from your site!"
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds have strict quiet hours enforced by rangers. A visitor explains, "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark."
Bugs and wildlife: Insects can be problematic in summer months. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warns a Honeysuckle Hollow camper. Another adds, "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Several campgrounds offer easy access amenities for first-time campers. At Fox Den Campground, "The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. Our site was very shaded and quiet at night. The bath house was very clean." Many sites have electricity, making it easier for families with young children.
Swimming options: Water recreation varies by location. A Fish Lake Beach visitor shares, "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas. A Turner Lake South visitor mentioned, "There is also a park for the kids in several areas," while another noted, "Very big campground with mostly seasonals. Atmosphere is the perfect balance of fun and relaxing."
RV tips
Hookup availability: Electric service is common but full hookups are limited. At Honeysuckle Hollow, "These sites share an electric box. Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. A lot of the spaces are also crowded together. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance."
Site dimensions: Many RV sites have specific size limitations. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers," reports a visitor.
Off-season considerations: Spring and fall offer better availability for larger rigs. A Paul Wolff camper notes, "It is a super clean campground with multiple hosts and forest preserve staff. There are a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees."
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the nearest campsites to Lake Barrington?
How do I find the nearest campsites to Lake Barrington?
Several excellent campgrounds are located within driving distance of Lake Barrington. Camp Reinberg is a nearby option with extensive biking and walking trails that connect to unique clearings and bridges. Another good choice is Blackwell Family Campground, which offers weekend getaways with electric hookups at all sites, level camping areas, and modern bathrooms. Both provide convenient access to Lake Barrington while offering different outdoor experiences. For the most up-to-date information on campsite availability and reservations, check with the DuPage and Cook County Forest Preserve District websites.
Are there camping facilities available at Lake Barrington?
Are there camping facilities available at Lake Barrington?
While Lake Barrington itself doesn't have dedicated camping facilities, several campgrounds in the surrounding area provide great alternatives. Chain O' Lakes State Park offers multiple camping loops including Turner Lake South, which features nicely private sites, unlike the more open RV-focused areas. For a less crowded option, Prairie View campground within Chain O' Lakes provides primitive camping with water access nearby but no electric hookups. Most camping areas require reservations, which can be made through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources reservation system.
What amenities do Lake Barrington campgrounds offer for visitors?
What amenities do Lake Barrington campgrounds offer for visitors?
Campgrounds near Lake Barrington offer varied amenities depending on your needs. Pearl Lake provides a lakeside retreat that's particularly refreshing during hot Illinois summers. For those seeking more developed facilities, Rock Cut State Park offers good-sized sites in a peaceful setting with a lake for canoe rentals and fishing, plus nice walking trails. Most nearby campgrounds provide basic amenities like fire rings and picnic tables, while developed sites often include electric hookups, modern restrooms with showers, and drinking water. Nature trails, fishing opportunities, and boat launches are common features at the larger state parks in the region.
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