Camp Bullfrog Lake provides designated tent and RV sites with water, electric hookups and shower facilities for campers with dogs. The campground allows pets in cabins for those wanting more comfort. Winter camping is limited with seasonal closures from November through April. Multiple entry points connect to regional trail networks for day hiking. Sites range from $20-30 per night depending on residency status and hookup requirements.
What to do
Kayaking on Silver Lake: At Blackwell Family Campground, visitors can enjoy paddling alongside wildlife. "The fishing is outstanding. There are lots of places along the lake and ponds to get an easy catch and release," reports one camper. Rental boats are available during summer months.
Mountain biking on singletrack: Extensive trail networks near Camp Sullivan provide technical riding options. "The trail system is great for walking the dogs," notes a recent visitor. Trails connect between campgrounds allowing for longer rides through forest preserves.
Winter hiking: Cold-weather camping opens up solitude opportunities. "Nice place for a winter hike," shares one camper at Blackwell. Trails remain open year-round with fewer crowds during off-season months.
What campers like
Free firewood allocation: Camp Reinberg provides complimentary wood with site rental. "Free firewood and you can purchase more for just $5," mentions a reviewer. This saves the hassle of sourcing wood when arriving after dark.
Proximity to Chicago: Bedford Park camping areas offer escape without distance. "Located only 30 miles outside the city," notes a review about Paul Wolff Campground. Most sites are within 45 minutes of downtown, making weekend trips practical.
Diverse wildlife viewing: Morning hours provide prime wildlife spotting. "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies," shares a Paul Wolff visitor. Bird watching opportunities include goldfinches, hawks and seasonal migrations of sandhill cranes.
What you should know
Variable shower conditions: Facilities differ widely between campgrounds. "The water pressure in the showers was so-so, but there was no hot water," reports one Camp Sullivan visitor. At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, "Bath house was always clean and grounds were well-kept."
Train noise proximity: Several campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. "You can hear railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," notes a camper about Dunewood Campground. Noise-sensitive campers should request sites furthest from tracks.
Reservation requirements: Weekend spots fill quickly during summer months. "The sites are decently private with good tent pads," shares a visitor to Dunewood. Most campgrounds require reservations 1-2 weeks in advance for Friday and Saturday stays.
Tips for camping with families
Rock climbing activities: Camp Sullivan offers structured recreation. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," mentions one family. The climbing wall provides an alternative when weather turns unfavorable.
Archery options: Several preserves maintain target ranges. "Canoe rentals and free archery range," notes a Blackwell visitor. Equipment rental may be seasonal, so call ahead to confirm availability.
Hiking difficulty levels: Trail systems accommodate various abilities. "There are a lot of loops giving you options," shares a visitor to Paul Wolff. Most loops are under 3 miles with minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Arrive with full water tanks. "Only offered electric service," notes a visitor to Indiana Dunes State Park. Most campgrounds near Bedford Park provide electricity but limited or no water/sewer connections at individual sites.
Dump station access: Plan for limited disposal options. "No water or dumping hook up. Electric only," shares an RV owner about Martin's Camping Ground. Some facilities close dump stations seasonally, requiring advance planning for longer stays.
Concrete pad leveling: Many sites feature improved surfaces. "All sites are paved pads," mentions a reviewer about Paul Wolff. This reduces setup time but limits staking options for awnings and shade structures.
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