Camp Bullfrog Lake and Camp Sullivan offer glamping sites surrounded by forest preserves in the Chicago area. These established campgrounds provide access to natural settings just outside the urban environment of Berkeley, Illinois. Seasonal considerations are important as most camping facilities in the area operate primarily between May and October, with water sources sometimes unavailable during spring months.
What to do
Hiking trail access: At Indiana Dunes State Park, visitors can explore well-maintained trails through dunes and woodland areas. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," notes Greg S., who appreciated the unique terrain features.
Kayaking and canoeing: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers water recreation across seven connected lakes. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill," shares Aida K., who visited Fox Den Campground. The park rents kayaks for $15 per hour, including life vests.
Mountain biking: Trails near Berkeley provide cycling opportunities for various skill levels. "Some of the areas best mountain bike single track is right here," notes a camper about the terrain at Camp Bullfrog Lake, adding that "there is fishing kayaking and hiking trails too" within the same area.
What campers like
Lake activities: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers water-based recreation on a small, manageable lake. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side," writes Chloe N., who appreciated the lake views and fishing opportunities directly from lakefront sites.
Spacious campsites: Thomas Woods Campground provides well-spaced sites in a wooded setting. "We were at site 4 which is electric hookup and it was a huge area! The kids had so much space to run around and explore," reports Emily L., who found the campground layout ideal for families seeking some privacy.
Clean facilities: Newer or recently renovated amenities enhance camping comfort at several locations. "The bathhouse was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus," notes Katherine T. about the practical amenities that made her stay more convenient at Dunewood Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects several campgrounds, including Indiana Dunes National Park. "Could hear Trains throughout the night," mentions Truly W., though she still rated the campground highly for its "foresty and beautiful" setting. Noise-sensitive campers should bring earplugs.
Alcohol policies: Illinois state parks enforce no-alcohol rules. "ALL Illinois State Parks are now enforcing a no alcohol policy even if you are on your own site," cautions Jeanne M., who otherwise found Chain O' Lakes State Park perfect for weekend getaways when work schedules demand flexibility.
Booking requirements: Campgrounds near Berkeley fill quickly during summer months, especially weekends. "The full hook ups fill up fast no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season," notes a regular camper at Chain O' Lakes State Park, emphasizing the importance of advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Chicago Northwest KOA caters specifically to family camping with organized activities. "Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground," explains Dan B., who found the staff particularly attentive to families' needs.
Wildlife education: Take advantage of nature programs at state parks. "The nature center is right next to the campground," notes a camper at Indiana Dunes State Park, providing convenient access to educational resources. Most nature centers offer weekend programs from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tick awareness: Forested areas require vigilance, especially with small children. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warns Meg about her experience at Chain O' Lakes, suggesting parents create a contained screen house space for toddlers.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only sites: Most state park campgrounds near Berkeley offer electric hookups without water or sewer connections. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us—we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," advises Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential delays at busy facilities. "Two dump stations made wait minimal," notes Jeffrey S. about Indiana Dunes, while others report longer waits at single-station facilities, especially Sunday mornings when most weekend campers depart.
Yurt camping alternatives: For those seeking yurt camping near Berkeley, Illinois without traveling far, Chicago Northwest KOA offers yurt accommodations that blend traditional camping with modern amenities. These structures provide a unique alternative to standard tent or RV camping, with sturdy walls and comfortable sleeping arrangements.
