RV camping near Berkeley, Illinois offers convenient access to both the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding natural areas. Most campgrounds in this region sit on relatively flat terrain at elevations around 600-700 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, with many campgrounds adjusting their water services accordingly during colder months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sycamore RV Resort, campers can fish in two well-maintained lakes. "Nice clean campground, quiet and beautiful lake for fishing, close to town, but yet just far enough out," notes reviewer Ron D. The resort maintains a catch-and-release policy for fishing.
Hiking trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides direct access to extensive trail systems. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," explains Josh M. The trails connect to the larger Palos Trail System with varied terrain options.
Beach activities: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas for summer recreation. At Sycamore RV Resort, "There are two lakes, catch and release fishing. A small beach with a snack shack," reports Deb M. The beach area typically opens from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort maintains high standards for their bathrooms and shower areas. "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" states Jeana K. The resort provides free ice, coffee, juice and donuts in the morning according to some reviewers.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the roominess at various parks. At Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort, "The pull throughs were really long. Water pressure was steady. Power was consistent. Bathroom/shower/laundry rooms were all very clean and well maintained," reports Rose F.
Family amenities: Multiple campgrounds cater to families with dedicated recreational areas. "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful," shares Gina H. about Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many parks require advance planning. "Plan ahead! The location requires a 2 night stay minimum," advises Ann S. about Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort. Weekend bookings should be made several weeks in advance during peak season.
Water restrictions: Seasonal limitations affect water availability at some locations. "Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive," reports David N. about Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, but warns "No water before 4/15." Always check water status when camping early or late in the season.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit near major roadways. At Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859, Stuart K. reports that while convenient for travelers, you should expect some traffic noise: "While scoring criteria may vary from one person to the next... Peace & Quiet: 4."
Site conditions: The ground can become problematic during wet weather. "Water was very. None of the sites had sewage, the dump station was about a mile down the road," notes Carmen F. about NAVSTA Great Lakes RV Campground. Check recent weather before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Children enjoy the water features at several campgrounds. "Really nice campground... Really nice views. Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors," shares Kaitlin M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake, where "kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests."
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch of photos for me of me kayaking," reports Layla P. from Camp Bullfrog Lake, which also features clean facilities and well-stocked bathrooms.
Site selection: Choose locations with appropriate spacing and amenities. "We pulled in late & left early!! Did laundry... so quiet we slept hard! Nice safe location. Flat, pretty large spots..picnic tables," recommends eugenia W. about Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Check the specific utility connections available at each site. "Reliable full hookups. Very clean and well cared for property; especially the laundry and bathroom/shower areas," notes Carolyn C. about Sycamore RV Resort, though she mentions "postage stamp space on gravel."
Road conditions: Interior campground roads vary significantly in quality. "The road has lots of dips and bumps but going slow they weren't an issue. We were on the main road and there was lots of traffic going back and forth," shares Rose F. about Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort.
Dump station timing: Plan your departure schedule with service areas in mind. "Friendly staff who were quick to respond to any issues. Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel)," reports TK n E. about Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, where $46/night (+fees) gets you a pull-through spot.