Cabins near Berwyn, Illinois offer convenient access to both natural settings and urban attractions, with options ranging from rustic to fully furnished accommodations. The terrain in this region is predominantly flat with some gentle hills, part of the larger Chicago Plains landform that was shaped by glacial activity. Cabins are typically located within 15-60 minutes from Berwyn, with peak rental periods occurring from May through September when temperatures average 75-85°F during the day.
What to do
Trail access options: Camp Reinberg provides direct access to miles of hiking and biking trails through Deer Grove Forest Preserve. "The trails through the grounds are varied and long--you can find something to suit just about any preference for suburban midwest hiking. There are plenty of paved trails as well as dirt, lots of fun little off-shoots into the woods, creeks run throughout, and there's even a little up-and-down thanks to ice age glaciers," notes a visitor who appreciated the terrain variety.
Water activities: At Michigan City Campground, located about an hour from Berwyn, cabin visitors can enjoy a clean swimming pool and nearby access to Lake Michigan beaches. "It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter. The cement patio was large with a picnic table and an adjacent fire pit. There is swimming pool and a game room, and a small store with the essentials, and propane," shares a recent visitor.
Climbing wall: Kids staying in cabins at Camp Sullivan can enjoy the indoor rock climbing wall in the activities barn. As one camper mentioned, "Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall. There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups."
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: The Vaudeville offers a unique urban cabin experience with convenient access to Chicago. "I easily found street parking and felt safe walking to the El at dusk. (I'm a city dweller so ymmv if you're not accustomed to a city lifestyle)," shares one visitor who appreciated the accessibility to public transportation.
Clean facilities: Cabin guests consistently mention cleanliness as a highlight at Camp Reinberg. "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," notes a summer visitor who stayed during a busy holiday weekend.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin locations offer wildlife watching opportunities. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," reports a visitor who enjoyed exploring the natural surroundings during their stay.
What you should know
Gate closures: Several cabin locations have security gates that close at night. At Sand Creek Campground, "My sister and I stayed one night at this campground because the Indiana Dunes National and State parks were full. It is a pretty place and not too far from the parks. We felt completely safe and would stay there again."
Seasonal operation: Many cabin facilities operate on limited schedules. Chicago Northwest KOA operates from April through early October, closing for winter. As one visitor noted, "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids."
Noise considerations: Train tracks near some cabin locations can create noise issues. One camper staying at Lakeshore Camp Resort advised, "If your idea of camping is to be surrounded by nature, quiet, and the ability to social distance then DO NOT CAMP HERE. The train is so loud that it's bound to wake you up numerous times in the middle of the night."
Tips for camping with families
Packing essentials: Most cabin rentals require bringing your own linens and toiletries. A visitor to Michigan City Campground recommends, "Great getaway spot to go and relax away from home," but notes that even their deluxe cabins require guests to bring their own bedding, pillows, and personal items.
Kid-friendly programs: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers kayak rentals that are family-friendly. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares a visitor who enjoyed the water activities with their family.
Safety features: Many cabin locations feature secure access. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," says a visitor who appreciated the controlled entry system that helps families feel secure while enjoying their cabin stay.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: If using a cabin with electrical needs, note that Camp Reinberg provides five cabin sites with electric hookups but limited water access. "The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience for you and them. But they do it with a good attitude," explains a visitor describing the water situation.
Firewood options: Most cabin locations sell firewood on-site, with varying quality. "Unfortunately the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames—my other two neighbors had the same issue," notes one camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake who suggests bringing your own fire starter materials.
Site privacy: Cabin locations vary widely in terms of privacy between units. "The tent sites were nice and located around the perimeter. My only complaint were the showers. The woman's bathroom was very clean but the showers did not spray out enough of a stream to wash well," shares a visitor who stayed at Sand Creek Campground.
