kelsea D.
Traveler
TravelerPrairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
A lot to do.
There’s a lot of things to do out here. We did some hiking with our boy. The site we were at was maintained. It’s a nice place to go camping.
Glamping near Big Rock, IL
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Chicago Northwest KOA and Leisure Lake Membership Resort house upscale glamping accommodations within driving distance of Big Rock, Illinois. Safari tents, yurts, and luxury canvas cabins come equipped with queen beds, hotel-quality linens, electricity, climate control, and private outdoor spaces — amenities not found at standard campsites near Big Rock. Most glamping units feature comfortable queen beds with hotel-quality linens, electricity, climate control options, and private outdoor spaces for relaxation. "Our family had an incredible stay at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park over Easter week. The location was perfect for a peaceful retreat, and the amenities provided everything we needed for a comfortable and enjoyable visit," shares one guest. Chicago Northwest KOA's glamping accommodations provide thoughtful touches like bedside tables, reading lamps, seating areas, and some units include private bathrooms or convenient access to upgraded shower facilities. Seasonal availability varies, with most glamping options open from April through October.
The glamping sites near Big Rock feature activities that blend outdoor adventure with comfortable accommodations. Chicago Northwest KOA organizes family-friendly programming including hayrides, face painting, and flashlight candy hunts on weekends, while also providing amenities like gem mining, a jump pad, mini-golf, and frisbee golf. One visitor noted, "We'll definitely be back for sure! 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." Both locations offer proximity to regional attractions, with Chicago Northwest KOA situated near the Illinois Railway Museum and a Western-themed attraction with staged shootouts. Most glamping accommodations require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer months and holiday weekends when these premium accommodations book quickly.
Best Glamping Campgrounds near Big Rock (19)
1. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
"But noise was not an issue. Bathrooms were clean. Everything was good."
"Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful. Always came here for trick or treating and it’s a fun event for the camp ground with plenty of spooky things to do."
2. Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds
"bordering Lake Michigan – other than this, finding a proper beachhead is impossible."
"When the lake is open it’s great to bring kids for the water sports. They have dances every Saturday night. It’s mostly an RV park, but really great for the family."
3. Camp Bullfrog Lake
"Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits."
"The tent sites are right next to the water which is beautiful but can get very windy. There is no privacy between the sites (no trees, etc)."
from $20 - $138 / night
Check Availability4. Lakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
"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."
5. Chicago Northwest KOA
"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."
"Plus they have a quiet time at night.So people and kids can go to bed without a bunch of noise."
6. Thomas Woods Campground
"The trails are both wooded and hilly, but there's also a large prairie nature walk.
The campground has many secluded walk-in tent sites and a variety of sites for other types of campers.""Firewood is cheap on-site and delivered to your site on demand."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability7. Pleasant Creek Campground
"A little creek runs through the campground and you can walk along that. They sell firewood and the bathrooms are really nice."
"Within LaSalle County or for that matter, the whole of north central Illinois, I don’t know of any other privately run, multi-campground locations like Pleasant Creek that offers a total of 6 separate,"
8. Leisure Lake Membership Resort
"The beach and lake were always well maintained, and we had often enjoyed live music at the pavilion. You can even play mini golf here! I would highly recommend for anyone that can invest."
"Our family had an incredible stay at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park over Easter week."
9. Camp Sullivan
"As stated, there is electric hookup but no water at the site. However, staff was more than happy to meet us at the bathrooms to allow us to fill our tanks before we set up camp."
"Wooded electric paved sites with fairly new bathhouse facilities. Pretty clean. Only one indoor water faucet working but this may be a COVID casualty."
from $35 - $250 / night
Check Availability10. Nature’s Way RV Park
"Just outside and behind this main building, you’ll discover a rather large, covered pavilion which is great for larger groups or for anyone wanting to picnic under some shade. "
"Staff was organized and friendly. Pet friendly. We want to come back when we can stay longer."
from $30 - $125 / night
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Drive Time
- 47 min from Chicago, IL
- 54 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 22 min from Kenosha, WI
- 1 hr 23 min from Kankakee, IL
Recent Glamping Photos near Big Rock, IL
12 Photos of 19 Big Rock Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Glamping Reviews near Big Rock, IL
161 Reviews of 19 Big Rock Campgrounds
Sarah B.
ScoutNature’s Way RV Park
Quiet spot that was perfect for a getaway
Took my daughter for the weekend. Camp host were wonderful and even worked with us when I arrived later then planned. Full hookup was perfect and location was great.
Location is close to Utica so we were able to enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
Wonderful spot and we will definitely be back.
- Mary H.
RangerPleasant Creek Campground
Sufficient for a quick stopover
We added a day to our Starved Rock itinerary and couldn't get into Starved Rock State Park Campground that night, so quickly booked this from the road. Got into the Highlands, which was packed and super close quarters. Not what we love, but several sites looked like extended families/friends had booked together and they were having a blast, especially the kids. Looked like they had some activities available and we saw several kids with fishing poles heading somewhere fun. We didn't explore the rest of the grounds; perhaps other sections afforded more privacy. I thought it was a bit pricey for the amenities (one shower house very far away) and hemmed-in feel, but it served our purpose for one night.
- 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.
Stuart K.
LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
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.LegendKings Camp
Where Still Mornings Feel a Little Like Grace
There’s a gentle spirit woven into Kings Camp that you feel the moment you pull in, the kind of quiet that settles over a family in a way that feels both grounding and a little bit spiritual, especially as the sun dips across the Illinois prairie. This long-loved, Christian-based campground offers wide grassy fields, simple but well-kept restrooms, a small swimming beach, a playground and an EZ layout that makes it feel safe and welcoming for little explorers. One of my favorite memories was watching the boys toast marshmallows at dusk while the evening breeze carried the soft sounds of families visiting and kids laughing, creating a peace that felt like an answered prayer at the end of a busy week. From what we saw, the best area is the westernmost RV loop because it offers the most shade, privacy and a sense of calm tucked slightly away from the main activity. I’d recommend Kings Camp for families seeking a wholesome, faith-centered environment, a quiet place for kids to roam freely and a setting that encourages everyone to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect.
- Stuart K.Legend
Green River Oaks Camping Resort
A Flashback to Summer Camp With a Side of Quirks
Green River Oaks Camping Resort near Amboy is a throwback kind of place with equal parts family fun, quirky charm and "I can’t believe this is still here” vibes. Think swimming pools, organized weekend events and a heavy dose of nostalgia for anyone who grew up chasing fireflies until dark. I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some additional photos, videos and because there was so much detail in my previous review, a quick summary of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Multiple swimming pools that instantly turn into kid magnets, so be sure to bring goggles and plenty of Advil; (2) Planned activities like crafts, bingo and hayrides, making it feel like summer camp with electric hookups; (3) A camp store stocked with everything from ice cream to RV odds & ends; (4) Shady, mature trees that keep the sun at bay and give the place that cozy ‘deep woods’ feel; (5) Decent-sized sites with full hookups available, so no wrangling with dump stations (unless that's your thing?); (6) Seasonal campers who bring the neighborhood vibe, complete with pink flamingo decorations and lawn ornaments galore; (7) Family-friendly atmosphere where kids roam in packs on bicycles, scooters and skateboards like happy little coyotes on wheels; (8) On-site mini golf that looks like it came straight from the 1980s (complete with Cindi Lauper and Tiffany greatest hits playing in the background!), but in the best possible way; (9) A game room that keeps kids (and more adults than I care to count) reliving their Pac-Man glory days on a busy, rainy afternoon; and (10) Close proximity to Amboy & Sublette for fuel, groceries, and the occasional ‘get me out of here for a bit’ moment, wherein I HIGHLY recommend a stop by Long Branch Saloon for 'family style' fried chicken and pasta or Depot Tap for, well, bottle beers (cause surprisingly, there are no beer taps!) and deep fried everything from mushrooms, cod and cheese sticks.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Restrooms and showers that can get crowded and aren’t exactly spa-like; (2) Weekend crowds, so if you don’t like the sound of laughter, splashing and karaoke drifting through the night, brace yourself (or get noise-cancelling ear plugs!); (3) Some sites can be tight, especially for larger rigs, so good luck backing in while your audience of seasoned campers provides ‘helpful’ commentary and (unwanted) critical maneuvering advice; (4) Wi-Fi that ranges from ‘not bad’ to ‘did the squirrels chew the cable again?’; (5) Mosquitoes that could probably organize their own HOA; (6) Roads in the campground are narrow and sometimes more pothole than pavement; (7) If you’re looking for peace and quiet, you may want earplugs (see earlier point ... yes, there's truth in repetition) – this is a social campground; (8) Seasonal sites can sometimes feel more like little fortresses than open camping; (9) Not much in the way of hiking trails, unless you count laps around the pool; and (10) Cell service is hit or miss depending on your carrier and your willingness to stand on a picnic table holding your phone to the sky.
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Hickory Hills Campground - Rock Cut State Park
Where Tent Camping Touches the Shore
Hickory Hills Campground is Rock Cut State Park’s more primitive, tent-only camping destination, distinct from the electric Class A and B camping areas. Located along the eastern edge near Pierce Lake, this campground offers non-electric Class B sites and are numbered from 1 to 60 and set along a wooded lake frontage small peninsula right on Lake Pierce with this CG spot making for a quieter, more rustic experience with the closest access to the lake of any of the 6 other campgrounds that exist here at Rock Cut SP.
Sites are modest and simpler than premium loops: you won’t find hookups here, but you will have nearby access to water hydrants and restrooms located just outside the loop. Central facilities cover essentials like showers, toilets and a dump station in the broader park; however, between November and April, water and dump services are unavailable, so plan accordingly.
Hickory Hills shines for its proximity to nature and lakeside access where you can cast a line, paddle around or hike the dozens of miles of forest trails. Still, be prepared for less privacy between sites as there’s virtually no ground shrubbery with many of the sites being sloped or closely spaced, so expect limited shade (in fact, you may want to bring your own shelter), and a more basic setup than other loops here.
Insider Tips? Let’s count to 5: (1) Make your reservation as EARLY as possible through ExploreMoreIL™ since Hickory Hills offers fewer, more highly desired tent-only sites that are either lakefront or lakeview; (2) Pack your shade as several sites are sloped or open wherein early setup and a sunshade or awning can help maintain comfort and / or privacy; (3) Move shiftable gear near the loop entrance as the facilities are outside the loop, so a wheeled cart or stroller comes in very handy; (4) For easier meal prep or last-minute snacks, stop at the central camp store between White Oak and Plum Grove campgrounds with this central store stocking basics like ice, firewood and snacks; and (5) Bring your kayak, canoe and / or fishing rod as Hickory Hills Campground puts you within easy reach of Pierce Lake’s quiet shore, which is great for paddle sessions or launching simple lake adventures.
Happy Camping!
Brian O.LegendPleasant Creek Campground
lives up to it's name, good option for Starved Rock area
Because of it's layout, you never get a true sense of how big the whole campground is (50 acres). The largest and most open area is on top of the hill (the Highlands) but there are other areas that are shadier and more close to nature (Alcove way, Creekside, Oak Grove, the Glades).
Depending on the time of year, the creek may not be running, but the fishing pond is always full. Many activities in well maintained areas. It's a new campground and the general store hasn't built up much inventory yet. The firewood is dry and burns well.Fire pits are basic steel circles, bring your own grill.
There's one central restroom with showers, clean and spacious, but it can be a walk from some areas (long hills too).
There are small cabins for rent and long-term sites are available.
Guide to Big Rock
Cabin camping near Big Rock, Illinois offers travelers a range of options within driving distance of this small rural community. Located in Kane County at approximately 740 feet elevation, Big Rock sits in a region known for its mixed prairie and woodland terrain. Winter temperatures often drop below 20°F, while summer camping season brings average highs around 85°F with moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake features extensive mountain bike trails that attract serious cyclists. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," notes one visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and rivers near Big Rock provide fishing spots for various skill levels. "Fishing pond is subpar," warns one camper about Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds, but notes the "lake is nice" for other water activities. For better fishing, try Green River where "you can fish, canoe, kayak, inner-tube and otherwise float down this small stream."
Winter glamping excursions: While most glamping sites operate seasonally, some locations near Big Rock offer year-round accommodations. "When we visited this place during the Fall, apparently, during the summer, each week has a theme attached to it (e.g. Barnyard Palooza), and subsequent activities organized around it," shares a reviewer about the glamping experiences available near the area.
What campers like
Swimming options: Heated pools and lake swimming provide cooling options during hot Illinois summers. At Green River Oaks Camping Resort, "2 heated swimming pools (although they shut off the heat towards the end of the season in late October)" provide relief from summer heat, while Hi-Tide Beach offers "a sandy beach" complete with "waterslide, 'moonwalk,' ice berg, which is a 15' climbing wall in the center of the lake, water trampoline, log roll, rocket balls, floaties, innertubes."
Themed events: Many campgrounds organize scheduled activities throughout the season. At Jellystone Park Millbrook, a visitor mentioned "Halloween camping season at Millbrook. This is an activity packed weekend which is amazing. Good for kids of all ages including the adults. All the campers do amazing decorations for the weekend and trick or treating here the kids get more candy then they ever could at home."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding Big Rock offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake reported "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." This provides a natural complement to luxury glamping accommodations in the Big Rock vicinity.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping accommodations near Big Rock operate on a limited season. "Mlost things were closed for the season but had a good time. Bring everything you need if its after season," notes a Jellystone visitor. For Nature's Way RV Park, a visitor highlights that it's "Just 5 minutes to Starved Rock state park and one mile from interstate 80. Great country setting with full hook ups, pool, laundry, camp store and showers."
Privacy considerations: Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Hi-Tide Beach warned: "Not a lot of good things to say. I guess the lake was nice, but they let wayyyy to many people come in. The campsites are packed together so close you can see in your neighbors camper. Stay away."
Security procedures: Some campgrounds implement strict security measures. At Camp Sullivan, a visitor noted: "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting. What if there was an emergency? An ambulance would have had to rush the gate."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Research scheduled events before booking glamping trips near Big Rock. "Chicago Northwest KOA organizes family-friendly programming including hayrides, face painting, and flashlight candy hunts on weekends," states the existing information. A visitor adds: "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."
Bathroom facilities: Shower and restroom quality varies significantly between locations. At Thomas Woods Campground, "Clean. Decent sites, some have hike in (kind of). Decent toilets," reports one camper, while another notes "Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers. Hand pumps for water and well-kept pit toilets."
Water activities: Consider age-appropriate water options when glamping with children near Big Rock. At Hi-Tide Beach, there are "shallow waters for the young kids" and the campground offers "a really great respite with this toy-packed lake refuge" during hot summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Check site specifications carefully before booking. At Chicago Northwest KOA, a reviewer explained: "This KOA has very limited full hook up sites. As far as KOA standards, it is not great. We paid for the deluxe patio site, which had no sewer. Site was not level but it had a lot of shade which was nice."
Dump station access: Some facilities have challenging dump station layouts. One RVer at Pleasant Creek Campground warned: "The dump station was also up a one way in/out hill. You had to make a tight U-turn coming down from your site to get up to it. Plan on going early otherwise you're going to get stuck on the hill waiting...even after you finished dumping."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping
campsite near Big Rock, IL?
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Big Rock, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Big Rock, IL is Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook with a 3.7-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find
glamping camping near
Big Rock, IL?
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Big Rock, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 glamping camping locations near Big Rock, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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