Camp Bullfrog Lake is located just 30 minutes west of Bloomingdale, Illinois, within the Palos Forest Preserve system at an elevation of approximately 650 feet. The surrounding terrain features rolling woodland hills and small lakes, with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s. Winter camping options remain available at several locations, though most glamping facilities near Bloomingdale close from November through March.
What to do
Kayaking at Turner Lake: Turner Lake South at Chain O' Lakes State Park offers direct lake access for paddlers. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," notes camper Cora M. Boat rentals are available at the main concession area.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The Camp Bullfrog Lake area features extensive single-track biking trails directly accessible from camping areas. "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. 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," writes Josh M., who lives nearby and takes midweek camping trips.
Horseback riding and archery: Turner Lake South at Chain O' Lakes State Park offers diverse outdoor activities beyond water recreation. "There is so much to do at this campground. Horseback riding, archery, hiking, boating, fishing. There is also a park for the kids in several areas," reports Meg K. The park maintains dedicated trails for equestrian use.
What campers like
Variety of accommodation options: Glamping close to Bloomingdale, Illinois includes upscale cabins and safari-style structures. At Chicago Northwest KOA, "We stayed for a Friday and Saturday night. Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates," reports Dan B.
Well-maintained natural spaces: Thomas Woods Campground provides a more secluded camping experience. "Beautiful wooded and quiet. Great hiking trails, a pond for fishing, private camp sites," observes Tricia E. The campground frequently receives compliments for its privacy between sites.
Proximity to waterways: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers direct lake access with swimming and fishing opportunities. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there," reports Chloe N., who appreciates the convenience of having water recreation directly accessible from campsites.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds near Bloomingdale have inconsistent site spacing. At Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, "Site size varies. Lots of fun activities. Bathroom or showers appear to be clean and well taken care of," notes Glenn T. Some campgrounds have virtually no privacy between sites while others offer more seclusion.
Limited shade at some locations: Multiple campgrounds lack mature trees. At Camp Sullivan, "I am directly in the sun in my spot. There is trash in it as well," reports G M., who stayed at a last-minute RV site. Similarly, at Camp Bullfrog Lake, one reviewer noted, "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small."
Wildlife encounters are common: Raccoons and ticks are frequently mentioned in reviews. At Turner Lake South, "You can kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by," writes Julia B., who also mentioned raccoons visiting at night despite securing food in vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with playground access: Camp Sullivan offers modern facilities designed for families. "Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern. There are trails to walk. There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," reports Shane S.
Book early for holiday weekends: Family-friendly sites at Chain O' Lakes State Park fill quickly during summer. "This IL state campground fills up quickly on the weekends over the summer. The best sites for those hoping for privacy are in Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East," advises Marisa A., adding that many people arrive on Thursdays to secure weekend spots.
Consider cabin options for mixed weather: Luxury glamping near Bloomingdale offers all-weather alternatives. "I visited Palos early this week (mid-April) for a very very chilly three days. There are small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," writes Hatie P. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Tips from RVers
Verify hookup locations before setup: Many sites have awkward utility placements. At Fox Den Campground, Tim K. reports, "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees." Some hookups are 30-50 feet from designated parking areas.
Consider seasonal booking patterns: Several glamping options near Bloomingdale have distinct busy periods. The Chicago Northwest KOA operates seasonally from April to October, while others like Camp Sullivan maintain year-round availability. "Far enough from the city lights, close enough to civilization. Cozy, small park with friendly staff and plenty of amenities," notes Tim L. about the KOA's atmosphere.
