Tent camping sites within the Bloomingdale region vary widely in terrain, from riverfront locations to wooded groves and open meadows. Most preserves operate with limited seasonal hours, typically April through October, with many closing gates at sunset. During weekdays in spring and fall, occupancy rates often drop below 30%, while summer weekends can reach full capacity, especially at smaller preserves with fewer than 10 sites.
What to do
Water activities on the Illinois River: Kayak Morris offers direct access to calm waters perfect for kayaking and fishing. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" notes Sam Murphy M. Rental kayaks are available for campers without their own equipment.
Trail cycling: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail connects several camping areas. Channahon State Park Campground serves as a convenient stopover for cyclists. "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock," explains Art S. The crushed gravel trail runs alongside historic canal structures.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings at McKinley Woods offer opportunities to spot native birds, particularly during spring migration in April and May. "At night, you can hear owls and distant trains, but motorboats and jet-skis begin around 6:AM," reports Brian O. Bringing binoculars is recommended as several species nest in the area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: MacQueen Forest Preserve stands out for its well-separated camping areas. "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you," notes Amy G. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings with significant buffer zones of natural vegetation.
Riverfront camping: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at several sites. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site," explains Eric R. about Kayak Morris. Some sites allow launching directly from camp.
Affordable pricing: The area offers budget-friendly camping options. "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4," reports Amy G. about MacQueen Forest Preserve. Most tent sites throughout the region maintain low fees between $4-$15 per night depending on amenities and reservation requirements.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Low-lying sites may experience flooding after rainfall. "Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up the the fire pit," cautions Rita S. about McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove. Check weather forecasts before booking sites near waterways.
Limited facilities: Most preserves offer basic amenities only. "There's vault toilets and the one I used wasn't terrible, but it is primitive. There's even a light switch inside with a functioning light!" explains Amy G. Potable water is rarely available at campsites; when present, it often requires treatment.
Noise considerations: Despite natural settings, some campgrounds experience background noise. "Note: if you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground," explains Amy G. Urban sounds can carry to certain sites.
Tips for camping with families
ADA accessible options: Several campgrounds offer designated accessible sites. "In McKinley Woods proper there is a large camping area and two of the sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility," notes Scott N. Camp Shabbona Woods also features accessible paths and facilities.
Transport assistance: Walking to sites requires preparation for families with young children or substantial gear. "You do have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel road and mowed trail," explains Amy G. about MacQueen Forest Preserve. Consider bringing a collapsible wagon if these aren't available.
Group gathering spaces: Some preserves offer communal areas for family activities. "There's also a giant fire pit with benches. The perfect area for a small group camp (as long as each party paid for the campsite that's back there)," notes Amy G. Check with specific preserves about group site availability.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most preserves near Bloomingdale prioritize tent camping with few RV accommodations. "We loved this campsite! We stayed when there were not many people there so we had plenty of space but could see it getting crowded when it's full," explains Amanda W. about Kayak Morris, one of the few sites accepting smaller RVs without hookups.
Trailer considerations: Access roads to campgrounds may not accommodate trailers. "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem. Just be aware of it," cautions Brian O. Call ahead to confirm trailer access and parking arrangements.
