Campgrounds near Bourbonnais, Illinois offer diverse options within the Kankakee River watershed, where rolling prairies meet wooded riverbanks at approximately 650 feet elevation. Weather varies seasonally with hot, humid summers reaching into the 90s and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing, making spring and fall popular camping seasons. Cellular reception generally remains strong throughout the region due to proximity to the Chicago metropolitan area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Alexander RV Park provides access to the Kankakee River. "Lake Alexander RV Park is a quiet, spacious, family owned and operated campground located near Momence, Illinois, within a 1-hour drive of Chicago. The camp is 120 acres of natural beauty on the banks of the Kankakee River. The wooded habitat abounds with fish, wildlife, and native plants," shares reviewer Iris A.
Hiking nearby: Glenwood RV Resort serves as a good base for exploring area trails. "If you come to this area to do some hiking, you're in great luck as there are quite a number of really great state parks nearby to check out, including Starved Rock, Matthiessen and Illini," notes Stuart K. "There's great long flat and scenic trails all along the I&M Canal corridor that parallels Illinois River."
Water recreation: Swimming and boating options exist throughout the area. At Oak Lake RV Resort, visitors enjoy "pond swimming & obstacle course" according to Nadiehsda B. At Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park, campers have "access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open," reports Holly S.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground gets mixed reviews for site configuration. Renee S. describes it as "the prettiest campground in the Chicagoland area," though other campers note limitations. Jesse B. highlights value: "$20. Yes, it's an hour from the city, but I'd take the drive over the bill at a nearby hotel."
Clean facilities: Many rv sites near Bourbonnais, Illinois maintain well-kept amenities. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, Jeana K. noted "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" Similarly, at Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park, Christopher G. appreciated that the grounds were "nice clean and well maintained."
Convenience to Chicago: Location is a key factor for many campers. Georgeann D. describes Enchanted Shores as "safe and friendly; a great stop-over for passing through Chicagoland or Joliet." While Iris A. points out Lake Alexander is "within a 1-hour drive of Chicago," making these campgrounds practical options for those visiting the metro area.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Lake Alexander RV Park is "open from April 15 to October 15" according to Iris A. Similarly, Oak Lake RV Resort operates from "Apr 15 to Oct 15" while Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park runs from "Apr 1 to Oct 21."
Site configurations vary: Layout and spacing between sites differs significantly between campgrounds. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, James B. noted it was "A little pricey. $63 with tax and amenities. Did have free ice, free coffee, and juice, and donut in the morning." Another reviewer, eugenia W., appreciated the "Flat, pretty large spots..picnic tables."
Utility limitations: Some parks have seasonal restrictions on water services. David N. observed at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, "No water before 4/15," which travelers should note for early spring visits. TK n E. mentioned "Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer family-friendly recreation spaces. At Oak Lake RV Resort, Sadie H. shared, "Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."
Seasonal activities: Some campgrounds offer special events during holidays. Lisa T. mentions Glenwood RV Resort "do an extremely large Halloween event Columbus Day weekend. Jam packed for this event. Awards for site decoration. Campsites set up haunted houses, candy for kids, drinks for adults. Fun to see adults and kids all dressed up."
Swimming options: Water features provide recreation for children. Fox Bluff Cottages & RV has "a new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house" according to Gina H. Oak Lake RV Resort features "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories," notes Nadiehsda B.
Tips from RVers
Check site levels: Many RVers note that site conditions vary widely. At Glenwood RV Resort, Bea commented, "What we didn't like is the powdery gravel sites (muddy when wet) that were not very level, and the long road in is very rough."
Overnight options: For those passing through, Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859 offers convenient access. Stuart K. explains, "Located just due east on the outskirts of little known Morris, Illinois just off I80, this little roadside stand isn't the largest Love's I've ever seen, but it sure does pack a punch." The location includes "7 individual shower stalls (all of which were in pristine, brand-new shape) along with a laundry facility."
Security features: RV owners appreciate secure camping areas. Ken P. describes Love's RV Stop-Demotte IN 394 as "gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids." At Oak Lake RV Resort, the bathroom facilities have "a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering," according to Holly S.
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