Camping opportunities near Braidwood, Illinois cluster along the Illinois and Kankakee Rivers, with sites typically situated on waterways that experience seasonal fluctuations. The region sits at approximately 580 feet above sea level in a transition zone between suburban development and rural farmland. Most camping areas remain open from April through October, with limited winter options available at state parks.
What to do
Fishing for stripers: At Kayak Morris, anglers report exceptional fishing where waterways converge. "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 camper Sam Murphy M.
Kayaking calm waters: The Illinois River provides paddling routes suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. "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. If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," explains Eric R. about his experience at Kayak Morris.
Biking the canal trail: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail offers miles of riding opportunities with connections to multiple camping areas. "The area is well kept, clean, and well managed. I have frequented this park because it offers a lot of activities from primitive camping, RV parking, fishing, hiking, biking, backpacking, etc," shares a camper at Potowatomi Campground.
Rock climbing and exploration: Some areas feature unique geological formations. "There are some rock cliffs that are suspended over the Kankakee river and also over a creek that feeds it. These are great for climbing and scaling. Additionally, there are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads," reports Andrea F.
What campers like
Riverfront camping: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap If you don't have your own. There is a confluence across the river which is great to float on," writes Amanda W. about her stay at Kayak Morris.
Spacious campsites: Many locations offer ample room between sites. At Great Falls Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "Definitely a very relaxed and clean campground that isn't busy and has really cheap rates for off-season camping. $18 a night for walk-in and we got a 50amp spot right in front of the Illinois river," notes Nick E.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers can spot diverse bird species along the river corridors. "We did take a morning walk along the river and we enjoyed MANY different birdsongs," shares Karla J. B. from her stay at Great Falls Campground.
Off-season value: Camping during spring and fall offers cost savings and fewer crowds. "We stayed in the Chippewa Campground in early October... Large trees provided a high shade canopy and an open feel," reports Norman V. at Chippewa Campground.
What you should know
Flooding risk: Low-lying campsites can become unusable after heavy rainfall. "I'm from out of town and was unaware of the campsites lay out and relied on the information given by the forest preserve. Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone... By morning our site had three inches of water everywhere," cautions Rita S. about her experience at McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove.
Limited facilities at some sites: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Water is available by an old fashioned pump, and is drinkable, but cloudy. There's only one pit toilet," notes Brian O. about McKinley Woods.
Early park closures: Operating hours can be shorter than expected. "The park closes early, 8PM in summer, and earlier still off season. Check the fine print on your reservation!" advises a camper at McKinley Woods.
Walk-in only at certain campgrounds: Vehicle access varies by location. "First off, we didn't realize this was a walk-in campground, the details on the Will county site were vague, and the satellite photo showed a paved road. The road is a path, so the sites are ADA accessible," explains Brian O.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center reptile encounters: Children can enjoy educational wildlife interactions. "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" shares Linda N. from her visit to Potowatomi Campground.
Site selection for play space: Look for sites with open areas for children. "Our site was perfect with trees to hang a hammock on and for the kids to run around," notes Linda N.
Morning activities for hot days: Plan water activities and shaded outings for early hours. "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," advises a Potowatomi Campground visitor.
Overnight paddling events: Special evening kayak programs appeal to older children and teens. "Had my first experience of a lit up kayak tour for fireworks," shares Eric R. about a unique activity at Kayak Morris.
Tips from RVers
Winter water availability: Services may be limited during cold months. "Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive," notes David N. about his stay at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, adding "No water before 4/15."
Mixed hookup options: Campgrounds offer varied levels of service connections. "Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot," reports an RVer at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort.
Railroad noise considerations: Train activity can disrupt sleep at some locations. "Rail yard behind the row of trees. I believe they were humbling train all night long," cautions James B. about his Hollywood Casino stay.
Advance site research: Research individual site characteristics before booking. "Some sites had fewer trees than others and might not be able to accommodate e.g. hammocks, market lights, etc. We picked one with a good setup of surrounding trees," advises Norman V. about Chippewa Campground.
