Private and established RV campgrounds surround Buffalo Grove, Illinois, providing overnight stays to extended seasonal options. Located within Chicago's northern suburban region, the area features several bodies of water including Grass Lake to the north and the Kishwaukee River to the west. Summer temperatures average in the mid-80s while winter overnight lows typically drop below freezing, making April through October the prime camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sycamore RV Resort, visitors can enjoy the on-site fishing lake with catch-and-release policies. A camper noted, "There are two lakes, catch and release fishing. A small beach with a snack shack."
Swimming access: Northwoods RV Resort offers a heated pool and water activities. One guest commented, "Very clean and the staff helped us pick a better site upon arrival. They also have a very pretty river to fish."
Casino entertainment: Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort provides access to gaming options just steps from your campsite. "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" reported one reviewer, making it a comfortable base for both relaxation and entertainment.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Thousand Trails Pine Country receives praise for its maintenance standards. A reviewer mentioned, "Very nice, private sites. Not many campers, lots of RVs. Folks in the office were very helpful."
Community atmosphere: Many seasonal campers appreciate the social environment at RV parks near Buffalo Grove. At Northwoods RV Resort, one camper shared, "The most impressive aspect in our opinion are the people. It is the nicest group of people I've ever been around. Everyone waves and speaks to you when they see you."
Kid-friendly amenities: Family activities abound at Chicago Northwest KOA in Union. A visitor commented, "Did a quick stay with the kids for a Friday and Saturday night... 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."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several RV campgrounds near Buffalo Grove have limited operating seasons. Chicago Northwest KOA typically operates from April through October, requiring winter planning alternatives.
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks that create noise issues. At Northwoods RV Resort, a visitor advised, "You will want to take note that yes, you actually cross train tracks to get to this campground, so if you're sharp, you're going to want to ensure you haven't booked a site right next to where trains will shoot through every few hours."
Site spacing variations: Sycamore RV Resort and other area campgrounds have variable site spacing. One camper noted the challenges: "Because of being right on top of other campers. Also, almost everything is gravel."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access verification: Call ahead to confirm pool operations at campgrounds advertising this amenity. One Northwoods visitor cautioned, "If you are planning on using that amazing pool that you saw as you came in, make sure you call management a good day or two before you come in to ensure that they turn on the heater."
Weekend activities: Many rv campgrounds in Buffalo Grove, Illinois area offer structured weekend programs. A Chicago Northwest KOA camper shared, "There are a lot of activity for kids on the weekends. People are nice to you. Plus they have a quiet time at night. So people and kids can go to bed without a bunch of noise."
Playground options: Seek out campgrounds with multiple play areas for different age groups. At Fox Bluff CottageS & RV, a seasonal camper praised, "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for proper leveling. At Chicago Northwest KOA, a camper observed, "Site was not level but it had a lot of shade which was nice."
Water quality considerations: Bring filtration systems when staying at certain campgrounds. One visitor to Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort mentioned, "The camp water is high in Iron. The pot roads need service as thay do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit."
Dump station access: Not all RV campgrounds near Buffalo Grove provide on-site sewer connections. A Hollywood Casino RV Park guest noted, "Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot."
