Tent camping near Bull Valley, Illinois offers secluded options within forested preserves and along waterways. The region features several primitive camping sites with varying degrees of accessibility and amenities. Train tracks cross through parts of the area, creating intermittent noise at certain campgrounds during overnight hours.
What to do
River activities: At MacQueen Forest Preserve, campers can explore the Kishwaukee River shoreline. One camper mentioned, "Some fellow campers were doing a diy tubing right to the campground. About a 2 hr lazy river tube from Kingston or 5hrs from Genoa on the slow moving S. Branch of the Kishwaukee River which can be pretty deep in places."
Stargazing opportunities: The open meadow areas at several campgrounds provide excellent night sky viewing. According to one MacQueen visitor, "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing! There's also a giant fire pit with benches."
Backpacking adventures: For those seeking more remote experiences, KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site requires a challenging hike to reach. A camper noted, "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside."
What campers like
Affordability: Primitive camping options in the area remain budget-friendly. A reviewer of MacQueen Forest Preserve commented, "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4."
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently highlight the separation between tent sites as a major advantage. At MacQueen, "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. You can't see the campsite next to you."
Lake views: For those willing to travel slightly farther, Snug Harbor Inn Campground offers scenic water views. A visitor mentioned, "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!"
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds in the area experience railroad noise. One camper warned, "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."
Water availability: Non-potable water is available at some sites, but drinking water can be scarce. A MacQueen Forest Preserve camper cautioned, "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable."
Walk-in requirements: Most tent sites require hauling gear from parking areas. At MacQueen, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Families with mobility concerns should consider specific sites. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, "There is one wheelchair accessible tent site on a blacktop path in the forest canopy."
Limited hiking trails: Some preserves offer minimal dedicated trails. One camper noted, "There isn't much in terms of hiking trails. Just the main path and a few paths connecting sites and sort of a path along the river."
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds feature basic toilet facilities. According to a recent visitor, "Well maintained bathrooms, great secluded sites. Super easy no registration its first come first serve. I will be going again with my family."
Tips from RVers
Terraced layouts: Some campgrounds accommodate both tents and RVs with smart design. At Snug Harbor Inn Campground, "Like the design of 3 levels so everyone gets a view. Nice place in the country but close enough to town to grab all those things we forgot."
Limited big rig access: Most primitive camping areas near Bull Valley restrict RV access entirely. The region primarily caters to tent camping with few full-hookup options.
First-timer friendly: For those new to RV camping, certain sites offer extra help. One Snug Harbor camper shared, "Set up went well, didn't blow anything up! Yea! Staff was great, helped me back in."