Cabin camping near Burbank, Illinois provides convenient access to the Cook County Forest Preserve system, which maintains over 70,000 acres of protected land. Campsites average between 20-45 feet in length, and most cabins remain open year-round with heating systems available at select locations. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, while winter nights can drop below 20°F.
What to do
Trail exploration: 10-15 miles of connected paths at Camp Bullfrog Lake offer excellent hiking and mountain biking options. "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits. What's great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," notes one visitor.
Water activities: Kayak rentals available for $15/hour on the small lake at Camp Bullfrog Lake. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares a camper. Life jackets are included with rentals, making this suitable for various skill levels.
Rock climbing: Indoor climbing wall at Camp Sullivan provides a weatherproof activity option. "There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups. There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," explains a reviewer. The climbing wall is suitable for beginners and experienced climbers.
Fishing: Multiple locations for shore fishing throughout Cook County Forest Preserves. Several stocked ponds and lakes support largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," reports a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor.
What campers like
Accessibility: Convenience to Chicago makes these cabin locations ideal for quick getaways. "This is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern," writes a Camp Sullivan visitor. Cabins provide an easy transition for those new to outdoor recreation.
Cabin variety: Multiple sizes and comfort levels are available at different preserves. Camp Reinberg offers both rustic and modern options. "This campground is super accessible from Chicago and a fun getaway for suburban camping. Grocery stores and modern conveniences are minutes away," notes a camper.
Clean facilities: Recently renovated shower buildings receive consistent praise. "The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing," reports a visitor to Michigan City Campground. Most cabin locations feature flush toilets with regular maintenance.
Free firewood: Initial supply provided at several Forest Preserve campgrounds. "Free firewood and you can purchase more for just $5," mentions a Camp Reinberg visitor. This eliminates the need to transport or forage for wood, simplifying the camping experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book 1-3 months ahead for weekend stays during peak summer season (May-September). Weekday availability is generally better, even with shorter notice. Most locations require full payment at time of booking.
Size limitations: Cabin interiors range from 150-400 square feet depending on location and type. Most accommodate 4-8 people with bunk-style sleeping arrangements. "Our camp site was #2. For the most part, all of the 30/50 amp sites are very similar. Can't really say one appears to be better than the rest," notes a Kankakee River State Park visitor.
Variable shade: Limited tree cover at newer sites. "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small," advises a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor. Older campgrounds typically offer better tree coverage and shade protection.
Evening security: Some preserves implement gate closures. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning," reports a Camp Sullivan visitor. Check specific closing times when booking to avoid access issues.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Sand Creek Campground offers family-friendly recreation areas. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods). Highly recommend," shares a repeat visitor to Camp Sullivan. Several campgrounds feature newly installed playground equipment.
Animal encounters: Schedule time at nature centers where educational programs happen regularly. "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!" reports a Kankakee River visitor. Programs typically run weekends during summer months.
Kid-friendly cabin options: Request ground-floor accommodations when traveling with small children. "The tent sites are right next to the water which is beautiful but can get very windy. There is no privacy between the sites (no trees, etc). There are small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," notes a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor.
Nearby conveniences: Most cabins within 10-minute drive of stores and restaurants. "It's probably the closest camping to downtown Chicago. About 5 years in existence. Clean facilities with a few trails. The best thing to me is Jack Gibbons's, a restaurant directly across the street," mentions a Camp Sullivan reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Electric-only at most Forest Preserve sites. "Only electric sites tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience for you and them," notes a Camp Reinberg visitor.
Premium sites: Full hookups available at Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park. "We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open," reports a visitor.
Security features: Gated access at several locations. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," mentions a Michigan City Campground reviewer. Many locations offer 24-hour staff presence for additional security.
