Camping near Calumet City, Illinois offers a mix of urban-adjacent outdoor experiences along the Illinois-Indiana border, where the flat terrain of the Lake Michigan basin transitions from city environments to forest preserves. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity, while winter camping faces subfreezing conditions and occasional lake-effect snow. Many campgrounds open seasonally from mid-April through October, though a few operate year-round with heated facilities.
What to do
Beach access at Indiana Dunes National Park: The Dunewood Campground provides a nearby base for exploring Lake Michigan's shoreline. "The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful. There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," notes Katie O. from Dunewood.
Mountain biking trails: Several forest preserves near camping options offer extensive trail systems. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," writes Josh M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Water recreation: Many local campgrounds offer fishing and paddling opportunities. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," according to Layla P.
Dunes hiking challenge: For those seeking more strenuous activity, the Indiana Dunes State Park offers unique terrain. "If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," mentions Jackie H. from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
What campers like
Convenience to Chicago: The proximity to metropolitan areas makes these campgrounds popular for quick getaways. "Awesome place to stay when you live in the city and wanna get away," says Deanna B. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Modern facilities: Many campgrounds have updated amenities. "Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus," Katherine T. mentioned about Dunewood Campground.
Tree cover and shade: Despite being near urban areas, many sites offer natural settings. At Sand Creek Campground, "The tent sites were very private as we were the only ones there for the night. Plenty of space tucked among the trees," notes Danielle C.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer adequate room between sites. At Indiana Dunes State Park, "The campground was full, but not overcrowded. Very friendly neighbors and camp staff," according to Jackie H.
What you should know
Train noise affects most areas: The Chicago-area rail network impacts many campgrounds. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," reports Katherine T. about Dunewood.
Gate closure policies: Some forest preserve campgrounds have strict access hours. "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok," notes Jeffrey L. from Camp Shabbona Woods.
Seasonal insect issues: Summer brings significant mosquito activity. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," warns Katrin M. about Dunewood Campground.
Weather variability: Lake Michigan influence creates unpredictable conditions. "Brutally hot but otherwise nice," Katie O. commented about her experience at Dunewood, noting they "loved the proximity of this campground to Lake Michigan."
Tips for camping with families
Pool alternatives: While some campgrounds have pools, beaches provide better recreation. "We went to the dune's national park and it was awesome for swimming all day and playing in the sand for the kids," shares Monique C. from Sand Creek Campground.
Cabin options for comfort: Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals for families new to camping. Camp Bullfrog Lake has "small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," according to Hatie P.
Consider proximity to urban sounds: The urban-adjacent nature affects the camping experience. "It's just outside of Chicago and it feels like it. It's like camping in a city park," Bruce K. notes about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Accessibility considerations: Many facilities are designed for accessibility. At Lakeshore Camp Resort, "This was a fun campground. We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars," says Chad Y.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup information: Know exactly what utilities are available before arrival. "No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet," Kaitlin M. reports about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Site selection strategy: At Indiana Dunes State Park, "The best sites are the ones on the outside from the beach trail to the nature center. These are up against the dunes and have some shade. The middle sites are more exposed and much less private," advises Greg S.
Prepare for small sites: Space constraints exist at some campgrounds. At Lakeshore Camp Resort, "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," warns Lisa S.
