Indiana Dunes National Park offers several glamping options within 30 miles of Calumet City, Illinois. The region features sandy beaches along Lake Michigan combined with wooded inland areas perfect for cabin and yurt accommodations. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer highs typically reach the 80s with moderate humidity levels that affect camping comfort.
What to do
Beach activities at Dunewood Campground: Located within Indiana Dunes National Park, the campground provides direct access to Lake Michigan beaches. "Right near the beach, everything you need is close, staff is nice, and it's affordable," notes Rachael M. in her Dunewood Campground review.
Climb sand dunes: The Indiana Dunes feature several challenging hiking trails over massive sand formations. "There's trails and sand dunes to climb clean beach really clean camp ground with newer clean bathrooms," reports Manuel T. about the terrain near Dunewood.
Mountain biking at Palos: For glamping visitors seeking more active recreation, the trail system near Camp Bullfrog Lake offers extensive off-road cycling opportunities. "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," explains Josh M.
Water recreation options: Many local glamping facilities include pond or lake access for swimming and kayaking. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," mentions Layla P. about recreational options at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
What campers like
Clean modern facilities: Glamping accommodations near Calumet City typically feature well-maintained bathhouses and common areas. "The bathhouses are newer and kept fairly clean. I don't think they're checked everyday though because the ladies stalls were out of toilet paper our second morning," notes Lisa S. about her stay at Camp Sullivan.
Year-round options: Unlike typical tent camping, many glamping sites near Calumet City remain open throughout winter. "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids," explains Erin B. about Michigan City Campground, one of the year-round facilities in the region.
Security features: Many glamping properties in the Chicago area offer enhanced security measures. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," mentions Beth B. in her review of Michigan City Campground.
What you should know
Varied site privacy levels: Glamping options range from secluded to communal depending on the property. "Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet. Beautiful little lake. Bathrooms were warm and clean," Lawrence B. observes about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Railroad noise: Many glamping locations near Calumet City experience train noise due to the region's rail infrastructure. "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. great shading from trees and very green!" explains Truly W. about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Limited availability: Peak season glamping sites book quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Very difficult to contact staff to book reservation. When we got there they told us they double booked us and requested we move after we got set up," warns Nomad Nurse Z about Camp Sullivan.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-focused activities: Many glamping properties offer organized programs for children. "We've camped here a few times and it was always a great experience. Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits," Josh M. notes about family amenities at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Check playground access: On-site recreation areas provide entertainment options for younger glampers. "Really nice campground. Sites are right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," shares Sadie H. about her experience at Oak Lake RV Resort.
Consider heated cabins for shoulder seasons: Spring and fall glamping can require extra warmth for family comfort. "There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," notes Shane S. regarding the accommodation options at Camp Sullivan.
Tips from RVers
Reserve pull-through sites: Larger glamping-equipped RVs benefit from spacious access points. "All pads seemed nice and level. Only offered electric service. Beach access is close by," explains Jon S. about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Plan for hookup limitations: Some glamping sites have restricted utility connections despite offering luxury accommodations. "Really nice campground. No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors," advises Kaitlin M. about her experience at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
