J
Jenny B.
Traveler
TravelerHononegah Forest Preserve
All sites are separated not on top of each other. We’ve been here quite a few times during cooler months and have been very happy with our experience.
Camping near Carpentersville, IL
1 campground with availability this weekend
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Carpentersville, Illinois and surrounding Kane County provide a range of campground options for tent campers, RV owners, and those seeking cabin accommodations. Paul Wolff Campground at Burnidge Forest Preserve serves as one of the primary developed campgrounds in the area, offering electric hookups, water access, and both RV sites and primitive tent camping areas. Camp Reinberg in nearby Palatine offers additional variety with cabin options, while Chicago Northwest KOA in Union provides full-service camping with glamping accommodations approximately 25 miles northwest of Carpentersville.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with the typical camping season running from May through October due to the Midwest climate. Paul Wolff Campground specifically operates from May 1 to October 31, while some private RV parks may extend their season. Many camping areas require reservations, particularly on summer weekends when demand increases. County residency affects pricing at forest preserve campgrounds, with non-residents paying premium rates. The campgrounds feature varying levels of shade, with tent sites often providing more tree cover than RV areas. A visitor noted, "There are a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees. The most shaded sites are p1, 3, 5, 7 and 9. Many of the sites in the middle are wide open with little shade but nice summer breezes."
Campground experiences vary significantly across the different developed camping areas near Carpentersville. Paul Wolff Campground receives praise for its hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and well-maintained facilities, though noise from nearby transportation corridors can be an issue. A recent review mentioned that "the tent sites are nicely arranged for privacy" but warned about noise disruptions from "trains, traffic and planes." Camp Reinberg stands out for its amenities, with reviewers highlighting friendly staff and free firewood. For families seeking more amenities, the Chicago Northwest KOA provides additional recreational options along with full hookups. Proximity to Chicago makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations, with sites filling quickly during peak summer months.
Best Campgrounds near Carpentersville (85)
1. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
Check Availabilityfrom $12 - $35 / night
2. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
Check Availabilityfrom $45 - $60 / night
3. Chicago Northwest KOA
"You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"
"We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"
4. Blackwell Family Campground
"Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home."
"I always loved going to the parks in Illinois with my grandparents when I was little. They love hiking and nature and definitely got me interested in it also. I love them and miss them everyday."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $30 / night
5. Thomas Woods Campground
"While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here."
"Most of the sites were right on the road and you’d need to position your car right for privacy. The tent sites are clumped pretty tight together with a couple exceptions."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $35 / night
6. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
"Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water."
"We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago."
Check Availabilityfrom $43 - $73 / night
7. Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort
"Propane, full hookups, fairly sized fenced in dog run area, a lake with a beach front. Play ground for the kids and a strict 5MPH speed limit. "
"We couldn’t reach the WiFi from our site but it was good closer to the lake. They also have free TV but we didn’t hook up to that."
Check Availabilityfrom $45 - $70 / night
8. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."
"We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"
Check Availabilityfrom $25 / night
9. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"The greatest asset here is undoubtedly the direct access to Turner Lake (although you could also have direct access over at Turner Lake South), giving families an EZ place to fish, paddle or simply explore"
"*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"
10. Escape to Nature
Drive Time
- 41 min from Rockford, IL
- 49 min from Chicago, IL
- 1 hr 4 min from Kenosha, WI
- 1 hr 15 min from Racine, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Carpentersville, IL
229 Photos of 85 Carpentersville Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Paul Wolff CampgroundD
Escape to NatureL
Chicago Northwest KOAC
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Thomas Woods Campground
Backyard Bonfire
Blackwell Family Campground
Mud Lake West — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State ParkK
Recent Reviews near Carpentersville, IL
648 Reviews of 85 Carpentersville Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendPrairie View Campground - Rock Cut State Park
Nice Shaded Camping Alcove With Plenty of P&Q
Prairie View CG is the very first camping oasis you will come across after entering Rock Cut SP from its northernmost entrance, with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east. Once you enter the park, you will follow the long winding nicely paved two-lane circuit until you begin seeing the signs highlighting where to go for the various campgrounds. Once you access this road, you’ll come across a small building with a ranger where you will check in, after which, you will pass by a designated dump station before coming around a small bend where you will take your first left.
The sites begin with #500 and as you circumnavigate the simple circular loop, you will pass by about 2 dozen or so slots that are nice flat paved slots perfect sized for just about any RV or 5th Wheel. There is a single his / her restroom along with trash area at the beginning of the loop just past sites #503 and #504. To access the shower, you will need to go back to the main road and hike it down the road with your towel and toiletries, which I have to admit, is the biggest bummer about this particular campground. If having close access to shower facilities is important to you, then you may want to contemplate staying at other campgrounds here at Rock Cut SP like Staghorn and White Oak, which offer closer proximity.
One of the greatest assets here at Rock Cut SP is the very massive Pierce Lake, which is great for fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming. To launch your watercraft, you’ll head south to Hickory Hills campground where on the eastern side of this area you’ll be able to find the boat launch. In the Prairie View campground, in addition to restroom and waste disposal, you’ll also have access to running water spigots at each site along with running electric. The small community amphitheather is located centrally just past the campstore and before reaching the Hickory Hills campground. There is an excellent camp store in the middle of Rock Cut SP that offers up ice, firewood, ice cream, snacks, games, limited groceries and a number of other sundries you might need while camping. Additionally, there are 5 shelters that have electricity, with water and restrooms nearby and each shelter available through a reservation system. Two of the shelters (Red Oak and Puri Crest) also have children’s playgrounds nearby.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) IMHO the best sites here at Prairie View CG are those that are located furthest from the main road, for attaining the maximum camping bliss trifecta of less traffic, little noise and more privacy. As such, look at sites #512, #514, #516 and #518, which are all located on the exterior of the circle, thus providing the greatest amount of intimate nature experience; (2) Once you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your cooler, fret not, and just head out of the park where you will find a handful of dining options: Tom& Jerry’s, Fresh Start Café, Waffle Shop, Golden Chopsticks Buffet, Sunrise Family Restaurant, Beef-A-Roo (in fact, there’s like 4 of these that the park is surrounded by), but one of my absolute favorites is Green Fire, which is a really nice farm-to-table joint; (3) Got bird watching on your mind? Well, you’re in luck, because here at Rock Cut SP you can spot an amazing array of winged adventurers including bald eagles, American robins, northern cardinals, barn owls, mourning doves, indigo buntings, eastern bluebirds, Canadian geese, red-bellied woodpeckers, brown thrashers and many others; (4) Tired of nature and just want to get some really cool culture in you? Then head just due south of Rock Cut SP to explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s Laurent House, which is simply amazing; and (5) If you come bearing watercraft like canoe or kayak, while Lake Pierce is wonderful and great for fishing, if you want something a bit more challenging, then head due west to the Rock River, where you can drop in from a number of launch sites, however I strongly recommend Atwood Homestead Forest Preserve.
Happy Camping!
Joel K.
GuideHammel Woods
One night campout in October
I've lived within 2 miles of this campground for 7 years, and I've driven past it literally hundreds of times, but it wasn't until a friend of mine found himself unemployed and said "let's go camping" that we actually camped here. They have 6 primitive sites, and you have to walk in from the parking lot. It is NOT drive in. The sites are all decent, have fire rings, and big solid picnic tables, and each site has it's own garbage can. The camping sites are immediately adjacent to the dog park off Black Road. I will say, between Black Rd, I 55, and Rt. 59, the road noise is noticeable. The office staff and park ranger who closed the gate were all friendly and helpful.
- GGladys L.Traveler
Plum Grove Campground - Rock Cut State Park
Rock Cut State Park in Rockford , Illinois
We got a campsite with a concrete pad. Electricity 30 amp site. There is a dump station close to the registration office. Boat ramp available for campers. One cabin for rental overlooking the Pierce Lake $50/night for Illinois resident. Beautiful setting. Wild turkeys roaming through our campground.
- BBeth O.
ScoutBlackwell Family Campground
Great Stay
Blackwell has clean bathrooms, offers hiking trails, boating (kayak rentals) or bring your own, fishing, archery, cycling. The gate locks at 7pm but you just call the night guard and he will let you in. They’re only open on Friday, Saturday and holidays. Would definitely stay again. Be aware Winfield Road has a lot of traffic so sites further away from that road are best. Heard coyotes about 3 am both mornings. Rangers were exceptional.
- Stuart K.Legend
Rolling Oaks Campground
Old-School Camping with a Whole Lot of Personality
Rolling Oaks is one of those wonderfully old-school Midwestern campgrounds that feels less like an RV resort and more like a little summer community that has been evolving for generations out here in the rich corn patches of central IL. Family-run since 1969, the sprawling, shady property sits along the Fox River with its very own lake and a decidedly RV-centric personality, where curb appeal is just as important (if not more) than the actual mobile confines people are living in. A substantial portion of the campground is occupied by long-term and seasonal residents, complete with patios, sheds and occasionally elaborate outdoor entertaining spaces, which gives Rolling Oaks an unusual neighborhood feel rather than the transient atmosphere of most CGs.
While my earlier review goes into considerably more detail, I thought I’d revisit this campground with a quick topline of HIGHS and LOWS along with a fresh batch of photos.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Water is the star here, with a swimming lake, pool and direct access to the Fox River making this particularly appealing if you bring kayaks, canoes or tubes; (2) Plenty of shade and a mixture of full-hookup, partial-hookup and pull-through RV sites plus tent camping accommodate just about every style of camper; (3) Playgrounds, volleyball, horseshoes and a game room give kids plenty to do without leaving the property; (4) Summer weekends have an almost throwback campground-community atmosphere with dancing, cart rides, farmers’ markets, spaghetti dinners, corn boils and pig roasts; and (5) Being only a few miles from the village of Sandwich makes supplies easy while putting you in prime position for the enormously popular Sandwich Fair (if you manage to time your stay here to coincide with this annual attraction).
LOWLIGHTS: (1) The large population of seasonal and long-term campers means portions of Rolling Oaks can feel more like a permanent RV neighborhood than a campground; (2) All that community activity means summer weekends aren't exactly designed for campers seeking solitude and P&Q; and (3) The CGs sprawling layout means the experience can vary considerably depending upon where you land with front sections feel busier and more transient, while areas farther back become increasingly more residential.
Insider’s Tip: For the best balance of scenery, shade and quiet, head toward the far side of the lake, away from the busiest weekend activity. And if you're thinking of bringing a kayak or canoe, definitely bring it as direct Fox River access is one of Rolling Oaks' biggest advantages.
Happy Camping!
Sherry K.ScoutPearl Lake
Late night party central
The park is beautiful. The water is beautiful. They say it's a gated community, but it's open to the public 9 to 5 daily. At twenty five dollars per person. And then on friday and saturday night, the locals that park here for the summer start their party central including karaoke at the camper next door, and several others. I've never had a camcround with that loud of parties. And it's a weekend event. I like hearing and seeing people having fun but when the manager extends the curfew for the parties she's at (they kind of party hop), it starts to affect the enjoyment of the park. If we had to stay, we'd stay in the S## sites in the back, where you don't hear so much of the partying. And then during the day, the rules began. Kind of like the soup nazi.
kelsea D.TravelerPrairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
A lot to do.
There’s a lot of things to do out here. We did some hiking with our boy. The site we were at was maintained. It’s a nice place to go camping.
Maria Mercedes M.LegendHoneysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Lively Little Campground Beside Turner Lake
There’s something wonderfully EZ about camping where the kids can wander down toward the water and suddenly the whole weekend seems to slow down ... and that’s the entire charm of Honeysuckle Hollow. Here at Chain O’Lakes State Park, Honeysuckle Hollow is the largest and most wide open of the park’s camping areas, with electric sites geared particularly well toward RV families, although the tradeoff is noticeably less shade and almost zero privacy between nearly every campsite, compared with neighboring Fox Den, which offers up much more seclusion and shade. The greatest asset here is undoubtedly the direct access to Turner Lake (although you could also have direct access over at Turner Lake South), giving families an EZ place to fish, paddle or simply explore the shoreline, while electric hookups, picnic tables, grills and a nearby restroom/shower building keep the actual camping comfortably simple. We especially loved those unhurried moments when the boys could wander toward the lake while dinner was getting started and everyone seemed perfectly happy just being outside together. The shower facility here is convenient, although we found it just slightly more dilapidated conditions than the bathhouse located closer to Fox Den. From what we saw, I’d choose one of the better-spaced sites toward the Turner Lake side of the campground, where EZ water access helps compensate for Honeysuckle’s limited privacy. I’d recommend Honeysuckle for families who value electricity, lake access and a lively campground atmosphere, particularly if having Turner Lake practically in your backyard matters more than having your neighbors hidden behind the trees. One point to note is that the pier was in an advanced state of disrepair and so we were not able to fully maximize this particular amenity - so if accessing Turner Lake is important to you and your family, we would recommend calling ahead to verify the condition of the pier.
Guide to Carpentersville
Camping near Carpentersville, Illinois offers seasonal options across several forest preserves and county parks within a 25-mile radius. The area features glacial terrain with gently rolling hills and prairie ecosystems that contrast with the developed suburban surroundings. Most campgrounds close between late October and early May, with overnight temperatures that can dip below 50°F even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking diverse terrain: Thomas Woods Campground offers multiple trail types through both wooded areas and restored prairie. "There are plenty of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc. The preserve bumps up next to neighborhoods and major roads depending how far in you get, but the main trails are easy to follow," notes a visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Access stocked lakes and ponds for fishing at several campgrounds. At Blackwell Family Campground, "The fishing is outstanding. There are lots of places along the lake and ponds to get an easy catch and release," according to a reviewer who rated their experience highly.
Water recreation: Kayaking and boating are popular at Chain O' Lakes State Park where the Honeysuckle Hollow camping area provides direct access to multiple connected waterways. "This is a great place for kayakers. There is a water way fee per kayak or canoe per year but it is well worth it," explains one camper who visits annually.
What campers like
Free or low-cost firewood: Camp Reinberg stands out with its firewood policy. "Very friendly staff with well organized and well maintained campground. Free firewood and you can purchase more for just $5," reports a recent visitor who gave the campground five stars.
Clean bathroom facilities: Campers frequently praise sites with well-maintained facilities. At Rock Cut State Park, "Shower buildings were clean enough, but very old with bad shower heads. Lots of good hiking trails and a pretty lake."
Private tent sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded spots for tent campers seeking privacy. "Smaller campground in McHenry county. Good staff. Other campers relatively friendly and quiet. County police make a presence in the camp ground. Clean. Decent sites, some have hike in (kind of). Decent toilets," notes a Thomas Woods camper.
What you should know
County residency affects pricing: Forest preserve campgrounds charge different rates for residents and non-residents. "It's pricey if you are from out of the county. We were hoping to camp at the primitive sites but they are walk-in only. Our teardrop wasn't allowed," explains one visitor about Paul Wolff Campground.
Tick prevention is essential: Some campgrounds report significant tick activity, especially with young children. At Chain O' Lakes, "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks... they literally fall out of the trees into people! Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house."
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are active at dusk in many area campgrounds. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched... eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort caters to families with kids. "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Child Friendly Campground," reports a satisfied camper.
Weekend programming: Many campgrounds offer scheduled activities for children, particularly on weekends. "We 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," notes a Chicago Northwest KOA visitor.
Safer sites for young children: When camping with toddlers, select sites carefully. At Chain O' Lakes, "Sites are almost all flat thankfully, so no weird slopes to sleep on and easy for babies/toddlers to stay safe. Also seemed pretty respectful in the evenings with people toning down the noise."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup challenges: Power infrastructure varies widely across campgrounds. At Rock Cut State Park, one frustrated camper reported, "When we got there, the electricity wasn't working. It was 93° on a Saturday. We called the Rangers... who came to look at it. Told us that the park was just so old that it probably couldn't keep up and moved us to a 50 amp sight."
Water access variations: Not all sites with electric hookups have convenient water access. "This KOA has very limited full hook up sites. We paid for the deluxe patio site, which had no sewer. Site was not level but it had a lot of shade which was nice."
Site spacing considerations: The proximity of RV sites differs significantly between campgrounds. "A pull through style RV park. Great if you have a toy hauler style camper, but if you're used to boondocking/dispersed camping, very very few spots with shade and trees. Felt like a trailer park not camping," notes a Lehman's Lakeside RV Resort visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Carpentersville?
Where are the best campgrounds near Carpentersville?
Within an hour's drive of Carpentersville, Blackwell Family Campground offers a convenient weekend getaway with electric hookups at all sites, level camping spots, and modern bathrooms. For those seeking water recreation, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area provides lakeside camping and fishing opportunities. Other excellent options include Paul Wolff Campground near Elgin and various loops at Chain O' Lakes State Park, which offer different camping experiences from primitive to full-service sites.
Is there free or dispersed camping available near Carpentersville?
Is there free or dispersed camping available near Carpentersville?
Free or dispersed camping options are limited near Carpentersville. For budget-conscious travelers, Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park offers primitive camping with no on-site electric services, though water is available nearby. For RV owners, some businesses like Costco — Naperville may permit overnight parking, though these are not official campsites and typically don't allow extended stays or setup of camping equipment. For affordable options, county forest preserves often have lower fees, especially for county residents, but true dispersed camping is rare in this heavily developed region of Illinois.
What amenities are available at Carpentersville camping areas?
What amenities are available at Carpentersville camping areas?
Campgrounds near Carpentersville offer varying amenities. Camp Reinberg features extensive biking and walking trails with unique off-trail paths leading to clearings and bridges. At Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park, you'll find private sites in a natural setting, while other loops in the park offer different experiences. Many area campgrounds provide basic facilities like water access and toilets, with some offering electric hookups. For those seeking more developed sites, several campgrounds provide modern restrooms, while others maintain a more primitive experience with fewer amenities.
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