Camping near Cary, Illinois provides access to several state parks, forest preserves, and private campgrounds within McHenry and surrounding counties. Located in the northern Illinois prairie landscape at approximately 850 feet above sea level, this area features a mix of woodlands, wetlands, and prairie ecosystems. Most campgrounds in the region operate between April and October, with summer nights regularly reaching 65-75°F and occasional seasonal thunderstorms.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Chain O'Lakes State Park has dedicated equestrian paths throughout the park. "There are horse/ snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground," notes a camper about Turner Lake South, where you can access these recreational options.
Hiking variety: Marengo Ridge Conservation Area offers trails with varying terrain. "We were able to vary the route up to keep it fresh for our dog to sniff out her adventure. Some of grass and others were dirt. The wildflowers caught our eye and we enjoyed pausing to appreciate their beauty," shares a visitor at Thomas Woods Campground.
Water recreation: Access multiple connected lakes via boat launches. "This would put you on the Fox river with developments to the north (including a bar & grill) or to the south which is all nature," explains a camper at Turner Lake South, noting that "Chain o' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season."
What campers like
Privacy at select sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots. At Thomas Woods Campground, campers appreciate that "most of the tent spots are spaced out enough to provide privacy and quiet," with one camper noting their site was "further off the main road which allowed for more privacy."
Clean facilities: Despite being in suburban settings, many campgrounds maintain good standards. "The shower facilities were clean and the staff very friendly," reports a visitor to Camp Reinberg, while another mentions "clean bathrooms and shower."
Seasonal nature shows: The area provides unique wildlife viewing opportunities throughout camping season. "The wildflowers caught our eye and we enjoyed pausing to appreciate their beauty," shares a Thomas Woods camper, while at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, one camper noted they "kayaked in the lake and it's small but nice" with opportunities to observe local wildlife.
What you should know
Insect preparedness: Multiple campers mention significant insect activity. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warns a camper at Honeysuckle Hollow, adding "they literally fall out of the trees into people!"
Limited alcohol rules: Several parks prohibit alcohol consumption. One camper at Paul Wolff Campground mentions they "even grew to like the no alcohol in the preserve rule."
Gate restrictions: Some parks limit late-night access. "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark," advises a camper at Turner Lake South.
Seasonal campers: Many parks have permanent or long-term occupants. "Very big campground with mostly seasonals. Atmosphere is the perfect balance of fun and relaxing," explains a Fish Lake Beach visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Affordable options: Budget camping is available at several parks. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly," notes a camper about Turner Lake South Camping Area.
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events keep children entertained. At Chicago Northwest KOA, "there are a lot of activity for kids on the weekends," and the staff sends "text message communication with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Accessible nature experiences abound. "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels," shares a Paul Wolff Campground visitor, noting these sightings are common even in busy sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric access varies between campgrounds. "Each site has an individual electric post," explains a Fox Den visitor, while at Honeysuckle Hollow, "some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad" making extension cords necessary.
Site levelness: RV campers should check site descriptions carefully. "All the sites have paved pads," notes a Paul Wolff camper, while at Chicago Northwest KOA another mentions, "site was not level but it had a lot of shade which was nice."
Water access: Many sites require alternative water arrangements. At Camp Reinberg, "there are no water spigots at the RV sites. The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site," explains one RVer, who added the staff handled this inconvenience "with a good attitude."
