Camping near Channahon, Illinois focuses primarily on water-based recreation with options spanning three major waterways: the Illinois River, Des Plaines River, and the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal. The region sits at approximately 520 feet elevation with predominantly flat terrain punctuated by wooded areas that provide natural shade for campsites. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Kayaking the Illinois River: At Kayak Morris, waterfront sites provide direct river access. "I have my own kayak and the river here is so calm its awesome. My friends rented the dual kayaks and they loved them," notes reviewer Art P. The campground offers kayak rentals for those without equipment.
Fishing for stripers: The river convergence near Kayak Morris creates exceptional fishing conditions. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M. Fishing licenses required, available online through Illinois DNR for $15/day.
Biking the I&M Canal Trail: Located within minutes of most campsites near Channahon, Illinois, this crushed gravel path follows the historic canal. The trail passes directly through Channahon State Park Campground, making it ideal for cyclists. "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night," writes Art S.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Sites at McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove offer direct water access. "McKinley Woods offers me a lot of nostalgia since I grew up in the area. In McKinley Woods proper there is a large camping area and two of the sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility," explains Scott N. The location provides boat access to both the canal and Illinois River.
Convenient tent sites: Channahon State Park Campground offers walk-in sites for tent campers. "This campground is right in town. It is a bit away from businesses. However if you arrive by car you drive through the quaint town," notes Art S. Sites require a short walk from parking area.
Organized campground activities: Some private facilities offer structured events. "When we showed up, a classic car gathering was going on. They even set a campfire to use throughout the morning," recalls a visitor to Channahon State Park. Seasonal events typically run weekends from May through September.
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas near the rivers can flood during heavy rain. A camper at McKinley Woods described: "Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up the the fire pit."
Seasonal water availability: Water systems at some campgrounds shut down during colder months. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, one visitor noted: "Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive. No water before 4/15," indicating seasonal water restrictions.
Train noise: Railroad tracks run alongside several camping areas. A camper at Hollywood Casino mentioned: "Rail yard behind the row of trees. I believe they were humbling train all night long," suggesting earplugs for light sleepers at certain locations.
Highway proximity: Some sites are located near major highways. Martin's Camping Ground sits adjacent to I-80, with one reviewer noting: "You can throw a stone and hit a semi driving by to I-80. There's a lot of traffic given the proximity to Chicago."
Tips for camping with families
Mini-golf outings: Leisure Lake Membership Resort offers family-friendly activities on-site. "The list of amenities is remarkable, but membership is required. The beach and lake were always well maintained, and we had often enjoyed live music at the pavilion. You can even play mini golf here!" shares Bill M.
Accessible camping options: Facilities for campers with mobility challenges exist at some parks. At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, "two of the sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility," making this location suitable for families with accessibility needs.
Tent camping with kids: When choosing tent sites with children, look for locations with shade and water access. Amanda W. described her experience: "We loved this campsite! We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap if you don't have your own."
Morning activities: Many campgrounds offer morning programming for families. "Morning breakfast after the glampout night provided by the staff, good food and quite environment," reported Eric R. about Kayak Morris, highlighting organized events that families can enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Shower facilities quality: RV campers without onboard showers should check facility quality. At Starved Rock Campground, one visitor noted: "The campground has just 2 real bathrooms, one for each loop. Each has 2 flush toilets and 2 showers. Showers were pretty rough, no temp control and spraying everywhere but your body."
Electric site availability: Most RV sites offer electric hookups, though amperage varies by location. At Starved Rock Campground, "our site was listed at 50A only. It really was 50/30/20A," indicating more flexibility than advertised.
Dump station timing: Plan ahead for departure day dump station use. "Took about 45 min for us to dump being 5th in line at 10:30am," reported a camper at Starved Rock Campground, suggesting earlier arrival to avoid wait times.
Overnight convenience stops: For those traveling the I-80 corridor, Love's RV Hookup offers convenient facilities. "There's 10 back-in RV slots available and inside you'll find that there's 7 individual shower stalls along with a laundry facility, which we were happily surprised by," noted Stuart K.
