Campsites near Chicago Heights, Illinois range in elevation from 600 to 800 feet above sea level and experience four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Most camping options lie within a 30-mile radius of Chicago Heights, with the nearest facilities located approximately 5 miles from the city center. The camping season typically runs from April through October with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Kayaking on Bullfrog Lake: Rentals cost $15 per hour at Camp Bullfrog Lake, including life vests for water safety. "The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes Layla P., who appreciated the recreational opportunity despite the lake's size.
Mountain biking on nearby trails: Access miles of single-track paths directly from camping areas with varying difficulty levels. "What's great about this location is the access to miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," explains Josh M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Climbing sand dunes: The 3-Dune Challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park offers a moderate hiking opportunity on soft sand. "The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," advises Greg S., highlighting the unique texture of the terrain.
Swimming in Lake Michigan: Public beaches provide cooling relief during summer months with lifeguarded areas available at specific times. "The beach was well maintained and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," shares Kaley A.
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: Sites within 30 minutes of the metro area allow quick weekend escapes. "This is probably the closest camping to downtown Chicago. About 5 years in existence," states Bill M. about Camp Sullivan, noting its accessibility from the city.
Evening wildlife watching: Multiple campgrounds report abundant bird and animal sightings at dusk. "Amazing chirping of the birds in the morning. Just beautiful piece full with nature," shares Gina A. about her experience at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Free firewood at select campgrounds: Some county facilities include wood with site rental. "The site had a wood picnic table and fire ring for a wood fire pit. They give you free firewood with your stay," notes Amber H., highlighting one of Camp Sullivan's amenities.
Clean shower facilities: Recent renovations at several campgrounds have improved bathroom conditions. "The bathhouses are newer and kept fairly clean. The showers were pretty great for a camp ground!" Emma H. reports about Kankakee River State Park, appreciating the updated amenities.
What you should know
Train noise affects multiple sites: Railroad proximity impacts sleep quality at several campgrounds. "Could hear Trains throughout the night," warns Truly W. about Dunewood Campground, while similar comments appear in reviews for other facilities in the region.
Summer weekday availability: Less crowded conditions mid-week provide more privacy. "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," mentions Josh M., suggesting a strategy for avoiding weekend crowds.
Security considerations: Gate closure practices vary by location with some limiting nighttime access. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning!" cautions Lisa S., highlighting a potential concern for early departures or emergencies.
Varying site sizes: Dimensions range significantly with some too small for larger setups. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," notes Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan, while others mention spacious sites at different campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas though some lack shade. "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8," shares Shannon H. about Potowatomi Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events run throughout summer weekends at family-focused campgrounds. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites," recommends Dane S. about Camp Sullivan, where his family enjoys bringing three children under 7.
Nature center programs: Educational opportunities for children include wildlife encounters. "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" Linda N. enthuses about her experience at Kankakee River State Park.
Swimming options: Beaches require supervision due to variable conditions. "There are biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," Katie O. notes about Dunewood Campground, providing useful information for parents planning water activities.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Most sites lack full connections despite electric availability. "No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet," explains Kaitlin M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake, noting the limited utilities.
Dump station access: Facilities exist but may have wait times during peak periods. "Two dump stations made wait minimal," reports Jeffrey S. about Indiana Dunes State Park, providing practical information for RV waste management.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly across the region. "It was easy to level, they give you free firewood with your stay," Chris M. shares about Indiana Dunes State Park, where he stayed in a 37-foot motorhome with a towed Jeep.
Alternative accommodations: Cabins offer camping experience without equipment requirements. "There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," mentions Shane S. about the options at Camp Sullivan for those without personal camping equipment.
