Cabins and primitive camping sites can be found throughout the Cook County Forest Preserves and surrounding areas near Chicago Heights, Illinois. This area sits on former glacial plains with elevations ranging from 600 to 800 feet above sea level. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures in the 50s to 70s, while summer months can reach into the 90s with high humidity.
What to do
Kayaking on nearby lakes: At Camp Bullfrog Lake, visitors can rent kayaks for $15 per hour including life vests. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes one visitor. The small lake provides a calm paddling experience suitable for beginners.
Mountain biking on extensive trails: The Palos trail system connects directly to several campgrounds, offering miles of single-track trails. "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 a Camp Bullfrog Lake camper. Trails range from beginner-friendly paths to more technical sections with roots and hills.
Beach swimming at Indiana Dunes: A 45-minute drive from Chicago Heights, Indiana Dunes State Park Campground provides access to Lake Michigan beaches with lifeguards during designated hours. "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," reports a camper. The park also offers marked swimming areas away from boat traffic.
What campers like
Free firewood with site rental: Multiple Cook County forest preserve campgrounds provide complimentary firewood with reservations. "Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits," mentions a Camp Bullfrog Lake reviewer. This saves campers approximately $5-10 per bundle compared to purchasing firewood elsewhere.
Well-maintained bathroom facilities: Camp Sullivan offers recently renovated shower and bathroom buildings. According to one visitor, "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern." Most Cook County campgrounds feature flush toilets, hot showers, and dish washing stations with regularly scheduled cleaning.
Proximity to Chicago: Locations like Dunewood Campground offer wilderness camping with urban convenience. "Management was very attentive to making sure the campground was quiet and calm... Lots of nature, chill vibe. Great experience!" notes a visitor. On clear days, some shoreline campsites even provide views of the Chicago skyline across Lake Michigan.
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Several campsites near Chicago Heights experience railroad disruptions. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," explains an Indiana Dunes State Park camper. Sites furthest from tracks or in cabin accommodations generally experience less noise disturbance.
Reservation requirements vary by season: Peak season from May through September typically requires advance bookings, especially for weekends. During shoulder seasons (April and October), many sites become first-come, first-served with reduced rates. Winter cabin availability remains limited to select locations with heating systems.
Limited shade at newer sites: Kankakee South KOA and other developing campgrounds feature young trees that provide minimal coverage. "It's older place with huge rotting trees, mostly dirt or gravel sites," notes one long-term visitor. Consider pop-up canopies or awnings during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 85°F.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access considerations: Campgrounds like Oak Lake RV Resort position family sites strategically near play equipment. "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," shares one parent. Request sites 15-20 at Oak Lake for closest playground access.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Cook County preserves host numerous animal species observable from trails. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," reports a visitor. Morning hours between 6-9am typically offer best wildlife viewing conditions.
Security features for peace of mind: Michigan City Campground implements controlled access for added safety. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," notes a family camper. This gated entrance prevents non-campers from accessing the grounds.
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup availability: Most Cook County Forest Preserve campgrounds offer electric-only connections without water or sewer at individual sites. "Not a whole lot, as is with most IN state parks there is no water hookup so you need to fill your tank up but it was set up really nice," explains an Indiana Dunes State Park visitor. Arrive with full freshwater tanks and empty waste tanks.
Site width considerations: Camping areas close to Chicago tend to have narrower spacing between units. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," mentions a Camp Sullivan reviewer. Request end sites or premium locations for additional space when traveling with slideouts or awnings.
Yurt camping options near Chicago Heights: For alternatives to traditional camping, Oak Lake RV Resort offers yurt accommodations with climate control. Other options for yurt camping in Chicago Heights include seasonal structures at various price points from basic canvas to deluxe heated models with bathrooms. These provide glamping opportunities without the need to transport camping equipment.
