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Best Campgrounds near Chicago Ridge, IL

472 Reviews

Campgrounds near Chicago Ridge, Illinois provide a mix of urban-adjacent camping experiences within an hour's drive of the city. Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs and Camp Sullivan in Oak Forest offer year-round camping options with cabin accommodations, tent sites, and RV hookups. Several forest preserves managed by county agencies provide established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities, from basic tent sites to full-service RV pads with electric hookups, showers, and modern restroom facilities. The proximity to Chicago makes these locations popular weekend destinations for city residents seeking outdoor recreation without long travel times.

Reservations are essential at most campgrounds in the Chicago area, particularly during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Many locations like Blackwell Family Campground operate seasonally from spring through fall, typically May through September, though some facilities remain open year-round. Winter camping options are limited due to facility closures and harsh Midwestern weather conditions. The flat terrain throughout the region makes for easy site access, with most campgrounds featuring paved roads suitable for all vehicles including large RVs. A recent visitor to Blackwell Family Campground noted, "Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home. They have discounted rates for Dupage county residents and have electric at all sites and great prices for firewood."

The camping experience near Chicago Ridge balances natural settings with urban convenience. Campers report high satisfaction with locations that offer water features, such as Camp Bullfrog Lake where tent sites surround a lake with fishing opportunities. Several forest preserve campgrounds provide access to extensive trail systems for hiking and biking. One camper described Camp Reinberg as having "lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc." While road noise can be noticeable at some locations closer to highways, many sites offer surprising seclusion given their proximity to metropolitan areas. Campgrounds in the region typically provide amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water, with many offering electric hookups for RVs and cabins for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Chicago Ridge, Illinois (64)

    1. Camp Bullfrog Lake

    30 Reviews
    Willow Springs, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-9785

    $20 - $138 / night

    "Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life.

    Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."

    "What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."

    2. Camp Sullivan

    15 Reviews
    Oak Forest, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-0041

    $35 - $250 / night

    "Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern."

    "There are several bathrooms around and they are clean. Staff is friendly and welcoming."

    3. Blackwell Family Campground

    22 Reviews
    Warrenville, IL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 933-7248

    $20 - $30 / night

    "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."

    4. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    126 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."

    "You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."

    5. The Vaudeville

    3 Reviews
    Chicago, IL
    13 miles
    +1 (312) 420-4204

    "There is easy access to public transportation. It was HOT and there are no plug ins or use of generators so plan accordingly"

    6. Camp Shabbona Woods

    2 Reviews
    Calumet City, IL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-0018

    $30 - $80 / night

    7. Martin’s Camping Ground

    7 Reviews
    New Lenox, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 726-3173

    "If you like having access to a bathroom and shower its great and because no one really hd a tent here but us we had some privacy. It is next to a highway so be mindful of that."

    8. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-1952

    $30 / night

    "We spent the afternoon on the lakeside and drove back to the site to set up for the evening."

    "This campground was very nice and clean and for a packed park was very quiet and we did not feel too close to the sites next to us. "

    9. Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Rockdale, IL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 744-9400

    "Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot. Pet-friendly. Pleasant park with good pad. Near busy road and shipping plant."

    "Nice safe location. Flat, pretty large spots..picnic tables."

    10. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    Portage, IN
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 762-7757

    $49 - $57 / night

    "We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars."

    "A lake with water rentals, floating water slide, playgrounds and sport courts, general store with the stardust’s “convenience mark-ups”,and water/ electric at all sites."

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Recent Camping Photos near Chicago Ridge, IL

149 Photos of 64 Chicago Ridge Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chicago Ridge, IL

472 Reviews of 64 Chicago Ridge Campgrounds

  • Emma H.
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

    Great for our 2 person campout!

    My fiancé and I stayed in the Hickory Loop spot 3. We are very new campers, so we just have a very basic tent setup. When we checked in with the host, there were bundles of firewood for $8 (either cash or cash app). The spots are not huge, and not super private (you have next door and across the street neighbors), but we didn’t mind that! There were two outlets available, and a small rectangular fire pit with a grate on top. There are a few water pumps and vault toilets within walking distance, but we were pretty close to the shower house, which had stalls for toilets and showers. The showers were pretty great for a camp ground!

    It rained a ton during our trip so we didn’t explore much, but would definitely recommend for a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity.

  • Nadiehsda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Oak Lake RV Resort

    We came for a weekend… Stayed nearly 2 weeks! Oak Lake RV Resort is where family memories are made.

    6 people, 1 pup & a 44.4' Keystone Sprinter... Oak Lake RV Resort handled it all with ease & gave us the BEST camping trip ever! From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup. We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless. Where else does that??

    We originally booked August 22–25, extended to the 29th & then lucked into staying through Labor Day weekend. We canceled our other plans because Oak Lake had everything we wanted & more!!Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s’mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!

    Rebecca deserves a huge shoutout for going above & beyond! Tom & Marianne, the owners, are amazing hosts who clearly pour their hearts into making Oak Lake special. Even the coin operated laundry was a lifesaver & convinced us we need a washer/dryer in our camper for future impromptu stays 😂.

    We’re already talking about being put on the list for a seasonal site for next year bc we know we’ll be back again & again. Oak Lake RV Resort is Newton County’s hidden gem!!! If you’re searching for fun, hospitality & true family camping memories... THIS is the place!! Hands down, every time.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Great camping spot

    This is my second time staying at Bullfrog lake. The first time I was in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade.

    The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch to photos for me of me kayaking. The other guy seemed mad to be alive lol.

    The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around.

    Unfortunately the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames—my other two neighbors had the same issue.

    Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked.

    Overall I’d definitely stay here again.

  • K
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    Not communicable, fraud administration

    I reserved 5 nights, paid in full. After just one night, management cancelled my stay because my service dogs(Maltese) supposedly barked. I was fully cooperative, kept them quiet, and even documented this in emails. There was a stray cat near my RV that caused the issue, but instead of solving it, they forced me to leave. No refund for 4 nights. This is unfair, discriminatory, and against ADA law.

  • Kevin B.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Camp Sullivan

    Enjoyed the camping experience

    Nice and clean areas, staff was very professional and helpful while I was there

  • D
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Big Rock Campground

    Needs some shade

    This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade.

    The flush toilet building was very clean, but there was no TP in the ladies' room. And I have to wonder why you would build a new campground without showers?

    It is very close to the cities so we will stay here again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Camp Shabbona Woods

    Not the best but acceptable

    Stayed the weekend. Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can’t keep your vehicle close to your campsite. The good the bathroom are in good shape and the staff was friendly.

Guide to Chicago Ridge

Camping sites near Chicago Ridge, Illinois cluster mainly around forest preserves and along Lake Michigan's shoreline. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 580-650 feet above sea level, featuring primarily flat terrain with some rolling hills. Winter temperatures typically drop below 20°F, while summer averages reach 85°F with moderate humidity, creating a clear camping season from April through October.

What to do

Hiking trail systems: Camp Bullfrog Lake connects to miles of mountain biking and hiking trails accessible directly from campsites. One camper noted, "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."

Beach activities: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers access to Lake Michigan with swimming opportunities supervised by lifeguards during specific hours. A visitor shared: "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."

Water recreation: Fishing and kayaking opportunities exist at several campgrounds within an hour of Chicago Ridge. According to one visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake: "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around."

What campers like

Convenient urban escapes: Many campers appreciate the proximity to Chicago while still enjoying natural settings. One visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake remarked, "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week."

Modern facilities: Blackwell Family Campground receives positive reviews for its well-maintained amenities. A camper described it as having "really nice showers that I've been to to date," highlighting the importance of clean facilities for weekend trips.

Seasonal nature observation: Campgrounds in the region offer opportunities to experience wildlife throughout different seasons. One camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "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."

What you should know

Train noise: Multiple campgrounds near Chicago Ridge experience noise from nearby train lines. A visitor to Indiana Dunes State Park Campground reported, "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."

Gate closures: Some forest preserve campgrounds restrict vehicle access during overnight hours. One camper at Camp Sullivan noted, "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting."

Site characteristics: Campground sites vary in size, shade, and privacy. A Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor detailed: "Site #2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade."

Tips for camping with families

Playground proximity: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. A visitor to Camp Sullivan shared, "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)."

Educational opportunities: Blackwell Family Campground provides nature programming suitable for children. As one visitor described, "Our Scouts were able to walk down to access the lake and fish. Additionally, there's an open space for sports/games and some great climbing trees within the group area."

Water safety considerations: Parents should monitor children at beach locations due to potential hazards. A camper at Indiana Dunes State Park cautioned, "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters."

Tips from RVers

Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups but lack water or sewer connections at individual sites. A camper at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort noted, "Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot."

Site leveling: Most RV sites in the area feature level pads suitable for larger rigs. According to an Indiana Dunes State Park visitor, "All pads seemed nice and level. Only offered electric service."

Winter availability: RVers should verify seasonal water access when camping in cooler months. One visitor to Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort warned, "No water before 4/15," indicating the need to arrive with full water tanks during early spring camping trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Chicago Ridge, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chicago Ridge, IL is Camp Bullfrog Lake with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.

What parks are near Chicago Ridge, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Chicago Ridge, IL that allow camping, notably Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes National Park.

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