Camp Bullfrog Lake and Camp Sullivan provide glamping options within an hour of Chicago Ridge, Illinois, located in the southwest suburbs approximately 20 miles from downtown Chicago. The area features the Calumet Trail system that connects several campgrounds and offers access to Lake Michigan shorelines. Winter camping options remain limited in the region with seasonal closures at many locations from November through March.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers extensive trail systems specifically designed for mountain biking. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails. We saw several vehicles carrying top of the line bikes in and out all day," noted one visitor.
Water recreation options: Kayaking is available on-site at several locations with rental equipment. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," according to a Camp Bullfrog Lake camper. Swimming beaches at Indiana Dunes State Park provide lifeguarded areas during summer months.
Three Dune Challenge: Take on the hiking challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," shares one visitor who completed the trail system. The challenge includes climbing the three tallest dunes in the park.
What campers like
Secure camping environments: Michigan City Campground offers controlled access for visitors. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," explains one reviewer who appreciated the security features. The campground maintains key card access systems to limit entrance to registered guests.
Clean shower facilities: Many campers cite the quality of bathroom facilities as a standout feature. "Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked," notes a visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake, while another camper at Dunewood Campground reported "The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers."
Lake Michigan views: Elevated dune areas provide scenic vistas across Lake Michigan. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake," writes a camper at Indiana Dunes State Park. The westward orientation of many viewpoints creates optimal sunset viewing conditions over the water.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience railway disruptions throughout the night. A camper at Dunewood Campground mentioned they "Could hear trains throughout the night." At Indiana Dunes State Park, one visitor noted, "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."
Campsite spacing variations: Site proximity differs significantly between locations. At Camp Sullivan, "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," according to one reviewer. Other campers note similar density issues at multiple locations.
Seasonal infrastructure changes: Water systems may operate differently depending on season. "The water is not yet potable so bring your own or check with the park team to ensure it's drinkable when you go," advised an early spring visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Lakeshore Camp Resort offers child-friendly amenities. "Positive insights-hook ups work and the Pool and lake were both swimmable. The playground was nice for kids," notes a visitor, though they also mentioned limited facilities in other areas.
Beach safety awareness: Families should monitor swimming conditions at Lake Michigan beaches. "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," warns a visitor familiar with Indiana Dunes State Park. Lifeguards are typically present only during peak summer hours.
Activity scheduling: Many sites offer organized programming for children. "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)," reports a family that regularly visits Camp Sullivan with three children under age 7.
Tips from RVers
Dump station conditions: Quality varies significantly between locations. At Jellystone Park Millbrook, one RVer reported issues with the facilities: "What's worse is the dump station I was forced to use. OMG what a disaster. It's a relic from decades ago. Uneven and puddles of 'water' all over the dump area."
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for varying pad conditions at different campgrounds. "All pads seemed nice and level. Only offered electric service," noted an RV camper at Indiana Dunes State Park. Many sites offer electric-only hookups, requiring self-contained water tanks.
Premium site options: For full hookups, several campgrounds offer upgraded sites. "We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull through with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite. The cement patio was large with a picnic table and an adjacent fire pit," reported an RVer at Michigan City Campground.
