Tent camping near Chicago Ridge, Illinois occurs primarily at established sites within 30-40 miles of the urban area. Most locations operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability. The region features several waterfront campsites along rivers and canals, with options ranging from primitive walk-in sites to more developed facilities with basic amenities.
What to do
Kayaking from camp sites: At Kayak Morris, campers can launch directly from riverside tent sites. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site," notes Eric R.
Fishing opportunities: The rivers around Chicago Ridge offer productive fishing spots. At Mac Finn's Landing, tent campers can access "one of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River" with "lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers," according to Raven Rock S.
Trail access: Several campgrounds connect to the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail. Many tent sites serve as convenient overnight stops for cyclists and hikers. The trail consists of crushed gravel and connects multiple camping areas across the region.
What campers like
Riverfront settings: Tent campers appreciate waterfront access at several locations. "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," shares Amanda W. about Kayak Morris.
Wildlife viewing: Despite urban proximity, campers can experience nature. "At night, you can hear owls and distant trains," reports Brian O. about McKinley Woods, though he notes "motorboats and jet-skis begin around 6:AM."
Varied site layouts: The region offers tent sites with different configurations. At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, "the sites are far apart" with site "#1 being the shadiest and most secluded but uneven. #2 is wide open and in the sun, #3 & #4 are shady and paved."
What you should know
Site access limitations: Many tent camping locations require walk-in access. At Central Avenue Walk-in Sites in nearby Indiana Dunes National Park, "Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail. You have to walk all the way down and take a left before you find sites 5, 4, 3, and 2 in that order."
Seasonal flooding potential: Some campsites experience flooding issues. One camper at McKinley Woods reports: "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. 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."
Urban sounds: The proximity to Chicago means occasional urban noise. At Camp Shabbona Woods, one camper noted they "definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background."
Tips for camping with families
ADA accessible options: Several campgrounds offer accessible sites. At McKinley Woods, "two of the four sites are paved" and "all sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs."
Beginner-friendly settings: Some locations cater specifically to novice campers. At Camp Shabbona Woods, the "camp suite is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping," according to Scott M.
Watch for site closures: Park hours vary by location. One camper mentions that at Camp Shabbona Woods, "they close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok," which could affect late arrivals with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Chicago Ridge don't accommodate RVs with hookups. Of the few that do allow RVs, like Kayak Morris, none provide electric, water, or sewer connections.
Parking challenges: RV access is restricted at most locations. A camper at Davis Creek Campground notes the area is "open" with "good access to water," but vehicles must park in designated areas away from tent sites.
Alternative accommodations: For those not wanting to tent camp, limited options exist. "If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," mentions Eric R. about Kayak Morris, which also offers "glampouts" where breakfast is "provided by the staff."
