Camp Bullfrog Lake offers pet-friendly camping just 25 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. The campground sits within the 37,000-acre Cook County Forest Preserve system with elevations ranging from 585 to 780 feet above sea level. Chicago-area camping experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 83°F and high humidity levels that can make shade important for campers and their pets.
What to do
Hiking with pets: The extensive trail network around Camp Bullfrog Lake connects to miles of forest preserve paths. "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. 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," notes Josh M.
Water activities: Several campgrounds near Chicago provide options for water recreation during summer months. At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, visitors can access the Lake Michigan shoreline. "The beach and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype. The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic," reports Greg S.
Mountain biking: The trail systems near Chicago offer mountain biking opportunities on various terrain types. "We stayed here for two nights recently. 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," writes Tim K.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. At Dunewood Campground, "The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers. The campsite was large and beautiful," according to Veronica S.
Accessible nature close to the city: The forest preserves provide natural settings near urban areas. At Camp Reinberg, "For nature that's close to civilization, Deer Grove Forest Preserve is the best. The trails through the grounds are varied and long—you can find something to suit just about any preference for suburban midwest hiking," explains Kristy G.
Wildlife viewing: Chicago-area preserves support diverse wildlife populations. "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," shares one camper about their experience at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
What you should know
Varying site privacy: Site layouts and vegetation differ significantly between campgrounds. At Blackwell Family Campground, "While I didn't camp here this year, I took these photos the last weekend in October to give everyone a sense of how nice this campground could be for them. My favorite sites over the years were the ones closest to Silver Lake along the South Loop road because those sites have the best views," notes Marisa A.
Seasonal considerations: Camping near Chicago can present weather challenges. "We stayed in site #3, which had some good hammock trees. Restrooms and showers are nice, but not as clean as state park and other camping restrooms in the area," reports Katie O. about Dunewood Campground during a summer heat wave.
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise throughout the day and night. "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. If you're a heavy sleeper and can deal with that, you'll be just fine but us tent camping there was nothing to block the sound," warns Kaley A.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with facilities designed 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). Highly recommend," shares Dane S. about Camp Sullivan.
Safety considerations: Choose campgrounds with good security measures when camping with children near urban areas. "We visited this fall and were happy. I always forget that the sites in the 340's are awesome," mentions Ashley J. about Illinois Beach State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several preserves offer nature programs for young campers. "The nature center is right next to the campground. The pavilion is being renovated, the ice cream shop was open, but they were still doing construction on the rest. I hear that it will be grand when finished," notes Jackie H. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Chicago offer electric service with varying amperage. At Paul Wolff Campground, "There are a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees. Because there is electrical it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise," explains Marisa A.
Water access limitations: Water hookups vary between campgrounds. "The sites are level and clean and they have modern bathrooms. We take our kayaks to the lake during the summer and Illinois just did away with reg stickers this year," shares Marc W. about Paul Wolff Campground.
Pad types and leveling: RV sites feature different surface materials. "All sites are electric, so if you are tent camping and want your fan or slow-cooker, then it's as good as it gets in the burbs. Designated chip bark tent sites are level. The grounds are very well maintained," notes a camper about Paul Wolff Campground.
