Best Tent Camping near Chicago, IL
Tent camping near Chicago includes several good spots within driving distance, with Indiana Dunes National Park and Channahon State Park Campground among the most used. Indiana Dunes has tent spots close to Lake Michigan's shoreline, letting campers set up just a short walk from the beach. The ground is mostly flat and easy for tent stakes, and you can park pretty close to where you'll pitch your tent. Channahon State Park sits along the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail where tent campers find more private sites tucked back from the main areas. The bathroom buildings are a quick walk from most tent sites at Channahon. Both parks have level tent pads big enough for regular family tents without issue. Many sites have trees overhead for shade, which helps during hot summer days. Most locals prefer camping in spring and fall when it's not too hot or cold. Both areas have plenty of wildlife, so hang your food or keep it in your car at night. You should book ahead if you're coming between May and September since the best tent sites fill up fast at both parks.
