Cabin camping near Chicago provides rustic accommodations while maintaining essential comforts. Lake County and Porter County offer multiple options within a 1-2 hour drive from downtown, with most sites available from April through October. Winter availability exists at select locations but requires advance booking due to limited heated facilities.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: At Indiana Dunes State Park, visitors can attempt the 3 Dune Challenge on soft sand trails. "The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," notes Greg S., who adds that "the 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic!"
Fishing opportunities: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides lake access with equipment rentals. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," according to Layla P., who visited in summer.
Winter activities: Winter glamping close to Chicago, Illinois includes seasonal options at several campgrounds. Though facilities are limited, Tim K. notes Camp Bullfrog Lake is "a relatively newer campground" with year-round operation, making it practical for winter stays when properly equipped.
Mountain biking access: Trail systems connect directly to Camp Sullivan, allowing for day-long riding. "There are lots of trees and it is somewhat woodsy," explains Bill M., who appreciated the proximity to Chicago while still maintaining natural surroundings.
What campers like
Clean, heated bathrooms: Multiple glamping locations maintain temperature-controlled facilities. According to Shane S. at Camp Sullivan, "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern."
Beach access: Dunewood Campground offers proximity to Lake Michigan swimming. "Kimmel Beach which is beautiful," notes Katie O., adding "We did not encounter any COVID restrictions, bath and shower house and camp store were all open."
Protected camping areas: Gated entry provides added security at many glamping spots near Chicago. Craig C. at Michigan City Campground mentions, "It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter. We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull thought with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite."
Family-friendly amenities: Upscale glamping sites include recreational facilities for children. Dan B. from Chicago Northwest KOA reports, "Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train lines frequently run near several glamping locations. "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," cautions Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons and insects require food management precautions. At Honeysuckle Hollow, campers report: "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched."
Site spacing variations: Glamping accommodations range from private to communal layouts. Tim L. describes Chicago Northwest KOA as a "Cozy, small park with friendly staff and plenty of amenities. You can walk from one side to other no problem."
Seasonal crowds: Summer weekends bring higher occupancy at most locations. "The campground was full, but not overcrowded. Very friendly neighbors and camp staff," reports Jackie H., indicating reservations are essential during peak periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select glamping sites with designated play areas for children. Dane S. recommends Camp Sullivan: "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites."
Water activities: Lake swimming provides cooling options during summer months. Chloe N. suggests Fish Lake Beach: "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Educational programs: Nature centers offer structured activities for children. Kaley A. notes Indiana Dunes has "one of the nicer programs that I have been to in the state," making it ideal for families seeking learning opportunities during their glamping experience.
Tick prevention: For families with small children, insect management requires planning. Meg from Honeysuckle Hollow advises, "Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house and have them wear hats or a wagon shade on walks so nothing lands in their hair."
Tips from RVers
Electric connections: Most glamping locations near Chicago offer power hookups, but water access varies. Lawrence B. from Camp Bullfrog Lake cautions, "No water hooks up. Water on site but, not always ideal."
Dump station access: Facilities can become congested on checkout days. "The dump station was near the entrance to the camping loop and had potable water. It was also very busy and we had to wait when filling up and again when dumping," notes Tina from Honeysuckle Hollow.
Premium site options: For those seeking more amenities, certain locations offer upgraded glamping experiences. Craig C. describes Michigan City Campground's amenities as including "a large cement patio with a picnic table and an adjacent fire pit" in the premium sites.
Off-season value: Shoulder season camping provides a quieter experience with better site selection. "When we got here, we realize the electric sites on the right side of the bathhouse were in full sun, but the staff member graciously allowed us to switch sites to a more shaded area," recounts Lisa S. about her spring experience.
