Camping options near Cicero span across northeastern Illinois into Indiana, with sites located within 25-45 miles of the city center. Most area campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though several remain open year-round. The region's flat terrain offers mostly level campsites with a mix of wooded and open areas, while proximity to Lake Michigan creates moderate temperature variations between lakeside and inland camping locations.
What to do
Hiking through varied terrain: Blackwell Family Campground provides multiple interconnected trails for different experience levels. "The trails are nice and the water is crystal clear. Nice place for a winter hike. Canoe rentals and free archery range," notes Christian V. The preserve also features "a big hill" among "plenty of hiking options" according to another reviewer.
Lake activities at multiple locations: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers stunning lake access with regulated swimming areas. "The lake 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!" writes Greg S. The park maintains lifeguard stations during peak hours for added safety.
Outdoor skills practice: Camp Sullivan features unique activity options beyond standard camping. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," shares Shane S. The campground hosts seasonal programs including climbing instruction for children and beginners in a supervised setting.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Paul Wolff Campground maintains consistently well-kept grounds and restrooms. "The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms. It is a super clean campground with multiple hosts and forest preserve staff," reports Marisa A. The campground offers both vault toilets and modern flush facilities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping areas throughout the region provide chances to observe local species. "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to believe that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area," shares Tricia E. Other campers report seeing "butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels" throughout the season.
Accessibility to Chicago: Dunewood Campground provides a natural escape with urban convenience. "We camped here on our way to Minnesota. The campsite had the typical amenities like a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground was clean and it was quiet," states Katrin M., who appreciated the balance of forest camping with proximity to major highways.
What you should know
Train noise impacts some sites: Several campgrounds have railroad tracks nearby that create periodic disruption. "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. Great shading from trees and very green!" mentions Truly W. about Dunewood Campground. Noise levels vary by specific campsite location.
Varying shade coverage: Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park has uneven tree coverage across camping areas. "We reserved site 349 and had no idea it would be on asphalt. There are plenty of other sites that on grass with trees," notes Rose T. Similarly, at Indiana Dunes, "The middle sites are more exposed and much less private."
Insect populations fluctuate seasonally: Mosquito activity intensifies during summer months, particularly near water features. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," reports Katrin M. Biting flies can also be present at beach locations during warmer months, though rarely extend to inland campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shaded sites during summer: At Paul Wolff Campground, "The most shaded sites are p1,3,5,7 and 9. Many of the sites in the middle are wide open with little shade but nice summer breezes." This information helps families plan for temperature management, especially with young children.
Consider facilities based on age groups: Blackwell Family Campground offers amenities designed for youth activities. "The grounds include a lake for boating, hiking trails, and bike paths. There is also an archery range, and some ranger programs. Very nice," shares Jen E. Their ranger-led programs often target different age ranges throughout the season.
Look for group-friendly configurations: When traveling with multiple families, certain camping areas accommodate larger parties. "Our Scouts were able to walk down to access the lake and fish. Additionally, there's an open space for sports/games and some great climbing trees within the group area," reports John R. regarding the group camping section at Blackwell.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup variations: Most campgrounds provide electrical service but with different configurations. "All sites have electric," notes Marc W. about Blackwell Family Campground, which offers discounted rates for county residents. However, at Camp Reinberg, "The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience."
Level site availability: Camp Reinberg provides reliable surfaces for larger vehicles. "RV spots are concrete, flat, and easy to get into," shares Kelsey G. This eliminates the need for extensive leveling equipment when setting up camp.
Resource limitations to plan around: Not all campgrounds offer full-service hookups. "No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet," reports Kaitlin M. from Camp Bullfrog Lake. Most RV-friendly campgrounds in the region offer electrical connections but may require self-contained water storage.
