MacQueen Forest Preserve, located in DeKalb County, offers rustic cabin camping in a former Boy Scout camp setting. Situated at approximately 885 feet above sea level, the area features mixed woodlands alongside the Kishwaukee River. Winter temperatures average 22°F with summer highs reaching 84°F. Most rustic cabin options in the region don't provide running water, requiring campers to bring containers for drinking and washing.
What to do
Fishing the Kishwaukee River: MacQueen Forest Preserve provides direct river access where visitors can fish. "There's also a river on one side of the campground, but it can only be heard if you were at one particular campsite," notes one MacQueen visitor. Sites near the water are especially popular during warmer months.
Hiking local trails: Rock Cut State Park offers extensive hiking options with over 40 miles of trails. "Hiking trail is right next to the campground which was nice," mentions a visitor. The park maintains trails for both casual walkers and more experienced hikers, with most paths well-marked.
Boating and kayaking: Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area provides boat rentals for those who don't bring their own watercraft. "The store is very nice and well stocked. Never left the park so not sure how far to 'town'," shares one camper. The lake permits electric motors only, with rental options including canoes, kayaks, and small fishing boats.
Seasonal swimming: During summer months, several campgrounds offer swimming options. "Far enough from the city lights, close enough to civilization. Cozy, small park with friendly staff and plenty of amenities," reports a visitor to Chicago Northwest KOA, noting the availability of on-site swimming facilities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: MacQueen Forest Preserve offers exceptional separation between campsites. "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you," explains one visitor, highlighting the unusual amount of space between sites.
Clean facilities: Lowden State Park maintains well-kept shower buildings and restrooms. "Shower buildings were clean enough, but very old with bad shower heads. Lots of good hiking trails and a pretty lake," notes a camper, indicating that while basic, the facilities are functional.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple locations offer fishing access, with Lowden State Park providing river fishing. "Very nice campground for weekend getaways. Less than two hours from western suburbans of Chicago. Just about a mile from Oregon where you can find a number of bars and restaurants," writes one visitor who enjoyed the Rock River fishing.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature natural habitats for birds and small mammals. "Did a quick stay with the kids for a Friday and Saturday night. A little bit smaller of a campground with regards to site space, but that's about the only thing 'bad' to say," mentions a Chicago Northwest KOA visitor who spotted several bird species during their stay.
What you should know
Self-check-in processes: Some campgrounds use honor systems for payment. At MacQueen, "It's all self-checking, you just use the pay box in the parking lot," explains a visitor, highlighting the lack of staffed entrance stations at some smaller locations.
Train noise considerations: Northwoods RV Resort has nearby train tracks that create noise issues at certain sites. "You will want to take note that yes, you actually cross train tracks to get to this campground, so if you're sharp, you're going to want to ensure you haven't booked a site right next to where trains will shoot through every few hours," warns a reviewer.
Seasonal operation: Many cabins close during winter months. "We camp here at least 5 times a year. It's only 8 miles from our home. Many trails and not to expensive. They have sites with electric and sites just for tents. The only negative is no drinkable water," notes a Rock Cut State Park visitor who camps regularly through multiple seasons.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "Also our cell service (AT&T) was very spotty throughout the park," mentions a visitor to Rock Cut State Park, indicating the need to prepare for limited connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Kings Camp provides numerous activities for children. "There is a lake for swimming and fishing (with paddle boats and kayaks available to use for free), a very nice playground and the camp hosts kid/family activities on most weekends," shares a visitor, highlighting the family-oriented environment.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds enforce stricter quiet hours. "If you are not religious, don't let the fact that it's a Christian park scare you away... The only downside is they don't allow alcohol. This can also be a benefit as there wasn't anyone up partying all night and the park was very quiet," notes a Kings Camp visitor.
Pack for playground visits: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. "Very nice campground. Would definitely come again," comments a Rock Cut visitor whose children enjoyed the playground facilities.
Prepare for weather changes: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "The only negative is no drinkable water. Tons of trails, fishing and even a swimming pond," mentions a Rock Cut State Park visitor, highlighting the need to bring sufficient water during warmer months.
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