Camping spots near Olympia Fields, Illinois typically feature relatively flat terrain with hardwood forest cover. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 600-700 feet above sea level, providing minimal elevation changes for setting up camp. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with humidity levels frequently exceeding 70%, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers immediate access to extensive mountain biking and hiking networks. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," notes Josh M. The trails accommodate various skill levels with minimal elevation changes.
Paddle sports on small lakes: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides kayak rentals at $15/hour including life vests. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares Layla P. The small size makes it manageable for beginners and families.
Lake Michigan swimming: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers beach access with lifeguards during designated hours. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," explains Kaley A. The park also features changing facilities near the beach.
Three Dune Challenge: Indiana Dunes State Park features a marked hiking route across three large sand dunes. "Lots of geocaching and challenging hikes, including the three dune challenge. The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," reports Greg S. Most hikers complete the challenge in 1-2 hours.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Camp Sullivan receives positive comments about its bathrooms. "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern," notes Shane S. Several campgrounds in the area have updated their shower and restroom facilities within the last five years.
Proximity to Chicago: Campers appreciate the quick access to natural settings while remaining close to urban areas. "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," mentions Josh M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Most campgrounds sit within 30-45 minutes of downtown Chicago.
Nature watching opportunities: Dunewood Campground provides good wildlife viewing. "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," reports Hatie P. about nearby trails. Early morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing.
Cabin options: Several campgrounds provide cabin accommodations for those without camping equipment. "There are small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," explains a visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake. Cabins typically require booking 2-3 months in advance during summer.
What you should know
Train noise affects sleep: Multiple campgrounds experience noise from nearby rail lines. "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," warns Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park. Sites further from main roads often have less railway noise.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Camp Shabbona Woods has young trees that don't provide much coverage. "The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing," reports Scott M. Consider bringing shade structures during summer months.
Gate closure policies: Some campgrounds restrict nighttime access. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning," notes Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan. Check individual campground policies if you plan late arrivals or early departures.
Water quality varies: Some locations have issues with water quality or availability. "The stinkest water we've ever smelled, horrible!!!" reports Jill T. about one campground. Several reviewers recommend bringing drinking water rather than relying on campground supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Theres a playground as well. You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open," explains Holly S. The playground equipment suits children ages 3-12.
Swimming options beyond Lake Michigan: Several inland campgrounds provide swimming alternatives. "The pools were dirty and at capacity our entire time and the only clean pool was the adult pool. We took the kids to the lake which was actually fun," shares Marc W. about Lakeshore Camp Resort. Swimming areas typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Site selection for families: Some campgrounds have better family sites than others. "We were in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade," advises Layla P. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Corner sites typically offer more play space for children.
Emergency planning considerations: Campground emergency access varies. "What if there was an emergency? An ambulance would have had to rush the gate," worries Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan's gate closure policy. Always locate the nearest 24-hour emergency contact for each campground upon arrival.
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup options: Martin's Camping Ground has technical challenges with some hookups. "Sewer connection at our site was technically on neighbors…we had to use extension," reports Beth B. Pack extra-length sewer hoses for sites with unusual hookup placements.
Unlevel sites common: Many RV sites require significant leveling. "Spaces are small, muddy, and un level," notes Beth B. about Martin's Camping Ground. Multiple campers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks, especially for larger rigs.
Noise considerations for RVers: Highway proximity affects many area campgrounds. "You can throw a stone and hit a semi driving by to I-80. There's a lot of traffic given the proximity to Chicago," warns Iris A. The most peaceful RV sites typically sit toward the interior of campgrounds, away from perimeter roads.
Limited camping duration for some rig types: Some campgrounds restrict certain camping styles. "Great place to camp but three day limit with tent...And its three days a month," shares Katelyn G. about Martin's Camping Ground. Call ahead to confirm any stay duration limitations for your specific camping setup.
