RV camping near Crete, Illinois offers convenient overnight and extended stay options within 30 miles of the Chicago metropolitan area. The region sits at the edge of the Kankakee River basin, with most campgrounds located between 600-700 feet in elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, explaining why most RV parks in the area operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, though several facilities remain open year-round.
What to do
Water recreation: Lake Alexander RV Park provides direct access to the Kankakee River, where campers can swim, fish, and boat. "The camp is 120 acres of natural beauty on the banks of the Kankakee River. The wooded habitat abounds with fish, wildlife, and native plants," notes reviewer Iris A.
Fishing opportunities: Oak Lake RV Resort features a stocked pond perfect for casual fishing. "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories," reports Nadiehsda B., who extended a weekend stay to nearly two weeks.
Walking trails: For those seeking exercise, Fox Bluff CottageS & RV offers several nature paths. One camper mentions, "There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails," making it ideal for morning or evening strolls.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort earns high marks for cleanliness. "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" writes Jeana K., while another visitor appreciates the "free ice, free coffee, and juice, and donut in the morning."
Helpful staff: Many reviewers mention exceptional customer service as a highlight of their stays. At Oak Lake RV Resort, one camper shares, "From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup. We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless."
Spacious sites: Lake Alexander RV Park receives praise for its roomier camping areas. "Lake Alexander RV Park is a quiet, spacious, family owned and operated campground located near Momence, Illinois, within a 1-hour drive of Chicago," states one reviewer who appreciated the less crowded setting.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many parks require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. Fox Bluff CottageS & RV specifies that "The location requires a 2 night stay minimum," according to Ann S.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic or industrial noise. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, one camper mentions, "Rail yard behind the row of trees. I believe they were humbling train all night long."
Water quality variations: Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground has mixed reviews about its water supply. One camper rated the campground positively but warned that it's located "right on US45-US52. Lots of truck traffic stopping at the intersection makes lots of noise at night."
Site spacing: Camp density varies widely between parks. At Enchanted Shores, one reviewer noted it's "a small, bare-bones operation, but it's safe and friendly; a great stop-over for passing through Chicagoland or Joliet. Level sites, full hook-ups."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Oak Lake RV Resort, one visitor reported, "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming areas during summer months. One Fox Bluff CottageS & RV seasonal camper states, "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful."
Security features: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park offers enhanced safety measures appreciated by families. As one reviewer noted, "Sites are full hookup, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. There's a playground as well."
Tips from RVers
Love's RV locations: Love's travel centers with RV hookups provide convenient overnight options. "Located just due east on the outskirts of little known Morris, Illinois just off I80, this little roadside stand isn't the largest Love's I've ever seen, but it sure does pack a punch," writes one traveler about the Love's RV Hookup in Morris.
Sizing considerations: Check campground specifications for rig limitations. At Oak Lake RV Resort, staff assistance makes big rig placement easier: "We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless. Where else does that??"
Overnight vs. extended stays: Some locations work better for quick stops while others suit longer visits. Lake Alexander RV Park offers both options with rates for "RV Overnight (includes electric and water) • $38 (30-amp electric service) • $42 (50-amp electric service)" according to a reviewer who appreciated the pricing transparency.