Camping sites near Des Plaines, Illinois offer year-round outdoor experiences within a region characterized by glacial terrain and oak woodlands. The area averages 36 inches of annual rainfall, with peak camping season running April through October when temperatures typically range from 55-85°F. Accessibility to natural spaces contrasts with the urban density, creating unique opportunities for short-notice camping trips.
What to Do
Kayaking at Chain O' Lakes: Chain O' Lakes State Park provides access to seven connected lakes via small tributaries, making it ideal for paddling excursions. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill," noted one visitor to Fox Den Campground. The park offers kayak rentals for $15 per hour including life vests.
Mountain biking on park trails: The trail systems throughout Cook County forest preserves offer extensive riding options. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day," explained a visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake, which connects to miles of single-track trails.
Archery practice: Several forest preserves maintain free archery ranges for visitors. "Nice place for a winter hike. Canoe rentals and free archery range," mentioned one camper about Blackwell Family Campground, highlighting the year-round accessibility of some park facilities.
What Campers Like
Urban proximity with nature access: The campgrounds offer a unique balance that lets campers stay connected while enjoying nature. "We liked this campground because its close to home and its clean/large campsites," reported one camper about Paul Wolff Campground. The site sits within the Burnidge Forest Preserve, providing both convenience and natural escape.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The preserves support diverse wildlife populations throughout the year. "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," shared one visitor about their experience at Camp Bullfrog Lake, demonstrating the rich biodiversity available.
Water recreation options: Many sites provide direct lake or pond access. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there," noted a camper at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, which offers fishing and swimming opportunities from May through mid-October.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements and timing: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "The full hook ups fill up fast no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season," explained a camper at Fox Den Campground, highlighting the importance of planning ahead, particularly for weekend stays between May and September.
Noise considerations: The urban-adjacent nature of these campgrounds means occasional noise intrusions. "It's just outside of Chicago and it feels like it. It's like camping in a city park," mentioned one candid reviewer about Camp Bullfrog Lake, noting the presence of road noise and occasional fireworks.
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities have restricted operating schedules. "Only down side of the park is that it is only open on the weekends. On holiday weekends you are able to stay for three nights," explained a visitor to Blackwell Family Campground, which operates seasonally from May through September.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There are pavilions, air conditioned/heated dining hall, shower building, restrooms (seriously the cleanest I've ever seen, even the ceilings were cleaned!) and cabins, along with tent sites and 5 RV sites," shared a visitor to Camp Reinberg about the well-maintained facilities suitable for families.
Bug protection essentials: The region's wetland areas create significant insect activity. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warned a camper at Honeysuckle Hollow. They recommended bringing a screen house for small children and using tick repellent extensively, especially during summer months.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife can impact camping experiences, particularly after dark. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," advised a family camper at Honeysuckle Hollow, suggesting early dinners and thorough food storage practices.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service is widely available, but water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Our site was very shaded and quiet at night. The bath house was very clean," reported an RVer at Fox Den Campground, which offers electric hookups but centralized water access rather than at-site connections.
Site selection considerations: Size and shade availability vary widely across campgrounds. "Sites are crushed limestone and are level and wooded. There is one bathroom/shower building at the front of the campground," noted an RVer about Blackwell Family Campground, emphasizing the importance of researching specific site characteristics before booking.
Urban camping alternatives: For those needing proximity to Chicago, several options exist. "If you want to try camping in the Chicagoland area without traveling far afield, you could do worse. Most of the sites have a chip pad for tents and concrete for the vehicle," explained a visitor about Blackwell, noting the balance of accessibility and camping experience.
