Best Camping near Des Plaines, IL

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Des Plaines, IL has a lot to offer. Des Plaines is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Des Plaines, IL. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Des Plaines, IL (61)

    Camper-submitted photo from Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park

    1.

    Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park

    65 Reviews
    130 Photos
    309 Saves
    Zion, Illinois

    The campground in the southern unit at Illinois Beach provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.

    The campground is open from April 1 through December 30. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance at ExploreMoreIL™. Reservations are only accepted from May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Six handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground

    2.

    Blackwell Family Campground

    22 Reviews
    97 Photos
    300 Saves
    Warrenville, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake

    3.

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    25 Reviews
    34 Photos
    362 Saves
    Willow Springs, Illinois

    Camp just steps from the water in the heart of the vast, hilly Palos Preserves. Camp Bullfrog Lake offers year-round camping, group activities and water-based recreation such as canoe rentals and fishing. Just around the corner from Maple Lake’s boathouse and the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, it’s also a perfect launching pad for hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching adventures on Palos’ 50-plus miles of trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $138 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg

    4.

    Camp Reinberg

    12 Reviews
    52 Photos
    216 Saves
    Palatine, Illinois

    Camp Reinberg’s tent sites and heated year-round cabins—plus dining hall and outdoor gathering areas—make it perfect for a group event or private getaway. Set in the oak woods of historic Deer Grove, Camp Reinberg provides access to miles of trails, beautifully restored landscapes and nearly unlimited recreation opportunities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground

    5.

    Paul Wolff Campground

    18 Reviews
    32 Photos
    144 Saves
    Elgin, Illinois

    Within Burnidge Forest Preserve is Paul Wolff Campground. Paul Wolff Campground contains 89 improved, vehicle camp sites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pad and fire ring. Improved camp sites are available to vehicle campers or tent campers. Each improved site is capable of handling a 50-foot motorhome. There are also 5 equestrian camp sites, where you may camp with your horse(s); and 10 primitive, wooded sites for tent camping only, away from the main camping area. Primitive sites do not have electric service and are available, weather permitting. All camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not taken.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $12 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    7.

    Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    7 Photos
    130 Saves
    Round Lake, Illinois

    Fish Lake Beach is one of the largest, privately owned campgrounds in Illinois, with 580 seasonal sites occupying the majority of the 113-acre property along with 60 overnight campsites. Fish Lake Beach has been family owned and operated for over eight amazing decades. Our brief story in pictures and how we got started is just below. Fish Lake Beach has become a camping tradition or a home-away-from-home for generations of families. We take pleasure in providing a friendly and fun experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $43 - $73 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan

    8.

    Camp Sullivan

    13 Reviews
    22 Photos
    54 Saves
    Oak Forest, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA

    9.

    Chicago Northwest KOA

    15 Reviews
    33 Photos
    67 Saves
    Union, Illinois

    Enjoy a peaceful camping experience in a friendly and quiet country setting, with long, pull-through RV sites, shaded tent sites, rustic and deluxe camping cabins, and even fully equipped travel trailers for rent. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the park.

    There is a lot to do for families! Check out the Gem Mining, Jump Pad, Gagaball, Minigolf, Frisbee Golf, Polipong and huge playground! Join us for hay-wagon rides, face painting, flashlight candy hunt and more on weekends.

    Have fun at Onesti's Wild West Town next door, visit the Illinois Railway museum, Santa's Village Azoosment Park, Six Flags Great America and cool off at Magic Waters near Rockford or in our own crystal clear pool.

    Take the "Metra" train from nearby Crystal Lake or Woodstock to visit Chicago for sightseeing, festivals, and tours. We are also a convenient distance to the Woodfield Mall, Prime Outlet Discount Mall, and the Grand Victoria Riverboat Casino. Various local restaurants are within minutes.

    {Additional Info}:

    2 Deluxe Studio Cabins with patios are set up next to each other in the RV park to facilitate families, that like to camp close to each other.

    All of our rustic cabins are equipped with an A/C unit.

    You will find us approximately 55 miles from downtown Chicago, 4.5 miles to I-90, in a rural setting of northwestern Illinois.

    Open from mid-April through mid-October.

    Gated campground 24hrs a day (after hour arrivals need a reservation)

    Dogs are allowed, but breed restrictions apply.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 61 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Des Plaines

Recent Reviews In Des Plaines

427 Reviews of 61 Des Plaines Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore RV Resort
    September 18, 2024

    Sycamore RV Resort

    Beautiful, peaceful camping

    Beautiful spot, very peaceful. We’ve been here for 3 months. There are two lakes, catch and release fishing. A small beach with a snack shack. Well run and maintained. Reasonably priced

  • Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    September 15, 2024

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Pretty great!

    I somehow booked a different campground- website was confusing apparently. However the worker was so helpful and found me a spot anyway. Sites are kind of small so not a lot of space for big big campers. Cute lake and relatively quiet. Odd though that when I asked questions like where can we fill water and if they had a park map I got looked at like I had 3 heads.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Martin’s Camping Ground
    September 8, 2024

    Martin’s Camping Ground

    Parking lot

    Sites are very close. You can watch the traffic on the highway from your camper.No picnic table, no firing, bathroom and showers were clean. Thought it strange that you needed a combination to get in the bathroom.Seems like most people live there. With a few sites for People passing through. If you’re looking for a place to park for the night and take a shower this is all I would recommend this place for

  • Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Woods Campground
    September 7, 2024

    Thomas Woods Campground

    Great place for secluded camping

    Camped here on a whim. Amazing area. Super friendly hosts. The only thing I wish was a little more accessible is the website. I didn't know what kind of site I was getting, what it looked like, or if it was a hike in site or not. Turns out mine was, but it was not an issue for me on this trip. Site 30 for anyone interested.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Acres Camping Resort
    August 25, 2024

    Holiday Acres Camping Resort

    Beware

    Review: Holiday Acres Campground Our recent stay at Holiday Acres Campground was nothing short of a nightmare. From the moment we arrived, we felt unwelcome and targeted by both the staff and the locals. It's hard to say definitively if this place was racist, but the behavior we experienced certainly felt that way. Firstly, we were harassed and intimidated by the locals. They would drive around our campsite at night, yelling racial slurs and other offensive comments. This created a disturbing and unsettling atmosphere that made our stay extremely uncomfortable. The staff were equally unpleasant. We were falsely accused of peeing in the pool without any evidence, which seemed more like an excuse to target us than a genuine concern. Additionally, one staff member consistently displayed unprofessional and rude behavior. She berated one of us and treated him condescendingly, as if he were a boy rather than an adult. She exhibited this condescending behavior with the locals as well. Requests for assistance were met with eye rolls and obvious reluctance. Her dismissive and offensive attitude was consistent throughout our stay. The final straw came when we were kicked out for calling her a name after she persistently treated us with disrespect. While name-calling isn't appropriate, her behavior towards us was intolerable and unprovoked. The facilities were also abysmal. The bathrooms constantly smelled like fart, possibly due to the high sulfur content in the water, which only added to the overall negative experience. The showers were yellow with orange bits that could be scraped off, and the lack of cleanliness was appalling. The playgrounds looked so poorly maintained that you could get a splinter just from looking at them. To make matters worse, we were falsely accused of stealing by a local camper. Despite promises to review security footage, no evidence was provided, and no apology was offered for the false accusation. The pool area was another disappointment. The pool was cold, likely because it had just been filled. While the pool area itself was nice, it lacked lounging chairs, which would have enhanced comfort and relaxation. Overall, our experience at Holiday Acres Campground was horrific. The combination of harassment from locals, the hostile attitude of the staff, the filthy facilities, and the lack of amenities made for an extremely uncomfortable and distressing stay. I would strongly advise anyone considering this campground to stay far away, especially if you are looking for a welcoming and respectful environment.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort
    August 19, 2024

    Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort

    My second stay here

    I was here for three months this time as i get to business completed.  The park was still kept up very nicely and this time I was here long enough to be able to see how.  The grass is mowed every week.  There is patroling at all hours for security.  The laundry machines are great the dryers ore good.  The dog park is clean and secure.  The lake is natural and kept free of litter and garbage.  The park is much bigger than i thought it was last year.  The store has many items you may need.  The showers are cleaned and work great.  The camp water is high in Iron.  The pot roads need service as thay do have a lot of pot holes.  Good thing for the 5mph speed limit.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
    July 18, 2024

    Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    Nice lake

    The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car. The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all rvs. The boat launch to the fox river was nice too but it does get busy.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Happy Acres Kampground
    July 9, 2024

    Happy Acres Kampground

    Worse place of the trip

    Tried to stay here. Called several times. Left several messages. We were heading that way and decided to stop in and see if they had availability. Pulled in and there was a lady inside the office and it was locked. She gave me an evil look then ignored me. Called twice from the parking lot from inside my rig while staring at the woman. She ignored the call.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Northwoods RV Resort
    June 22, 2024

    Northwoods RV Resort

    Great for seasonal camping

    The sites are pretty big. The campground is not congested at all. The people are very nice. Everyone waves to everyone.

    We came here because they showed a water obstacle course on their website. When we got here, we were informed that their beach hasn't passed health tests for the past few years. So no obstacle course or beach area.

    The pool is very clean and the staff helped us pick a better site upon arrival. They also have a very pretty river to fish.

    There is no store. The only thing available is firewood. If you need anything at all, there is a Walmart about ten minutes down the road.

    The site is nice and grassy but there are a ton of bugs; mostly gnats.

    All in all, it's a very clean place with great people. The pool is wonderful. The parks are great. But it's definitely a more lay back and relax kind of place. Not a ton of stuff to do for kids.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    June 11, 2024

    Blackwell Family Campground

    Great little getaway

    This was our first time camping tryout and we had a blast. It is deep enough in the forest preserve to feel like camping but is not far from our home, which allows for a quick getaway. The campsite was very clean and the staff/ranger nice and knowledgeable. The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos and during our stay, blew gigantic bubbles for the kids to chase around.

    The toilets on the loops are vault and the ones by the main entrance are flush. Didn't use the showers on this trip but both facilities were well maintained and clean. 

    As other reviewers said, since it is in the forest preserve, the gates close an hour after sunset and reopen at sunrise. The ranger did cruise through the sites to make a formal announcement so that visitors could leave. It is also close to a main road and you could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night. We will definitely be revisiting as a quick getaway spot.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Woods Campground
    May 12, 2024

    Thomas Woods Campground

    Thomas Woods Campground

    The campground is beautiful wish it was open more than the weekend's. The campground host needs to lighten up and shes out on the gator every 30 minutes, that gets annoying, also since we have also worked as campground hosts you don't run around with the gator giving people rides. It is a shame but we won't camp here again.

    They should check up on the campground host and hire one with a pleasant personality

  • Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Lake Membership Resort
    April 5, 2024

    Leisure Lake Membership Resort

    "Easter Week at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park"

    "Our family had an incredible stay at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park over Easter week. The location was perfect for a peaceful retreat, and the amenities provided everything we needed for a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The kids had a blast with the available activities, and it was the ideal setting for our family to come together and create lasting memories. The staff was exceptionally friendly and went above and beyond to ensure our stay was pleasant. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a family-friendly getaway!"

  • Camper-submitted photo from Fox Bluff CottageS & RV
    February 7, 2024

    Fox Bluff CottageS & RV

    Great family facilities!

    I've had a river spot at this campground for 5 years and let me tell you it has not disappointed. 

    The new pool, the game room, the playground,the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful. 

    We've developed quite a lovely community of really nice people.

    Personally, I love the view of the river. There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground
    January 1, 2024

    Deer Creek Campground

    Corn Patch Camping @ It's Best

    Out of the barren, desolate field after field drive-by wasteland that is the Illinois countryside, at least in late Autumn / early Winter, you’ll be heading down winding roads with all sorts of twists and switchbacks before arriving to Deer Creek Campground. What I love most about this cleverly hidden natural outpost is that if you don’t know where you are going and don’t have this destination in mind, you will never find it. And I bet the very great people here at Deer Creek had that in mind when they purchased this land from nearby Mallard Bend Campground, but that’s likely a story for another day. 

    As for this hidden camping outpost, located somewhere south of Sandwich, whose main highway artery is 34, east of Sheridan, which is a tiny town I had never heard of before and due west of a hamlet called Millington, which is nothing short of purely residential, you’ll follow E 2750th Road south from 34 until you hit N 4351st Road, right as the road bends on a 45 degree curve, where you’ll head east until you come to your first possible right, about 200 yards give or take, where you’ll turn in, on gravel nonetheless, so drive slow, where after 100 yards, you’ll hang a left (do not go straight, or you’ll be visiting Mallard Bend Campground) and follow the gravel road till its completion. Here, there’s a guard station and gate where you’ll check-in. After doing so, you’ll have about 2 dozen spots to park your RV at. 

    Regarding the spaces themselves, they are large, tree-lined and completely surrounded by some of the most lovely people I have ever met while out in these parts camping. There is but a single lane with ample space on either side of this lane to park any size of RV or 5th wheeler. Unlike most of Illinois, the land here does slant sideways a bit, but at least where the gravel RV slabs are at, you’ll have to problems setting up on fairly flat land. All of the traditional hook-ups (30 / 50 electric amp, water, sewage) are available, along with a designated dump site. Beyond this, there are no other amenities per se, so those RVs outfitted with their own bathrooms and showers are better suited for this particular location. As for tent camping, this isn’t really the place for it as the place has been specifically designed for the wheeled camper in mind. Here, you’ll find all sorts of RVers that have parked for what looks to be an entire season, if not in some cases, for the whole year. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you come bearing watercraft, you’re in a lot of luck as just due south, you’ll have easy access to the Fox River – and if you can bribe your way onto Mallard Bend Campground, I’ve been told they have an excellent launch; (2) Thinking about fishing and don’t know where to go? Head back from whence you came to Lake Holiday, where there’s no shortage of great places to cast a line from to do some decent catch & release fishing for the likes of blue gill; and (3) When you get tired of opening up your onboard fridge trying to figure out that next meal, then head west to Sheridan to Old Mill Tavern, which on the weekends has an amazing fried chicken dinner or try out Calico Café, which has a pretty amazing breakfast spread; and (4) Looking for somewhere to kick back and throw some shine down? Then head on over to nearby Millington, where you have two options: Jimbo’s Place and The Last Chance Saloon – and if it were me, I would visit them in that particular order! 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859
    January 1, 2024

    Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859

    Easy & Convenient Roadside Pit Stop

    As we were driving eastbound on I80 that day, we spotted the Love’s RV Hookup, which is a new concept that this oversized fueling depot / travel store has been working on for the past year or so. Having checked out one of their other locations in Bloomington earlier in the year, which I have to admit, I was fairly impressed by, we decided to stop in here to have a look. 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. 

    If you do find yourself hustling and bustling east or west along the I80 corridor and are in need of a pit stop or an overnight stay, then the good folks at the Love’s RV Hookup have you covered. While the other Love’s I have stopped by seem enormous by comparison, this spot felt more like a corner convenience store that also had a fairly large fueling bay (4 double-sided pumps) in the front, primarily for cars and SUVs. 

    As you pull in, there’s 4 spots earmarked to the right of the entrance for RV’s. As you pull further along in front of the Love’s fueling bay, on the other side, an additional 6 or so slots exist for other RVs to park. In all, there’s 10 back-in RV slots available and inside you’ll find that there’s 7 individual shower stalls (all of which were in pristine, brand-new shape when we stopped by) along with a laundry facility, which we were happily surprised by, as well as a designated RV dump service, propane refill station and all of the typical hook-ups (water, 30 / 50 amp electric and sewage) along with WiFi. Inside, there’s of course the Love’s retail market, which was just decent, an ATM, Hardee’s and Naf-Naf (think Subway, but instead, Middle Eastern food). There’s even a small dog park here. As I hinted at, quite a lot here for such a small location. 

    If you would like something more substantial to eat, just head back west on I80 to the next exit, where if you head north there’s an IHOP, Chili’s, Bellacino’s Pizza or you can head on back to the TA Travel Center where they actually have a proper sit-down 24 hour restaurant called R-Place. If instead of heading north, you drive south on the main drag (Road 47), there’s a Buffalo Wild Wings, Pizza Hut, Starbuck’s, Wendy’s, Culver’s, Dunkin' and Burger King. But if you want something a bit more memorable, I would recommend either Morris Diner & Pancake House or La Casa Michoacana. And if you don’t mind a slightly longer drive back towards Ottawa, there’s 2 amazing places I would recommend that you won’t soon forget: Hank’s and Lone Buffalo. 

    Should you want to actually enjoy a bit of the nature around these parts, you can continue to head south on N. Division Street / Road 47 where you’ll come to 2 parks: Goold and Chapin, where either would make for a great place to stretch your legs, walk the dog or grab a picnic. If you’d like something a bit more splendid, then head on over to William G. Stratton SP or Gebhard Woods SP where you will be able to hike the I&M Canal State Trail. 

    While scoring criteria may vary from one person to the next, here are the 5 most important criteria that informed my rating of this overnight location: convenience (EZ on- and off-access), safety & security, quality (of facilities), peace & quiet and amenities (either on-site or nearby). Here’s how I ranked this particular overnight spot: 

    Convenience: 5 

    Safety & Security: 4 

    Quality: 5 

    Peace & Quiet: 4 

    Amenities: 3 

    Overall, I scored this location a 4.

    Happy Overnighting!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    November 29, 2023

    Camp Reinberg

    Great little camp ground!

    Loved everything about this place. The staff is so helpful, well maintained, nice trail system. We tent camped on site #1 and would definitely book that spot again. We also came back last weekend and stayed in one of the large cabins- game changer in the winter! It’s a perfect spot for a weekend away from Chicago, will definitely be back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort
    November 23, 2023

    Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort

    peacful place to stay

    I stayed here for two weeks when I first started rv'ing full time while I finished up work and finalized the selling of the house.

    It has a well maintained laundry and shower facility.  Propane, full hookups, fairly sized fenced in dog run area, a lake with a beach front.  Play ground for the kids and a strict 5MPH speed limit.  The only down fall is the constant ambient sounds of highway trafic which is about 1/2 mile away from route 90.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
    October 29, 2023

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook

    Perfect for the kids

    I’ve been to this site a handful of times growing up and it’s a good campsite for the kids. Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day. RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay. Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful. Always came here for trick or treating and it’s a fun event for the camp ground with plenty of spooky things to do. Might come here when I have kids of my own, but I know there are better camp sites out there!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
    October 22, 2023

    Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    Surprising secret camp ground

    We love private campsites, far enough away from other campers, yet close enough to amenities. We chose a walk in site #16 which was nice but I wish we chose one a bit further in. Bathrooms where very clean. Trails are great. Pet friendly - we brought our small, quiet dogs. Dog friendly restaurant right next to the camp site.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mallard Bend RV Resort
    October 12, 2023

    Mallard Bend RV Resort

    Countryside Campground Bliss

    Like most campgrounds in Illinois, Mallard Bend Resort, which is located just outside of Sheridan, completely in the boondocks, by the way, is a seasonal campground (open April 15 until October 15) that is generally closed during the winter, but open the other 3 seasons. And while some would complain that this 37 acres of rolling woodlands is ‘clear out in the middle of nowhere,’ if you ask me, that’s it’s allure. Trust me, if you don’t know where you are going and don’t have this destination in your GPS, you will never find it or even just roll by it on accident and spot it. This hidden gem is definitely family-oriented and has been around since 1983. 

    While Mallard Bend Resort does in fact sit pretty far back from the main road you’ll need to access to find it, this hidden camping outpost, located somewhere south of Sandwich, whose main highway artery is 34, east of Sheridan (which is a tiny town I had never heard of before ... and I am from this area!), is also positioned due west of a village called Millington, which is purely residential, save a bar and restaurant (more on that later), you’ll follow E 2750th Road south from Route 34 until you hit N 4351st Road, hanging a right as the road bends on a 45 degree curve, where you’ll head east until you come to your first possible right, about 200 yards (give or take) where you’ll turn in, on gravel nonetheless, so drive slow, where after 100 yards you’ll reach the gated entrance to Mallard Bend Campground. 

    But be careful, if you don’t go straight at this point, and instead, hang a left to follow the gravel road, you will drive another 100 yards or so before reaching yet another gated entrance, but this is Deer Creek Campground (which I have supplied another review here on The Dyrt, in case you are interested) and these two properties, as I discovered, should not be confused with one another. Immediately after passing the gate, the main office, which honestly looks more like a main house, will be on your right and it’s here that you’ll check in. 

    Kitty-cornered from the main office is one gem of an amenity, where you’ll find an absolutely wonderful community pool, complete with concrete deck patio, lounge chairs, tables and sun umbrellas. This definitely created a lot of excitement for the kiddos who weren’t expecting a pool at this place. Speaking of amenities, Mallard Bend Resort packs quite a punch by including more than just the heated, in-ground pool, but also features: community clubhouse with a snack bar, ping pong, air hockey, foosball tables as well as a shuffleboard court and lounge. There are a handful of kid's playgrounds scattered throughout the property. WiFi is available only at the Clubhouse and pool. A brilliant kayak / canoe launch is located at the river basin, south of the property. Firewood and ice are both sold onsite. There’s a decent-sized pond perfect for swimming or fishing and is stocked with a ton of water toys for the tots. And if you’ve got bikes, bring ‘em, because there’s some decent trails around here for biking and hiking. Scattered nearly everywhere you look are well-maintained Adirondack chairs, picnic tables and in-the-ground fire rings with foldable grills. 

    There’s slightly more than a hundred pull-through and back-in sites here, all available with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) with nearly every site I saw completely shrouded in thick wooded forest cover. While the clubhouse, pool and children’s playground are located at the front of the property, once you get passed the RV slots, towards the rear of the property, you’ll be able to access the restroom / shower facilities, community pavilion, designated dump station and a coin-operated laundr-O-mat. Just beyond this is where you’ll discover the pond where you can fish or swim, where on either side, there’s two spots perfect for catching some shade – Ali’s Cove or Megan’s Nook – both of which are great for throwing down a picnic blanket or setting up some lawn chairs and enjoying a picnic or 'siesta' in a properly hung hammock. Further beyond this is where the kayak launch is at on the Fox River.  

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Should you have a canoe or kayak, you’re in a lot of luck as just due south of this property, you’ll have easy access to the Fox River, and further beyond this, if you don’t mind a slight drive to get there, the Illinois River is much larger with greater currents, but the amazing wildlife you’ll discover like Bald Eagles up and down the banks will be your reward; (2) Thinking about fishing and don’t know where to go? Head back northward to Lake Holiday, where there’s no shortage of great places to cast a line from and engage in some decent catch & release fishing for the likes of blue gill or croppie; (3) When you get tired of opening up your onboard fridge trying to figure out that next meal, then head west to Sheridan to Old Mill Tavern, which on the weekends has an amazing fried chicken dinner or try out Calico Café, which has a pretty decent breakfast spread; (4) Looking for somewhere to kick back and throw some shine down? Then head on over to nearby Millington, where you have two options: Jimbo’s Place and The Last Chance Saloon – and if it were me, I would visit them in that particular order!; (5) IMHO if you are an RVer, the best spots are on the lateral sides of the property, specifically on the east side at sites #59 – 65 (which will put you closest to the clubhouse and pool, so be careful if the noise and traffic bother you here); #65, #67 – 69; #87 – 89; or on the westside with spots #2, #5, #7, #8 and #10;( 6) To my tent camping bredren, you’ll want to target the river sites, which are the absolute best spots in this entire place anyway, so ask for R1–R10 (with R10 being the best); and (7) If you’re looking for a place to take the kids to where a change of scenery might be in order, check out Pirate’s Cay Indoor Waterpark over near Norway, just south of Highway #52. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort
    September 11, 2023

    Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort

    One night Stay

    A little pricey. $63 with tax and amenities. Did have free ice, free coffee, and juice, and donut in the morning. Rail yard behind the row of trees. I believe they were humbling train all night long.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    August 23, 2023

    Big Rock Campground

    Pleasant experience

    Stayed 4 nights- first come first served- no reservations- bring plenty of hose for water connections- first site we tried was just too far to connect- toilets but no showers available- electric/ water no full hook ups. Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    August 19, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Nice tent/bike camping

    Rode my bicycle for an overnight test run. I stayed in the primitive tent area. There are 5 wooded and 5 prairie sites. There is water and vault toilets by the tent area and flush toilets a 3 minute walk into the RV area.

    As noted in other reviews, I heard 3 trains between 10 pm and 6 am. Otherwise no other excessive noise issues. Tent area was very quiet.

    Staff was also very pleasant and helpful.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
    August 17, 2023

    Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park

    Big campground, old infrastructure

    The campground itself was very nice with good size sites and lots of room. There are shaded or open sites nice trees, a store at the beach side of the campground.

    The bathrooms were old and wet. The dump station was closed.



Guide to Des Plaines

Camping near Des Plaines, IL, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic parks to well-equipped campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to escape the city.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, have beautiful trails. One visitor mentioned, “We enjoyed riding ebikes on the trails. Lunch at the beach front was good and great views.”
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area is a great spot. A camper shared, “We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting.”
  • Beach Access: For those who love the water, Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park offers a beach area. One reviewer said, “I brought my dog to an animal-friendly area of the beach, which was small and secluded.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Rock Cut State Park Campground noted, “The shower house was clean with good hot water.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A camper at Michigan City Campground remarked, “The staff is great. Very helpful and will work with you on taking care of your camp site.”
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views and wooded areas. One visitor at Dunewood Campground mentioned, “The campground was thickly wooded and beautiful.”

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Dunewood Campground warned, “The mosquitos here are insane!!! I came back with giant welts from the bites even with bug spray on.”
  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground noted, “Always full on weekends. Popular destination for locals and people from Illinois.”
  • Limited Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites close together. A camper at Michigan City Campground mentioned, “The sites are close together and the fire rings are small.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One reviewer at Blackwell Family Campground said, “The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos and during our stay, blew gigantic bubbles for the kids to chase around.”
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and bug spray to keep everyone comfortable. A camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake noted, “The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept.”
  • Plan for Meals: Consider cooking meals together. A visitor at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area shared, “The store is very nice and well stocked.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Rock Cut State Park Campground mentioned, “The 30 amp plug there would work for about 2 mins and then would keep tripping again.”
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, arrive early, especially on weekends. A visitor at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground advised, “Be aware that because it shares an entrance to the state park beach, entering on a summer Saturday can take upwards of 45 minutes or more.”
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground suggested, “There are too many things to see and do in the area to list here.”

Camping near Des Plaines, IL, offers a mix of nature, fun, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's a spot waiting for you!

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