Cabin camping options extend beyond Dolton's immediate boundaries, with several parks offering rustic to modern accommodations within a 30-60 minute drive. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 85°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Primitive camping facilities at some locations have no electricity or running water, while others provide full amenities including heating for year-round use.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs has kayaks available to rent at $15 per hour, which includes life vests. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes one visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Mountain biking trails: Extensive trail systems connect to some campgrounds, ideal for both casual riders and serious mountain bikers. "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," according to a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Swimming opportunities: At Lakeshore Camp Resort in Portage, Indiana, pools and lake access provide relief during hot summer days. "This was a fun campground. We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars," reports a visitor to Lakeshore Camp Resort.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Multiple hiking trails through forest preserves offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "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," shares a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Security features: Some campgrounds implement security measures for peace of mind. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean," notes a visitor to Michigan City Campground, which is gated to control access.
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds often schedule events that vary throughout the camping season. "Check out the office for fun seasonal events like group hikes and geocaching contests," mentions a camper at Camp Reinberg. Some locations even host special activities like "fire-spitting shows at the pavilion."
What you should know
Train noise affects some locations: Several campgrounds in the region have railroad tracks nearby. "The train is so loud that it's bound to wake you up numerous times in the middle of the night," warns one visitor about Lakeshore Camp Resort.
Weather preparation: Due to the region's variable weather patterns, preparing for sudden changes is essential. "It rained a ton during our trip so we didn't explore much," explains a camper at Kankakee River State Park.
Gate closure policies: Some campgrounds lock entrance gates at night. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting," reports a camper at Camp Sullivan.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin heating options: For family trips during cooler months, select locations with heated accommodations. "There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," notes a visitor to Camp Sullivan.
Kid-friendly activities: Various recreational facilities keep younger campers engaged. "There are pavilions, air conditioned/heated dining hall, shower building, restrooms and cabins, along with tent sites and 5 RV sites," reports a visitor to Camp Reinberg.
Site selection for tents: When tent camping with families, site selection matters significantly. "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. Two were very small (14&15), and little grass for tent setup, fine for RV or trailer campers... 16&17 were amazing for tents! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade."
Tips from RVers
Limited water access: Not all RV sites have convenient water hookups. "The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience for you and them," reports an RVer at Camp Reinberg.
Site variations: RV sites vary significantly between campgrounds. "We were in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained," shares a visitor to Michigan City Campground. For smaller rigs, Sand Creek Campground offers "privately-owned and just a short distance from Indiana Dunes. The owner was very nice and helpful at check-in."
Dump station availability: Check if your chosen campground has sanitary dump facilities before arrival, as not all locations offer this service. "This campground is very well maintained with all the amenities you could need: a small camping store, communal kitchen, firepits, and clean bathrooms."
