RV camping options near Dolton, Illinois include sites ranging from full-service resorts to convenient travel stop locations. Situated in the northeastern part of Illinois, approximately 20 miles south of Chicago, the area features predominantly flat terrain with elevations around 600 feet above sea level. Winter camping is limited as temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through February, while summer temperatures average in the 80s.
What to do
Lake recreation: fishing and boating: Lake Alexander RV Park offers access to the Kankakee River with opportunities for fishing and swimming. One camper noted, "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."
Local exploration: nearby towns: From Oak Lake RV Resort, visitors can take day trips to surrounding communities. A recent visitor mentioned, "We canceled our other plans because Oak Lake had everything we wanted & more! Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories."
Recreation amenities: playgrounds and sports: Fox Bluff CottageS & RV provides multiple recreation options on-site. A seasonal camper shared, "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."
What campers like
Quiet locations: peaceful environment: Campers appreciate the tranquility at several rv parks near Dolton, Illinois. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, one reviewer commented, "We pulled in late & left early!! Did laundry... so quiet we slept hard! Nice safe location. Flat, pretty large spots... picnic tables."
Helpful staff: personal assistance: Staff members make a difference at many campgrounds. At Oak Lake RV Resort, a guest shared, "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."
Clean facilities: well-maintained amenities: Cleanliness is frequently mentioned in positive reviews. One camper at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort stated, "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" Another at Tameling Campground noted, "This is my second time staying here. I enjoy the secluded area and found the people to be friendly and helpful."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: limited winter availability: Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. Lake Alexander RV Park "is open from April 15 to October 15" with rates of "$38 (30-amp electric service)" and "$42 (50-amp electric service)" for overnight stays.
Space constraints: site dimensions: Site sizes vary considerably between rv parks. At Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park, "every spot has cemented runners which is a nice touch but you must back into them." The reviewer also mentioned it's "more of a trailer park for more long term residents."
Utilities: water quality concerns: Water quality can vary between campgrounds. At Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground, one camper reported issues, noting it was "the stinkest water we've ever smelled, horrible!!!" Make sure to ask about water quality if this is a concern.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: on-site ponds and pools: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities. One visitor to Oak Lake RV Resort mentioned, "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."
Budget considerations: camping vs. hotels: Camping provides an economical alternative to Chicago hotels. At Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground, a reviewer highlighted the value: "$20. Yes, it's an hour from the city, but I'd take the drive over the bill at a nearby hotel. There's an outhouse and plenty of places to plug in the RV, and cars/tents are welcome too."
Security features: gated access: For family safety, some campgrounds offer security measures. A camper at Oak Lake RV Resort appreciated that it was "Gated for security and plenty of shade. Great family setting and staff."
Tips from RVers
Travel stop convenience: Love's RV locations: RV travelers looking for quick overnight stays can utilize Love's RV Stop locations. A visitor commented, "Found this on Dyrt and stopped for one night. Easy on and off I 65 yet barely any traffic noise. It just opened and it is well designed. The check in online is very easy."
Electrical service: circuit testing: Check electrical connections upon arrival. At Love's RV Stop, one camper advised, "The only complaint I had is the site we were at showed a ground fault on the 50amp Circuit so I had to use the 30 amp circuit... make sure your using your EPM devices."
Check-in processes: online options: Some rv parks near Dolton have implemented digital check-in. A Love's RV Stop reviewer noted it was "Clean and convenient. Great stop for the night, It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids."
