Tent camping near Downers Grove, Illinois provides access to quiet waterfront opportunities despite the suburban setting. Most primitive tent sites are situated within 35 miles of the city, placing campers along the Illinois and Michigan Canal system and river corridors. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping offers cooler temperatures but increased chance of rain.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Kayak Morris, campers can launch directly from riverside sites. "If you want a nice riverfront camp site this place is perfect. They also have kayak rentals available," notes camper Eric R. The confluence across the river creates ideal water recreation conditions.
Fishing excursions: Bring fishing gear when visiting riverside campgrounds. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M. about his experience at Kayak Morris.
Biking access: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail provides extensive cycling opportunities near several campgrounds. At Channahon State Park Campground, "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock," according to reviewer Art S.
Stargazing: Several campsites feature open meadow settings ideal for night sky viewing. The tent sites at MacQueen Forest Preserve include both wooded and meadow options. "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing!" reports Amy G.
What campers like
Site privacy: Campers appreciate the unusual spacing between tent sites at MacQueen Forest Preserve. "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you," explains Amy G.
Affordable pricing: Budget-friendly camping options exist near Downers Grove. "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4," notes a MacQueen Forest Preserve visitor.
Water access: Direct water access ranks high on campers' preference lists. "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap if you don't have your own," explains Amanda W. about her stay at Kayak Morris.
Event-friendly settings: Some campgrounds accommodate group gatherings. "There are primitive cabins for rent and a large lodge if you rented the structure for an event here. By their facebook page, it looks like there have been beautiful weddings here," notes a MacQueen Forest Preserve camper.
What you should know
Gate closures: Several camping areas near Downers Grove implement strict gate closure policies. At Camp Shabbona Woods, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite," explains Jeffrey L.
Water quality varies: Not all water sources at campgrounds are suitable for drinking. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable," warns a reviewer. Pack in sufficient water for your stay.
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise throughout the night. "If you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground," reports a visitor to MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Flooding potential: At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, campers have experienced weather-related challenges. "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up," warns Rita S.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites: Choose campgrounds with shorter walking distances for younger children. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site. If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," explains Eric R. about Kayak Morris.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are in good shape and the staff was friendly," reports Jeffrey L. about Camp Shabbona Woods, while most primitive sites offer only vault toilets or portable facilities.
Organized events: Look for campgrounds offering scheduled activities. "Had my first experience of a lit up kayak tour for fireworks," reports Eric R. about a special event at Kayak Morris. These structured activities can enhance family camping experiences.
Urban sounds: Be prepared for more urban sounds than typical wilderness camping. "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background," notes a Camp Shabbona Woods visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True RV camping is restricted near Downers Grove, with most sites being tent-focused. At Davis Creek Campground, "This campground is open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept, and there is good access to water," reports Andrea F.
Gear transport solutions: Many sites require walking in gear from parking areas. "They do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel road and mowed trail," explains a camper at MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Self-registration systems: Most primitive campgrounds use honor systems for payment. "It's all self-checking, you just use the pay box in the parking lot," explains Amy G. about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Limited facilities: Understand that most tent-focused areas lack RV hookups. "No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite," notes a Camp Shabbona Woods visitor, which applies to most primitive camping areas near Downers Grove.
