Northern Illinois camping is generally limited to developed sites rather than dispersed camping, with most campgrounds concentrated in forest preserves and state parks surrounding Elk Grove Village. The camping season in this region typically runs from May through October, with very limited year-round options. Most sites near Elk Grove Village are within a 30-60 minute drive from the Chicago suburbs.
What to do
Fishing from your campsite: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort in Volo offers lakefront tent sites where anglers can fish without leaving their camp. According to reviewer Chloe N., "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."
Hiking through prairie and woodland: Paul Wolff Campground features a mixed landscape of open prairie and forest trails. "There are miles of trails. On one hike we were on paved, sifted gravel, grass and single trek trails. There are a lot of loops giving you options," notes reviewer Art S.
Kayaking connected lakes: Fox Den Campground at Chain O'Lakes State Park provides access to seven interconnected lakes via tributaries. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill," writes Aida K. The park also offers boat rentals for those without their own watercraft.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Big Rock Campground offers spacious, flat camping areas with water and electric hookups. "Campsite Pros: Water + 50amp hookups. Wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers. Duck viewing. Quiet. Almost 100 improved sites. Full bars on Verizon. Amazing sunsets. Sites seem to be mostly level," reports Amanda K.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower buildings. At Fox Den Campground, one camper noted, "The bath house was very clean. We stayed in the Fox Den electric sites. The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition."
Accessibility to Chicago: Turner Lake South at Chain O'Lakes State Park offers a nature getaway that's still close to the city. "The state park is larger than expected with decent amenities (boat rentals, concessions, relatively clean pit toilets) and areas designated for trailer camping and tent camping," writes Claire S., making it practical for weekend escapes from Chicago.
What you should know
No designated equestrian camping: Horse campgrounds near Elk Grove Village, Illinois are virtually nonexistent. While Chain O'Lakes State Park has horse trails, reviewer Brian O. notes, "There are horse/snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground."
Variable water quality: Some campgrounds struggle with water issues. At Leisure Lake Resort, one camper reported, "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Big Rock Campground, reviewer Amanda K. mentions it's "Walkup only - no reservations taken." However, Turner Lake South operates differently: "While these sites are usually slated for walk-ups on the weekends, it seems like a lot of people go early on Thursday or even Wednesday to secure their sites."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers numerous family-oriented amenities. A reviewer described it as "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water."
Budget-friendly options: Turner Lake South provides affordable camping opportunities. As one camper shared, "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner."
Playgrounds and swimming: Several campgrounds offer recreation areas for children. At Leisure Lake Resort, despite some maintenance issues, one reviewer appreciated "the spacious layout of the RV park, a nice lake, beach, pool, gym, and a dog park."
Tips from RVers
Hookup accessibility: Paul Wolff Campground offers water and electric but requires planning. According to David W., "There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers. They don't advertise showers, but this is the newest and nicest campsite I have seen without showers."
Site selection guidance: For Big Foot Beach State Park in nearby Wisconsin, reviewers note inconsistent site quality. One camper observed, "Spaces are not consistent, some very large and shaded and some smaller and crowded." For better sites at Chain O'Lakes, "Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East most private."
Seasonal considerations: RVers should note most campgrounds close from November through April. The most reliable weather occurs from June through September, though bugs can be problematic. As one reviewer at Paul Wolff noted, "Busy campground in July. Smaller, mainly RVs. Friendly staff and friendly people staying on the grounds."
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