The camping experience around Elmhurst, Illinois centers on several forest preserves and natural areas within an hour's drive of the city. Sites in this suburban Chicago region sit at approximately 700 feet above sea level with a typical Midwestern climate featuring humid summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms during peak camping season.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Access extensive trail networks at Camp Bullfrog Lake where "we've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits. 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," shared one visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Kayaking on smaller lakes: Rental options available for $15/hour at some locations. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," noted a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Three Dune Challenge: For those willing to travel to Indiana Dunes State Park, this popular activity offers a moderate hiking challenge. "If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," mentioned a visitor to Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Archery practice: Free archery ranges available at select forest preserves. A camper at Blackwell Family Campground noted, "Canoe rentals and free archery range."
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: Many campers appreciate the short drive from urban areas. "Located only 30 miles outside the city, and conveniently only 10 mins from my house, this is the perfect little getaway," shared one camper at Blackwell Family Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower buildings receive frequent positive mentions. At Camp Reinberg, one visitor noted, "The shower facilities were clean and the staff very friendly," while another emphasized, "restrooms (seriously the cleanest I've ever seen, even the ceilings were cleaned!)."
Free firewood at select locations: Some campgrounds provide complimentary wood. "Friendly staff with well organized and well maintained campground. Free firewood and you can purchase more for just $5," reported a camper at Camp Reinberg.
Lake Michigan views: For those willing to drive to Indiana Dunes, the sunsets earn high praise. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake," according to a visitor.
What you should know
Water hookup limitations: Several campgrounds have inconvenient water access systems. At Camp Sullivan, a camper noted, "No water or dumping hook up. Electric only." Similarly, at Camp Reinberg, "There are no water spigots at the RV sites. The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site."
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds have closely spaced sites with limited screening. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," observed a camper at Camp Sullivan.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Recently developed sites often lack mature trees. At Big Rock Campground, a visitor observed, "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade."
Train noise affects some locations: Particularly at Indiana Dunes State Park. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long. If you're a heavy sleeper and can deal with that, you'll be just fine but us tent camping there was nothing to block the sound."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites near playgrounds: Certain areas cater better to children. At Blackwell Family Campground, families appreciate that "the grounds include a lake for boating, hiking trails, and bike paths. There is also an archery range, and some ranger programs."
Consider cabin options for easier camping: Many families opt for cabins rather than tents. "Our site was right between the playground and beach trailhead, but still private. The best sites are the ones on the outside from the beach trail to the nature center," shared a camper at Indiana Dunes.
Bring insect protection: Bug populations can be significant in summer months. "Bugs were awful this stay. They are busy but spots are large and neighbors are not close by. Lots of kids. Great for families and pet friendly," warned a camper at Illinois Beach State Park.
Tips from RVers
Bring extra water hose: Water access points are often distant from RV pads. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advised a camper at Big Rock Campground.
Electric service is standard but inconsistent: Most campgrounds offer electrical hookups, but amperage varies. "All sites have electric and great prices for firewood. Sites are level and clean and they have modern bathrooms," noted a visitor to Blackwell Family Campground.
Paved pads available but limited: For level parking, seek campgrounds with concrete or asphalt sites. "Sites #4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad," observed a visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake, while at Paul Wolff Campground, "All sites are electric, so if you are tent camping and want your fan or slow-cooker, then it's as good as it gets in the burbs."
