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Abdulrahman A.
Scout
ScoutBig Rock Campground
Beautiful And Quite
Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply
Camping near Elmhurst, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping options near Elmhurst, Illinois primarily consist of established campgrounds within forest preserves and state parks, with most sites located within a 30-60 minute drive of the city. Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs and Blackwell Family Campground in Warrenville provide the closest developed camping areas, offering both tent and RV accommodations. Several campgrounds like Camp Reinberg and Camp Sullivan feature cabin options alongside traditional camping, with most facilities providing electric hookups, drinking water, and modern restrooms. The region includes a mix of county-managed forest preserve campgrounds and state park facilities, with limited primitive camping opportunities.
Reservations are essential at most campgrounds in the area, particularly during the peak season from May through September. "Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home. They have discounted rates for Dupage county residents and have electric at all sites and great prices for firewood," noted one visitor about Blackwell Family Campground. Many sites close during winter months, with only a few offering year-round access. Alcohol policies vary significantly between locations, with several forest preserve campgrounds strictly prohibiting alcohol consumption. Campers should verify specific regulations when booking, as enforcement can be strict. Most campgrounds feature paved or gravel pads for RVs with 30-50 amp electrical service, though water and sewer hookups are less consistent across locations.
The camping experience in this region reflects its suburban setting, with relatively small campgrounds nestled within preserved natural areas. A camper described Camp Reinberg as having "lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc. The preserve bumps up next to neighborhoods and major roads depending how far in you get, but the main trails are easy to follow." Sites tend to be closer together than in more remote camping destinations, with limited privacy between campsites at most locations. Fishing opportunities exist at several campgrounds, particularly at Chain O'Lakes State Park and Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area. Proximity to Chicago makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations, with many visitors appreciating the convenience of natural settings within reach of urban amenities. Noise from nearby roads and residential areas can be noticeable at some locations, though wooded sites provide a sense of seclusion despite the suburban surroundings.
Best Campgrounds near Elmhurst (76)
1. Camp Bullfrog Lake
"Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life. Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."
"What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."
from $20 - $138 / night
Check Availability2. Blackwell Family Campground
"Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home."
"I always loved going to the parks in Illinois with my grandparents when I was little. They love hiking and nature and definitely got me interested in it also. I love them and miss them everyday."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability3. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability4. The Vaudeville
"There is easy access to public transportation. It was HOT and there are no plug ins or use of generators so plan accordingly"
5. Camp Sullivan
"Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern."
"There are several bathrooms around and they are clean. Staff is friendly and welcoming."
from $35 - $250 / night
Check Availability6. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability7. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."
"We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"
from $25 / night
Check Availability8. Big Rock Campground
"Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi"
"Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply"
from $18 - $35 / night
Check Availability9. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
"We spent the afternoon on the lakeside and drove back to the site to set up for the evening."
"This campground was very nice and clean and for a packed park was very quiet and we did not feel too close to the sites next to us. "
from $50 / night
Check Availability10. The Fawn Flats
from $35 - $75 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 20 min from Chicago, IL
- 48 min from Kenosha, WI
- 59 min from Kankakee, IL
- 1 hr 10 min from Michigan City, IN
Recent Camping Photos near Elmhurst, IL
179 Photos of 76 Elmhurst Campgrounds
Katherine T.
The Vaudeville
Marc W.
Blackwell Family Campground
Andrew S.
Camp Bullfrog Lake
Tyler J.
Backyard Bonfire
Megan R.
Camp Sullivan
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Katelyn G.
Martin’s Camping Ground
Jeffrey L.
Camp Shabbona Woods
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff CottageS & RV
Amanda K.
Big Rock Campground
Recent Reviews near Elmhurst, IL
543 Reviews of 76 Elmhurst Campgrounds
- HHolly B.
GuideChicago Northwest KOA
A bit of a drive
It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
- EEd B.
TravelerLakeshore Camp Resort
looks like a dump at first glance but found out it’s storm damage
Trailer was nice plenty to do. A lot of seasonal sites. was a pleasant enough stay. Looks like a converted Yogi Bear campground. A lot of storm damage around the campground. Pools were clean, bathrooms and shower houses are a bit dated but clean. They are about every 5 rows/streets. You can rent golf carts which seems the main mode of transportation. Nice rowboat lake with a beach for swimming. Small fast food restaurant small menu weird hours and more expensive that your normal fast food places. All in all it was a nice place and activities are plenty close to Chicago and one of the closest, also very close to the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan.
- RRichard C.Scout
Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground — Kankakee River State Park
Ok
JJust ok. Facilities were disappointing
Stuart K.
LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
Kathy B.LegendIndiana Dunes State Park Campground
Amateur hour
Nicely laid out campground with mature trees. Level sites. All with electric hookups. Was greeted by very kind person at the booth. You need to know that on Sundays check-in is until 5 PM as campers from the weekend have until 5 PM to vacate their sites. Of course you can check in early if they leave. The way the campground is laid out, there are no pass that lead to the bathrooms. Therefore, people are constantly cutting through your site to get to their restrooms.
- ssusan F.
RangerIndiana Dunes State Park Campground
Beautiful location and great campground!
Nice sites, well spaced. Campground is well maintained with nice bathrooms and showers (we were there after a massive storm in early June and there had been some flooding in the bathrooms). From the campsite, walk through the forest and Dunes to the beautiful beach. Our dog was in heaven!
Michael M.GuideIndiana Dunes State Park Campground
Great week
Just finished a week at this campground and overall had a great stay.
The campground is a short walk or bike ride to the public beach, and just east along the lake is the preserve area where we were able to take our dogs swimming, which was a huge plus.
The campground itself was nice. The East Loop felt a little older, with large mature trees providing shade over most sites, a centralized bathhouse, and a few pit toilets spread throughout. The West Loop had a similar feel.
There are also a few playgrounds throughout the campground, which our kids really enjoyed. They spent a lot of time bouncing back and forth between them and meeting new kids along the way, which ended up being one of their favorite parts of the trip.
The bathhouses were acceptable, though the campground was busy during our stay and it definitely showed.
We stayed in Site 8, which I wouldn’t personally recommend. There was very little usable space, and the fire pit felt like an afterthought—placed against overgrowth on sloping sand to the point that we couldn’t realistically set chairs around it.
One thing worth mentioning: we had some pretty severe weather come through during our stay, and the on-site tornado siren alerted everyone in the campground. Thankfully the storms missed us, but while the alarms were sounding, sheriff’s deputies were driving the loops and checking on campers, which was reassuring to see.
We’ll definitely be back—just not to Site 8.
Maria Mercedes M.LegendThousand Trails Pine Country
Shaded, Family-Friendly Country Retreat
There’s something instantly calming about rolling into a campground wrapped in tall pines and soft breezes, and Pine Country had that peaceful, easy feeling that made all of us exhale before we even found our site. This campground is expansive and welcoming, with full-hookup spots laid out across wide loops, plenty of shade, clean bathrooms and a friendly mix of families settling in for weekends or longer stays. Our boys loved wandering between the fishing pond and the small recreation areas and we ended the evening sharing freshly baked chocolate chip cookies that we made over an open fire on a Camp Chef black skillet munching them down at the picnic table while listening to the trees rustle above us. For families looking for a convenient home base near Rockford with lots of room to spread out, EZ access to town for supplies and a campground that really does feel safe and relaxed, Pine Country is an EZ pick. Highly recommended for young families seeking space, shade and a low-key, gentle setting to recharge.
Guide to Elmhurst
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there campgrounds with family-friendly amenities near Elmhurst?
Are there campgrounds with family-friendly amenities near Elmhurst?
Blackwell Family Campground offers excellent family amenities just a short drive from Elmhurst. This campground features electric hookups at all sites, modern bathrooms, and level, clean camping areas. They sell firewood on-site at reasonable prices and offer discounted rates for DuPage County residents. For another family-friendly option, Camp Reinberg provides numerous biking and walking trails with plenty of off-trail paths leading to unique clearings and bridges that children will enjoy exploring.
Can you find cottage accommodations in Elmhurst for camping alternatives?
Can you find cottage accommodations in Elmhurst for camping alternatives?
While traditional cottages are limited directly in Elmhurst, nearby alternatives exist for those seeking more comfortable accommodations than tent camping. Big Rock Campground offers an intermediate option with paved roads and developed sites about an hour from Chicago, though it lacks shade and showers. For travelers with RVs seeking hookups rather than cottages, Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859 provides convenient facilities for overnight stays with the comforts of an RV. Consider checking local vacation rental sites for private cottages or cabins in the Elmhurst area.
Are there camping sites with fire pits available near Elmhurst?
Are there camping sites with fire pits available near Elmhurst?
Channahon State Park Campground provides sites with fire pits in a quaint setting. The campground is particularly accessible for cyclists as the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. It offers a convenient spot to enjoy a campfire while still being relatively close to Elmhurst. McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove also features camping areas with fire pits, including some sites with concrete pads for ADA accessibility, making it a good option for groups with diverse needs.
What state parks offer camping options near Elmhurst?
What state parks offer camping options near Elmhurst?
Chain O' Lakes State Park is among the best state parks near Elmhurst, featuring multiple camping loops with different amenities. The Turner Lake South loop offers nice, private sites that are ideal for a more secluded experience, while Prairie View provides no-service sites for those seeking a more primitive camping experience. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area is another option with a beautiful lake for fishing and water activities, though some facilities may be less maintained than at other parks.
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