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GuideWoodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park
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No picnic table at site #500
Camping near Elmwood Park, IL
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Camping options near Elmwood Park, Illinois range from established campgrounds to unique urban camping experiences within the Chicago metropolitan area. Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs offers lakeside tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins approximately 15 miles southwest of Elmwood Park. Several Forest Preserve District of Cook County campgrounds provide developed camping areas, including Camp Reinberg in Palatine and Camp Sullivan in Oak Forest, both featuring cabins alongside traditional tent and RV sites. The Vaudeville represents an unusual urban camping option located within Chicago city limits.
Road access to most campgrounds in the region is straightforward with paved routes suitable for standard vehicles. The camping season varies by location, with some campgrounds like Blackwell Family Campground in Warrenville operating seasonally from May through September, while others like Camp Bullfrog Lake remain open year-round. "This is a wonderful campground with everything accessible for a few days respite. Clean showers, space to walk, gorgeous lake - quiet just outside of the city!" noted one visitor about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Weather conditions in the Chicago area can be unpredictable, with hot, humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall popular camping seasons. Most campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for cabins and during summer weekends.
Campers consistently highlight the extensive trail systems available near developed campgrounds as a major attraction. The Palos trail system near Camp Bullfrog Lake receives particular praise for mountain biking opportunities. A camper mentioned, "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." Lake access provides fishing and boating opportunities at several campgrounds. Urban camping at The Vaudeville offers proximity to Chicago's public transportation system, though reviewers note train noise can be disruptive. Most Cook County campgrounds provide amenities like clean bathrooms, showers, and fire pits, with several offering firewood with site rental. Proximity to Chicago makes these campgrounds popular weekend getaways for city residents seeking outdoor experiences without extensive travel.
Best Campgrounds near Elmwood Park (68)
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. 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"
4. 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 Availability5. 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. 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 Availability7. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
"You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."
"You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."
from $25 / night
Check Availability8. 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 Availability9. The Fawn Flats
from $35 - $75 / night
Check Availability10. 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 $43 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 20 min from Chicago, IL
- 54 min from Kenosha, WI
- 1 hr 5 min from Racine, WI
- 1 hr 14 min from Michigan City, IN
Recent Camping Photos near Elmwood Park, IL
191 Photos of 68 Elmwood Park Campgrounds
Katherine T.
The Vaudeville
Andrew S.
Camp Bullfrog Lake
Marc W.
Blackwell Family Campground
Megan R.
Camp Sullivan
Jeffrey L.
Camp Shabbona Woods
Tyler J.
Backyard Bonfire
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Katelyn G.
Martin’s Camping Ground
Glenn T.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Ellen V.
Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort
Recent Reviews near Elmwood Park, IL
594 Reviews of 68 Elmwood Park Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendSycamore RV Resort
Peaceful Lakeside Pause in the Heart of Corn Country
There’s something so comforting about pulling into Sycamore RV Resort and seeing the sunlight dance across those two spring-fed lakes, giving you that immediate exhale that only a calm Midwestern campground can bring. The property is medium-sized, incredibly tidy and thoughtfully laid out, with full-hookup RV sites circling the water, a small sandy beach for summer splashing, clean restrooms and showers, simple playgrounds and EZ walking loops that make it feel both manageable and welcoming for families. The boys were in heaven the next morning when we drove over to Elleson’s Bakery for fresh homemade donuts still warm from the oven. Later we wandered through historic downtown Sycamore during Pumpkinfest, taking in the decorated storefronts and carved pumpkins lined up like a little parade. Back at the RV Resort, from what we saw, the best campsites are any of the lakeside slots on the western shore because they offer the prettiest sunrise views and the quietest pockets of the resort. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its peaceful lakeside setting, its clean and convenient amenities and its proximity to a charming small provincial Midwestern town that makes even a simple weekend feel memorable.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Camp Reinberg
A Forest Preserve Escape for the Whole Family
From the moment we pulled into Camp Reinberg, our entire family felt something was unique and different about the peacefulness that you immediately encounter when arriving here to Camp Reinberg – it was the kind of quiet that settles over you long before the bags are unpacked, which felt remarkable considering how close this little retreat sits to suburban Palatine. This Forest Preserve of Cook County campground is modest in size with a mix of tent pads, a very small circuit of RV-friendly sites and several modern cabins that give it the feeling of a thoughtfully managed woodland outpost rather than a crowded complex. Amenities are simple but well-cared-for, including clean restrooms, hot showers, shaded picnic areas, a proper indoor camping kitchen and dining hall as well as a large open field for play complete with an enormous bonfire pit and BBQ grill area with direct access to the miles of hiking paths that wind through Deer Grove Forest Preserve. Our favorite moment came just before sunset when the boys darted between the oaks spotting chipmunks while we lingered at the picnic table with a thermos of hot cocoa, savoring the calm and popping in extra marshmallows for full effect. For families, this campground is genuinely recommended thanks to its safety, gentle trails and close-to-town convenience with the best site choice being either one of the tent pads along the wooded northeastern edge (sites#6-10) or the northernmost corner of the RV loop if you’re looking for a spot for your rig (#2-4), where the privacy and tree cover make the stay feel much more like a deep-forest escape.
Beth D.GuideIndiana Dunes State Park Campground
Dry nice place
They’re busy for early May. We found out that we could not add an extra day and the likelihood of being able to take advantage of a cancellation with slim due to the fact that you pre-pay and there’s no refunds without at least 24 hours notice. The campsites are a decent size and the facilities are quite nice.
- Beth D.Guide
Paul Wolff Campground
Good place for a night or 2
First, you have to make reservations in advance online. The website says otherwise. They are spacious sites and well maintained the water. Spicket are a significant distance from each campsite so come prepared for that.
- MMark L.
ScoutRolling Oaks Campground
Always amazing
This was my family's campground before my grandmother passed when I was 7. From then till a few years ago I hadn't been back. The first time getting back was definitely a trip down memory lane. Now I try to get a campsite at least once a year. It's always quiet and peaceful & the staff is always willing to help make sure that you have the best experience possible.
Harold H.ScoutLehmans Lakeside RV Resort
Location is ok but staff are not
The worst thing about this campground is that the well water contains rust that affects your entire trailers water system. Staff did not tell you beforehand that your trailer will be destroyed. I’ve stayed here seven months and have had my water repeatedly cut off without notice.
Stuart K.LegendSilver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
Primitive Camp Right by the Fox River Under Ancient Oaks
Situated about five miles west of Yorkville in Kendall County, Silver Springs State Fish& Wildlife Area spans over 1,350 acres including the beautiful Silver Springs, two manmade lakes and several miles of Fox River shoreline. Camping here is highly primitive and organized around youth and group backpack sites that offer a peaceful, history-rich wilderness setting. It’s not your typical family campground, but more of a lean-into-nature, group-only campout.
The camping experience here is stripped-down with no vehicle access to campsites, no RV hookups and no showers, just ground-based tents in shaded woods along the river. You’ll need to carry in all your gear and water, as this is basic trail-side camping. What you get is serenity, solitude and a tapestry of oak forests, prairie restoration zones and natural spring magic that makes this place feel timeless.
What really sets this park apart is its raw connection to landscape and wildlife. The spring itself bubbles a clear, cold pool that doesn’t freeze in winter, offering a shimmering focal point amid oaks and prairie grasses. Beyond that, the park offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing on Loon & Beaver Lakes as well as the Fox River, plus a robust network of trails stretching 4 miles for hikers and 7 miles for horseback riders. In winter, you can even ice-skate or cross-country ski weather permitting (read: wait for the snow to fall and the water to freeze over).
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you hadn’t picked up on it already, bring everything you need as this is primitive camping to the max with no potable water or facilities at campsites; (2) The spring is a must-see and I would encourage you to visit during sunset when the light turns the waters silvery; (3) You definitely want to plan some trail time hiking near those lake and river paths that are perfect for wildlife viewing and quiet reflection; (4) While you certainly could do solo camping here, this place ideal for organized youth groups or scout trips; (5) While you won’t be able to drive up to your site, there is a decent parking lot that will at least allow you to get pretty close to where you will eventually be camping, so while it will take a handful of trips, depending upon how many people you come with, at least you’ll be able to hike in ¼ mile to the first spot or a ½ mile further in where there are larger group sites; and (6) For groceries or hot meals after camping, head into Yorkville for the nearest comforts with excellent digs like Smokey’s for some authentic BBQ, Crusade Burger Bar for its namesake handhelds and craft beer as well as The Vault, which is a former bank offering up Midwestern comfort food.
Happy Camping!
- EEd B.
TravelerLakeshore Camp Resort
It’s enjoyable
Very crowded, We stayed by the front gate and it was noisy. All the amenities were working, the staff was very nice and accommodating. full hook ups although my 32 ft. Class C hardly fit the site. There was a band the weekend we stayed. The pools were clean and nice the beach was nice with a platform and floating slide. we rented a golf cart it ran nice. Close to the Dunes for a day trip. Would definitely stay again. Had a great time.
Guide to Elmwood Park
Camping near Elmwood Park, Illinois provides access to several Cook County forest preserves within a 30-mile radius of the Chicago suburb. Winter temperatures range from 10-35°F while summer temperatures typically reach 75-90°F with moderate humidity. The camping season generally runs May through October at most locations, though some sites remain open year-round.
What to do
**Trail exploration: At Camp Reinberg in Palatine, hiking trails offer varied terrain. "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," notes one visitor.
Beach access: Indiana Dunes State Park offers swimming and hiking opportunities approximately 45 miles from Elmwood Park. A visitor shares, "The lake and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype. The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot."
Urban camping experience: The Vaudeville provides a unique opportunity to camp within Chicago city limits. A camper explains, "It was safe, and everyone was so friendly and kind. The neighbors welcomed us and by the time we had to leave we felt like we were part of the community. There is easy access to public transportation."
What campers like
Affordable getaways: Blackwell Family Campground offers discounts for county residents. "For only $20 a night for DuPage residents this place is perfect! The website is very descriptive when it comes to photos and explaining the campsite (I.e if it's wooded or open) which I loved," reports one camper.
Seasonal activities: Different preserves offer unique seasonal programming. A visitor to Paul Wolff Campground notes, "The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms. I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards despite heavy use. A visitor to Camp Reinberg reported, "Lovely campground north west of Chicago. The shower facilities were clean and the staff very friendly." Another camper highlighted the "air conditioned/heated dining hall, shower building, restrooms (seriously the cleanest I've ever seen, even the ceilings were cleaned!)."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train noise affects several campgrounds in the region. At Dunewood Campground, "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. great shading from trees and very green!" A camper at Indiana Dunes State Park noted, "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."
Water hookups: Not all RV sites provide full hookups. At Paul Wolff Campground, "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." 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 selection: Campsite quality varies within the same campground. At Blackwell Family Campground, "Site 20 is turf and nicely secluded. Most of the sites are partial shade." At Paul Wolff Campground, "The most shaded sites are p1,3,5,7 and 9. Many of the sites in the middle are wide open with little shade but nice summer breezes."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Sullivan offers family-friendly amenities. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods). Highly recommend," reports a family camper.
Nature education: Many preserves offer educational programming. At Indiana Dunes State Park, "The nature center is right next to the campground. The pavilion is being renovated, the ice cream shop was open, but they were still doing construction on the rest."
Budget-friendly options: Certain campgrounds offer lower rates for county residents. At Blackwell Family Campground, "County park district runs it and the fees are kinda steep, 20 res/30 non-res," while Paul Wolff Campground notes, "Prices are a great deal if you live in Kane county but still worth the trip if you live in another county."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At Indiana Dunes State Park, "We had a back in sight #69. There was plenty of space on all sides. We have a 37' motorhome and pulled a Jeep behind it. There was plenty of room to maneuver around. The sight also had a wood picnic table and fire ring for a wood fire pit."
Utility considerations: Electric hookups are standard but water access varies. At Camp Reinberg, "Only offered electric service" while a Paul Wolff Campground visitor noted, "Because there is electrical it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Blackwell Family Campground operates from May 3 to September 29, while Paul Wolff Campground runs May 1 to October 31. A camper noted, "The only down side of the park is that it is only open on the weekends. On holiday weekends you are able to stay for three nights."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Elmwood Park, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Elmwood Park, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Elmwood Park, IL is Camp Bullfrog Lake with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.
What parks are near Elmwood Park, IL?
What parks are near Elmwood Park, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Elmwood Park, IL that allow camping, notably Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes National Park.
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