Camp Bullfrog Lake and Camp Sullivan provide cabin camping options within 30 miles of Evergreen Park, Illinois. Both locations feature sites with basic facilities including fire pits, picnic tables, and access to toilet and shower facilities. The surrounding Cook County Forest Preserve lands contain over 70,000 acres of protected natural areas with hiking trails ranging from easy half-mile loops to more challenging routes extending 7+ miles through woodland terrain. Winter camping remains available at select locations when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Explore mountain biking trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers direct access to extensive trail systems popular with cyclists. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," notes Tim K. who visited with his family.
Lake activities: Visitors can rent kayaks at Camp Bullfrog Lake for $15 per hour, with life vests included. Though the lake is relatively small, it provides a peaceful setting for paddling. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," according to Layla P.
Rock climbing: Camp Sullivan features an activities barn with a climbing wall open to campers. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall. There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," explains Shane S., highlighting the amenities beyond typical camping.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Hiking trails around Dunewood Campground in the Indiana Dunes National Park support diverse wildlife watching. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," reports Hatie P. after their spring visit.
Clean modern facilities: The restrooms and shower buildings at most Cook County sites receive regular maintenance. "The bathhouses are newer and kept fairly clean. The water pressure in the showers was so-so," notes Lisa S. about her experience at Camp Sullivan, providing a balanced assessment of amenities.
Chicago skyline views: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground sites provide unique views across Lake Michigan. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake," mentions Anna G., highlighting a distinctive feature not commonly expected at wilderness campsites.
What you should know
Limited shade at some sites: Many of the camping areas near Evergreen Park have young trees that provide minimal coverage. "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small," reports Tim K. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Similarly at Indiana Dunes, "sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet."
Train noise disruptions: Several campgrounds in the region experience railroad noise throughout the night. "The following review was done by my thirteen year old daughter... 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," explains a reviewer at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Seasonal availability: Weather patterns impact facility operations. "The water is not yet potable so bring your own or check with the park team to ensure it's drinkable when you go," advises Hatie P. who visited Camp Bullfrog Lake in mid-April, noting an important seasonal consideration.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas to keep children entertained. "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," shares Sadie H. about her experience at Oak Lake Family Campgrounds.
Security considerations: Some campgrounds implement safety measures that benefit families. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," notes Beth B. about her stay at Michigan City Campground, highlighting features that provide peace of mind.
Guided activities: Many sites offer organized recreation options during summer months. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites," mentions Dane S. who regularly visits Camp Sullivan with three children under 7.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site options: Several campgrounds offer sites designed for easier access with larger vehicles. "We were in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids," explains Erin B. who stayed at Michigan City Campground with her RV.
Water and electric hookup limitations: Campers should prepare accordingly for limited services. "Really nice campground. No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors," advises Kaitlin M. about her stay at Camp Bullfrog Lake, noting the need to arrive prepared.
Weekend congestion considerations: RV campers often face increased traffic during peak periods. "Indiana Dunes State park campground is one of our favorites. The beach, the trails, bike trails. There is everything to do here, it does not disappoint. Well the weekend traffic can be a bummer," warns Kirk B., suggesting scheduling arrivals and departures on weekdays when possible.
