Camping sites near Deerfield, Illinois are primarily located within forest preserves and state parks that sit amid the glacial moraine terrain of northern Illinois. The region's topography features subtle hills formed by ancient ice sheets, with elevations ranging from 650-780 feet above sea level. Most camping areas operate from early May through October, with limited options during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Illinois Beach State Park offers multiple fishing spots along its shoreline. "Fun activities for all skill levels or just sit back and relax," notes Tyler S. The lake has clear water where "you could see the fish swim by," according to Julia B. at Turner Lake South.
Biking networks: Miles of biking trails connect through the forest preserves. At Blackwell Family Campground, campers appreciate the extensive trail options. "There are miles of trails. On one hike we were on paved, sifted gravel, grass and single trek trails," reports Art S. The area provides both paved and unpaved routes suitable for various skill levels.
Water recreation: Multiple lakes in the area offer boating options. Chain O' Lakes State Park provides "easy access to the Fox river and Grass lake" with both motorized and non-motorized water access. "We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October," writes Brian O. at Turner Lake South, noting that summer brings more motorboat traffic.
What campers like
Lake access: Turner Lake South Camping Area gets high marks for its water features. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes," writes Cora M.
Secluded sites: Several campgrounds offer more private options away from crowds. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers," notes Ian C., who found his site "protected on 3 sides by some fairly dens foliage and trees."
Urban accessibility: Campers value the proximity to Chicago while still providing natural experiences. "We stayed here for 4 nights in June in a pull thru FHU. We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago," writes Jenifer K. about Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. "This campground is within a couple hours of Chicago so it makes a nice getaway for the weekend. Things were pretty filled up when we came here," notes Art S. about Fox Den Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Ticks and mosquitoes are common throughout the camping season. "Beautiful views and amazing sunrises but it is quite littered with trash and broken glass. Very busy in the summer and can get wild with people partying," observes Liz M. at Illinois Beach State Park. Another camper warns about Honeysuckle Hollow: "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks."
Site selection importance: Specific site numbers often determine camping experience quality. "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees," explains Debra M. Campers frequently recommend researching site maps before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds access: Multiple campgrounds offer child-focused recreation areas. "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," reports Leo V. at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, which is described as "child friendly."
Activity options: Camp Reinberg provides diverse family-friendly activities. "Check out the office for fun seasonal events like group hikes and geocaching contests," suggests Kelsey G. The surrounding Deer Grove Forest Preserve features "trails through the grounds are varied and long—you can find something to suit just about any preference for suburban midwest hiking."
Storage precautions: Secure food storage is essential due to wildlife. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," warns Meg at Honeysuckle Hollow. She advises families to "eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "We had 50 amp, but no water/sewer, although there was a water spigot next to our site that we could use to fill up jugs of water," reports Tina about Honeysuckle Hollow. Many sites require creativity for water access, as "the staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site" at Camp Reinberg.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites offer varying levels of privacy and space. "Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet. Beautiful little lake. Bathrooms were warm and clean," notes Lawrence B. about Camp Bullfrog Lake, which is approximately 40 miles south of Deerfield. Site selection matters as "lots are nice and well kept. Easy to get in and out," at Paul Wolff Campground according to Mike M.
