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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 Fox Lake, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The Fox Lake area in northeastern Illinois features several established campgrounds within Chain O' Lakes State Park, offering a mix of tent, RV, and cabin camping options. Campgrounds like Fox Den, Turner Lake South, Prairie View, and Honeysuckle Hollow provide varying levels of amenities within the park system. The region extends into southern Wisconsin with additional options at Richard Bong State Recreation Area and Big Foot Beach State Park, creating a diverse camping corridor along the Illinois-Wisconsin border. Most sites are developed campgrounds with designated sites rather than dispersed camping areas, with many offering electric hookups and basic amenities.
Reservations are required at most campgrounds in the area, with sites filling quickly during summer months, particularly on weekends. The camping season generally runs from spring through fall, with limited winter availability. Chain O' Lakes State Park enforces a no-alcohol policy, even at individual campsites. Many campgrounds provide access to the Fox River and connected lake system, making them popular with boaters and anglers. The region's flat terrain makes for accessible camping, though privacy between sites varies significantly by campground loop. As one camper noted, "Turner lake south loop has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites."
Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers visiting the Fox Lake region, with several campgrounds offering boat launches and fishing opportunities. Prairie View campground provides a more rustic experience without electrical hookups, while Fox Den and Turner Lake South offer more amenities. According to one visitor, "Chain o' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season." Campers frequently mention the extensive trail system throughout the area, including hiking paths and horse trails. The proximity to Chicago (approximately 60 miles) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations for urban residents seeking outdoor recreation, with several reviewers noting the convenience for "quick weekend trips" from the city.
Best Campgrounds near Fox Lake (71)
1. 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 Availability2. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"
"Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"
3. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."
"You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly. But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"
4. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"We can both drive to work and then come back to relax. Close to some great places for antiquing if you don't want to hike the trails or fish."
"It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "
5. Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area
"I would recommend this for anyone for starting to step out of the comfort zone for the outdoors. very simple, many paths to walk, jog, or ride a bike. a small lake is near the further parking lot. dogs"
"Had some cool amenities like the off road park and multiple fishing spots. Has a winery and cool dive bars all within 10 min. Only downside is all the noise from the road and the drag strip near by."
from $24 - $41 / night
Check Availability6. Sunrise Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area
"Plenty of space & foliage between sites and a nice network of trails surrounding the campground. Close to some small towns and the interstate as well, but not close enough to hear traffic."
"the property is HUGE and most things are about a 10 to 15 min walk from the campsites. lots of hiking, boating, swimming fishing and more! a great place for anyone!"
from $24 - $110 / night
Check Availability7. Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"Prairie View campground is in the Chain O Lakes State Park series. This is the no services campground. We could walk to fill up with water but no electric on site. Checking in was interesting."
"You could barely see the neighbors because of how overgrown the edges of the site were. We felt like we were in our own little bubble."
8. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
"Conveniently located next to Lake Geneva with a tiny roadside beach area. I recommend camping sites on the west side of the camping loop to cut down on sun. Not enough electric sites for campers."
"We stayed at site 98- just barely big enough to fit our travel trailer in and right next to the showers and bathrooms. Not a great location, but fine."
from $24 - $39 / night
Check Availability9. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
"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."
"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."
from $43 - $73 / night
Check Availability10. Mud Lake East — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"This State Park isn't too far off the beaten path which is nice. Fairly close to gas stations, convenience stores, etc. The park is clean, and has the bathrooms and utilities that would be needed."
"There are numerous sites that are on a small lake with great sunset views. Sites are decent size but not much privacy in between sites. Lots of wooded trails within the campground."
from $12 / night
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Drive Time
- 35 min from Kenosha, WI
- 46 min from Racine, WI
- 58 min from Janesville, WI
- 59 min from Milwaukee, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Fox Lake, IL
226 Photos of 71 Fox Lake Campgrounds
Aida K.
Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Brian O.
Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Heather L.
Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Scott B.
Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Janet P.
Mud Lake West — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Glenn T.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Jeffery S.
Happy Acres Kampground
Christian V.
Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area
Emily M.
Sunrise Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area
Jason S.
Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
Jack D.
Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
Recent Reviews near Fox Lake, IL
669 Reviews of 71 Fox Lake 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.
Operation_Fun ..GuideYogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson
A midwest gem… I guess
Our friends have a permanent camper here so we joined them for the weekend. I’ve never experienced a place like this. It’s not what I would consider camping. It’s basically people’s second trailer park home. The frog pond that was turned into a swimming hole with ridiculous inflatables completely ruined the peaceful atmosphere in that area of the park. If you enjoy being surrounded by people, noise, and teens cruising in golf carts, you’ll love this place. We do have fun when we are with our friends here, but it is definitely not a typical peaceful camp.
Bryan A.
TravelerMuskego Park by Waukesha County Parks
Always a great time
This park has always been a go to for me. As a full time RVer, I come here a lot. The scenery is beautiful, beach right next door, fishing holes not far from here. The people who come are all very friendly and the park rangers are very welcoming and always have firewood for the visitors. Highly recommend this spot for everyone.
- MManny A.Traveler
Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
Simple and local
First time RV’ing with my wife and we were able to navigate pretty easily in our rented 30’. Arrived on a Monday, and as posted, there was no one so we checked in online(they sent an email to check in). Simple camp site with tons of space(almost double our RV), a long wood picnic table and a fire pit. Everything was great until we left. Dumping was straight forward, but the person in front of me was taking a little while to dump. They had came up to my RV and let me know the dump tank was backing up, which I had also experienced when I tried dumping. I called to ask for assistance on Thursday and they said they would send a ranger out. 45 minutes of waiting and a couple other RV’s after us and we ended up giving up and going to another site closer to home to dump. Great experience otherwise.
- Bryan A.Traveler
Wisconsin State Fair RV Park
Everything you need in one place!
I love staying here from time to time. As a full time RVer, I book here frequently. Not only do they have all types of hookups stays, but they full men and women’s locker rooms with showers, and restrooms, including a laundry facility on site, shop is inside the office and ice available. The customer service is by far the best! They work with you every step of the way and show you around the area if you wanted! Plus they have a dump station and water fill up station even if you’re not staying here or book here. I recommend this site to anyone and everyone!
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendRock Cut Equestrian Campground
A Peaceful Retreat for Horse-Loving Families
If your family's perfect camping trip includes saddling up and exploring miles of wooded trails together, the Equestrian Campground at Rock Cut State Park offers a wonderfully peaceful place to spend a few days. Tucked away from the park's busier camping loops, this rustic first-come, first-served campground provides spacious sites designed for campers traveling with horses, along with nearby potable water, restrooms and direct access to more than 14 miles of designated equestrian trails. While amenities are intentionally simple (erring on non-existent), the extra room to accommodate horse trailers and the quiet natural surroundings create exactly the kind of setting many riders are looking for. One of my favorite moments was watching families quietly prepare their horses in the early morning light before disappearing beneath the trees for a day on the trails, returning later with tired horses, dusty boots and smiles that needed no explanation. Arriving early is the best way to secure a site since camping is first-come, first-served and availability is limited. This campground is ideal for equestrian families given its spacious layout, direct trail access and peaceful atmosphere that allows both riders and horses to truly unwind.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Thousand 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.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Sycamore 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.
Guide to Fox Lake
Fox Lake camping areas typically experience hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and mild springs and falls with daytime temperatures ranging from 50-75°F. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 700-900 feet, positioned along the Chain O'Lakes waterway system consisting of 15 interconnected lakes spanning 7,100 acres. Non-electric primitive campsites typically cost $12-25 per night while electric sites range from $25-35.
What to do
Kayaking through interconnected waterways: The Chain O'Lakes system offers extensive paddling opportunities from multiple launch points. At Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park, campers appreciate the diverse paddling options. "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 on my two trips so far," explains one visitor.
Horseback riding for all skill levels: Several camping areas near Fox Lake provide equestrian facilities. The Sunrise Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area offers both trail riding and rentals. "The Weekend we were here they had a free Kids fishing weekend and John the naturalist was amazing!! There is a ton to do at this park the nature center has activities all weekend long," reports one visitor. Trail difficulty varies from beginner to intermediate.
Fishing from lakefront sites: Multiple campgrounds offer direct lake access for anglers. At Mud Lake East — Chain O' Lakes State Park, "There are numerous sites that are on a small lake with great sunset views. Sites are decent size but not much privacy in between sites. Lots of wooded trails within the campground. Perfect if you have a boat and want access to the Chain of Lakes," according to one regular camper.
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago with natural settings: Many of the best places to camp near Fox Lake, Illinois are within easy driving distance of major urban areas. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park is especially popular for this reason. "This is our favorite place to camp. It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. It has the electrical hookups that we need and has a bath house that is close to where you camp (hundreds of feet versus getting into a car and driving to it)," writes one regular visitor.
Secluded tent sites in designated loops: Several campgrounds offer more private tent camping areas separated from RV sections. At Prairie View camping area, "We stayed at the Prairie View section on site P27. It was me, my wife, our 8 month old daughter, and our dog... Luckily it was fantastic. You could barely see the neighbors because of how overgrown the edges of the site were. We felt like we were in our own little bubble," explains one camper who appreciated the privacy.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned across multiple campgrounds. At Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, "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. Clean bathrooms and shower," reports one camper.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters are common: Both welcome and unwelcome wildlife can be part of the camping experience. According to campers at Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area, "It's a wetland, mosquitoes are happening, but the trade off is just about worth it. If you enjoy bird watching or rabbit spotting, this is a great place to go... There were relatively few campers during the week and just about every other campsite had at least a bunny or two."
No alcohol policies at Illinois state parks: Unlike Wisconsin campgrounds, Illinois state parks enforce strict alcohol restrictions. One Fox Den camper notes, "The only big minus is the full hook ups fill up fast no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season. The other thing is ALL Illinois State Parks are now enforcing a no alcohol policy even if you are on your own site."
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Site characteristics differ drastically between loops and campgrounds. At Honeysuckle Hollow, a camper explains, "Our site was encased in foliage which gave us some privacy. I could see through the brush to neighbors but it was enough to give my dog a sense of peace without disturbances. The sites are near enough together - we heard many children playing from all around us - but still gave us a sense of being out in the woods."
Tips for camping with families
Mosquito preparation essential: Bug protection is critical for child comfort. At Honeysuckle Hollow, one family warns: "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. Luckily our screen house pop up on a tarp that was sprayed ahead for tick repellent plus a blanket on top of that did the trick, but they literally fall out of the trees into people! Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house."
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Turner Lake South, families benefit from "Multiple playgrounds, access to launch sites for kayaks, little store to buy ice cream or snacks." Sites closest to these amenities fill quickly during summer weekends.
Budget-friendly tent options: For families watching costs, certain campgrounds offer exceptional value. According to a Turner Lake South visitor, "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: Many campgrounds have specific electrical setups that require planning. At Honeysuckle Hollow camping area, "These sites share an electric box. Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. A lot of the spaces are also crowded together. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance."
Extended stays considerations: For longer visits, certain campgrounds offer better amenities. One RVer at Big Foot Beach State Park noted, "We stayed here for a week over the summer in 2021. We had a back-in site on the north side of the campground. 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. The dump station was near the entrance to the camping loop and had potable water."
Gate closure policies: Be aware of strict entrance times at some parks. "A note that the park gates close early as well - we returned one evening at 10:30pm and couldn't get back in with a vehicle. Had to go back in on foot. Good to plan ahead!" warns a camper at Prairie View camping area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Fox Lake, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Fox Lake, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Fox Lake, IL is Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 67 reviews.
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