Best Campgrounds near Marengo, IL
Marengo, Illinois provides several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of town, with camping options ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks and cabins. Thomas Woods Campground at Marengo Ridge features both tent and RV camping with electric hookups and private wooded sites. Other options include Chicago Northwest KOA in nearby Union, which offers cabin rentals and family-friendly amenities, and Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort with year-round availability. The region includes multiple conservation areas and forest preserves that accommodate various camping styles while providing access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation.
Seasonal considerations strongly influence camping in the Marengo area, with most campgrounds operating fully from May through October. Thomas Woods Campground is primarily open on weekends only, limiting mid-week access for spontaneous trips. Many sites require advance reservations, especially during summer months when local campgrounds reach capacity quickly. Most tent sites in the area feature raised platforms for flat sleeping surfaces, while RV sites typically offer 30-50 amp electrical hookups. Water access comes primarily from hand pumps at conservation district properties. "The mosquitoes are unbelievable, it made hiking in the woods impossible. We have given it 3 tries now over a few years and the mosquitoes have gotten worse every year," noted one camper about summer conditions at Thomas Woods.
Campers report high satisfaction with the privacy and natural setting at Thomas Woods Campground, particularly appreciating the secluded walk-in tent sites set back from the main road. The wooded camping areas provide shade and separation between campsites, creating a more isolated experience despite being relatively close to Chicago. Hiking trails receive positive mentions, with Marengo Ridge offering both wooded paths and prairie walks accessible directly from the campground. Several visitors mentioned appreciating the firewood delivery service at Thomas Woods, where staff will bring purchased bundles directly to campsites. Noise levels vary by location and season, with weekend camping typically being busier but still relatively quiet compared to larger campgrounds closer to Chicago. A recent review noted, "The campground is small the RV sites are shallow and close to the road but otherwise most are fairly private."
