Within 30 miles of Gilberts, Illinois, RV camping options range from small, family-owned parks to expansive resorts with recreational amenities. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, though several operate year-round despite Illinois' cold winters. Seasonal variations affect campground operations, with water hookups typically shut off from late October until mid-April at year-round facilities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort offers fishing access along the Fox River with additional creek and lake fishing areas. "I love the view of the river. There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails," says one seasonal camper.
Train watching: At Northwoods RV Resort, train enthusiasts can observe passing trains from select sites. "You will want to ensure you haven't booked a site right next to where trains will shoot through every few hours, this specifically means avoiding sites #E1-#E5 and #FS23-#FS36 as well as #FE1-#FE20," advises one reviewer.
Swimming facilities: Several RV parks near Gilberts maintain swimming areas, including Pine Country RV and Camping Resort which features "nice good size pool, no jacuzzi, small play ground with a jumping pad. Pond for catch and release fishing," according to a visitor.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: At Sycamore RV Resort, campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities. "Very clean and well cared for property; especially the laundry and bathroom/shower areas," notes one reviewer who appreciated the maintained facilities.
Seasonal sense of community: Long-term stays create neighborhood-like environments at many parks. "We've developed quite a lovely community of really nice people," shares a Fox Bluff RV Resort visitor who has maintained a river spot for five years.
Family-friendly activities: Chicago Northwest KOA provides structured recreation for children. "Did a quick stay with the kids for a Friday and Saturday night. Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. Plenty for the little kids to do," reports a satisfied family.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: RV parks in the Gilberts area differ in site density. One camper at Sycamore RV Resort noted sites are "piled on top of each other. Also, almost everything is gravel," while others felt sites offered adequate room.
Limited tent camping options: Most facilities prioritize RVs with fewer tent camping spaces. A Thousand Trails Pine Country visitor mentioned, "Tent camped here one night. Very nice, private sites. Not many campers, lots of RVs."
Road conditions affect comfort: Interior campground roads receive varied maintenance. At Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort, "The road has lots of dips and bumps but going slow they weren't an issue. We were on the main road and there was lots of traffic going back and forth which was surprising since there wasn't a lot of campers."
Overnight options for travelers: Love's RV Hookup in Hampshire provides convenient short-term stays with four RV spots featuring water and electric connections, though these sites don't offer the recreational amenities found at larger resorts.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Look for parks with dedicated swimming facilities for children. "Great fishing and nice beach for swimming," mentions a Sycamore RV Resort visitor, highlighting dual recreation options.
Weekend planning essential: Family-oriented campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Chicago Northwest KOA maintains higher occupancy rates from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with reviewers noting it's "a little bit smaller of a campground with regards to site space" but offers "plenty for the little kids to do."
Accessibility considerations: Some parks offer more accessible layouts than others. A reviewer noted about Chicago Northwest KOA: "We also travel with our daughter with special needs, and the spaces were pretty accessible, a step or two to climb over with the stroller."
Tips from RVers
Propane availability: Many year-round travelers need propane refill access. Northwoods RV Resort offers on-site propane refueling, which becomes particularly important during cooler months when more RVers operate heaters.
Seasonal water access: Water hookups at RV parks near Gilberts typically close during winter. A Hollywood Casino RV Park visitor noted: "No water before 4/15," highlighting the need to check seasonal limitations.
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend requesting specific site areas. "The best sites IMHO are those on the northernmost perimeter, as far away from the train tracks as you can get and that also border the Kishwaukee River with sites #S9-#S20 being excellent, as well as #S25-#S81," advises a Northwoods RV Resort camper.
Assistance with parking: Staff helpfulness varies between parks. One Sycamore RV Resort visitor appreciated that "when we arrive, the host will bring you to your site and just listen to his directions and he will get you into your site perfectly. I asked if I could bring him on my future trips. I've never parked so easily."
