Tent campsites near Gilberts, Illinois offer primitive camping experiences beyond the well-known locations. Most are situated within Kane County or neighboring counties, providing access to the region's waterways and forest preserves. Winter camping is available at several locations, though campers should prepare for temperature fluctuations typical of northern Illinois where overnight lows can drop below freezing even in spring and fall.
What to do
Fishing along the Kishwaukee River: MacQueen Forest Preserve provides access to the South Branch of the Kishwaukee River where some campers create do-it-yourself tubing experiences. According to one visitor: "Some fellow campers were doing a diy tubing right to the campground. (About a 2 hr lazy river tube from Kingston or 5hrs from Genoa on the slow moving S. Branch of the Kishwaukee River which can be pretty deep in places.)"
Stargazing in open meadows: The meadow camping areas at MacQueen Forest Preserve offer excellent night sky viewing opportunities. A camper noted: "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing!"
Cycling the canal trails: For bicycle enthusiasts, Channahon State Park Campground provides direct access to regional trails. As one cyclist reported: "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride."
Winter camping adventures: Several sites remain open year-round for cold-weather camping. A winter camper at MacQueen shared: "Second time coming to this great local spot. This time i stayed in site #8. By far the best spot on the grounds. Great remote location over looking the river. Great time minus the winter squall that rolled threw our first night."
What campers like
Self-service simplicity: Primitive camping options near Gilberts feature straightforward check-in processes. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, a camper explained: "It's all self-checking, you just use the pay box in the parking lot."
Budget-friendly pricing: The affordability of camping near Gilberts appeals to many visitors. According to one review: "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4."
Site spacing and privacy: The distance between campsites at Snug Harbor Inn Campground offers uncommon privacy. One reviewer appreciated: "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!"
Clean facilities despite primitive setting: Many primitive campsites maintain basic amenities well. A MacQueen visitor noted: "The bathrooms were well kept" while another mentioned: "There's vault toilets and the one I used wasn't terrible, but it is primitive. There's even a light switch inside with a functioning light!"
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Light sleepers should be aware of railway proximity at certain camping areas. One camper at MacQueen Forest Preserve advised: "Note: if you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground."
Limited hiking options: Some camping areas have minimal trail networks. A camper observed: "There isn't much in terms of hiking trails. Just the main path and a few paths connecting sites and sort of a path along the river."
Water availability issues: Potable water can be scarce at primitive tent sites near Gilberts. A camper emphasized: "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable."
Gate closing times: Some camping areas restrict vehicle access overnight. As one reviewer noted: "The ranger is very nice and the entrance is locked from sunset to sunrise."
Tips for camping with families
Equipment transport assistance: Families with small children will appreciate available equipment at some campgrounds. A visitor to MacQueen Forest Preserve explained: "You do have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel road and mowed trail."
Accessible camping options: Families with mobility concerns can find suitable sites. One reviewer pointed out: "They do have one space near the parking lot that's handicap accessible."
Group camping potential: Snug Harbor Inn Campground offers sites conducive to family gatherings. A camper suggested: "Snapper 4, 5, 6 and 7 would be nice for group camping because they are all very close to one another and a bit more private, set away from the rest of the campsites."
Community fire areas: Some campgrounds provide shared spaces for group activities. At MacQueen, "There's also a giant fire pit with benches. The perfect area for a small group camp (as long as each party paid for the campsite that's back there)."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near Gilberts: True primitive tent camping dominates the immediate area. As one camper bluntly stated about MacQueen Forest Preserve: "Tents only!"
Nearby alternatives with hookups: Snug Harbor Inn Campground offers full-service sites for those requiring amenities. A first-time RVer shared: "Wanted someplace close to home. Familiar with the Delavan area so was excited to find Snug Harbor. Set up went well, didn't blow anything up! Yea! Staff was great, helped me back in."
Staff assistance for new RVers: First-time RV campers can find supportive environments at developed campgrounds within driving distance. One novice appreciated: "Met 2 nice couples which helped with any questions. The view was nice overlooking Turtle lake. Like the design of 3 levels so everyone gets a view."
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should check operating dates as some locations have limited seasons. One camper noted: "This season there will be new owners so I hope they keep some of the annual activities."
