The northwest Chicago suburbs offer diverse camping options within a half-hour to hour drive from Glen Ellyn. Located in DuPage County, the area features a mix of forest preserves and state parks across relatively flat terrain with elevations around 700-800 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures with occasional rainfall that can create muddy conditions at some campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: At Camp Sullivan, about 30 miles from Glen Ellyn, extensive trail systems connect directly to campsites. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," notes Josh M., who uses Camp Sullivan for midweek camping trips.
Kayaking on small lakes: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers affordable kayak rentals with equipment included. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares Layla P., who enjoyed exploring the compact waterway despite its size limitations.
Archery practice: Big Rock Campground features archery facilities in a natural prairie setting. "There are a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees. I was lucky once to see the equestrian area full of campers with their horses," mentions Marisa A., highlighting the diverse recreational opportunities available.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Big Rock Campground attracts numerous bird species. "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels," reports one camper who visited multiple times during 2020.
Spacious, level camping sites: Paul Wolff Campground at Burnidge Forest Preserve features well-maintained areas for tents and RVs. "We like this campground because its close to home and its clean/large campsites," explains Tara M., though she notes the lack of showers impacts longer stays.
Accessibility to Chicago: Camp Sullivan offers surprisingly close proximity to urban amenities while maintaining natural surroundings. "Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern," explains Shane S., highlighting the blend of urban accessibility with natural surroundings.
What you should know
Site reservations vary by location: Many campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "We decided to spend the weekend here because I had a client meeting at sunrise the first morning of our stay in downtown Chicago. It saved me making a 3 hour drive the morning of," explains Lisa S. about her practical reason for choosing Camp Sullivan.
Campground gate closures: Some forest preserves lock entrance gates overnight. At Camp Reinberg, "There is a gate that is closed at 10pm every night and opened again in the morning," according to Susan L., who appreciated the security but notes this timing constraint for late arrivals or early departures.
Highway noise at some locations: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Glen Ellyn have varying noise levels. "You can throw a stone and hit a semi driving by to I-80. There's a lot of traffic given the proximity to Chicago. If you're able to sleep with large trucks driving in the background, you'll be fine," warns Iris A. about Martin's Camping Ground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Camp Sullivan includes dedicated recreational spaces. "There are pavilions, air conditioned/heated dining hall, shower building, restrooms and cabins, along with tent sites and 5 RV sites, 2 of which are paved," Susan L. details, noting these amenities make family camping more comfortable.
Playgrounds and game rooms: Fox Bluff Cottages & RV offers multiple family recreation options. "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful," shares Gina H., who has maintained a riverside spot at the campground for five years.
Weekend activity programs: Illinois Beach State Park runs seasonal nature programs. "We visited this fall and were happy. I always forget that the sites in the 340's are awesome. There was some flooding but it didn't effect our trip," mentions Ashley J., who found the campground enjoyable despite seasonal challenges.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup distances: Big Rock Campground requires extra water hose length. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises Rodney D., providing practical advice for RVers planning to stay at this location.
Electric availability: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Glen Ellyn typically offer at least electric hookups. "Because there is electrical it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise," notes Marisa A. about Paul Wolff Campground, appreciating this often-overlooked benefit of powered sites.
Site privacy varies significantly: The Northwest Chicago KOA offers creative site arrangements to maximize privacy. "It's on the smaller side and the RV sites are a little close together but they have it set up where your RVs doors open on opposite sides so it gives a little privacy," explains Michelle J., demonstrating how thoughtful design can improve the camping experience.
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