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Abdulrahman A.
Scout
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 Glendale Heights, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping options around Glendale Heights, Illinois include several forest preserve campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of the Chicago suburbs. Blackwell Family Campground in Warrenville serves as a popular weekend destination with electric sites for tents and RVs, while Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs offers a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, cabin rentals, and glamping opportunities. The area features a surprising number of natural settings despite the urban surroundings, with most campgrounds situated in county forest preserves that provide lake access, hiking trails, and wooded environments. Several campgrounds like Camp Reinberg in Palatine and Camp Sullivan in Oak Forest have expanded their accommodation types to include cabins alongside traditional camping areas.
Most forest preserve campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with many open from May through September or early October. Blackwell Family Campground notably operates only on weekends, with gates that close one hour after sunset and reopen at sunrise, restricting movement in and out of the campground overnight. Electric hookups are common throughout the region's campgrounds, with many sites providing water access as well. Several locations like Paul Wolff Campground and Camp Bullfrog Lake remain open year-round, though amenities may be limited during winter months. One camper noted, "Hidden in the forest preserve to feel like camping but is not far from home, which allows for a quick getaway."
Campers frequently mention the surprising seclusion of many sites despite their proximity to suburban areas. Several forest preserve campgrounds offer partial shade and privacy between sites, with some featuring wood chip pads designated for tent placement. Noise from nearby roads can be noticeable at certain locations, particularly at Blackwell where some sites are near Winfield Road. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities, with many mentioning clean bathrooms and reliable ranger services. Fishing opportunities receive positive reviews across several campgrounds, with Silver Lake at Blackwell noted for "outstanding" fishing access. For those visiting from outside the region, some campgrounds offer discounted rates for county residents, though non-resident rates tend to be higher for the amenities provided.
Best Campgrounds near Glendale Heights (78)
1. Blackwell Family Campground
"Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home."
"I always loved going to the parks in Illinois with my grandparents when I was little. They love hiking and nature and definitely got me interested in it also. I love them and miss them everyday."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability2. Camp Bullfrog Lake
"Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life. Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."
"What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."
from $20 - $138 / night
Check Availability3. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability4. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability5. Big Rock Campground
"Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi"
"Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply"
from $18 - $35 / night
Check Availability6. 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 Availability7. The Vaudeville
"There is easy access to public transportation. It was HOT and there are no plug ins or use of generators so plan accordingly"
8. Camp Sullivan
"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."
"There are several bathrooms around and they are clean. Staff is friendly and welcoming."
from $35 - $250 / night
Check Availability9. Chicago Northwest KOA
"You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"
"We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"
10. 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 Availability
Drive Time
- 33 min from Chicago, IL
- 1 hr from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 2 min from Kenosha, WI
- 1 hr 14 min from Racine, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Glendale Heights, IL
200 Photos of 78 Glendale Heights Campgrounds
Marc W.
Blackwell Family Campground
Tyler J.
Backyard Bonfire
Andrew S.
Camp Bullfrog Lake
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Katherine T.
The Vaudeville
Megan R.
Camp Sullivan
Amanda K.
Big Rock Campground
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff CottageS & RV
Linda M.
Escape to Nature
Katelyn G.
Martin’s Camping Ground
Recent Reviews near Glendale Heights, IL
531 Reviews of 78 Glendale Heights 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.
- RRichard C.Scout
Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground — Kankakee River State Park
Ok
JJust ok. Facilities were disappointing
- MManny A.
TravelerBig 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.
Stuart K.
LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendThousand 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.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Holiday Acres Camping Resort
Country Calm with a Dash of Classic Campground Fun
The moment we pulled into Holiday Acres, that cozy ‘old-school campground’ feeling washed over us, with tall trees, winding lanes and a big, friendly welcome from the office that instantly made the boys sit up and take notice. The campground is beautifully laid out with roomy sites, full hookups, a well-kept swimming pond, mini golf, a little camp store and restrooms that were impressively clean for a busy family spot. After a long drive, the boys made a beeline for the playground and the pedal carts, and later that night we all sat under the string lights eating ice cream sandwiches from the camp store while fireflies blinked and buzzed through the trees. If you’re a family looking for somewhere safe, shaded and EZ-going with just enough activities to keep the kids happily worn out, this place absolutely fits the bill. Highly recommended for its friendly atmosphere, great kid-focused amenities and peaceful, wooded setting.
Jacob H.ScoutChippewa Campground — Kankakee River State Park
Good spot!
Did a night of tent camping here to test out some gear for a backpacking trip. Lots for tent camping class C are gravel or paved which isnt the best. You are also only able to reserve a spot 48hrs in advance which can be a bit annoying. Water is potable but orange from rust so I would recommend bringing some type of filter to get rid of the taste and color. Very chill staff from what I saw has a state park police truck that patrols ever now and then.
Guide to Glendale Heights
Camping sites near Glendale Heights, Illinois blend suburban convenience with natural retreats within an hour's drive of the city. The region sits at elevations between 700-800 feet above sea level, creating subtle rolling terrain despite its prairie landscape. Seasonal camping options vary widely with high demand during summer weekends when temperatures range from 70-85°F, making early reservations essential for prime sites.
What to Do
Kayaking opportunities: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers affordable watercraft rentals for paddlers. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes Layla P.
Archery practice: At Blackwell Family Campground, visitors can access complimentary archery facilities. "Canoe rentals and free archery range," mentions Christian V., highlighting the activity options beyond standard camping.
Mountain biking trails: The trail systems near some campgrounds provide excellent riding terrain. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," shares Josh M. about his Camp Bullfrog Lake experience.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate secluded spots despite suburban proximity. "Most are wooded on each side for privacy," writes Jen E. about Blackwell Family Campground. For specific site recommendations, "For privacy, my favorite site is #27 on the north loop road which makes you feel like you are alone in the woods."
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates, especially for county residents. "Camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch to photos for me of me kayaking," reports a reviewer at Camp Bullfrog Lake, who also noted that each site includes "a free bundle of oak firewood."
Accessible urban escapes: Many campers value the convenience of these locations. "We love this place with three kids under 7!" shares Dane S. about Camp Sullivan, adding they "camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences."
What You Should Know
Gate closure policies: Some campgrounds restrict nighttime access. "The gates close for the park an hour after sunset," warns Rich M. about Blackwell Family Campground, which is important for those planning evening outings.
Limited shower facilities: Not all campgrounds offer full bathroom amenities. "The vault toilets are clean but smell like vault toilets at 95 degrees. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers," reports David W. about Paul Wolff Campground.
Site selection considerations: Campsite quality varies significantly within each campground. "For the most part, all of the 30/50 amp sites are very similar. Can't really say one appears to be better than the rest," notes Tim K. at Camp Bullfrog Lake, though he adds there's "NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small."
Tips for Camping with Families
Scout-friendly group sites: Blackwell Family Campground offers dedicated areas for youth organizations. "Each group site has a nice cooking area and open space for tents. We had a group of about 20 kids plus moms and dads, so we grabbed three sites in the same area," recommends John R.
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds often provide special programs for younger visitors. "Fun activities for kids on the weekends. People are nice to you. Plus they have a quiet time at night. So people and kids can go to bed without a bunch of noise," shares Marty S. about Chicago Northwest KOA.
Cabin options for beginners: First-time campers with children might consider cabin accommodations. "There are small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," notes Hatie P. at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Water connections at some sites require extra equipment. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises Rodney D. about Big Rock Campground.
Electricity options: Most campgrounds offer electrical hookups for RVs. "All sites are electric, so if you are tent camping and want your fan or slow-cooker, then it's as good as it gets in the burbs," notes a reviewer about Blackwell Family Campground.
Site leveling requirements: RV sites vary in preparation quality. "The spaces are pretty level. The trees will be terrific in about 20 years," comments Jeff G. about Big Rock Campground, adding that "It's expensive, for what is there, if you are not a Kane County resident."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which campgrounds are closest to Glendale Heights?
Which campgrounds are closest to Glendale Heights?
Blackwell Family Campground is one of the closest options to Glendale Heights, offering a convenient weekend getaway with modern amenities. All sites feature electricity, level grounds, and clean facilities with modern bathrooms. Another nearby option is Paul Wolff Campground near Elgin, providing drive-in access with reservable sites, water, toilets, and accommodation for larger RVs. Both locations offer proximity to Glendale Heights while still providing an outdoor camping experience.
What are the most beautiful camping spots near Glendale Heights?
What are the most beautiful camping spots near Glendale Heights?
For scenic camping near Glendale Heights, Camp Reinberg offers beautiful surroundings with extensive biking and walking trails that lead to unique clearings and bridges. The preserve provides a natural escape despite being close to urban areas. Another picturesque option is Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park, which features nicely private sites surrounded by natural beauty. The park's lake views and wooded areas make it a standout for those seeking beautiful camping environments within driving distance of Glendale Heights.
What types of camping are available near Glendale Heights?
What types of camping are available near Glendale Heights?
The Glendale Heights area offers diverse camping experiences. For primitive camping, Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park provides no-hookup sites with water available at filling stations. RV campers have options like Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859, which caters specifically to RVers with hookup services. For those seeking family-friendly campgrounds with amenities, Camp Bullfrog Lake offers multiple access options (drive-in, hike-in, boat-in) with reservable sites, water, and toilets. The region provides a good mix of both developed and more rustic camping experiences within reasonable driving distance.
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