The camping opportunities near Glenwood, Illinois offer a range of options for outdoor recreation within an hour's drive of Chicago. Located in the flat Midwestern terrain at approximately 620 feet above sea level, this area experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters with moderate precipitation throughout the year. Camping facilities range from basic tent sites to premium cabins with seasonal availability typically strongest from April through October.
What to do
Lake activities: 5 miles from Camp Bullfrog Lake: The small lake offers affordable kayak rentals for paddling. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," reports Layla P.
Mountain biking: Direct trail access from campsites: Camp Bullfrog Lake connects to extensive trail networks. "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," notes Josh M. The single-track trails accommodate various skill levels with connecting loops.
Lake Michigan swimming: 5-10 miles from campgrounds: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground provides beach access with lifeguards during summer hours. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," mentions Kaley A.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses at Dunewood Campground receive positive reviews. "The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers," notes Veronica S. Shower facilities at most sites maintain regular cleaning schedules with varying levels of amenities.
Three Dune Challenge: Hiking trail at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers moderate difficulty climbing. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," shares Greg S.
Quiet wooded sites: Some campgrounds provide secluded options for glamping in Glenwood, Illinois area. "The campsite was large and beautiful," according to Veronica S. from Dunewood. Lawrence B. adds about Camp Bullfrog Lake, "Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet. Beautiful little lake."
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds report railroad disturbances. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," warns Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. Bring earplugs if staying in tent accommodations.
Site spacing varies significantly: Camp Sullivan receives mixed reviews about site proximity. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," reports Lisa S., while Camp Bullfrog Lake has "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad," according to Tim K.
Seasonal weather considerations: The Glenwood area experiences temperature fluctuations. "We stayed in a fall night, after the sun had set and we were thrilled to wake up to such an amazing display of Northern Indiana fall foliage," notes Robert B. about Michigan City Campground. Summer visitors should prepare for humidity and potential mosquitoes.
Tips for camping with families
Secure facilities: Some campgrounds offer gated access for additional safety. "Love the secure entrance and key card access," mentions Beth B. about Michigan City Campground. This provides peace of mind for families with children.
Playground access: Sites near play areas allow parents to monitor children while setting up camp. "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," shares Sadie H. about Oak Lake RV Resort.
Opt for cabins during temperature extremes: Cabin glamping near Glenwood, Illinois provides more comfortable sleeping for children. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)," reports Dane S. about Camp Sullivan.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only sites common: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups without water at individual sites. "No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views," notes Kaitlin M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Arrive with full freshwater tanks when glamping near Glenwood, Illinois.
Premium pull-through availability: For larger rigs, specialized sites exist at select locations. "We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull thought with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite," reviews Craig C. about Michigan City Campground. Reservations recommended for these limited spaces.
Early booking essential: The proximity to Chicago creates high demand for luxury glamping sites. "We made a reservation for the wrong campground and meant to book this one and the staff helped me switch my reservation and make a new one," says Kaitlin M., highlighting both the booking demand and helpful staff at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
