Top Tent Camping near Gurnee, IL

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Gurnee, look no further. Find the best tent camping sites near Gurnee. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Gurnee campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Gurnee, IL (4)


Recent Tent Reviews In Gurnee

426 Reviews of 4 Gurnee Campgrounds


  • Addison G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    Awesome choice for campers on a budget

    These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There’s some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night. Bathrooms could’ve been cleaner but we were grateful for the facility which doubled as a storm shelter. There’s indoor showers and bathrooms. There are also cabins at this campsite, not sure on pricing tho

  • Brian O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    Fine camping in Northern Illinois

    We stayed in the Turner lake south loop, which has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites. Fox den and Prairie view loops are nice as well with mostly primitive sites. Be aware that the map on www.ExloreMoreIL,com(where you make your reservations) doesn't show where the restrooms are. In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61. Facilities are clean and well lit. Fire pits are slightly raised steel troughs with a heavy adjustable grill. This is a BIG park, the campgrounds are two miles from the front gate, and it's a drive to the main boat launch at Maple Grove, where you have access to the Fox River and Grass lake. This location has a huge parking lot for boat trailers, a very well stocked general store with fishing supplies, a cafe, boat rentals and good firewood. To get away from the crowd if you're a canoeist or kayaker it's nicer to leave the park and go back in at Oak Point picnic area and boat launch at the northern border. This will put you on the Fox river with developments to the north(including a bar& grill) or to the south which is all nature. I think the distance by boat between the two launches is 4-5 miles, but I'm not sure, Halfway there you'll meet up with the Goldfinch trail which is the shortest loop and the most diverse in term of flora. There are horse/ snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground. Chain o' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season. We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October, so I can't tell you how crowded, but the vast number of picnic areas must be there for a reason. An odd thing is that you can hear a Steam Train whistle quite often, this is from Richardson's Adventure Farm in Spring Grove. We don't have kids so we went to Stade's Farm& Orchard(which is also large and kid friendly) because they have an orchard and vegetable market. One last thing, the gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark:)

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Big Foot Beach State Park

    A bit deceptive

    So this place is much less dog friendly than is advertised. Dogs aren’t allowed in large swaths of the park nor on the (tiny tiny, bordered by loud highway) beach. Lake Geneva is very pretty, but the area is obviously very wealthy and obviously geared toward retirees without dogs or with tiny dogs they leave at the RV (to bark, constantly, at their next site neighbors. Until the owners get back.)

  • Jennifer K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Pretty great!

    I somehow booked a different campground- website was confusing apparently. However the worker was so helpful and found me a spot anyway. Sites are kind of small so not a lot of space for big big campers. Cute lake and relatively quiet. Odd though that when I asked questions like where can we fill water and if they had a park map I got looked at like I had 3 heads.

  • Kenny P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Woods Campground
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Thomas Woods Campground

    Great place for secluded camping

    Camped here on a whim. Amazing area. Super friendly hosts. The only thing I wish was a little more accessible is the website. I didn't know what kind of site I was getting, what it looked like, or if it was a hike in site or not. Turns out mine was, but it was not an issue for me on this trip. Site 30 for anyone interested.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Acres Camping Resort
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Holiday Acres Camping Resort

    Beware

    Review: Holiday Acres Campground Our recent stay at Holiday Acres Campground was nothing short of a nightmare. From the moment we arrived, we felt unwelcome and targeted by both the staff and the locals. It's hard to say definitively if this place was racist, but the behavior we experienced certainly felt that way. Firstly, we were harassed and intimidated by the locals. They would drive around our campsite at night, yelling racial slurs and other offensive comments. This created a disturbing and unsettling atmosphere that made our stay extremely uncomfortable. The staff were equally unpleasant. We were falsely accused of peeing in the pool without any evidence, which seemed more like an excuse to target us than a genuine concern. Additionally, one staff member consistently displayed unprofessional and rude behavior. She berated one of us and treated him condescendingly, as if he were a boy rather than an adult. She exhibited this condescending behavior with the locals as well. Requests for assistance were met with eye rolls and obvious reluctance. Her dismissive and offensive attitude was consistent throughout our stay. The final straw came when we were kicked out for calling her a name after she persistently treated us with disrespect. While name-calling isn't appropriate, her behavior towards us was intolerable and unprovoked. The facilities were also abysmal. The bathrooms constantly smelled like fart, possibly due to the high sulfur content in the water, which only added to the overall negative experience. The showers were yellow with orange bits that could be scraped off, and the lack of cleanliness was appalling. The playgrounds looked so poorly maintained that you could get a splinter just from looking at them. To make matters worse, we were falsely accused of stealing by a local camper. Despite promises to review security footage, no evidence was provided, and no apology was offered for the false accusation. The pool area was another disappointment. The pool was cold, likely because it had just been filled. While the pool area itself was nice, it lacked lounging chairs, which would have enhanced comfort and relaxation. Overall, our experience at Holiday Acres Campground was horrific. The combination of harassment from locals, the hostile attitude of the staff, the filthy facilities, and the lack of amenities made for an extremely uncomfortable and distressing stay. I would strongly advise anyone considering this campground to stay far away, especially if you are looking for a welcoming and respectful environment.

  • Erin Z.
    Camper-submitted photo from KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site
    Jul. 22, 2024

    KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site

    Remote backpacking Shelter 1

    Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside. There is a fire pit, but we found our own wood around the site. (Bring a small axe). There is an outhouse, but I wouldn’t recommend using it. There is a picnic table and a bench. It’s very secluded for privacy :) we will definitely be back.

  • Erin Z.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Ottawa Lake Campground

    Great Family Campground!

    Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky. Electricity on site and water near by. Great trails close by.

  • Julia B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    Nice lake

    The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car. The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all rvs. The boat launch to the fox river was nice too but it does get busy.

  • Chris P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Acres Kampground
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Happy Acres Kampground

    Worse place of the trip

    Tried to stay here. Called several times. Left several messages. We were heading that way and decided to stop in and see if they had availability. Pulled in and there was a lady inside the office and it was locked. She gave me an evil look then ignored me. Called twice from the parking lot from inside my rig while staring at the woman. She ignored the call.

  • Danielle D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Northwoods RV Resort
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Northwoods RV Resort

    Great for seasonal camping

    The sites are pretty big. The campground is not congested at all. The people are very nice. Everyone waves to everyone.

    We came here because they showed a water obstacle course on their website. When we got here, we were informed that their beach hasn't passed health tests for the past few years. So no obstacle course or beach area.

    The pool is very clean and the staff helped us pick a better site upon arrival. They also have a very pretty river to fish.

    There is no store. The only thing available is firewood. If you need anything at all, there is a Walmart about ten minutes down the road.

    The site is nice and grassy but there are a ton of bugs; mostly gnats.

    All in all, it's a very clean place with great people. The pool is wonderful. The parks are great. But it's definitely a more lay back and relax kind of place. Not a ton of stuff to do for kids.

  • Michael N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cliffside Park Campground
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Cliffside Park Campground

    Absolutely perfect!

    My husband and I spent 4 days here, midweek. Mostly RV’s, but we used a tent. The sites were clean, grass was trimmed, plenty of trees for shade. The bathhouse, there are 2, was spotless. Showers with hot water. And surprisingly, the toilet paper was not the typical one ply. It was soft and thick. The campground does not have a store, but sells fire wood. There is a sewage dump for RV’s. Racine is a short drive away for any last minute needs. The campground was quiet. Short 1 mile hike to Lake Michigan. We will visit again.

  • Linda N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Blackwell Family Campground

    Great little getaway

    This was our first time camping tryout and we had a blast. It is deep enough in the forest preserve to feel like camping but is not far from our home, which allows for a quick getaway. The campsite was very clean and the staff/ranger nice and knowledgeable. The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos and during our stay, blew gigantic bubbles for the kids to chase around.

    The toilets on the loops are vault and the ones by the main entrance are flush. Didn't use the showers on this trip but both facilities were well maintained and clean. 

    As other reviewers said, since it is in the forest preserve, the gates close an hour after sunset and reopen at sunrise. The ranger did cruise through the sites to make a formal announcement so that visitors could leave. It is also close to a main road and you could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night. We will definitely be revisiting as a quick getaway spot.

  • Addison G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    May. 30, 2024

    Pinewoods Campground

    Great access to Scuppernong Hikes

    Stayed in campsite directly connected to Green Trail of the Scuppernong Trailhead. Campsite was clean and quite private for being near people.

  • Addison G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground
    May. 29, 2024

    Ottawa Lake Campground

    Great spot for hiking Kettle Moraine

    Campsites are kept up and quite clean. Some have a beautiful view of lake. Some water fountains did not work, however sinks were always working. So many little trails all throughout the campsite. Family friendly (parks, beach, pet friendly)

  • Addison G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow - Chain O Lakes State Park
    May. 14, 2024

    Honeysuckle Hollow - Chain O Lakes State Park

    Super cute little campsite

    We stayed in Honeysuckle Hollow for a night. Not many people were there that night, as it thunder stormed. However site was well kept and concession stand available by the boat dock with everything you might need.

  • Susan K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Woods Campground
    May. 12, 2024

    Thomas Woods Campground

    Thomas Woods Campground

    The campground is beautiful wish it was open more than the weekend's. The campground host needs to lighten up and shes out on the gator every 30 minutes, that gets annoying, also since we have also worked as campground hosts you don't run around with the gator giving people rides. It is a shame but we won't camp here again.

    They should check up on the campground host and hire one with a pleasant personality

  • Mehran S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground
    May. 5, 2024

    Ottawa Lake Campground

    Decent Family Campground (5/3/2024)

    It’s a family friendly and decent campground. Sites are not too secluded, but they’re clean and well taken care of, the facilities weren’t clean, they have volunteer hosts on site for any needs, the lake is beautiful during the sunset, sandy area and playground for kids, car noise is noticeable but not too loud (in the inner camp sites). Few trails around for hiking. They charge an extra $11 for each car’s entry at the gate but you can use the car pass for visiting all the state park’s trails around the area (you need permit for parking at the trailheads). It’s good for family with kids or beginner campers, but not if you’re looking for a relaxing or adventurous time.

  • Katie A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Nov. 29, 2023

    Camp Reinberg

    Great little camp ground!

    Loved everything about this place. The staff is so helpful, well maintained, nice trail system. We tent camped on site #1 and would definitely book that spot again. We also came back last weekend and stayed in one of the large cabins- game changer in the winter! It’s a perfect spot for a weekend away from Chicago, will definitely be back.

  • jennifer Z.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park
    Oct. 22, 2023

    Big Foot Beach State Park

    Surprising secret camp ground

    We love private campsites, far enough away from other campers, yet close enough to amenities. We chose a walk in site #16 which was nice but I wish we chose one a bit further in. Bathrooms where very clean. Trails are great. Pet friendly - we brought our small, quiet dogs. Dog friendly restaurant right next to the camp site.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Waukesha County Muskego Park
    Sep. 27, 2023

    Waukesha County Muskego Park

    Perfect weekend getaway!

    Our first time camping and we had a blast. Convenient locations. Great hiking trails. Beach was really nice and sandy. Slots were easy to pull in/out of

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Aug. 19, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Nice tent/bike camping

    Rode my bicycle for an overnight test run. I stayed in the primitive tent area. There are 5 wooded and 5 prairie sites. There is water and vault toilets by the tent area and flush toilets a 3 minute walk into the RV area.

    As noted in other reviews, I heard 3 trains between 10 pm and 6 am. Otherwise no other excessive noise issues. Tent area was very quiet.

    Staff was also very pleasant and helpful.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Illinois Beach State Park
    Aug. 17, 2023

    Illinois Beach State Park

    Big campground, old infrastructure

    The campground itself was very nice with good size sites and lots of room. There are shaded or open sites nice trees, a store at the beach side of the campground.

    The bathrooms were old and wet. The dump station was closed.

  • Jen S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Country View Campground
    Aug. 8, 2023

    Country View Campground

    Serene

    We booked this stay last minute because we were visiting some family in Milwaukee and there was nothing closer to the city. We ended up extending our stay by a day and they were so accommodating. The pool was beautiful and kids didn’t surround it until about 1-2 pm so it was nice to have some quiet adults only time by it in the morning. There are goats next door too that are super cute.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Illinois Beach State Park
    Aug. 4, 2023

    Illinois Beach State Park

    Lovely campground for a tent.

    We stayed right by the showers which happened to be right by the beach as well! Staff were very friendly and helpful. Would stay again!



Guide to Gurnee

Camping near Gurnee, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the many trails available in the area. One camper mentioned, "There are plenty of scenic photo opportunities especially during the fall season," at Rock Cut State Park Campground.
  • Fishing and Boating: Enjoy fishing or boating at Pierce Lake, which is a highlight for many visitors. A reviewer noted, "The biggest problem you are likely to encounter here is exactly which of the 7 campgrounds to stay at."
  • Swimming: Some campgrounds, like Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park, offer swimming areas. One visitor shared, "Staff were very friendly and helpful. Would stay again!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Camp Bullfrog Lake stated, "The restroom and showrooms are very clean as well."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds provide ample space between sites. A camper at Blackwell Family Campground said, "Many spots here have a good amount of spacing and privacy which is great."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Ottawa Lake Campground are noted for being great for families. One reviewer mentioned, "Great trails close by."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, such as Rock Cut State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A visitor expressed frustration, saying, "Will never stay here again" due to various issues.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores or markets nearby. A camper at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park noted, "The dump station was closed."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. One camper at Kettle Moraine State Forest mentioned, "You’ve hit the wild animal jackpot with easy viewing of white-tailed deer."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. A parent at Blackwell Family Campground said, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."
  • Plan for Clean Facilities: Make sure to check reviews about cleanliness. A camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept."
  • Bring Outdoor Games: Having games can keep kids entertained. A family at Ottawa Lake Campground enjoyed the "sandy area and playground for kids."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Ensure your site has the right electrical hookups. A reviewer at Kettle Moraine State Forest noted, "Some water fountains did not work, however sinks were always working."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be close together. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground just added new gravel to the sites."
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads. A visitor at Blackwell Family Campground said, "You could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night."

Camping around Gurnee, Illinois, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gurnee, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gurnee, IL is Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Gurnee, IL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 tent camping locations near Gurnee, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.