The Hainesville area sits within Lake County, Illinois, with an average elevation of 760 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while winters drop to 15-35°F with occasional lake effect snow. Campers can access several water bodies in the area, including the Chain O' Lakes system that provides both recreation and distinctive camping environments.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers multiple lakes and the Fox River for anglers. "There are numerous sites that are on a small lake with great sunset views. Lots of wooded trails within the campground. Perfect if you have a boat and want access to the Chain of Lakes," notes Jori W.
Antique shopping: Visit local towns while staying at Chicago Northwest KOA. "If you like antiques or fun local places, head to The Milk House in Pingree and hit up the antique shops on your way. The one with all the junk is great if you like to dig but a bit overpriced," suggests Stefanie B.
Swimming options: During warmer months, several campgrounds maintain swimming areas. At Northwoods RV Resort, "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," according to Danielle D.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sycamore RV Resort maintains high standards for amenities. "Campground is very well maintained with gravel pads. Nice lake for fishing and a beach area for the kids to go swimming. Bathrooms are immaculate and are locked with electronic key cards," reports Marc W.
Natural settings: Many parks preserve natural areas despite their proximity to Chicago. At Wisconsin State Fair RV Park, campers appreciate the balance of urban access and green space. "1.7 miles on bike path to Brewer Baseball field. It was raining to we used Uber to the game and walked back for an afternoon game," shares Jeff and Linda L.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several rv parks near Hainesville feature dedicated play areas. "Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground," notes Dan B. about Chicago Northwest KOA.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding some campgrounds requires careful attention. At Northwoods RV Resort, "This place isn't EZ to find – for some reason, if you plug the campground into your GPS, you'll literally be on the wrong side of the tracks," warns Stuart K.
Varying site privacy: Site layout differs significantly across camping options near Hainesville. "Open camp ground in town. Fun for the kids. Designed mostly for campers," Tyler S. says about Sycamore RV Resort.
Seasonal availability: Weather conditions impact operating schedules. Thousand Trails Pine Country operates from April through mid-October according to their season information, with campers noting it's a reliable bookend to the camping season: "It is close to home and we start and finish the camping season here," shares Charles Q.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Plan your day around programmed events at family-friendly RV facilities. "A little bit smaller of a campground with regards to site space, but that's about the only thing 'bad' to say, and it's not really a bad thing at all. Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean," reports Dan B. about Chicago Northwest KOA.
Beach access considerations: Verify current conditions before promising swimming. At Northwoods RV Resort, "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," cautions Danielle D.
Supply planning: Most Hainesville area rv parks have limited on-site stores. "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," notes Danielle D. about Northwoods RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Utility quality: NAVSTA Great Lakes RV Campground provides varied hookup experiences. "Water was very. None of the sites had sewage, the dump station was about a mile down the road. They have a few 50 amp lots. We did not have one," reports Carmen F.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific needs rather than availability. "We were on the main road and there was lots of traffic going back and forth which was surprising since there wasn't a lot of campers," notes Rose F. about Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort.
Seasonal camper dynamics: Longer-term campers create a distinct atmosphere at some parks. "My wife and I have always wanted to buy an RV, but finally took the plunge this year since COVID-19 shut just about everything else down. We decided to keep it here on the recommendation of a friend who also stays here. The most impressive aspect in our opinion are the people. It is the nicest group of people I've ever been around," shares Semaj C. about Northwoods RV Resort.
