Located approximately 30 miles northwest of Chicago, Hanover Park offers camping options within a landscape of rolling hills and woodland preserves. The area maintains a humid continental climate with warm summers reaching 85°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Camping season typically runs April through October, with limited winter availability at select sites.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: Chain O' Lakes State Park provides extensive hiking trails surrounding the camping areas with varying difficulty levels. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," notes a visitor at Thomas Woods Campground. The trails offer a mix of terrain from wooded areas to prairie sections.
Water recreation opportunities: Kayaking and canoeing are popular at Turner Lake South where campers can explore multiple connected waterways. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," explains one camper.
Mountain biking trails: Several parks offer dedicated mountain biking trails that connect directly to camping areas. A reviewer at Camp Bullfrog Lake states, "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." Trails vary from beginner to intermediate difficulty, with single-track options available.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Non-electric tent sites provide affordable camping near Hanover Park. At Turner Lake South, campers appreciate the value: "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."
Convenient location: Many campers value the proximity to urban areas while still feeling removed from city life. "We really like this place and was about a 30 minute ride from our place in the western burbs. Some of the areas best mountain bike single track is right here," notes a reviewer at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Clean facilities: Chicago Northwest KOA receives praise for its well-maintained restrooms and showers. "Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. 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," states a recent camper.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water access varies throughout camping season. At several campgrounds, water systems aren't activated until late spring. A camper at Fox Den Campground advises, "The water is not yet potable so bring your own or check with the park team to ensure it's drinkable when you go."
Site privacy varies: Campsites range from secluded to open depending on the specific campground and loop. "Most of the sites on this loop are pretty worn, with not much privacy. We stayed in T10, but would consider T9 if we returned to this loop for a different reserved site," reports a Turner Lake South visitor.
Insects and wildlife: Ticks and mosquitoes are common, particularly in early summer. "I really enjoyed my stay here it's small but it's great they're pool and activities for families very quiet at night everyone and the staff were friendly," mentions a camper at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. "The campground is beautiful wish it was open more than the weekends. The hiking trails are beautiful and of course the Lake is wonderful," reports a visitor to Thomas Woods Campground.
Safety considerations: Campsites vary in terrain and may require additional supervision for young children. One Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort camper notes, "We stayed in one of the tent sites across the road from the lakefront sites. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Many sites offer nature programs or self-guided wildlife viewing. "We kayaked in the lake and it's small but nice. Great for kids lots of activities and space to play But very quiet and relaxing by nighttime," says a Fish Lake Beach camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites often fill quickly, especially at state parks. Fox Den Campground offers individual electric posts, which campers prefer: "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post. Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional leveling equipment. "Spaces are not consistent, some very large and shaded and some smaller and crowded. Short trails in the park to hike," mentions a reviewer at Big Foot Beach State Park.
Off-season advantages: Visiting glamping sites near Hanover Park, Illinois during shoulder seasons offers better availability and quieter experiences. Chicago Northwest KOA remains less crowded in early spring and fall: "Far enough from the city lights, close enough to civilization. Cozy, small park with friendly staff and plenty of amenities."
