Camping sites near Hickory Hills, Illinois offer access to a mix of forested areas and prairie landscapes typical of northeastern Illinois, with an average elevation of 610 feet. Summer temperatures average 83°F while winter drops to 17°F, requiring appropriate seasonal preparation. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April to October, with limited winter camping opportunities.
What to do
Kayaking on lakes: Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs provides kayak rentals at $15 per hour with life vests included. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes one visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Mountain biking on trails: The Palos trail system offers extensive mountain biking opportunities for riders of all skill levels. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," according to a rider who stayed at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Hiking challenge: The 3 Dune Challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park offers a moderately difficult hiking experience. "If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," shares one camper who completed the hike.
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: Many campgrounds serve as convenient getaways for city residents. "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," mentions one camper about Blackwell Family Campground.
Clean facilities: Washroom cleanliness varies between locations but receives positive comments at several campgrounds. "Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked," notes a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake, while another says about Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!"
Lake Michigan beach access: Campers appreciate the lakefront options available within driving distance. "Beautiful little lake. Bathrooms were warm and clean. There's also a little store on site that was open until 10:00 PM," shares a visitor about the amenities at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise throughout the night. At Dunewood Campground, "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. Great shading from trees and very green!"
Limited shade: Many newer campgrounds lack mature trees. "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small," reports a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Camping restrictions: Some locations limit tent camping. At Martin's Camping Ground, "If you like having access to a bathroom and shower its great and because no one really had a tent here but us we had some privacy. But only down side beside that they have a three day limit for campers with tents. Very disappointed with that And its three days a month."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-oriented sites typically offer play areas near camping loops. "Our site was right between the playground and beach trailhead, but still private," mentions a visitor to Indiana Dunes State Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized programs. "The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch of photos for me of me kayaking," reports a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Family cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, Camp Sullivan offers cabin accommodations. "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). Highly recommend," states a family that regularly visits with young children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: While electric is common, full hookups are rare. At Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park, "We love camping here. It truly feels rural. Small shower house but water pressure is amazing. It's always quiet and the view is beautiful."
Seasonal water restrictions: Some campgrounds turn off water during colder months. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, a visitor notes, "No water before 4/15," indicating seasonal water limitations.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and size. "Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet. Beautiful little lake. Bathrooms were warm and clean," reports a camper about their experience at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
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