Camp Bullfrog Lake offers glamping accommodations and cabins of varying sizes near Hickory Hills, Illinois, with sites situated 20-30 minutes from western Chicago suburbs. Sites feature electricity and bunk beds, with some cabins including heating and private bathrooms. Campground fees range from $33-$122 for two nights depending on amenity level and reservation timing, with most sites requiring advance booking. Winter water may be unavailable, requiring campers to bring their own drinking water.
What to do
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Extensive trail networks at Camp Bullfrog Lake provide immediate access to diverse wildlife habitats. "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," reports one visitor who stayed during mid-April.
Mountain biking: Single-track trails rank among the best in the region for mountain biking enthusiasts. Sites at Camp Sullivan provide convenient access to these trails. According to one family: "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites."
Water activities: Seasonal kayak rentals cost $15 per hour including life vests at select locations. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes one camper who visited during summer months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Michigan City Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Bath house was clean and well stocked," reports one visitor. Another notes that "bathrooms were warm and clean" despite winter camping conditions.
Convenient beach access: Proximity to Lake Michigan attracts many campers. At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, campers appreciate "nice hike to the beach. 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."
Security features: Gated entrance systems provide added safety at some locations. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," states one reviewer. The secure entrance and key card access systems are particularly appealing to families with children.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects several campgrounds near Hickory Hills. At Dunewood Campground, campers report: "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. Great shading from trees and very green!"
Site spacing varies significantly: While some campgrounds offer spacious sites with privacy, others place campers in close proximity. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," reports one reviewer about sites closer to urban areas.
Early morning noise: Seasonal campers sometimes begin maintenance activities early. "The only problem with seasonal guests is that they like to use a gas powered pressure washer bright and early in the morning," notes one visitor describing their experience at popular locations.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Chicago Northwest KOA offers structured programming for children. "Did a quick stay with the kids for a Friday and Saturday night. 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."
Playground proximity: When booking, request sites near playgrounds to allow independent play while maintaining supervision distance. "Our site was right between the playground and beach trailhead, but still private," notes one parent.
Seasonal events: Halloween camping weekends feature extensive decorations and activities. "This is an activity packed weekend which is amazing. Good for kids of all ages including the adults. All the campers do amazing decorations for the weekend and trick or treating here the kids get more candy then they ever could at home."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Premium pull-through sites at Michigan City Campground offer 90-foot pads with 50A service and superior amenities. "We were in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids."
Off-peak advantages: Camping during shoulder seasons provides a less crowded experience. "We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars."
Hookup limitations: Prepare for partial hookups at several locations. "Only offered electric service. Beach access is close by," explains one RVer who visited Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. Water tank preparation is essential for parks without water hookups, with one camper advising: "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us - we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves."
