Camping opportunities near Hickory Hills, Illinois include several established campgrounds within an hour's drive. The area features flat terrain with mixed prairie and wooded areas, with elevations ranging between 600-700 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons often bring periodic rainfall that can affect trail conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Kankakee River State Park, visitors can access multiple trail systems ranging from paved paths to natural terrain. "We loved riding our bikes along the river and just being away from the hustle and bustle," notes Jacqueline F., who appreciated the solitude of the park's riverside paths.
Fishing spots: The Kankakee River provides fishing opportunities, though swimming is prohibited due to strong currents. One camper mentions, "The river was nice to visit and we were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)."
Wildlife viewing: Burnidge Forest Preserve offers diverse habitats supporting local wildlife. According to Tricia E., "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to believe that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area just outside Elgin, IL."
Educational activities: Visit the nature center at Kankakee River State Park for interactive wildlife encounters. Linda N. shares, "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!"
What campers like
Privacy levels: Paul Wolff Campground offers primitive sites with varying degrees of seclusion. "The primitive camp sites were beautiful. Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables," notes Tricia E.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good standards for bathrooms and shower facilities. At Kankakee River State Park, one camper reports, "Bathrooms including vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort caters to families with children. Leo V. mentions, "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water."
Equestrian opportunities: Though less common, equestrian camping options exist in the region beyond just Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground. Horse riders appreciate the dedicated facilities and trail connections available at several locations.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: At some campgrounds, water access can be problematic. At Leisure Lake Resort, one camper reported, "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day."
Reservation policies: Many campgrounds have specific reservation systems or walk-in policies. At Big Rock Campground, Amanda K. notes, "Walkup only - no reservations taken. $35 a night is a bit steep."
Shade availability: Several campgrounds lack mature trees. According to Joel R., "This is a relatively new campground not too far (about an hour drive) from Chicago. But, no shade in the Illinois heat and no shower made it unacceptable."
Alcohol restrictions: Some parks prohibit alcohol consumption. David W. at Paul Wolff Campground noted, "We would gladly stay here again! And I even grew to like the no alcohol in the preserve rule."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Big Rock Campground provides open space for children to play. However, one camper warns about heat exposure: "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had."
Site selection matters: At Kankakee River State Park, choose carefully between sites. Shannon H. advises, "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. Two were very small (14&15), and little grass for tent setup, fine for RV or trailer campers. 16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade."
Summer heat considerations: Many campgrounds offer limited shade. Consider shoulder season visits or prepare for hot weather if camping during summer months, especially at newer campgrounds like Big Rock where "the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade."
Water recreation options: Fish Lake Beach provides lake access suitable for children. Chloe N. reports, "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Big Rock Forest Preserve, water connections may require planning. Amanda K. warns, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!"
Site leveling: Many RV sites are designed for easy setup. At Big Rock, Jeff G. notes, "The spaces are pretty level. There is electric at the sites and water spigots throughout, although not really at each space."
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. Marisa A. from Paul Wolff Campground observed, "I wish there was more distance between sites in the water/electrical loops for more privacy, but I'd go every weekend if I lived in Kane county because it would be worth the resident price even tho there are so many RVs."
Generator regulations: Policies vary by campground. Some parks like Paul Wolff Campground offer electrical hookups, which according to one camper means "it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise."
Ranger
