Tent camping options near Hickory Hills, Illinois concentrate within a 30-mile radius in Will and Cook counties. The area sits within the Des Plaines River watershed, providing campers access to both woodland and riparian environments despite proximity to Chicago suburbs. The camping season typically runs April through October with some sites closing during winter months due to freezing conditions.
What to do
Paddling access points: At Kayak Morris, campsites sit directly along the Illinois River shoreline. "We loved this campsite! We stayed when there were not many people there so we had plenty of space but could see it getting crowded when it's full. We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite," notes Amanda W., who appreciated the convenient water access.
Fishing opportunities: Mac Finn's Landing provides prime fishing spots along the Kankakee River. "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River imo! Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers," writes Raven Rock S., highlighting multiple river access points for anglers.
Trail connectivity: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail creates a corridor connecting multiple tent camping areas. "McKinley Woods offers me a lot of nostalgia since I grew up in the area. The main draw to this place is the tow path. I high recommend bringing a bike to enjoy the trail," explains Scott N., noting the trail connects to the larger Grand Illinois Trail network.
What campers like
River access: Campers consistently mention river access as a key feature at Kayak Morris. One visitor reports, "Small and hidden right on the Illinois River. Received a free night of camping with a whole day of kayaking which is absolutely recommended. Not much to do here except camp and kayak but I will be going back."
Fishing success: The river convergence at certain sites creates productive fishing conditions. Sam Murphy M. notes at Kayak Morris: "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!"
Site spacing: The layout at McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove provides adequate separation between sites. Brian O. reports, "The park is lovely, the sites are far apart," while noting specific site characteristics including shade coverage and terrain features across the four available spots.
What you should know
Gate closure timing: Camp Shabbona Woods implements strict access policies. According to Jeffrey L., "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite."
Seasonal flooding: Some sites experience water issues during heavy rains. Rita S. describes her experience at McKinley Woods: "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up the the fire pit."
Limited amenities: Most tent sites near Hickory Hills feature minimal facilities. Regarding Channahon State Park Campground, Art S. mentions, "There are vault toilets and a picnic area too. It should also be noted that you need to walk in to the campsites (parking is really close by)."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly setup: Camp Shabbona Woods provides an accessible entry point for new campers. Scott M. notes, "camp suite is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping. The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing. Caretakers were very helpful."
Water activities: Multiple sites offer water recreation for children. Art P. describes Kayak Morris: "I have my own kayak and the river here is so calm its awesome. My friends rented the dual kayaks ant they loved them. Great location great cover on hot days."
ADA accessibility: Some sites accommodate mobility needs. Brian O. notes at McKinley Woods: "Two of the four sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility. All sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs."
Tips from RVers
Walk-in requirements: Most tent camping sites near Hickory Hills require gear to be carried in. At Central Avenue Walk-in Sites within Indiana Dunes National Park, Don W. advises, "Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail. You have to walk all the way down and take a left before you find sites 5, 4, 3, and 2 in that order."
Privacy considerations: Walk-in requirements often translate to better separation from neighboring campers. Don W. also notes about Central Avenue Walk-in Sites: "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long."
Urban noise factors: Proximity to Chicago suburbs means some campgrounds experience noise pollution. Jeffrey L. describes Camp Shabbona Woods: "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background." This reflects the reality of tent camping in this metropolitan region.
