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Abdulrahman A.
Scout
ScoutBig Rock Campground
Beautiful And Quite
Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply
Camping near Highland Park, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Highland Park, Illinois range from state parks to county-operated facilities, with most sites located within a 30-mile radius of the city. Illinois Beach State Park in Zion offers tent and RV camping with lake access, while the Chain O' Lakes State Park system provides multiple camping areas including Fox Den, Turner Lake South, and Prairie View. Camp Reinberg in Palatine stands out as a well-maintained county facility with tent, RV, and cabin options. Most campgrounds in the area feature electric hookups, drinking water, and fire rings, with several offering full amenities including showers and dump stations. The Highland Park area's top-rated camping locations provide convenient access to both natural landscapes and urban amenities.
Reservations are essential during the peak camping season from May through October, as most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally and fill quickly, especially on summer weekends. The Chicago metropolitan area's high population density means campgrounds within an hour's drive of Highland Park experience significant demand. Winter camping options are limited, with most facilities closing by late October. Many campgrounds in the area are situated within forest preserves or near lakes, providing recreational opportunities beyond camping. A visitor noted, "Camp Reinberg is a very well maintained campground with all the amenities you could need: a small camping store, communal kitchen, firepits, and clean bathrooms."
Campers consistently mention the convenient proximity to Chicago as a major advantage of these locations. Sites at Illinois Beach State Park offer views of Lake Michigan but provide minimal privacy between campsites. Chain O' Lakes State Park receives positive reviews for its multiple camping loops with varying levels of privacy and amenities. According to reviews, "Turner lake south loop has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites." The county-operated Camp Reinberg stands out for its cleanliness and maintenance, with paved cycling and walking trails connecting to the surrounding Deer Park preserve. Most campgrounds in the region balance natural settings with accessibility to urban conveniences, making them popular for weekend getaways for Chicago-area residents seeking outdoor experiences without long-distance travel.
Best Campgrounds near Highland Park (49)
1. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."
"We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"
from $25 / night
Check Availability2. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability3. NAVSTA Great Lakes RV Campground
4. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
"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."
"We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago."
from $43 - $73 / night
Check Availability5. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability6. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"
"Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"
7. Blackwell Family Campground
"Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home."
"I always loved going to the parks in Illinois with my grandparents when I was little. They love hiking and nature and definitely got me interested in it also. I love them and miss them everyday."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability8. Camp Bullfrog Lake
"Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life. Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."
"What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."
from $20 - $138 / night
Check Availability9. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"We can both drive to work and then come back to relax. Close to some great places for antiquing if you don't want to hike the trails or fish."
"It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "
10. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."
"You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly. But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"
Drive Time
- 31 min from Chicago, IL
- 35 min from Kenosha, WI
- 47 min from Racine, WI
- 1 hr 22 min from Michigan City, IN
Recent Camping Photos near Highland Park, IL
149 Photos of 49 Highland Park Campgrounds
Naomi M.
Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
Glenn T.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Katherine T.
The Vaudeville
Aida K.
Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Janet P.
Mud Lake West — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Heather L.
Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Brian O.
Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Scott B.
Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Marc W.
Blackwell Family Campground
Amanda K.
Happy Acres Kampground
Recent Reviews near Highland Park, IL
454 Reviews of 49 Highland Park Campgrounds
- HHolly B.
GuideChicago Northwest KOA
A bit of a drive
It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
- MManny A.
TravelerBig Foot Beach State Park Campground
Simple and local
First time RV’ing with my wife and we were able to navigate pretty easily in our rented 30’. Arrived on a Monday, and as posted, there was no one so we checked in online(they sent an email to check in). Simple camp site with tons of space(almost double our RV), a long wood picnic table and a fire pit. Everything was great until we left. Dumping was straight forward, but the person in front of me was taking a little while to dump. They had came up to my RV and let me know the dump tank was backing up, which I had also experienced when I tried dumping. I called to ask for assistance on Thursday and they said they would send a ranger out. 45 minutes of waiting and a couple other RV’s after us and we ended up giving up and going to another site closer to home to dump. Great experience otherwise.
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendThousand Trails Pine Country
Shaded, Family-Friendly Country Retreat
There’s something instantly calming about rolling into a campground wrapped in tall pines and soft breezes, and Pine Country had that peaceful, easy feeling that made all of us exhale before we even found our site. This campground is expansive and welcoming, with full-hookup spots laid out across wide loops, plenty of shade, clean bathrooms and a friendly mix of families settling in for weekends or longer stays. Our boys loved wandering between the fishing pond and the small recreation areas and we ended the evening sharing freshly baked chocolate chip cookies that we made over an open fire on a Camp Chef black skillet munching them down at the picnic table while listening to the trees rustle above us. For families looking for a convenient home base near Rockford with lots of room to spread out, EZ access to town for supplies and a campground that really does feel safe and relaxed, Pine Country is an EZ pick. Highly recommended for young families seeking space, shade and a low-key, gentle setting to recharge.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Sycamore RV Resort
Peaceful Lakeside Pause in the Heart of Corn Country
There’s something so comforting about pulling into Sycamore RV Resort and seeing the sunlight dance across those two spring-fed lakes, giving you that immediate exhale that only a calm Midwestern campground can bring. The property is medium-sized, incredibly tidy and thoughtfully laid out, with full-hookup RV sites circling the water, a small sandy beach for summer splashing, clean restrooms and showers, simple playgrounds and EZ walking loops that make it feel both manageable and welcoming for families. The boys were in heaven the next morning when we drove over to Elleson’s Bakery for fresh homemade donuts still warm from the oven. Later we wandered through historic downtown Sycamore during Pumpkinfest, taking in the decorated storefronts and carved pumpkins lined up like a little parade. Back at the RV Resort, from what we saw, the best campsites are any of the lakeside slots on the western shore because they offer the prettiest sunrise views and the quietest pockets of the resort. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its peaceful lakeside setting, its clean and convenient amenities and its proximity to a charming small provincial Midwestern town that makes even a simple weekend feel memorable.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Holiday Acres Camping Resort
Country Calm with a Dash of Classic Campground Fun
The moment we pulled into Holiday Acres, that cozy ‘old-school campground’ feeling washed over us, with tall trees, winding lanes and a big, friendly welcome from the office that instantly made the boys sit up and take notice. The campground is beautifully laid out with roomy sites, full hookups, a well-kept swimming pond, mini golf, a little camp store and restrooms that were impressively clean for a busy family spot. After a long drive, the boys made a beeline for the playground and the pedal carts, and later that night we all sat under the string lights eating ice cream sandwiches from the camp store while fireflies blinked and buzzed through the trees. If you’re a family looking for somewhere safe, shaded and EZ-going with just enough activities to keep the kids happily worn out, this place absolutely fits the bill. Highly recommended for its friendly atmosphere, great kid-focused amenities and peaceful, wooded setting.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Camp Reinberg
A Forest Preserve Escape for the Whole Family
From the moment we pulled into Camp Reinberg, our entire family felt something was unique and different about the peacefulness that you immediately encounter when arriving here to Camp Reinberg – it was the kind of quiet that settles over you long before the bags are unpacked, which felt remarkable considering how close this little retreat sits to suburban Palatine. This Forest Preserve of Cook County campground is modest in size with a mix of tent pads, a very small circuit of RV-friendly sites and several modern cabins that give it the feeling of a thoughtfully managed woodland outpost rather than a crowded complex. Amenities are simple but well-cared-for, including clean restrooms, hot showers, shaded picnic areas, a proper indoor camping kitchen and dining hall as well as a large open field for play complete with an enormous bonfire pit and BBQ grill area with direct access to the miles of hiking paths that wind through Deer Grove Forest Preserve. Our favorite moment came just before sunset when the boys darted between the oaks spotting chipmunks while we lingered at the picnic table with a thermos of hot cocoa, savoring the calm and popping in extra marshmallows for full effect. For families, this campground is genuinely recommended thanks to its safety, gentle trails and close-to-town convenience with the best site choice being either one of the tent pads along the wooded northeastern edge (sites#6-10) or the northernmost corner of the RV loop if you’re looking for a spot for your rig (#2-4), where the privacy and tree cover make the stay feel much more like a deep-forest escape.
Denise B.TravelerSanders Park Campground
Sanders park
Love this quaint smaller campground, close to home although you feel like you're way up north! Clean restrooms showers! Walking trails with preservation.
- Denise B.Traveler
Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area
Happy Akers
Very enjoyable campground.
I don't remember the site number but the kids had a great time. Lots of things to do.
Guide to Highland Park
Camping sites near Highland Park, Illinois offer several primitive camping options alongside the established facilities. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers averaging 80°F and cold winters that can dip below freezing. Spring and fall camping provides moderate temperatures between 50-70°F, with spring often bringing frequent rainfall that can affect site conditions at locations like Turner Lake South, where visitors note the "bottom of the lake is very mushy."
What to do
Kayaking the waterways: Chain O' Lakes State Park provides extensive water access across its connected lakes system. At Turner Lake South, campers can enjoy paddling with wildlife viewing opportunities. "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," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The trail systems near Camp Bullfrog Lake offer extensive single-track options for cyclists. "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. We saw several vehicles carrying top of the line bikes in and out all day," reports a camper who visited in July.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots exist across the various lakes and waterways. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort provides accessible bank fishing directly from lakefront campsites. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there," writes a visitor who enjoyed the shoreline access.
What campers like
Privacy levels between camping loops: Different campground areas offer varying experiences. At Fox Den Campground, campers appreciate the site layout. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers (our site was protected on 3 sides by some fairly dens foliage and trees)."
Proximity to Chicago with natural settings: Despite being close to urban areas, sites maintain natural environments. "This campground is very well maintained with all the amenities you could need: a small camping store, communal kitchen, firepits, and clean bathrooms. Located in the Norwest suburb of Palatine, this campground is super accessible from Chicago and a fun getaway for suburban camping," notes a camper at Camp Reinberg.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural areas support diverse wildlife. "We 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," writes a visitor to Paul Wolff Campground, highlighting the unexpected natural encounters.
What you should know
Insects can be problematic: Ticks and mosquitoes are commonly reported issues. At Illinois Beach State Park, visitors note: "Beautiful views and amazing sunrises but it is quite littered with trash and broken glass. Very busy in the summer and can get wild with people partying." Another camper warns about "flies and mosquitos are wild."
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds have restricted operating seasons. "This campground is open May 1 to October 31," notes Paul Wolff Campground's official information, while Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort operates from "May 1 to October 15."
Raccoon activity at night: Wildlife management requires proper food storage. At Turner Lake South, a camper advises: "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. So basically, eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds available: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers several play areas for children. "Multiple playgrounds, access to launch sites for kayaks, little store to buy ice cream or snacks," reports a visitor to Turner Lake South, making it convenient for families with children of different ages.
Budget-friendly primitive sites: Non-electric sites provide affordable options. "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," notes a visitor at Turner Lake South.
Seasonal activities for children: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers structured activities throughout camping season. "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. Clean bathrooms and shower," reports a visitor who appreciated the child-friendly atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup variations: Sites differ in electrical service arrangements. At Blackwell Family Campground, "All sites are electric, so if you are tent camping and want your fan or slow-cooker, then it's as good as it gets in the burbs," notes a visitor who appreciated the universal electric access.
Water fill procedures: Some campgrounds have unique water access systems. At Camp Reinberg, a visitor explains, "The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience for you and them. But they do it with a good attitude."
Pad variations between sites: RV site surfaces vary significantly. Paul Wolff Campground offers "a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees," while at NAVSTA Great Lakes RV Campground, a visitor cautions: "It was a small RV park had a concert pad but not big enough for a 43 ft motor home. The site was 60 ft, but the whole site was not concrete."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities and facilities are available at Highland Park camping area?
What amenities and facilities are available at Highland Park camping area?
While Highland Park itself doesn't have dedicated camping facilities, nearby camping options provide various amenities. Blackwell Family Campground offers electric hookups at all sites, level and clean camping spots, modern bathrooms, and reasonably priced firewood. They even provide discounted rates for DuPage county residents. At Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park, you'll find more primitive camping with no electric hookups, though water fill-up stations are within walking distance. Most camping areas near Highland Park feature basic amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails.
Where is Highland Park campground located and how do I get there?
Where is Highland Park campground located and how do I get there?
Highland Park is located in northeastern Illinois, approximately 25 miles north of downtown Chicago. While Highland Park itself isn't a dedicated campground, nearby Camp Reinberg offers camping options within the Chicago suburbs. To access Highland Park, take US-41 (Skokie Highway) or I-94 if coming from Chicago. For camping near Highland Park, Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park is accessible by heading north along Lake Michigan. Note that when visiting Illinois Beach State Park, navigate to the south entrance where the campground is located, as the north entrance doesn't offer camping facilities.
Is Highland Park in Illinois a good base for exploring nearby camping spots?
Is Highland Park in Illinois a good base for exploring nearby camping spots?
Highland Park makes an excellent base for exploring diverse camping options throughout northeastern Illinois. From here, you can easily reach Big Foot Beach State Park Campground which is conveniently located next to Lake Geneva with beach access. For those interested in exploring natural areas, Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park offers private sites and numerous hiking trails. For a quick weekend getaway, Big Rock Campground is about an hour's drive from Chicago with paved roads and accessible facilities. Highland Park's proximity to major highways makes it ideal for day trips to various camping destinations while enjoying suburban amenities.
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