Campgrounds near Shorewood, Illinois offer varied terrain and recreational settings within a relatively flat region. Most camping options in the area operate from spring through fall, with some providing year-round facilities. Seasonal water availability affects services at several locations, with some campgrounds turning off water connections during colder months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides multiple fishing spots with a small lake for anglers seeking relaxation. "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!" noted one Kayak Morris camper.
Kayaking rentals: Rentals cost $15/hour at Camp Bullfrog Lake and include life vests. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," explained one visitor. Most water activity options close during winter months.
Mountain biking trails: Big Rock Campground connects to extensive trail systems suitable for cycling enthusiasts. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor commented. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring often presenting muddy sections.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms at many locations. "Bathrooms were warm and clean. There's also a little store on site that was open until 10:00 PM," mentioned a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor. Facilities typically include flush toilets and hot showers.
Proximity to Chicago: Kayak Morris provides nature access within a short drive from urban centers. "Small and hidden right on the Illinois River. Received a free night of camping with a whole day of kayaking which is absolutely recommended," a reviewer shared. Most campgrounds sit 30-60 minutes from Chicago.
Waterfront camping: Several campgrounds offer sites directly adjacent to water features. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site. If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," noted one Kayak Morris camper. Water levels fluctuate seasonally.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature closely positioned sites. At Martin's Camping Ground, "Sites are very close. You can watch the traffic on the highway from your camper," one visitor observed. Reservations for more secluded sites typically fill months in advance.
Limited tree cover: Several newer campgrounds lack mature trees. "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade," noted a Big Rock Campground visitor. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F, making shade critical during warmer months.
Water quality concerns: At some locations, water requires additional filtration. "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," a camper at Leisure Lake Resort reported.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for beginners: Blackwell Family Campground offers cabin alternatives to traditional camping. "I visited Palos early this week (mid-April) for a very very chilly three days. There are small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," one visitor shared.
Look for educational programs: Several forest preserves run seasonal activities for children. "The grounds include a lake for boating, hiking trails, and bike paths. There is also an archery range, and some ranger programs. Very nice," noted a Blackwell Family Campground visitor. Program availability typically increases during summer months.
Check noise levels: Highway proximity affects sleep quality at several locations. "You can throw a stone and hit a semi driving by to I-80. There's a lot of traffic given the proximity to Chicago. If you're able to sleep with large trucks driving in the background, you'll be fine," a Martin's Camping Ground reviewer warned.
Tips from RVers
Bring extension hoses: At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, hookup positioning may require additional equipment. "We have been staying at this resort for several months now. Water quality has been very bad. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day, and we've had to install a five-stage filtration system just to make it usable," one long-term camper reported.
Check seasonal water availability: Many campgrounds turn off water connections during colder months. "Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive. No water before 4/15," noted a Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort visitor. Water systems typically begin operation mid-April.
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites near Shorewood require minimal leveling. "Sites are pretty level. The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advised a Big Rock camper. Most established campgrounds maintain gravel or concrete pads.
