Camping options near Huntley, Illinois range from sites with basic vault toilets to full-service campgrounds with electric hookups and recreational amenities. This area in northern Illinois experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F, while spring camping often means dealing with muddy conditions from seasonal rains. Weekend camping availability is limited at several locations, with Thomas Woods Campground operating only on weekends from May through October.
What to do
Fishing in multiple locations: Paul Wolff Campground offers fishing opportunities in its small lake with trails circling the water. "There is a lake for fishing and some trails," notes one camper who appreciates the campground's proximity to home.
Hiking on varied terrain: Trails at Thomas Woods Campground feature a mix of surfaces and landscapes. "What we enjoyed the most was the variety of hiking trails. They aren't the longest but we were able to vary the route up to keep it fresh for our dog to sniff out her adventure. Some of grass and others were dirt," one visitor explains.
Beach and water activities: During summer months, campers can enjoy swimming and boating at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, which offers a sandy beach area. "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," reports one camper.
Archery practice: Blackwell Family Campground provides a free archery range along with canoe rentals. The facilities are particularly well-suited for scouting groups, with one visitor noting, "Our Scouts were able to walk down to access the lake and fish. Additionally, there's an open space for sports/games and some great climbing trees within the group area."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the layout at Camp Reinberg, where the tent sites provide adequate spacing. "While the camp sites are small, the amenities are super clean and the rentable cabins are as well. The trails through the grounds are varied and long--you can find something to suit just about any preference for suburban midwest hiking," notes one visitor.
Clean facilities: Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort maintains well-kept amenities. One reviewer mentions, "The park was still kept up very nicely and this time I was here long enough to be able to see how. The grass is mowed every week. There is patroling at all hours for security. The laundry machines are great the dryers ore good."
Affordable firewood: Multiple campgrounds in the area provide reasonably priced firewood, typically around $5-7 per bundle. At Paul Wolff Campground, firewood costs about $7 for approximately 0.75 cubic feet, described by one camper as "what you can fit in a milk crate." Thomas Woods Campground provides even more economical options, with a reviewer noting "Firewood is cheap on-site and delivered to your site on demand."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding Huntley provide habitats for diverse wildlife. At Thomas Woods, visitors enjoy seeing wildflowers and insects: "I love them and the butterflies and fireflies that put on a beautiful show. There are so many wildflowers everywhere!"
What you should know
No-alcohol policies: Several forest preserves enforce strict no-alcohol rules. At Paul Wolff Campground, one reviewer initially had reservations but adapted: "We loved the staff patrolling the grounds. The trail system is great for walking the dogs. And I even grew to like the no alcohol in the preserve rule."
Limited shower facilities: Multiple campgrounds have restricted or no shower access. Paul Wolff Campground lacks showers entirely despite its modern facilities: "The vault toilets are clean but smell like vault toilets at 95 degrees. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers. They don't advertise showers, but this is the newest and nicest campsite I have seen without showers."
Weekend-only camping: Thomas Woods Campground operates on a limited schedule. "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites. Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers," explains one visitor who appreciates the attentive staff despite the restricted schedule.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. At Rock Cut State Park, visitors note: "You can hear the highway at night which kinda takes away from the nature vibes but overall I was very happy with our one night stay."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly programming: Chicago Northwest KOA offers structured activities for children. "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," reports one camper about the welcoming atmosphere.
Playground access: Several campgrounds provide play areas for children. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort is described as "Very big campground with mostly seasonals. Atmosphere is the perfect balance of fun and relaxing," making it ideal for families seeking both recreation and downtime.
Convenience amenities: Some locations offer services that simplify family camping. Fish Lake Beach features "clean bathrooms (no hot water in the showers) right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Water activities for various ages: Multiple facilities offer water recreation options ranging from fishing to swimming. One camper at Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort appreciates that "There are two lakes, catch and release fishing. A small beach with a snack shack. Well run and maintained."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in how closely RVs are positioned. Chicago Northwest KOA arranges sites strategically: "It's on the smaller side and the RV sites are a little close together but they have it set up where your RVs doors open on opposite sides so it gives a little privacy."
Water hookup limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted water access for RVs. Camp Reinberg requires staff assistance: "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."
Iron content in water: Water quality varies across campgrounds. Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort provides full hookups but campers note "The camp water is high in Iron. The pot roads need service as thay do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit."
Electrical reliability concerns: During peak summer heat, electrical systems at some campgrounds may struggle. At Rock Cut State Park, some visitors have experienced issues with capacity: "The electricity wasn't working. It was 93° on a Saturday. We called the Rangers and asked them to look at our site breaker since it kept tripping."
