Chain O' Lakes State Park offers diverse camping options near Ingleside, Illinois, with over 230 Class A sites across multiple campground loops. Located in a glacial moraine landscape with elevations up to 900 feet, the park encompasses seven connected lakes and 6,500 acres of water and land. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with primitive tent sites starting at $12 per night and electric hookups available for $25.
What to do
Kayaking the waterways: Explore the Chain O' Lakes water system directly from Turner Lake South Camping Area, where the waterways connect multiple lakes. "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 camper Cora M.
Hiking nature trails: Discover the less-traveled pathways at Fox Den Campground. The area features trails suitable for all skill levels. As one visitor observed, "There is a trail past the entrance - pass by the playground - you will come to a stop sign. Keep going straight even though it will look like you are just walking into trees. A trail is there that was a nice place to explore. Even on multiple adventures, we did not pass anyone when we went hiking on it."
Winter camping options: For those willing to brave the cold, Ottawa Lake Campground in Wisconsin offers winter camping opportunities. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports David H., making this a good option for winter yurt camping near Ingleside when other local facilities shut down for the season.
What campers like
Privacy and site layout: Campers appreciate the varied site configurations at Honeysuckle Hollow Camping Area, where some loops provide more seclusion than others. "We were camping here right in the middle of fall. The leaves were changing and our site was near the lake. Awesome family friendly spot. Good for RV and tent camping. The bathroom isn't too far of a walk from any site," explains Ken.
Budget-friendly options: Turner Lake South has garnered attention for its affordability. "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," shares Addison G., highlighting the value for campers seeking economical tent or yurt camping options near Ingleside, Illinois.
Lakefront access: Water access remains a major draw at several campgrounds. Julia B. notes about Turner Lake South: "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by."
What you should know
Ticks and wildlife preparation: Tick activity can be significant at Chain O' Lakes, requiring extra precautions. A camper at Thomas Woods Campground advises, "Larger site for an RV but I used a tent only. I enjoyed the fact the site was further off the main road which allowed for more privacy." Another visitor emphasized the importance of tick prevention: "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites. Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers."
Seasonal restrictions: Thomas Woods operates limited camping days, primarily weekends. A visitor explained, "I've been here two other weekends. Generally quiet and many of the tent spots are spaced out enough to provide privacy and quiet. Firewood is cheap on-site and delivered to your site on demand."
Alcohol policy variations: Illinois state parks enforce a strict no-alcohol policy, while private campgrounds may permit it. At Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, campers mention enjoying "adult only hot tub hours at night," indicating more relaxed policies compared to state facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for kids: Big Foot Beach State Park Campground provides family-friendly amenities within a reasonable drive from Ingleside. "Great place to quickly get in and set up, easy access to all amenities, the ranger station, and camp hosts if needed. Good fishing ponds for the kids, and great hiking trails throughout the property," reports Brenton S.
Prepare for raccoons: Wildlife management is essential when camping with children. A camper at Honeysuckle Hollow warns, "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."
Spacing considerations: When booking sites, note the variation in site privacy. Fox Den Campground provides better separation between sites compared to other loops, with a camper noting, "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."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup logistics: At Elkhorn Campgrounds, RVers appreciate the straightforward setup. "Easy access to electric and/or water. If unsure, contact office. Site, restrooms, and showers were clean. There are a lot of sites but still felt like there was ample space," shares Dan W.
Electric post locations: Fox Den Campground receives praise from RVers for its electrical accessibility. "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post. Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad," notes Debra M.
Site selection guidance: For shared electric hookups, select sites carefully. A reviewer at Honeysuckle Hollow advised, "These sites share an electric box. Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. A lot of the spaces are also crowded together. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance."
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