Top Free Dispersed Camping near Joliet, IL

Camping near Joliet, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic trails to family-friendly amenities, there’s something for everyone in this area.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park. One visitor shared, "I spent hours hiking the more than 13 miles of trails, which offer access to beautiful waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and spectacular overlooks."
• Fishing: At Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, fishing is a popular activity. A camper noted, "We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting."
• Biking: The trails at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground are great for biking. One review mentioned, "We enjoyed riding ebikes on the trails."

What campers like:

• Scenic Beauty: Campers rave about the picturesque views at Starved Rock Campground. A visitor said, "Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained grounds at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. One camper remarked, "Clean br/shower houses. Would recommend."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Blackwell Family Campground is noted for its welcoming vibe. A reviewer mentioned, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."

What you should know:

• No Alcohol Policy: Some campgrounds, like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, have strict no alcohol rules. A camper pointed out, "This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer."
• Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Pleasant Creek Campground may have fewer amenities. One visitor noted, "The bathrooms are old, not much space to help kids in toilet or shower area."
• Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "It’s very crowded."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Blackwell Family Campground that offer activities for kids. One parent said, "The ranger did stop by around 5 or 6ish with some activities for the kids to do."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground shared, "Recommend e-bike as some hills."
• Pack Snacks: Keep the kids happy with snacks. A visitor at Starved Rock Campground mentioned, "We had a great portion and oh so good as well" when referring to local dining options.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the right hookups. A reviewer at Big Rock Campground noted, "Bring plenty of hose for water connections."
• Arrive Early: Since many campgrounds are first-come, first-served, getting there early can help secure a good spot. A camper at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting."
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Don’t forget to check out local attractions. A visitor at Thomas Woods Campground said, "The trails are both wooded and hilly, but there's also a large prairie nature walk."

Camping around Joliet, Illinois, offers a mix of nature, family fun, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re in an RV or tent, there’s a spot for you to enjoy the great outdoors!