Pet-friendly camping near Joliet, Illinois offers options at an elevation of around 600 feet above sea level in northeastern Illinois. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds close their tent sites from late October through early May due to freezing temperatures, though some RV sites remain open year-round with electricity for heating.
What to do
Hiking trails with dogs: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides access to miles of mountain biking and hiking trails where leashed pets can explore alongside owners. As Josh M. notes, "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."
Kayaking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer water activities during summer months. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," according to Layla P.
Fishing access: Blackwell Family Campground offers fishing options with multiple access points. According to Marisa A., "The fishing is outstanding. There are lots of places along the lake and ponds to get an easy catch and release."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at Blackwell Family Campground. Rich M. notes, "The sites are crushed limestone and are level and wooded. There is one bathroom/shower building at the front of the campground. There are some clean outhouses placed around the campground."
Proximity to Chicago: For urban residents seeking a quick escape, Camp Sullivan provides a convenient option. One camper observed, "It's probably the closest camping to downtown Chicago. About 5 years in existence. Clean facilities with a few trails."
Free firewood: Some campgrounds provide complimentary firewood. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, Josh M. shared, "Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Blackwell Family Campground operates from May through September with no off-season access. Rich M. advises, "Only down side of the park is that it is only open on the weekends. On holiday weekends you are able to stay for three nights."
Noise levels vary: Locations near highways can be noisy. At Martin's Camping Ground, Carol L. notes, "Traffic from I80 is extremely loud with semi's all night long. No wifi and very expensive for the quality of the site."
Limited shade: Some campgrounds lack mature trees. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, Tim K. observed, "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small."
Weather considerations: Storm shelters may not be accessible. At Leisure Lake Resort, one reviewer mentioned, "The storm shelter is typically locked, making it inaccessible in emergencies, which is a major concern."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, Hatie P. reports, "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."
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