Camping sites near Wilmette, Illinois offer varying terrain options within a 40-mile radius of Lake Michigan's shoreline. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between April and October, with summer highs averaging 85°F and spring lows dipping to 40°F. Overnight camping options range from lakefront properties to forest preserves with hiking trails connecting to extensive county-wide trail systems.
What to do
Lake swimming access: 10-minute walk from some camping sites to Lake Michigan shores at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park, where visitors enjoy water activities and beachcombing. "Easy access to the beach, great sites and was very quiet," reports camper Chrissy E., who noted the convenience of beach access from campsites.
Mountain biking: 5-10 miles of trails accessible directly from Camp Bullfrog Lake with varying difficulty levels suitable for beginners to experienced riders. "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," notes Josh M., highlighting the integration of recreation with camping facilities.
Kayak rentals: $15 per hour at several locations including Camp Bullfrog Lake where equipment includes life vests. Layla P. shares: "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and ponds throughout the preserves offer fishing for various species. Marisa A. notes that at Blackwell Family Campground: "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, modern facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathroom facilities with regular cleaning schedules. At Paul Wolff Campground, David W. observed: "The vault toilets are clean but smell like vault toilets at 95 degrees. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers."
Proximity to Chicago with nature immersion: Campsites provide quick escapes from urban environments while maintaining natural settings. "For nature that's close to civilization, Deer Grove Forest Preserve is the best," mentions Kristy G. about Camp Reinberg, noting the variety of trail types for different hiking preferences.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many preserves host diverse wildlife despite suburban locations. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, Hatie P. encountered "tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk" during a 10-mile hike through connected trails.
Seasonal wildflowers and natural features: Spring and summer bring vibrant wildflower displays to many preserves. Susan L. observed at Camp Reinberg: "There are so many wildflowers everywhere! I almost wasn't going to review this place because it's that special and I'd love to keep it all to myself."
What you should know
Train noise affects sleep quality at several campgrounds near rail lines, particularly at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. Kaley A. warns: "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long. If you're a heavy sleeper and can deal with that, you'll be just fine."
Gate closure times vary by location: Forest preserve campgrounds typically close entrance gates at set hours. Susan L. notes about Camp Reinberg: "There is a gate that is closed at 10pm every night and opened again in the morning."
Limited shade at newer sites: Some recently developed campgrounds have young trees providing minimal coverage. Tim K. observes at Camp Bullfrog Lake: "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small."
Insect activity fluctuates by season: Mosquitoes and flies can be particularly problematic in summer months near water features. Liz M. cautions about Illinois Beach State Park: "Beautiful views and amazing sunrises but be warned flies and mosquitos are wild."
Tips for camping with families
Beach-oriented campgrounds: Sites near Lake Michigan provide swimming opportunities but require supervision. At Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, Chloe N. recommends: "The lakefront tent sites, they are spacious and you can fish right from your site! The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side."
Weekday camping for fewer crowds: School-year weekdays offer significantly reduced occupancy at most sites. Lawrence B. reports at Camp Bullfrog Lake: "Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet. Beautiful little lake. Bathrooms were warm and clean."
Campgrounds with organized activities: Some locations offer scheduled family programs. Leo V. notes about Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort: "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake."
Accessible trail options: Several preserves feature paved or crushed limestone paths suitable for strollers. Kristy G. describes Camp Reinberg: "There are plenty of paved trails as well as dirt, lots of fun little off-shoots into the woods, creeks run throughout."
Tips from RVers
Water fill procedures: Many campgrounds require special arrangements for water. The School for Y. notes about Camp Reinberg: "There are no water spigots at the RV sites. 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."
Electric hookup variations: Amperage options differ by location, with most offering either 30 or 50 amp service. At Paul Wolff Campground, Marisa A. appreciates: "Because there is electrical it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise."
Site pad materials and conditions: RV pads range from concrete to gravel to asphalt. Rose T. cautions about Illinois Beach State Park: "We reserved site 349 and had no idea it would be on asphalt. There are plenty of other sites that on grass with trees."
Site privacy considerations: RV sites offer varying degrees of separation from neighbors. Susan L. observes about Camp Reinberg: "I was visiting family in the city and surrounding suburbs and felt secure staying here as well as leaving my RV in this campground."
