Camping spots near Lake in the Hills, Illinois range from rural forest preserves to established lakeside resorts within a short drive from this northwestern suburb. The topography features rolling terrain with elevations between 830 and 910 feet, created by glacial activity during the last ice age. Most campgrounds in the region sit on former agricultural lands that have been reclaimed for recreational use, with soil that drains quickly after summer rains.
What to do
Kayaking the Chain O' Lakes waterways: Turner Lake South Campground offers direct water access with multiple launch points. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," notes Cora M. The campground is part of a larger water system with several connected lakes.
Horseback riding and archery: Chain O' Lakes State Park features dedicated trails for equestrians alongside standard hiking paths. "There is so much to do at this campground. Horseback riding, archery, hiking, boating, fishing. There is also a park for the kids in several areas," shares Meg K. Many trails are designed for multi-use, accommodating both hikers and riders.
Fishing at multiple locations: Various campgrounds offer fishing opportunities with different species available. At Fox Den Campground, you can fish directly from lakefront sites. As Brian O. explains, "Chain o' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season. We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October." Fall visits generally provide more peaceful fishing conditions.
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: Camp Reinberg receives high marks for its location just 35 miles from downtown Chicago. "This campground is very well maintained with all the amenities you could need: a small camping store, communal kitchen, firepits, and clean bathrooms," writes Kelsey G. The camp's Cook County location makes it ideal for weekend getaways without extensive travel time.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diverse habitats support substantial wildlife populations. At Thomas Woods Campground, campers report frequent sightings. "Beautiful wooded and quiet. Great hiking trails, a pond for fishing, private camp sites," says Tricia E. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing conditions.
Clean facilities at reasonable rates: Many campers appreciate the value offered by campgrounds in the area. At Turner Lake South, "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," reports Addison G. Most campgrounds maintain their facilities well despite heavy weekend usage.
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Site selection matters greatly for those seeking seclusion. At Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park, "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," notes Ian C. Reserve early for sites with natural screening.
Gate closure times are strict: Many campgrounds enforce strict entry/exit policies. As Brian O. warns about Chain O' Lakes, "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark:)" Plan accordingly for late arrivals or returns from off-site activities.
Raccoons require diligent food storage: Wildlife management is essential, particularly with raccoons. Meg from Honeysuckle Hollow advises, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Chicago Northwest KOA, "This is a great campground. The bathroom facilities have a bit to be desired but still very functional. If you like to kayak or canoe this is a great place to be," according to Scott B. Most playground areas are centrally located near bathroom facilities.
Tick prevention is essential: Parents should take precautions against ticks, especially with young children. At Honeysuckle Hollow, one parent warns, "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house and have them wear hats or a wagon shade on walks so nothing lands in their hair."
Ice cream and snack availability: Many campgrounds offer small stores with treats for children. At Camp Reinberg, "Free firewood and you can purchase more for just $5," notes Leo V., who also mentioned the store's ice cream selection. These small conveniences can make family camping more enjoyable during hot summer months.
Tips from RVers
Water access considerations: Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort provides full hookups but has water quality issues. "The park water is high in Iron. The pot roads need service as they do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit," explains Ron R. Many RVers bring water filters or additional fresh water for drinking and cooking.
Electric hookup variability: Some campgrounds have inconsistent power delivery. At Fox Den, the electric posts are individually assigned, while at Honeysuckle Hollow, "These sites share an electric box. Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad," reports Debra M. Bringing extension cords is recommended for certain sites.
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs, specific campgrounds offer better access. Chicago Northwest KOA has "Very nice campground. 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," according to Michelle J. Most pull-through sites require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends.
