RV camping near Lansing, Illinois offers convenient access to both urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities. Temperatures range from 82°F in summer to 29°F in winter, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. The area sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with terrain characterized by former glacial lake beds and the nearby Kankakee River watershed.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Alexander: Located within a 1-hour drive of Chicago, Lake Alexander RV Park offers 120 acres of natural beauty along the Kankakee River. "The wooded habitat abounds with fish, wildlife, and native plants, and they offer many amenities for recreation and relaxation," notes one camper at Lake Alexander RV Park.
Walking trails and parks: Nearby William G. Stratton State Park and Gebhard Woods State Park offer access to the I&M Canal State Trail. If staying at Love's RV Hookup-Morris, one visitor mentions, "If you'd like something a bit more splendid, then head on over to William G. Stratton SP or Gebhard Woods SP where you will be able to hike the I&M Canal State Trail."
Fishing and lake activities: Several campgrounds feature private lakes or river access. A visitor to Oak Lake RV Resort reports: "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!"
What campers like
Security features: Many campgrounds in the area offer secured access for peace of mind. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, campers appreciate the safe environment: "Nice safe location. Flat, pretty large spots..picnic tables."
Cleanliness of facilities: Well-maintained facilities rank high on campers' priority lists. One visitor mentioned, "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort. Another camper at Oak Lake RV Resort commented, "Clean shower and bathroom."
Helpful staff: Staff assistance makes a significant difference in the camping experience. A camper at Oak Lake RV Resort shared: "From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup. We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless. Where else does that??"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Fox Bluff Cottages & RV, a camper advised: "Plan ahead! The location requires a 2 night stay minimum."
Variable site quality: Site conditions and amenities can differ significantly between campgrounds. A reviewer at Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground noted: "This is a small, bare-bones operation, but it's safe and friendly; a great stop-over for passing through Chicagoland or Joliet. Level sites, full hook-ups."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or industrial areas. One camper at Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground mentioned: "Located right on US45-US52. Lots of truck traffic stopping at the intersection makes lots of noise at night."
Water quality concerns: Test water before drinking or consider bringing your own. A camper at Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park observed: "They don't provide any showers toilets or wifi. As well every spot has cemented runners which is a nice touch but you must back into them."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Campgrounds with dedicated play areas provide entertainment for children. A visitor at Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park noted: "We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. Theres a playground as well."
Consider proximity to playgrounds: Some sites offer direct access to play areas. A camper at Oak Lake RV Resort shared: "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."
Check for recreational opportunities: Water features provide fun activities for families. At Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park, campers appreciate the "access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some RV parks offer pull-through sites while others require backing in. A reviewer at Love's RV Stop-Demotte noted: "Easy on and off I 65 yet barely any traffic noise. It just opened and it is well designed. The check in online is very easy."
Electric service reliability: Check the amperage available at your site. One camper at Love's RV Stop-Demotte IN 394 advised: "The only complaint I had is the site we were at showed a ground fault on the 50amp Circuit so I had to use the 30 amp circuit but it's Nov so no need to run dual ACs minor issue but still make sure your using your EPM devices."
Site surface quality: Different campgrounds offer various pad surfaces. A visitor at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort shared: "Friendly staff who were quick to respond to any issues. Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot. Pet-friendly. Pleasant park with good pad."