Chain O'Lakes State Park encompasses 6,500 acres of woods and water systems with seven interconnected lakes covering 488 acres of water surface. Camping near Vernon Hills, Illinois allows access to 230 miles of shoreline with water depths ranging from 7 to 50 feet. Summer temperatures average 80-85°F with moderate humidity while spring and fall camping periods offer more comfortable 60-75°F temperatures.
What to do
Kayaking on interconnected lakes: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers seven lakes connected by small tributaries perfect for paddling. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill. Rangers were helpful and delivered firewood to our site daily," notes one visitor. Kayak and canoe rentals available at the concession stand near Maple Grove boat launch.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake features extensive mountain biking trails just steps from campsites. A camper reports, "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." The single-track trail system attracts serious cyclists with technical sections for various skill levels.
Horseback riding opportunities: Several campgrounds in the area offer equestrian facilities with dedicated horse trails. "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," according to a Turner Lake South visitor. Trail rides typically cost $30-45 per person for guided 60-90 minute experiences.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Chicago Northwest KOA receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground," reports a recent camper. Most sites include water and electric hookups with clean shower facilities.
Privacy between campsites: Thomas Woods Campground offers more secluded camping spaces. "We chose the latter and felt like we had the place to ourselves. There are basic toilets (hole in ground style), a spigot for water, great trails (heavy on the mosquitoes, of course), and a very responsive team of folks running the campground," notes a visitor. Firewood delivery directly to campsites for $5 per bundle.
Affordable glamping close to Vernon Hills, Illinois: Turner Lake South camping area provides budget-friendly glamping options at $12-25 per night. "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. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night," shares a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer months. "Chain O'Lakes State Park in IL has two electric campgrounds, 2 non-electric campgrounds and one group site. Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post," advises one camper.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons and ticks are common at several area campgrounds. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," warns a Honeysuckle Hollow camper. Tick repellent and food storage containers essential.
Seasonal water conditions: Lake and pond water quality varies throughout the season. "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by," notes a Turner Lake South visitor regarding late summer conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Family-oriented activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers structured entertainment for children. "There are a ton of activities here to include two bouncy pillows, three play grounds, a pool, water slides, a kids water activity area, beach, water obstacle course, inflatable slide, RC car track, laser tag, mini golf, and I'm sure I'm missing something," reports a visitor. Character meet-and-greets with Yogi, Boo Boo, and Cindy Bear available for $6.
Best spots for first-timers: Fox Den Campground provides user-friendly camping experiences. "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 a visitor. Electric sites with easy water access ideal for families new to camping.
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom quality varies significantly. "The bathhouses are newer and kept fairly clean. I don't think they're checked everyday though because the ladies stalls were out of toilet paper our second morning. The water pressure in the showers was so-so, but there was no hot water," reports a visitor to Camp Sullivan.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidelines: Check site specifications carefully when booking. "We stayed in a back-in site on the north side of the campground. We had 50 amp, but no water/sewer, although there was a water spigot next to our site that we could use to fill up jugs of water," advises a Honeysuckle Hollow camper.
Dump station logistics: Plan for potential wait times at dump stations during peak periods. "The dump station was near the entrance to the camping loop and had potable water. It was also very busy and we had to wait when filling up and again when dumping," notes another camper.
Seasonal limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted operating seasons or weekend-only availability. "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites. Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers. Hand pumps for water and well-kept pit toilets," explains a visitor to Thomas Woods Campground, which operates primarily on weekends from early May through late October.
