Camp Bullfrog Lake and Blackwell Family Campground serve as primary camping options near Lemont, Illinois, with sites typically available from spring through fall. The terrain consists mostly of wooded forest preserves with lakes and ponds located within an hour of downtown Chicago. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping provides cooler temperatures around 50-65°F with less humidity.
What to do
Kayaking and water activities: At Camp Bullfrog Lake, visitors can rent kayaks for $15 per hour, which includes life vests. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," noted one camper. The small lake provides a peaceful paddling experience suitable for beginners.
Mountain biking on nearby trails: Several trail systems connect to campgrounds in the area. "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," reports a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor. The Palos Trail System offers multiple difficulty levels of single-track trails within minutes of some camping areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes throughout the forest preserves provide fishing spots. One camper at Blackwell Family Campground mentioned, "These sites are for boy/Girl Scout or large groups only. The trails are nice and the water is crystal clear. Nice place for a winter hike. Canoe rentals and free archery range." Many lakes are stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish.
What campers like
Free firewood at select campgrounds: Some campgrounds provide complimentary firewood with your stay. "Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits," notes a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake. This saves campers from needing to purchase or transport their own wood.
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities. At Camp Sullivan, a visitor noted, "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern." However, experiences vary as another camper at a different location mentioned inconsistent maintenance.
Proximity to Chicago: For urban residents seeking quick getaways, these campgrounds provide convenient access. "Awesome place to stay when you live in the city and wanna get away," states a Camp Bullfrog Lake reviewer. Most sites are within 30-60 minutes of downtown, making them suitable for weekend escapes without extensive travel.
What you should know
Varied noise levels: Proximity to highways affects some campgrounds more than others. A visitor to Martin's Camping Ground reported, "You can throw a stone and hit a semi driving by to I-80. There's a lot of traffic given the proximity to Chicago." Some inner campsites at forest preserves offer better noise buffering.
Site reservation requirements: Many campgrounds operate on different reservation systems. "Walkup only - no reservations taken. $35 a night is a bit steep," noted a visitor to Big Rock Campground. Weekends often fill quickly during summer months, particularly at the more popular forest preserve locations.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Recently developed sites lack mature trees. "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade," explained a camper at Big Rock Campground. Consider bringing shade structures during summer months at these locations.
Campsite spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Sites are very close. You can watch the traffic on the highway from your camper," wrote a visitor about one location, while other forest preserve campgrounds provide more wooded separation between sites.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for children: Several campgrounds feature swimming beaches and water recreation. "The kids had a blast with the available activities," commented a visitor to Leisure Lake Membership Resort. Fishing docks and small beaches make water access easier for families with younger children.
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Some locations offer additional recreational facilities. "There's also an open space for sports/games and some great climbing trees within the group area," mentioned a reviewer about Blackwell Family Campground. These amenities provide entertainment options beyond hiking and water activities.
Consider cabins for easier family camping: Several campgrounds offer cabin options for families new to camping. "I visited Palos early this week for a very very chilly three days... 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," shared a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup distances: Pay attention to utility placement when booking. "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" advised a camper at Big Rock Campground. Some sites require 50-150 feet of hose to reach water sources.
Limited sewer connections: Not all RV sites offer full hookups. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, a visitor noted, "Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot." Many campgrounds offer dump stations instead of individual sewer connections.
Site leveling considerations: While most developed sites are relatively flat, preparation helps. "Sites are pretty level. Can't really say one appears to be better than the rest," reported a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor. Bring leveling blocks as a precaution, particularly at older campgrounds.
