Chain O'Lakes State Park encompasses over 6,500 acres of natural terrain just 15 miles from Libertyville, Illinois. The park consists of 3 separate campgrounds with more than 230 campsites ranging from primitive tent sites to electric hookups. Winter temperatures average 22°F while summer highs reach around 85°F, making late spring through early fall the prime glamping and camping season.
What to do
Kayaking through interconnected waterways: At Fox Den Campground, visitors can explore the unique chain of lakes system. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill. Also it is 30 miles from Shipshawana where the Amish have a flea market and auction (Tuesdays & Wednesday)," notes one camper. Rangers deliver firewood to sites daily for convenient evening campfires.
Horseback riding and hiking: The parks offer extensive trail systems for both hikers and equestrians. "There are hiking trails and this campground is the closest to the boat dock and concession which serves as the camp store," explains a Fox Den visitor. The trails vary from groomed paths to more rustic routes through wooded areas, with options for all skill levels.
Mountain biking: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers exceptional mountain biking opportunities with miles of dedicated trails. "We really like this place and was about a 30 minute ride from our place in the western burbs. Some of the areas best mountain bike single track is right here," reports one enthusiast. The extensive trail system attracts serious cyclists who bring "top of the line bikes in and out all day."
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Thomas Woods Campground provides a secluded camping experience. "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," mentions one camper. Sites are spaced to provide privacy without feeling isolated.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort caters specifically to families with children. "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water," describes one visitor. The lakefront sites provide direct access to fishing opportunities without having to leave your site.
Affordable primitive camping: Budget-conscious glampers near Libertyville appreciate Turner Lake South's reasonable rates. "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," notes a satisfied camper. Sites with electricity are available for $25/night for those wanting basic amenities without full hookups.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East most private. While these sites are usually slated for walk-ups on the weekends, it seems like a lot of people go early on Thursday or even Wednesday to secure their sites for the weekends," explains one regular camper at Turner Lake South.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "The showerhouses are dated, yet I have seen them clean and also not clean on busy camper weekends," notes one Turner Lake visitor. At Thomas Woods, expect "hand pumps for water and well-kept pit toilets" rather than full shower facilities.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife requires proper food storage and caution. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warns a Honeysuckle Hollow camper. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers exceptional children's programming. "Great campground for families! Tons to do! Bathrooms/showers are good. Comfortable stay," shares one family. The resort includes "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."
Tent site selection: Choose sites strategically for family comfort. At Turner Lake South, "The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. 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." Sites near playgrounds often trade privacy for convenience.
Pack for pests: Insect protection is essential, especially with small children. "With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. Luckily our screen house pop up on a tarp that was sprayed ahead for tick repellent plus a blanket on top of that did the trick," advises a parent who camped in the area. Screened shelters provide safe play areas.
Tips for RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites are limited and vary by campground. "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site has an individual electric post," notes a visitor who compared campgrounds within Chain O'Lakes State Park.
Site length and access: Larger RVs should research site dimensions before booking. "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad. I believe this is a relatively newer campground. There is NO shade during the day," reports a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor. The lack of mature trees affects temperature regulation in RVs during summer months.
Water and dump stations: Most campgrounds have central water access rather than individual hookups. "Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out. 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," explains a Honeysuckle Hollow visitor.
