Camp Bullfrog Lake and Camp Reinberg are popular pet-friendly campgrounds near Lincolnwood, Illinois. Sites range from spacious to compact with variable shade coverage. The region sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level and experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F, with high humidity that can intensify mosquito activity, especially near water features.
What to do
Hiking and biking: Indiana Dunes National Park offers extensive trail systems with varied terrain. "We visited Palos early this week (mid-April) for a very very chilly three days... The hiking here is AWESOME with a bajillion different routes right from the campground. We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," notes Hatie P.
Water activities: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides kayak rentals for lake exploration. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares Layla P. The camp host might even take photos of you while kayaking.
Fishing opportunities: Blackwell Forest Preserve offers multiple fishing spots. "There are lots of places along the lake and ponds to get an easy catch and release," writes Marisa A. The fishing is reportedly outstanding with numerous easily accessible spots throughout the preserve.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Paul Wolff Campground maintains exceptionally clean restrooms. "It is a super clean campground with multiple hosts and forest preserve staff," explains Marisa A. Forest preserve staff regularly patrol the grounds.
Free firewood: Several campgrounds provide complimentary firewood. At Camp Reinberg, "Free firewood and you can purchase more for just $5," according to Leo V. Many sites come with fire rings or pits for evening campfires.
Wildlife viewing: Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to believe that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area," shares Tricia E. Early morning and dusk provide best wildlife viewing times.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railway noise. At Indiana Dunes State Park, "the only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," reports Kaley A. Consider bringing earplugs if staying near railways.
Gate restrictions: Security gates at some locations close overnight. At Camp Reinberg, "There is a gate that is closed at 10pm every night and opened again in the morning," notes Susan L. This provides security but requires planning evening activities accordingly.
Mosquito intensity: Bug pressure can be significant in summer months. "Bugs were awful this stay," warns Kaitlin M. about Illinois Beach State Park. Bring effective repellent, especially for evening hours.
Tips for camping with families
Rock climbing walls: Camp Sullivan offers unique climbing activities. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," explains Shane S. The staff organize supervised climbing sessions for children.
Swimming options: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort provides family-friendly water features. "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!" says Chloe N.
Geocaching events: Some campgrounds organize special activities. "Check out the office for fun seasonal events like group hikes and geocaching contests," recommends Kelsey G. Seasonal programming typically increases during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Utility access: Blackwell Family Campground provides electrical hookups at all sites. "All sites are electric, so if you are tent camping and want your fan or slow-cooker, then it's as good as it gets in the burbs," explains Marisa A.
Site selection: RV sites vary significantly in shade coverage. "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad," notes Tim K. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Outside loop sites typically offer more privacy and shade than interior ones.
Water filling protocols: Some campgrounds have specific water filling procedures. At Paul Wolff Campground, "the camp hosts will pull the hose over to the site in order to do a water fill up. This makes it very convenient to refill," explains Susan L. Plan to fill tanks upon arrival rather than assuming constant hookups.
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