Camping options around Lisle, Illinois lie within the midwestern prairie terrain of DuPage County, with most sites situated at elevations between 650-750 feet above sea level. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures typically ranging from 75-90°F and moderate humidity during peak camping season. Sites in this suburban region offer distinctly different experiences during weekdays versus weekends, with significantly higher occupancy and more scheduled activities occurring Friday through Sunday.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Silver Lake at Blackwell Family Campground offers excellent catch-and-release fishing with several accessible shoreline spots. The fishing area is particularly productive in early morning hours. A camper noted, "The trails are nice and the water is crystal clear. Nice place for a winter hike. Canoe rentals and free archery range."
Mountain biking trails: Several miles of dedicated single-track trails are accessible directly from Camp Bullfrog Lake, ranging from beginner to intermediate difficulty. "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. 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."
Kayak rentals: Rental kayaks cost $15 per hour at Camp Bullfrog Lake and include life vests. The lake is small but suitable for beginners and casual paddling. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathroom buildings at Paul Wolff Campground receive frequent cleaning and maintenance. "Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked. It's a super clean campground with multiple hosts and forest preserve staff."
Proximity to Chicago: Many campers appreciate the convenience of reaching downtown Chicago within 30-45 minutes from suburban campsites. "Located only 30 miles outside the city, and conveniently only 10 mins from my house, this is the perfect little getaway. For only $20 a night for DuPage residents this place is perfect!"
Level sites: Big Rock Campground offers particularly flat camping surfaces with crushed limestone pads that stay level even after rain. "Nice campground with big, level sites. Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability. Lovely grasslands, ponds, hiking trails."
What you should know
Gate closure timing: Most forest preserve campgrounds enforce strict gate closure times, typically one hour after sunset. "If you are staying here to see Chicago the gates close for the park an hour after sunset." Plan day trips accordingly to avoid being locked out of your campsite.
Weekend reservations essential: Forest preserve campgrounds fill quickly on summer weekends, often booking completely 2-3 weeks in advance. Many sites hold 25% of spaces for walk-ups, but these fill by Friday afternoon in peak season.
Safety concerns: Some campgrounds have reported infrastructure issues. At Camp Sullivan, a camper noted: "The handicap shower drain is clogged, making the floor extremely slippery from soap scum of previous showers. The lock on the main door to the bathhouse doesn't lock, so if you want to shower at night it's a little sketchy."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: Camp Reinberg provides heated cabins that accommodate families looking for a compromise between tent camping and hotel stays. "They have cabins as an option too. Btw, nice fire-spitting show at the pavilion!" These heated cabins are particularly useful during spring and fall when nighttime temperatures can drop unexpectedly.
Best sites for privacy: At Blackwell Family Campground, certain sites offer more seclusion than others. "Site 20 is turf and nicely secluded. Most of the sites are partial shade." For families needing space from neighbors, request wooded perimeter sites when making reservations.
Activities for children: Many forest preserve campgrounds offer scheduled ranger programs on summer weekends. "There is also archery, a dog park, picnic areas, boat rental/ramp, and a compass course. It is a great place for families. I've brought cub scouts here and my kids' friends."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup locations: At Big Rock Campground, water spigots are positioned unusually far from camping pads. "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions! The sites are pretty level."
Site leveling: Most RV sites at forest preserve campgrounds feature paved or crushed limestone pads that require minimal leveling. "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. Designated chip bark tent sites are level. The grounds are very well maintained."
Generator restrictions: Forest preserve campgrounds typically prohibit generator use even at RV sites, making 30/50 amp hookups essential for climate control. During heat waves, RV sites with shade become particularly valuable and book quickly.
