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Abdulrahman A.
Scout
ScoutBig Rock Campground
Beautiful And Quite
Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply
Camping near Lombard, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Lombard, Illinois provides several campground options within a short drive of the Chicago metropolitan area. Blackwell Family Campground in the nearby Blackwell Forest Preserve stands out as a popular destination for weekend getaways, offering electric hookups and well-maintained tent and RV sites. Other established campgrounds in the region include Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs and Camp Reinberg in Palatine, both providing cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping options. The best campgrounds near Lombard feature amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to hiking trails within their respective forest preserves.
Most developed campgrounds near Lombard operate seasonally, with many only open from May through September or October. "Blackwell campground is very nice - surprisingly well-maintained with unique sites, many of which are large and private. Some have large lawn areas as well as nice wood-chip pads, while others are mostly gravel," noted one visitor. Campground gates typically close at sunset, with strict enforcement of entry and exit times. Many sites require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends when local residents seek quick getaways from the city. Access to most campgrounds is straightforward with paved roads, though some campgrounds like Blackwell Family Campground have multiple speed bumps throughout the preserve leading to the camping area.
Campers consistently praise the forest preserve campgrounds for creating natural settings despite their proximity to urban areas. Several visitors mentioned being surprised by how secluded the camping experience feels given the suburban surroundings. The sites at Blackwell Forest Preserve receive particularly high ratings for privacy between campsites, with woodchip tent pads that provide level ground for setup. Noise from nearby roads remains a consideration at several locations, with some campers noting traffic sounds at night. Family-friendly activities abound at these locations, with many preserves offering fishing, boating, archery ranges, and ranger-led programs. A camper shared, "Located only 30 miles outside the city, and conveniently only 10 mins from my house, this is the perfect little getaway," highlighting the accessibility that makes these campgrounds popular among Chicago area residents seeking nature without extensive travel.
Best Campgrounds near Lombard (78)
1. Blackwell Family Campground
"Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home."
"I always loved going to the parks in Illinois with my grandparents when I was little. They love hiking and nature and definitely got me interested in it also. I love them and miss them everyday."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability2. Camp Bullfrog Lake
"Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life. Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."
"What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."
from $20 - $138 / night
Check Availability3. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability4. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability5. Camp Sullivan
"Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern."
"There are several bathrooms around and they are clean. Staff is friendly and welcoming."
from $35 - $250 / night
Check Availability6. The Vaudeville
"There is easy access to public transportation. It was HOT and there are no plug ins or use of generators so plan accordingly"
7. Big Rock Campground
"Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi"
"Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply"
from $18 - $35 / night
Check Availability8. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."
"We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"
from $25 / night
Check Availability9. Martin’s Camping Ground
"If you like having access to a bathroom and shower its great and because no one really hd a tent here but us we had some privacy. It is next to a highway so be mindful of that."
10. Chicago Northwest KOA
"You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"
"We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"
Drive Time
- 25 min from Chicago, IL
- 57 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr from Kenosha, WI
- 1 hr 4 min from Kankakee, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Lombard, IL
176 Photos of 78 Lombard Campgrounds
Marc W.
Blackwell Family Campground
Andrew S.
Camp Bullfrog Lake
Tyler J.
Backyard Bonfire
Katherine T.
The Vaudeville
Megan R.
Camp Sullivan
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Katelyn G.
Martin’s Camping Ground
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort
Lyn B.
Fox Bluff CottageS & RV
Amanda K.
Big Rock Campground
Jeffrey L.
Camp Shabbona Woods
Recent Reviews near Lombard, IL
491 Reviews of 78 Lombard Campgrounds
- HHolly B.
GuideChicago Northwest KOA
A bit of a drive
It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
- EEd B.
TravelerLakeshore Camp Resort
looks like a dump at first glance but found out it’s storm damage
Trailer was nice plenty to do. A lot of seasonal sites. was a pleasant enough stay. Looks like a converted Yogi Bear campground. A lot of storm damage around the campground. Pools were clean, bathrooms and shower houses are a bit dated but clean. They are about every 5 rows/streets. You can rent golf carts which seems the main mode of transportation. Nice rowboat lake with a beach for swimming. Small fast food restaurant small menu weird hours and more expensive that your normal fast food places. All in all it was a nice place and activities are plenty close to Chicago and one of the closest, also very close to the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan.
- RRichard C.Scout
Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground — Kankakee River State Park
Ok
JJust ok. Facilities were disappointing
Stuart K.
LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendThousand Trails Pine Country
Shaded, Family-Friendly Country Retreat
There’s something instantly calming about rolling into a campground wrapped in tall pines and soft breezes, and Pine Country had that peaceful, easy feeling that made all of us exhale before we even found our site. This campground is expansive and welcoming, with full-hookup spots laid out across wide loops, plenty of shade, clean bathrooms and a friendly mix of families settling in for weekends or longer stays. Our boys loved wandering between the fishing pond and the small recreation areas and we ended the evening sharing freshly baked chocolate chip cookies that we made over an open fire on a Camp Chef black skillet munching them down at the picnic table while listening to the trees rustle above us. For families looking for a convenient home base near Rockford with lots of room to spread out, EZ access to town for supplies and a campground that really does feel safe and relaxed, Pine Country is an EZ pick. Highly recommended for young families seeking space, shade and a low-key, gentle setting to recharge.
Carole I.GuideWoodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park
Woodland
Helpful staff.
No picnic table at site #500- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Sycamore RV Resort
Peaceful Lakeside Pause in the Heart of Corn Country
There’s something so comforting about pulling into Sycamore RV Resort and seeing the sunlight dance across those two spring-fed lakes, giving you that immediate exhale that only a calm Midwestern campground can bring. The property is medium-sized, incredibly tidy and thoughtfully laid out, with full-hookup RV sites circling the water, a small sandy beach for summer splashing, clean restrooms and showers, simple playgrounds and EZ walking loops that make it feel both manageable and welcoming for families. The boys were in heaven the next morning when we drove over to Elleson’s Bakery for fresh homemade donuts still warm from the oven. Later we wandered through historic downtown Sycamore during Pumpkinfest, taking in the decorated storefronts and carved pumpkins lined up like a little parade. Back at the RV Resort, from what we saw, the best campsites are any of the lakeside slots on the western shore because they offer the prettiest sunrise views and the quietest pockets of the resort. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its peaceful lakeside setting, its clean and convenient amenities and its proximity to a charming small provincial Midwestern town that makes even a simple weekend feel memorable.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Holiday Acres Camping Resort
Country Calm with a Dash of Classic Campground Fun
The moment we pulled into Holiday Acres, that cozy ‘old-school campground’ feeling washed over us, with tall trees, winding lanes and a big, friendly welcome from the office that instantly made the boys sit up and take notice. The campground is beautifully laid out with roomy sites, full hookups, a well-kept swimming pond, mini golf, a little camp store and restrooms that were impressively clean for a busy family spot. After a long drive, the boys made a beeline for the playground and the pedal carts, and later that night we all sat under the string lights eating ice cream sandwiches from the camp store while fireflies blinked and buzzed through the trees. If you’re a family looking for somewhere safe, shaded and EZ-going with just enough activities to keep the kids happily worn out, this place absolutely fits the bill. Highly recommended for its friendly atmosphere, great kid-focused amenities and peaceful, wooded setting.
Guide to Lombard
Camping opportunities near Lombard, Illinois center around the forest preserves of DuPage, Cook, and Kane counties, situated in the relatively flat terrain of northeastern Illinois. Campsites within 30-40 miles of Lombard typically sit at elevations between 650-850 feet above sea level in a humid continental climate zone. Many campgrounds operate with seasonal restrictions due to the region's distinct winter conditions, with most sites closing between late October and early May.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: The extensive network of trails at Camp Bullfrog Lake provides excellent opportunities for both casual walkers and mountain bikers. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. There are miles and miles of trails. We saw several vehicles carrying top of the line bikes in and out all day," reports Tim K.
Water activities: Fishing is popular at many forest preserves with well-stocked lakes. At Paul Wolff Campground, campers can fish in the preserve's lake. "There are a few trails and I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels," notes Marisa A.
Seasonal events: The forest preserve districts often host special events throughout the camping season. At Camp Reinberg, "Check out the office for fun seasonal events like group hikes and geocaching contests," suggests Kelsey G.
What campers like
Urban proximity: The convenience of natural settings so close to Chicago consistently rates highly. "This is a very well maintained with all the amenities you could need: a small camping store, communal kitchen, firepits, and clean bathrooms," notes one Camp Reinberg visitor.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention bathroom cleanliness as a significant factor. At Big Rock Campground, "Nice clean place. Activities for the kids and adults," reports Tyler S. The campground provides modern restroom facilities despite its rural setting.
Wildlife viewing: The preservation efforts in these forest preserves create habitat for diverse 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 just outside Elgin," observed Tricia E. about Paul Wolff Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance planning, especially for weekend stays. At Camp Sullivan, a camper reported: "Very difficult to contact staff to book reservation. When we got there they told us they double booked us and requested we move after we got set up."
Seasonal facilities: Water services at many campgrounds shut down during colder months. "The water is not yet potable so bring your own or check with the park team to ensure it's drinkable when you go," advises a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor.
Gate timing restrictions: Forest preserve campgrounds typically have strict entry and exit times. "There is a gate that is closed at 10pm every night and opened again in the morning," notes Susan L. about Camp Reinberg.
Noise considerations: Proximity to urban areas means some traffic noise at certain campgrounds. "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," reports a visitor to Martin's Camping Ground.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: For families hesitant about tent camping, Illinois Beach State Park offers alternative accommodations. "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," shares Hatie P.
Wildlife education: Many forest preserves offer nature programs specifically for children. "My granddaughter loves it. There are a lot of activity for kids on the weekends. People are nice to you. Plus they have a quiet time at night. So people and kids can go to bed without a bunch of noise," explains a Chicago Northwest KOA visitor.
Budget-friendly firewood: Several 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 Josh M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Most forest preserve campgrounds near Lombard provide electric service. At Chicago Northwest KOA, "We paid for the deluxe patio site, which had no sewer. Site was not level but it had a lot of shade which was nice."
Extended water hoses: Bring additional water hose length for some campsites. At Big Rock Campground, "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises Rodney D.
Site selection: RV sites vary significantly in terms of privacy and shade. "It's a super clean campground with multiple hosts and forest preserve staff. There are a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees," reports a Paul Wolff Campground visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds in Lombard offer amenities like swimming pools?
What campgrounds in Lombard offer amenities like swimming pools?
While most public campgrounds near Lombard don't offer swimming pools, they provide natural water recreation opportunities instead. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area features a beautiful lake for swimming and boating as its centerpiece attraction. For families specifically seeking pools, Chicago Northwest KOA is a more developed option that typically offers pool facilities common to KOA campgrounds. Always call ahead to confirm pool availability and operating hours, particularly during early or late season visits.
Where are the best camping spots near Lombard?
Where are the best camping spots near Lombard?
The Lombard area offers several excellent camping options within a reasonable drive. Blackwell Family Campground stands out for its proximity to Chicago, electric hookups at all sites, modern bathrooms, and reasonable firewood prices. For those seeking more natural surroundings, Chain O' Lakes State Park provides beautiful lakeside camping with more private sites in the Turner Lake South loop. Both locations offer a perfect weekend escape without traveling too far from Lombard.
Are there RV parks or RV-friendly camping options in Lombard?
Are there RV parks or RV-friendly camping options in Lombard?
RV enthusiasts have several options near Lombard. Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859 offers convenient RV hookups right off I-80, perfect for overnight stays while traveling. For those seeking a more traditional camping experience, Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park provides no-hookup sites with water access nearby. If you're just looking for overnight parking, Costco — Naperville offers a medium-sized lot off highway 34, though the area can be busy.
Are there tent camping options available in Lombard?
Are there tent camping options available in Lombard?
Yes, tent camping enthusiasts have several options near Lombard. Camp Reinberg offers an excellent tent camping experience with numerous biking and walking trails, plus unique off-trail paths leading to scenic clearings and bridges. Channahon State Park Campground provides another quality tent camping option with the bonus of direct access to the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail, making it perfect for bicycle tourists or those looking to combine camping with trail activities.
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