RV camping near Lyons, Illinois features diverse terrain surrounding the Cook County region with elevations ranging from 580 to 670 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from mid-April through October, though several parks offer year-round access despite Midwest winter conditions. Between April and October, overnight temperatures can range from 45°F to 75°F with higher humidity during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs offers fishing in their small lake where campers catch various species. "Really nice campground... Really nice views. Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors," notes a visitor who appreciated the peaceful atmosphere.
Trail access: The area surrounding Camp Bullfrog Lake provides extensive mountain biking networks. "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," explains one regular camper who uses midweek camping trips to break up their work routine.
Beach swimming: Sycamore RV Resort provides a designated swimming area during summer months. "Great fishing and nice beach for swimming. Very nice shower/laundry house," mentions a visitor who highlighted the recreational options available beyond typical camping amenities.
What campers like
Bathroom facilities: Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort maintains clean restroom facilities that campers consistently mention. "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" wrote a satisfied guest who gave the park a 5-star rating.
Fishing ponds: Multiple campers appreciate the fishing opportunities at Sycamore RV Resort throughout the camping season. "Beautiful spot, very peaceful. We've been here for 3 months. There are two lakes, catch and release fishing. A small beach with a snack shack. Well run and maintained," shares a longer-term visitor.
Security features: Several campgrounds implement security measures for overnight stays. At Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort, one camper noted specific safety elements: "The park was still kept up very nicely and this time I was here long enough to be able to see how. The grass is mowed every week. There is patroling at all hours for security."
What you should know
Water issues: Some campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions or quality concerns. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, one camper noted: "Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive," while specifically mentioning "No water before 4/15" in their review title.
Noise factors: Campgrounds near highways or industrial areas experience varying noise levels. One camper at Hollywood Casino mentioned: "Rail yard behind the row of trees. I believe they were humbling train all night long."
Iron content: Water quality varies between campgrounds, with mineral content affecting taste. At Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort, a reviewer specifically mentioned: "The park water is high in Iron. The pot roads need service as they do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly water activities during summer months. "They have a huge lake with paved paths that we were able to walk the first night (not raining) and the beach looks like it will be fun to enjoy in the summer," noted a visitor at Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort.
Playground access: Fox Bluff Cottages & RV provides family-oriented recreational facilities. "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful," shared one long-term visitor who has enjoyed the campground for five years.
Advance planning requirements: Some family-friendly campgrounds have specific booking policies. At Fox Bluff Cottages & RV, a camper advises: "Plan ahead! The location requires a 2 night stay minimum."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV site sizes and configurations vary significantly between parks. At Lake Alexander RV Park, a reviewer traveling with a large rig noted issues with pad size: "It was a small RV park had a concert pad but not big enough for a 43 ft motor home. The site was 60 ft, but the whole site was not concrete."
Dump station locations: Not all parks have on-site sewer connections or conveniently located dump stations. "None of the sites had sewage, the dump station was about a mile down the road," reported a visitor at Great Lakes Naval Training Center RV Campground, highlighting the logistical consideration for longer stays.
Overnight convenience stops: For those traveling through the area, Love's RV Hookup in Morris offers streamlined facilities. "As you pull in, there's 4 spots earmarked to the right of the entrance for RV's. As you pull further along in front of the Love's fueling bay, on the other side, an additional 6 or so slots exist for other RVs to park."