RV campgrounds near Marengo, Illinois offer varying experiences from lakefront sites to forested surroundings within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though several facilities remain open year-round.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sycamore RV Resort features two fishing lakes stocked for catch-and-release fishing. "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," reports one camper.
Swimming options: Most campgrounds provide swimming alternatives during summer months. At Blackhawk Camping Resort, campers enjoy "a brand new, in-ground heated pool, along with small kiddy pool and adjoining pool house complete with restroom and showers."
Mini golf and sports courts: Family activities abound at many locations with organized weekend events. "Plenty for the kids to do, game room, mini golf, pool. Bathrooms are nice and clean," notes a reviewer at Sugar Shores RV Resort.
What campers like
Lake access: Lakeland Camping Resort sits along Lake Koshkonong with "2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends." Campers appreciate "the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds frequently host themed weekends and holiday celebrations. One visitor to Blackhawk Camping Resort mentioned "Golf cart parade, DJ, band, BINGO" among the organized entertainment options.
Clean facilities: Many visitors highlight bathroom and shower cleanliness as standout features. A guest at Chicago Northwest KOA remarked, "Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most parks operate from April through October with varying amenities. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Pine Country explained, "We did enjoy our stay and the pool was fantastic for smaller kids. Not much was set up for daily activities the weekend we stayed."
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary significantly in site density and privacy. "A pull through style RV park. Great if you have a toy hauler style camper, but if you're used to boondocking/dispersed camping, very very few spots with shade and trees," noted one camper about Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort.
Flooding concerns: Areas near rivers may experience seasonal flooding. At Northwoods RV Resort, "sites on the lake end of the grounds will flood if there has been a lot of rain."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming pool access: Many campgrounds feature pools but operation dates vary. A visitor to Chicago Northwest KOA shared, "Did a quick stay with the kids for a Friday and Saturday night. Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. Plenty for the little kids to do."
Children's activities: Fox Bluff CottageS & RV offers extensive recreational facilities. "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful. We've developed quite a lovely community of really nice people," reports a seasonal camper.
Playground options: Most parks feature multiple play areas for different age groups. One camper at Sycamore RV Resort noted "fun beach!" while others mention dedicated recreational areas throughout the region's campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on preferences for noise and privacy. A visitor to Lakeland Camping Resort advised, "Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet."
Road conditions: Internal campground roads vary in quality and maintenance. A reviewer at Northwoods RV Resort noted, "The pot roads need service as they do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit."
Full hookup availability: Not all sites provide complete utility connections. At Chicago Northwest KOA, a visitor mentioned, "This KOA has very limited full hook up sites. We paid for the deluxe patio site, which had no sewer."