Tent campsites near Maywood, Illinois range from riverfront locations to wooded state parks, all within reasonable driving distance. The region features multiple waterfront camping options along the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail system. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions with occasional rainfall that can affect low-lying sites.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: Kayak Morris offers riverside camping with easy water access. "I have my own kayak and the river here is so calm its awesome. My friends rented the dual kayaks ant they loved them," notes Art P. The campground provides kayak rentals for those without equipment.
Cycling the canal trails: Channahon State Park Campground provides ideal access to the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail. "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock," explains Art S. The crushed gravel trail connects multiple camping areas.
Fishing opportunities: At Kayak Morris, anglers report excellent catches. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" shares Sam Murphy M. The river confluence creates prime fishing conditions.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at several sites. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site," explains Eric R. about Kayak Morris. Sites often accommodate multiple tents.
Spacious, private sites: McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove offers well-separated campsites. "The sites are far apart," notes Brian O., with unique features like "enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs."
Nature experiences despite urban proximity: Despite being near urban areas, many sites retain natural character. At Central Avenue Walk-in Sites, a camper notes, "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy." Don W. adds that "the walk to the beach was not too long."
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Low-lying sites can flood during heavy rain. "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up," warns Rita S. about her experience at McKinley Woods.
Limited amenities: Many tent sites have minimal facilities. At Camp Shabbona Woods, "No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite," Jeffrey L. points out, though "the bathroom are in good shape."
Water quality varies: When available, water quality differs between sites. At McKinley Woods, pump water is "drinkable, but cloudy" according to Brian O., while many sites lack potable water entirely.
Urban noise: Some campgrounds experience urban sounds. "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background," notes Jeffrey L. about Camp Shabbona Woods, adding that "they close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok."
Tips for camping with families
Shade considerations: Davis Creek Campground offers more open spaces with good amenities. Andrea F. describes it as "open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept, and there is good access to water," making it suitable for families wanting easier supervision.
Beginner-friendly options: Camp Shabbona Woods provides an introduction to camping. Scott M. notes the "camp suite is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping," though "campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing."
Walk-in distance awareness: Many sites require walking from parking areas. "We didn't realize this was a walk-in campground," Brian O. shares about McKinley Woods. This can be challenging for families with young children or lots of gear.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Maywood don't accommodate larger RVs. At Central Avenue Walk-in Sites, tent camping requires hiking in, with Don W. explaining "Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail. You have to walk all the way down and take a left before you find sites 5, 4, 3, and 2 in that order."
Alternative arrangements: When arriving with RVs, separate parking arrangements may be necessary. "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem," shares Brian O. about McKinley Woods.
