Camping sites near Lyons, Illinois offer a mix of suburban retreats and urban escape options within 45 miles of Chicago. The area sits at elevations between 580-670 feet above sea level in a transitional zone between prairie and woodland ecosystems. Summer temperatures average 80-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons bring cooler temperatures and occasional precipitation.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Camp Reinberg provides extensive trail access directly from campsites. "There are lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc. The preserve bumps up next to neighborhoods and major roads depending how far in you get, but the main trails are easy to follow," notes one visitor to Camp Reinberg.
Lake Michigan activities: The beaches at Indiana Dunes State Park offer swimming, sunbathing and sunsets within walking distance of campsites. "If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," reports a camper at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Rock climbing: Indoor climbing walls provide activity options during inclement weather. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," notes a camper at Camp Sullivan, highlighting additional recreation options beyond hiking trails.
What campers like
Urban proximity: Location near Chicago provides convenience for weekend getaways. "Awesome place to stay when you live in the city and wanna get away," reports one camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake. Another notes, "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week."
Beach access: Dunewood Campground offers direct beach access within Indiana Dunes National Park. "The campsite was large and beautiful. The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers," shares a visitor at Dunewood Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms are modern. The campsites are well kept as are the grounds," writes one reviewer about Camp Sullivan, while another notes about Camp Bullfrog Lake, "Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking early is essential, especially for summer weekends. "The FOREST PRESERVES OF COOK COUNTY online camping reservation site is tricky but after several tries I figured it out," shares a camper who stayed at Camp Reinberg.
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects several campgrounds. A Dunewood Campground visitor reports, "Could hear trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink."
Seasonal limitations: Water availability varies by season at some locations. "The water is not yet potable so bring your own or check with the park team to ensure it's drinkable when you go," cautions a spring visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Weather considerations: Mosquitoes can be intense during summer months. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," warns a camper from Indiana Dunes National Park.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playground access and educational programs. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)," reports a parent with three children under age 7 who regularly visits Blackwell Family Campground.
Location selection: Choose sites based on specific family needs. "Our camp site was #2. For the most part, all of the 30/50 amp sites are very similar. Can't really say one appears to be better than the rest. Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad," advises a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor.
Supplies planning: Weekend camping requires different preparation than weekday stays. "When we got here, we realize the electric sites on the right side of the bathhouse were in full sun, but the staff member graciously allowed us to switch sites to a more shaded area," shares a Camp Sullivan visitor, highlighting the importance of adaptability with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Water and sewer connections vary by campground. "No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet," explains a Camp Bullfrog Lake RV camper who had to adjust plans accordingly.
Site selection: Some campgrounds offer better RV accommodations than others. "Sites are ok. Very close together. Traffic from I-80 is loud. Staff is very nice. Cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen," reports a visitor to Martin's Camping Ground.
Dump station access: Plan for waste management needs in advance. "Two dump stations made wait minimal," notes an Indiana Dunes visitor, while another camper adds, "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us—we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves."
