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Best Campgrounds near Ringwood, IL

689 Reviews

Northern Illinois near Ringwood provides several camping options within a short drive, with Chain O' Lakes State Park serving as the primary destination. Located about 10 miles from Ringwood, this park features multiple campground loops including Fox Den, Turner Lake South, Prairie View, and Honeysuckle Hollow, each offering different experiences and amenities. The region sits near the Wisconsin-Illinois border, allowing campers to access additional options like Big Foot Beach State Park in Lake Geneva and Richard Bong State Recreation Area. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of hookups and services. County-managed areas like Thomas Woods Campground in Marengo and private options such as Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort in Volo round out the camping landscape.

Reservations are essential during peak summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. According to one camper who stayed at Turner Lake South, "This is a BIG park, the campgrounds are two miles from the front gate, and it's a drive to the main boat launch at Maple Grove." Many Illinois state parks enforce a no-alcohol policy, even at individual campsites. Gate closure times are strictly enforced—Chain O' Lakes gates close at 10 PM with tire shredders preventing late entry. Weather conditions include hot, humid summers when shade becomes valuable, and sites with tree cover are preferred. The camping season generally runs April through October, with some facilities closing water systems by late October.

Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds in the area. Turner Lake South receives praise for "nice and private sites," while Honeysuckle Hollow is described as "open and row after row of RV sites." Water activities dominate the recreational options, with Chain O' Lakes being "one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season." Fall visits offer a quieter experience with less crowding. Hiking trails throughout the region range from paved paths to natural surfaces, with many campers noting the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities. Facilities typically include a mix of flush toilets and pit toilets, with shower buildings centrally located between camping loops rather than within each individual campground.

Map showing campgrounds near Ringwood, IllinoisExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Ringwood, Illinois (75)

    1. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    14 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    7 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"

    "Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"

    2. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Lake Geneva, WI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 248-2528

    "Conveniently located next to Lake Geneva with a tiny roadside beach area. I recommend camping sites on the west side of the camping loop to cut down on sun. Not enough electric sites for campers."

    "Popular destination for locals and people from Illinois. 4 stars because it's not the camping in nature experience I am looking for. Lots of noise. Lots of kids. Lots of dogs."

    3. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    13 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    7 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."

    "You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly.

    But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"

    4. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    12 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "We can both drive to work and then come back to relax. Close to some great places for antiquing if you don't want to hike the trails or fish."

    "It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "

    5. Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    8 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    7 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "Prairie View campground is in the Chain O Lakes State Park series. This is the no services campground. We could walk to fill up with water but no electric on site. Checking in was interesting."

    "You could barely see the neighbors because of how overgrown the edges of the site were. We felt like we were in our own little bubble."

    6. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park

    66 Reviews
    Zion, IL
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 662-4811

    $25 / night

    "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!"

    7. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Round Lake, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 546-2228

    $43 - $73 / night

    "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water."

    "We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago."

    8. Mud Lake East — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    7 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    $12 / night

    "This State Park isn't too far off the beaten path which is nice. Fairly close to gas stations, convenience stores, etc. The park is clean, and has the bathrooms and utilities that would be needed."

    "There are numerous sites that are on a small lake with great sunset views. Sites are decent size but not much privacy in between sites. Lots of wooded trails within the campground."

    9. Thomas Woods Campground

    17 Reviews
    Marengo, IL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 338-6223

    $20 - $35 / night

    "While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here."

    "Most of the sites were right on the road and you’d need to position your car right for privacy. The tent sites are clumped pretty tight together with a couple exceptions."

    10. Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area

    23 Reviews
    Burlington, WI
    19 miles
    Website

    "I would recommend this for anyone for starting to step out of the comfort zone for the outdoors. very simple, many paths to walk, jog, or ride a bike. a small lake is near the further parking lot. dogs"

    "Had some cool amenities like the off road park and multiple fishing spots. Has a winery and cool dive bars all within 10 min. Only downside is all the noise from the road and the drag strip near by."

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Recent Camping Photos near Ringwood, IL

240 Photos of 75 Ringwood Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ringwood, IL

689 Reviews of 75 Ringwood Campgrounds

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Simple Campground

    With a small family to mind, while out enjoying a short weekend of camping, I appreciated Pilgrim’s Campground in Wisconsin for its quiet, family-oriented atmosphere that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby. While the campground doesn’t have the flashy resort-style amenities of some bigger parks, it makes up for it with well-kept facilities, a friendly, welcoming staff, and a slower pace that let us truly enjoy time together outdoors. My kids loved riding their bikes around the loops, roasting marshmallows at night and spotting wildlife along the nature trails, while I valued the sense of safety and the community feel among fellow campers. Conveniently located near local attractions yet peaceful enough to feel tucked away, Pilgrim’s offered the perfect balance of simplicity, comfort, and wholesome family camping.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lakeland Camping Resort

    Lakefront Fun

    As a mom, I found Lakeland RV Campground in Milton to be the kind of place where the whole family can truly unwind and have fun together. Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have an RV. The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends and I loved the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities. In the evenings, we enjoyed gathering around the campfire under the stars, and during the day we ventured onto the lake for kayaking and fishing, which felt like a little adventure just steps from our site. It was also nice knowing that if we wanted a change of pace, Milton and Janesville offered small-town charm and great dining and Madison wasn’t far for a day trip. My mom tips? Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake, and don’t worry if you forgot gear as nearby shops have you covered. Lakeland made it easy for me to relax while my kids had a blast, and that combination is what makes it such a special family getaway.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    Nostalgic Campground

    As a mom, I can honestly say that Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson is one of those rare campgrounds where the kids are entertained from morning till night and parents can actually relax a little too. The whole place feels designed with families in mind: colorful playgrounds, themed weekends, wagon rides, character visits from Yogi and Boo Boo, and a pool with splash zones that keep little ones happy for hours. Our campsite was clean and level, with options for full hookups or cozy cabins if you’d rather skip the RV, and the bathhouses were spotless, which is something I always look for. What I appreciated most was the balance: the kids could run from the jumping pillow to the mini golf course to the craft barn without ever getting bored, while my husband and I enjoyed sitting by the campfire or joining in on family activities like outdoor 'movies under the stars.' The campground store was well-stocked with snacks, s’mores supplies, and those 'oops, we forgot it' supplies, which saved us more than once. And while there’s plenty to do onsite, being near Lake Koshkonong and Fort Atkinson means you can easily slip away for a day of fishing, boating, or exploring. For me, the best part was watching my kids’ faces light up during the evening hayride, sticky with marshmallow, waving at Yogi like he was a celebrity that felt like the kind of wholesome, memory-making trip I hope they’ll look back on for years.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    Solid KOA Experience

    The Milton-Madison KOA is one of the larger campgrounds in the KOA network, offering over 200 sites with a mix of full hookups and water/electric-only hookups, along with a selection of pull-through and back-in options, gravel or concrete pads, and some upgraded patio sites. While primarily catering to RVs and fifth wheels, the campground also has about a dozen tent sites and half a dozen cabins. Amenities are extensive, ranging from an in-ground heated pool with a waterfall and two-story patio deck, hot tub, clubhouse, market store, snack shack, arcade, meeting and TV rooms, multiple restroom and shower facilities, laundromat and Wi-Fi, to a wide variety of recreation such as basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, baseball, disc golf, playgrounds, gaga ball, hayrack rides, barrel rides, train rides, and nature trails. Guests will also find a Kamp K9 dog area, golf cart and bike rentals, propane refill station, firewood, and plenty of seating throughout the grounds. Just minutes away, Lake Koshkonong offers excellent kayaking, canoeing and fishing. For dining, nearby Milton serves up hearty Midwestern fare, from Mary’s Café’s biscuits and gravy to Paul Revere’s homemade pies and the upscale Frederick’s Supper Club, known for its prime rib bites and Diablo pasta. Insider tips include enjoying the warm hospitality of the Riggio family hosts, taking a short drive to Madison for big-city attractions, noting that tent sites - though equipped with water and electric - feel basic and pricey, and being aware that cabin rentals also run higher than average. Thankfully, Milton’s local shops, grocery stores, and hardware options make resupplying convenient, rounding out a destination that’s both activity-packed and well-situated for Wisconsin adventures.  Overall, my family and I really enjoyed this place and would definitely come back!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Close to "home" beautiful sites

    We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to "home". We stay here a couple of times each year for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation.

  • K
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    Not communicable, fraud administration

    I reserved 5 nights, paid in full. After just one night, management cancelled my stay because my service dogs(Maltese) supposedly barked. I was fully cooperative, kept them quiet, and even documented this in emails. There was a stray cat near my RV that caused the issue, but instead of solving it, they forced me to leave. No refund for 4 nights. This is unfair, discriminatory, and against ADA law.

Guide to Ringwood

Camping near Ringwood, Illinois, offers a variety of outdoor experiences for families, RVers, and nature lovers alike. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the many trails available at Rock Cut State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "There are plenty of scenic photo opportunities especially during the fall season."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, you can kayak around the lake. A visitor shared, "We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Ottawa Lake noted, "You’ll hit the wild animal jackpot with easy viewing of white-tailed deer, red foxes, and more."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park said, "Staff were very friendly and helpful."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Ottawa Lake Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Blackwell Family Campground offer activities for kids. One parent noted, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol Policy: Some campgrounds, like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, have strict no alcohol rules. A camper mentioned, "This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. A visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake pointed out, "The bathrooms were horrible. Hot water for showers did not work."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground noted, "Always full on weekends. Popular destination for locals and people from Illinois."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Rock Cut State Park Campground, which has trails and a swimming pond. One family shared, "They have sites with electric and sites just for tents."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A camper at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground mentioned, "There’s a volleyball net and little playground too."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park said, "The bathrooms were old and wet, but the store at the beach side of the campground was nice."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake noted, "There is no water near any of the sites."
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, especially on weekends, arrive early. A visitor at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Ottawa Lake mentioned, "The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Don’t forget to check out local dining options. A camper at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area recommended, "In the nearby hamlet of Shabbona, there’s a few options, top of which I recommend Shabbona Café."

Camping near Ringwood, Illinois, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Ringwood, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ringwood, IL is Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park with a 3.9-star rating from 14 reviews.

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