Glamping options close to McHenry, Illinois typically operate from May through October when temperatures average 70-85°F during summer months. The region's terrain features glacial moraines with elevations ranging from 700-900 feet, creating distinctive lake formations. Most glamping sites require reservations 3-6 months in advance and implement strict quiet hours starting at 10 PM.
What to do
Kayak chain-connected waterways: Fox Den Campground offers easy access to the seven connected lakes system where visitors can spend multiple days exploring different waterways. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill," notes one Fox Den visitor who accessed the boat launch within the park.
Fish from lakefront sites: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers dedicated lakefront tent sites where fishing can be done directly from your camping area. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there," reports a camper who appreciated the convenience.
Hike quieter trails: While the main trails get busy, Turner Lake South Campground offers access to less-traveled paths. "Halfway there you'll meet up with the Goldfinch trail which is the shortest loop and the most diverse in term of flora," explains a visitor who found this trail particularly rewarding during October visits when summer crowds had dispersed.
What campers like
Multiple bathroom options: Ottawa Lake Campground offers both modern facilities and rustic options throughout the camping areas. "Shower house #2 was clean although a bit older (paint was peeling off the walls due to humidity) but the water pressure was fine and as hot as I needed it to be," mentions one camper who appreciated the infrastructure despite its age.
Privacy levels: At Fox Den, campsites offer more seclusion than other nearby glamping options. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers," reports a reviewer who found their site "protected on 3 sides by some fairly dens foliage and trees."
Camp store convenience: Turner Lake South Campground maintains a well-stocked store at the Maple Grove area with essentials for glampers without full supplies. "This location has a huge parking lot for boat trailers, a very well stocked general store with fishing supplies, a cafe, boat rentals and good firewood," notes a camper who found the amenities particularly useful during their stay.
What you should know
Site selection matters: When booking at Honeysuckle Hollow, choose carefully as electrical access varies significantly. "These sites share an electric box. Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance," advises a visitor who initially booked site 96 but "could not extend our slide because of large trees on either side of the pad and then the electric was about 50 feet away."
Wildlife considerations: Ticks and raccoons require specific preparations at Chain O'Lakes sites. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warns one visitor, while another notes "the raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched."
Water entry challenges: Launching personal watercraft can be tricky at some glamping locations. "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy," cautions a visitor to Turner Lake South who still enjoyed clear water where "you could see the fish swim by."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking at Thomas Woods Campground, select sites based on amenities for children. "We stayed at site 4 which is electric hookup and it was a huge area! The kids had so much space to run around and explore. They loved the well pump," shares a family of five who found the open space particularly valuable for their first camping experience.
Budget options: Turner Lake South offers primitive sites at significant savings. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night," reports a visitor who appreciated the affordable option for families watching costs.
Child-centered amenities: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort structures its entire operation around family experiences. "Very child friendly campground. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!" notes a parent who found the setup particularly accommodating for their needs.
Tips from RVers
Electric access: At Chicago Northwest KOA, be aware of hookup limitations despite the upscale glamping reputation. "This KOA has very limited full hook up sites. We paid for the deluxe patio site, which had no sewer. Site was not level but it had a lot of shade which was nice," reports an RVer who appreciated the amenities despite these constraints.
Spacing considerations: Fox Den offers better RV site spacing than neighboring campgrounds. "Our site was very shaded and quiet at night. The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition," notes an RVer who found the campground particularly well-maintained compared to other options in the area.
Seasonal timing: For RVers seeking quieter glamping experiences, midweek visits provide significant advantages. "We stayed here for a week over the summer in 2021. The campground was really busy during the weekend, but cleared out Sunday and we nearly had the whole loop to ourselves during the week," shares an RVer who appreciated the dramatic difference in crowding levels.
