McHenry camping options extend beyond traditional RV parks into seasonal and family-oriented resorts. Located in northeastern Illinois near the Fox River and Chain O'Lakes region, the area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with warm summers reaching into the 80s and cold winters with frequent snowfall. Spring camping often brings muddy conditions through May, while fall offers colorful foliage viewing from September through early November.
What to do
Water recreation access: Sycamore RV Resort features two fishing ponds and seasonal beach access. "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," notes a camper who appreciated the water amenities.
River fishing opportunities: Campers at Northwoods RV Resort can access the Kishwaukee River for fishing. "There is a very pretty river to fish," reports one visitor, though they also mention "the site is nice and grassy but there are a ton of bugs; mostly gnats."
Local exploration: When staying at sites near McHenry, Illinois, visitors can explore nearby towns. "If you're looking for a nice, different distraction that you wouldn't expect in these parts, let alone Wisconsin writ large, head on over to Timber Hill Winery, which is a family-run local vineyard featuring a fairly amazing tasting room," suggests one experienced camper.
What campers like
Heated pools: Blackhawk Camping Resort offers swimming options that campers appreciate. "Additional remodeling projects that have been completed are the brand new, in-ground heated pool, along with small kiddy pool and adjoining pool house complete with restroom and showers," notes one visitor.
Spacious sites: Many campers value room to spread out. At Paradise Camping Resorts, "The sites are pretty big. The campground is not congested at all. The people are very nice. Everyone waves to everyone," according to a recent visitor.
Convenient locations: Lakeland Camping Resort provides good access to nearby towns. "We came to this area to do some genealogical work and needed to be situated between Madison and Beloit. Good location for that," comments one visitor who appreciated the strategic location for day trips.
What you should know
Access challenges: Several RV sites near McHenry, Illinois have navigation issues. At Paradise Camping Resorts, visitors report it's "Hard to find (GPS takes you to a school parking lot, the campsite is behind it)."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate limited schedules. Thousand Trails Pine Country operates from "April 20 to October 15," with one visitor noting, "It is close to home and we start and finish the camping season here."
Variable site conditions: Site quality varies within the same campground. "Reliable full hookups. Very clean and well cared for property; especially the laundry and bathroom/shower areas. Postage stamp space on gravel but we had things to do outside the resort," reports a camper about their stay at Sycamore RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Check beach conditions: Water access may be limited. "We came here because they showed a water obstacle course on their website. When we got here, we were informed that their beach hasn't passed health tests for the past few years. So no obstacle course or beach area," warns a family visiting Northwoods RV Resort.
Look for planned activities: Some campgrounds offer organized family events. At Wisconsin State Fair RV Park, visitors appreciate the urban access. "Perfect campground for what it is! Big paved parking lot with full hookups. Very close to downtown, right off of interstate. Clean facilities. We were visiting family downtown and it was very convenient."
Consider noise factors: Sound levels affect family camping experiences. "The pot roads need service as they do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit," notes one camper, while another mentions "the constant ambient sounds of highway traffic which is about 1/2 mile away from route 90."
Tips from RVers
Water quality considerations: Water issues exist at some campgrounds. At Grass Lake Marina and RV Park, "We had water and 50amp, with a black water dump once or twice a week at your RV's site," reports one visitor, offering different services than many standard RV parks.
Road conditions: Internal campground roads vary in quality. "The campground has plenty of amenities to keep you busy with a beautiful lake you can walk to. They have a boat launch but we did not take our kayaks with us on this trip. We reserved a water/electric site and utilized the dump station on our way out," notes a visitor to Blackhawk Camping Resort.
Electric service differences: Power options vary between campgrounds. "We were on the main road and there was lots of traffic going back and forth which was surprising since there wasn't a lot of campers," noted one RVer about their stay, highlighting the unexpected activity levels even during slower periods.
