Tent camping options near McHenry, Illinois range from primitive forest preserve sites to lakefront campgrounds across the Illinois-Wisconsin border. Located in the Fox River watershed, this region features mixed woodland and prairie terrain with elevations ranging between 700-850 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler temperatures with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access: MacQueen Forest Preserve offers direct river access for anglers along the Kishwaukee River. Marcus D. notes, "I don't have a lot of experience with fishing, but the places with access to the river were not good locations for fishing." Consider exploring Snug Harbor Inn Campground instead, where James W. mentions, "Nice Bar/Restaurant on site. Met 2 nice couples which helped with any questions. The view was nice overlooking Turtle lake."
Water recreation: Rent boats at Snug Harbor for time on Turtle Lake. Alix M. shares, "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!" Some campers at MacQueen Forest Preserve even create their own water adventures, as one reviewer observed: "Some fellow campers were doing a diy tubing right to the campground. About a 2 hr lazy river tube from Kingston or 5hrs from Genoa on the slow moving S. Branch of the Kishwaukee River."
Stargazing opportunities: The meadow campsites at MacQueen Forest Preserve provide excellent night sky viewing. Amy G. describes, "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing! There's also a giant fire pit with benches."
What campers like
Site privacy: Tent campers appreciate the spacious layout at MacQueen Forest Preserve. Amy G. reports, "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you, and they all have a picnic table and a fire ring."
Budget-friendly options: Self-service check-in and minimal amenities keep costs low at primitive campgrounds. Marcus D. says about KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site, "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside." At MacQueen, Amy G. notes, "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4."
Waterfront views: Several campgrounds offer scenic water views. At Snug Harbor, Josh F. observes, "The tent sites are above it all with decent views of the lake below. The Galapagos tent campsite is elevated and a short distance from the loop road, and has a nice view of the lake." For river views, Nick C. recommends MacQueen's site #8: "By far the best spot on the grounds. Great remote location overlooking the river."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise at night. Amy G. warns, "If you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground."
Gear transport requirements: Walk-in sites require planning for equipment transportation. At Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area, campers should bring lightweight gear or transport assistance for the hike-in sites. At MacQueen, Marisa A. advises, "Make sure you bring yours or are outfitted with backpacking gear. Like anywhere, prevent insect deforestation and don't bring firewood."
Water availability limitations: Many primitive campgrounds lack potable water. Amy G. cautions about MacQueen, "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable." Bring sufficient drinking water for your stay, especially during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for groups: At MacQueen Forest Preserve, specific sites work well for families camping together. Nick C. advises, "Spots are pretty spread out. Only sites 1,2,8 are forested the rest are around a large open field." Josh F. notes about Snug Harbor, "Snapper 4, 5, 6 and 7 would be nice for group camping because they are all very close to one another and a bit more private, set away from the rest of the campsites."
Facilities assessment: Check bathroom conditions before booking with children. At Kishwaukee Valley Farms, basic facilities mean families should prepare accordingly. Darshon J. observed at MacQueen: "Well maintained bathrooms, great secluded sites. Super easy no registration its first come first serve. I will be going again with my family."
Weather considerations: Weather can change quickly in this region. Nick C. shares about winter camping: "Great time minus the winter squall that rolled threw our first night." Carole X. at Snug Harbor adds, "Will come back again, hopefully no rain next time!"
Tips from RVers
Terraced campground navigation: Snug Harbor features a unique multi-level layout. Josh F. explains, "The property is basically terraced along a slope down to the lake, with the RV and mobile home sites closer to the lake. The tent sites are above it all with decent views of the lake below." This design offers everyone lake views but requires navigating slopes.
Hookup availability: Jeffrey S. who visited Snug Harbor during a busy weekend reports, "Great campground. Full weekend but very quiet and relaxing. Staff very nice." For first-time RVers, James W. shares, "Wanted someplace close to home. Familiar with the Delavan area so was excited to find Snug Harbor. Set up went well, didn't blow anything up! Yea! Staff was great, helped me back in."
