Camp Bullfrog Lake and Camp Sullivan offer upscale glamping accommodations near Melrose Park, within Cook County Forest Preserves. Located in northeastern Illinois where the Des Plaines River flows through, the region has an elevation of approximately 620 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate that includes four distinct seasons. Winters often drop below freezing with snow from November through March, while summers reach average highs of 85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Kayaking on small lakes: At Camp Bullfrog Lake, visitors can rent kayaks for $15 per hour with life vests included. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes camper Layla P.
Mountain biking on singletrack: The trails surrounding Camp Bullfrog Lake offer some of the region's best cycling terrain. "Some of the areas best mountain bike single track is right here. There is fishing kayaking and hiking trails too," shares reviewer geoff.
Horseback riding: Chain O' Lakes State Park features dedicated horse trails that connect to its camping areas. "There are horse/ snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground," explains Brian O., who notes that the park offers diverse activities beyond just water recreation.
Three Dune Challenge: Indiana Dunes State Park offers a popular hiking route for those seeking moderate exercise. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," suggests Greg S.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathrooms: Dunewood Campground gets high marks for its well-maintained facilities. "The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers... The shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus," notes Veronica S.
Convenience to Chicago: Campers appreciate the proximity to the city while still feeling removed. "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," explains Josh M., highlighting Camp Bullfrog Lake's accessibility.
Multiple playgrounds: Honeysuckle Hollow offers family-friendly amenities throughout the camping areas. "Multiple playgrounds, access to launch sites for kayaks, little store to buy ice cream or snacks," writes reviewer Meg.
Private, wooded sites: Fox Den Campground provides better spacing between campsites than many alternatives. "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 Ian C.
What you should know
Wildlife interactions: Be prepared for raccoons and insects at certain campgrounds. At Honeysuckle Hollow, "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," warns Meg. Another camper cautions about "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks."
Noise considerations: Turner Lake South and other nearby campgrounds may experience train noise. "An odd thing is that you can hear a Steam Train whistle quite often, this is from Richardson's Adventure Farm in Spring Grove," explains Brian O.
Site variations: Indiana Dunes State Park has significant differences between site locations. "The best sites are the ones on the outside from the beach trail to the nature center. These are up against the dunes and have some shade. The middle sites are more exposed and much less private," advises Greg S.
Gate closures: Some state parks have strict access policies. "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark," notes reviewer Brian O.
Tips for camping with families
Glamping options: For families new to camping near Melrose Park, Illinois, cabin options provide comfort with outdoor access. At Camp Sullivan, "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern. The campsites are well kept as are the grounds. There are trails to walk. There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," reports Shane S.
Screen houses recommended: For sites with insect concerns, bring additional shelter. "Our screen house pop up on a tarp that was sprayed ahead for tick repellent plus a blanket on top of that did the trick, but they literally fall out of the trees into people," advises Meg about Honeysuckle Hollow.
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Some locations specifically cater to families with young children. "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," reports Leo V. about Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
Lake activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming and water play options for children. "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms (no hot water in the showers) right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids," adds Chloe N.
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: At Chicago Northwest KOA, "It's on the smaller side and the RV sites are a little close together but they have it set up where your RVs doors open on opposite sides so it gives a little privacy," explains Michelle J.
Hookup limitations: Many area campgrounds offer only partial hookups. At Indiana Dunes State Park, "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," shares Greg S.
Shared utilities: Be aware of utility placement at some campgrounds. "These sites share an electric box. Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. A lot of the spaces are also crowded together. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance," advises Debra M. about Honeysuckle Hollow.
