RV camping near Merrionette Park, Illinois offers access to both natural environments and Chicago-area attractions within a one-hour drive radius. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with only a few remaining open year-round. The area features diverse camping experiences ranging from lakeside settings to campgrounds with access to extensive trail systems.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides direct access to miles of mountain biking and hiking trails. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," explains one reviewer who lives nearby and takes "midweek camping trips to break up the work week."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Alexander RV Park offers fishing on their 120-acre property along the Kankakee River. "Lake Alexander RV Park is a quiet, spacious, family owned and operated campground located near Momence, Illinois, within a 1-hour drive of Chicago. The camp is 120 acres of natural beauty on the banks of the Kankakee River," notes one camper.
Water activities: Kayaking is available at several campgrounds, including Camp Bullfrog Lake where rentals are available. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares a recent visitor who appreciated the activity despite the lake's modest size.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering," notes one camper who stayed at site 27. The review continues, "You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open."
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to Chicago, many campgrounds offer peaceful settings. A visitor to Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort reported, "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" giving the property a five-star rating for its well-maintained facilities.
Recreation options: Multiple activities are available at Fox Bluff Cottages & RV. One long-term visitor explains, "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful... I love the view of the river. There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails."
What you should know
Price variations: Costs range significantly among Merrionette Park area campgrounds. Lake Alexander RV Park's published rates show "RV Overnight (includes electric and water) at $38 (30-amp electric service) or $42 (50-amp electric service)" while tent sites run "$32 (no electric) or $35 (including electric)."
Limited winter options: Most campgrounds close seasonally. Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park operates from "Apr 1 to Oct 21" according to their listing information, making advance planning essential for off-season travelers.
Security features: Several campgrounds implement security measures. Love's RV Stop-Demotte features controlled access, as one reviewer notes: "It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific facilities for children. A camper at Love's RV Stop-Demotte mentions the property has "basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids."
Consider cabins for mixed accommodations: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers alternatives to tent camping. "There are small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," shares a visitor who appreciated this option during a chilly April stay.
Check campground noise levels: Some locations may be noisier than others. A Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor noted, "It did get a little noisy at night but that sometimes happens," while another camper at the same location described it as "very quiet" with "super friendly staff and neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: RVers should verify electrical service compatibility. A visitor to Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859 reported: "The only complaint I had is the site we were at showed a ground fault on the 50amp Circuit so I had to use the 30 amp circuit but it's Nov so no need to run dual ACs minor issue."
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. Regarding Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground, one camper advised: "Level sites, full hook-ups. Not far from Chicagoland Speedway. Located right on US45-US52. Lots of truck traffic stopping at the intersection makes lots of noise at night."
Seasonal water availability: Water access varies throughout the year. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, one camper noted "No water before 4/15" in their review title, indicating important seasonal limitations that RVers should prepare for.
