The forested areas surrounding Mokena, Illinois provide camping options primarily in county forest preserves and riverside locations, with elevations around 700 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate conditions with temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Noise from nearby highways and industrial areas can be a factor at certain campgrounds, particularly those closest to the Chicago suburbs.
What to do
Kayak on Silver Lake: Located at Blackwell Family Campground, visitors can enjoy water activities from May through September. "We take our kayaks to the lake during the summer," noted one visitor, while another mentions "We saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk."
Mountain biking on forest trails: The trail system near Camp Bullfrog Lake offers extensive single-track routes for cyclists of various skill levels. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day," according to a reviewer who discovered the extensive trail network.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access in lakes and rivers. "The fishing is outstanding. There are lots of places along the lake and ponds to get an easy catch and release," reports a Blackwell visitor. Many campgrounds rent fishing equipment or have designated fishing areas within walking distance of campsites.
What campers like
Cabin camping options: For those seeking alternatives to tent or RV camping, Camp Sullivan offers cabin rentals with modern amenities. "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern. There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," notes one camper about the accommodations.
Proximity to Chicago: Most campgrounds are within 30-60 minutes of downtown, making them popular for weekend getaways. As one Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort visitor puts it: "We pulled in late & left early!! Did laundry....so quiet we slept hard! Nice safe location. Flat, pretty large spots..picnic tables."
Clean facilities: Many reviewers emphasize the well-maintained bathhouses and shower facilities available. "Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked," notes a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor. Another camper at Potowatomi Campground shared, "Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice."
What you should know
Limited shade at some locations: Several campgrounds lack mature trees, which affects comfort during hot summer days. "The sites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," reports one Camp Sullivan visitor, while another notes "I am directly in the sun in my spot. There is trash in it as well."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Reserve sites 3-6 months in advance for peak season dates.
Campfire restrictions: Some facilities like Martin's Camping Ground prohibit open fires due to proximity to urban areas. "Sites are ok. Very close together. Traffic from I-80 is loud," noted one reviewer who stayed there.
Water quality concerns: At some locations, water may not be potable or has quality issues. One camper reported installing "a five-stage filtration system just to make it usable" at their seasonal site due to poor water quality that even caused stomach issues for their pet.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive nature programs: Dunewood Campground offers ranger-led activities throughout summer weekends. "Management was very attentive to making sure the campground was quiet and calm," notes a visitor, while others mention the educational opportunities at nearby nature centers.
Kid-friendly campsite selection: Opt for sites near playground areas but away from main roads. "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. Two were very small (14&15), and little grass for tent setup, fine for RV or trailer campers. They were private with brush between sites. 16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade," advised a Potowatomi Campground visitor.
Pack for variable weather: The Chicago region experiences significant temperature swings, even in summer months. Bring layers and prepare for both hot days and cool evenings during spring and fall camping trips.
Check activity schedules: Many campgrounds offer weekend programs specifically for children. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," notes a Camp Sullivan reviewer, highlighting additional entertainment options beyond standard outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Electricity availability: Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp options. "For the most part, all of the 30/50 amp sites are very similar. Can't really say one appears to be better than the rest. Sites #4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad," notes a Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks, especially at forest preserve campgrounds. Come prepared with leveling equipment as terrain can be uneven at many locations.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with water hookups have sewer connections at individual sites. "Sewer connection at our site was technically on neighbors...we had to use extension," reported one RVer, highlighting the sometimes awkward utility placements.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds. "It's just outside of Chicago and it feels like it. I kept looking for the hot dog vendor, paddle swans and a bowling pin juggling mime," remarked one Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor about the urban-adjacent camping experience.
