Camping near Monee, Illinois offers a mix of primitive and developed options within an hour's drive of Chicago. The region features primarily flat terrain with some wooded areas along rivers and lakes that provide fishing and water recreation opportunities. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with summer temperatures reaching the 90s and occasional severe thunderstorms making spring and fall more comfortable for outdoor activities.
What to do
Climbing and exploring rock formations: At Kankakee River State Park, visitors can find natural rock cliffs suspended over the river and creek. "There are some rock cliffs that are suspended over the Kankakee river and also over a creek that feeds it. These are great for climbing and scaling. Additionally, there are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads," notes Andrea F.
Feeding wildlife at nature centers: Some campgrounds maintain small educational facilities where children can interact with animals. At Camp Sullivan, the main office/nature center provides reptile encounters. "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" shares Linda N.
Canoeing and kayaking on small lakes: Several campgrounds offer equipment rentals for water recreation. Camp Bullfrog Lake provides kayak rentals with safety equipment. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," reports Layla P.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Despite being close to urban areas, some campgrounds offer secluded spots. "Spacious sites with lush jungle-like greenery grown in between, which provides perfect privacy. Easy access to water pump," explains Yang L. about Potowatomi Campground.
Proximity to Chicago: Many campers appreciate the short drive from the city. "Just beautiful piece full with nature," says Gina A. about Camp Bullfrog Lake, which is located less than an hour from downtown Chicago. The convenience allows for quick weekend trips without extensive travel time.
Clean, modern facilities: Several campgrounds have updated their amenities in recent years. At Camp Sullivan, "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern. The campsites are well kept as are the grounds," according to Shane S. This makes camping accessible for those who prefer basic comforts while enjoying outdoor experiences.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway and train noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those closest to major roads. At Dunewood Campground, visitors report "Could hear Trains throughout the night," though they still appreciate the "great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink."
Limited shade at newer sites: Some recently developed campgrounds haven't established mature tree cover. Camp Bullfrog Lake visitors note this issue: "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small," shares Tim K., who still rated the campground positively overall.
Variable water quality: Some campgrounds have challenges with water systems. At Enchanted Shores RV Park, visitors report "The stinkest water we've ever smelled, horrible!!!" This makes bringing drinking water essential for some locations despite having hookups available.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity barns and facilities: Campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas provide rainy day options. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall. There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," mentions Shane S. about Camp Sullivan.
Check site sizes carefully: Site dimensions vary significantly even within the same campground. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, "The first time I was in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade," shares Layla P. Request specific site numbers when making reservations.
Ask about gate policies: Some campgrounds restrict overnight access, which can be problematic. One Camp Sullivan visitor reported: "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting. What if there was an emergency?"
Tips from RVers
Water and electric limitations: Check hookup availability before booking. At Martin's Camping Ground, "Sewer connection at our site was technically on neighbors…we had to use extension," reports Beth B. Some sites require adapters or extensions to reach hookups properly.
Site leveling challenges: The supposedly flat Illinois terrain still has uneven campgrounds. "Spaces are small, muddy, and un level," notes Beth B. about Martin's Camping Ground. Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended for RVs and trailers at most locations.
Seasonal operation dates: Most RV parks near Monee close during winter months. At Lake Alexander RV Park, operation dates run "from April 15 to October 15" with rates of "$38 (30-amp electric service)" and "$42 (50-amp electric service)" according to visitor reports. Make reservations several weeks in advance during peak summer months.
