Best Campgrounds near Montgomery, IL

Montgomery, Illinois and the surrounding area feature a mix of established campgrounds and RV parks within an hour's drive of the city. Blackwell Family Campground in Warrenville offers both tent and RV camping with electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities, while Big Rock Campground provides year-round camping with similar amenities but no showers. Several campgrounds in the region accommodate multiple camping styles, with Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs standing out for its diverse options including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations.

Reservations are strongly recommended for most developed campgrounds in the area, particularly during the peak season from May through September. Many campgrounds like Blackwell Family Campground operate seasonally, typically closing in late fall and reopening in spring. The terrain throughout the region is generally flat and accessible, with most campgrounds featuring level sites suitable for both tents and RVs. Weather conditions can vary significantly, with hot, humid summers and cold winters that limit camping opportunities at some locations. Facilities at many sites include electric hookups, water access, and dump stations, though amenities vary by location. As one visitor noted about Big Rock Campground, "No shade, and no showers. This is a relatively new campground not too far (about an hour drive) from Chicago... sites looked large and level. There was water and electric and a dump station at the entrance/exit."

Campers consistently mention the proximity to Chicago as a key advantage of the Montgomery area campgrounds. Blackwell Family Campground receives positive reviews for its accessibility, with one visitor describing it as a "hidden gem" that offers "discounted rates for Dupage county residents and great prices for firewood." Sites are typically described as level and clean with modern bathrooms. Several campgrounds in the area feature lakes or ponds for fishing and kayaking, adding recreational value to the camping experience. While some locations like Big Rock Campground lack shade, others provide more wooded settings. The region's campgrounds generally offer good value for those seeking outdoor experiences without traveling far from urban areas, making them popular weekend destinations for Chicago residents.

Best Camping Sites Near Montgomery, Illinois (90)

    1. Big Rock Campground

    18 Reviews
    Big Rock, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 232-5980

    $18 - $35 / night

    "Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi"

    "Open campground with nearly zero tree. We had a great campfire but didn’t take advantage of the whole park to explore. She wants to again this year but we will spend more time hiking."

    2. Blackwell Family Campground

    22 Reviews
    Warrenville, IL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 933-7248

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home."

    "I always loved going to the parks in Illinois with my grandparents when I was little. They love hiking and nature and definitely got me interested in it also. I love them and miss them everyday."

    3. Camp Bullfrog Lake

    30 Reviews
    Willow Springs, IL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-9785

    $20 - $138 / night

    "Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life.

    Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."

    "What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."

    4. Fox Bluff CottageS & RV

    2 Reviews
    Yorkville, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 553-6323

    $65 - $95 / night

    "There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails."

    "The location requires a 2 night stay minimum."

    5. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook

    6 Reviews
    Newark, IL
    13 miles
    Website

    "This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest! We will continue to go there for as long as we live in this area."

    6. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Shabbona, IL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 824-2565

    $25 / night

    "If you find yourself out in these parts near Shabbona in north central Illinois it is because of either one of two reasons - you are incredibly lost and stumbled across this hidden natural preserve gem"

    "All within easy walking distance to the lake. Camp store and two boat rental spots allow for flexiblity on busier weekends."

    7. Paul Wolff Campground

    20 Reviews
    Elgin, IL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 444-1200

    $12 - $35 / night

    "Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."

    "The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."

    8. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    99 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 667-4726

    $25 - $35 / night

    "Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn’t expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area, similar to northern Wisconsin!"

    "Beautiful Starved Rock is Illinois's favorite state park. Hiking through forests along the Illinois River to canyons and waterfalls with eagles soaring overhead."

    9. Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Rockdale, IL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 744-9400

    "Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot. Pet-friendly. Pleasant park with good pad. Near busy road and shipping plant."

    "Nice safe location. Flat, pretty large spots..picnic tables."

    10. Martin Campground

    2 Reviews
    Shorewood, IL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 726-3173

    $25 - $45 / night

    "We just purchased our first Winnebago and needed a spot close to home for a quick trial run. We have three small boys and they were very excited to camp."

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Recent Reviews near Montgomery, IL

580 Reviews of 90 Montgomery Campgrounds


  • Jessica T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Starved Rock Family Campground

    Nice little campsite!

    Well maintained and large campground. Sites aren’t stacked on top of each other and seem fairly level. I will say the grounds by our site seemed to have a fly/other sewer fly problem in the ground? I don’t know. Seemed to need a treatment of some sort. L7 is more in a wide open area so if you want more trees, book more in the middle of the campground. Bathrooms are well maintained and cleaned. Laundry facility easy. Bummed our trip got cut short by a RV maintenance issue.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Great camping spot

    This is my second time staying at 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.

    The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch to photos for me of me kayaking. The other guy seemed mad to be alive lol.

    The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around.

    Unfortunately the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames—my other two neighbors had the same issue.

    Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked.

    Overall I’d definitely stay here again.

  • K
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    Not communicable, fraud administration

    I reserved 5 nights, paid in full. After just one night, management cancelled my stay because my service dogs(Maltese) supposedly barked. I was fully cooperative, kept them quiet, and even documented this in emails. There was a stray cat near my RV that caused the issue, but instead of solving it, they forced me to leave. No refund for 4 nights. This is unfair, discriminatory, and against ADA law.

  • Kevin B.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Camp Sullivan

    Enjoyed the camping experience

    Nice and clean areas, staff was very professional and helpful while I was there

  • Tim L.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Chicago Northwest KOA

    Chill Vibes, quick get away from the city

    Far enough from the city lights, close enough to civilization. Cozy, small park with friendly staff and plenty of amenities. You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!

  • D
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Big Rock Campground

    Needs some shade

    This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade.

    The flush toilet building was very clean, but there was no TP in the ladies' room. And I have to wonder why you would build a new campground without showers?

    It is very close to the cities so we will stay here again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Camp Shabbona Woods

    Not the best but acceptable

    Stayed the weekend. Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can’t keep your vehicle close to your campsite. The good the bathroom are in good shape and the staff was friendly.


Guide to Montgomery

Camping near Montgomery, IL, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking and Exploring: Many campgrounds, like Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park, have extensive trails. One visitor shared, "I spent hours hiking the more than 13 miles of trails, which offer access to beautiful waterfalls."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A camper noted, "We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Rock Cut State Park Campground are great for spotting local wildlife. One reviewer mentioned, "You’ll hit the wild animal jackpot with easy viewing of white-tailed deer, red foxes, and more."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful landscapes. A visitor at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park said, "The campground itself was very nice with good size sites and lots of room."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have welcoming hosts. A reviewer at Illinois Rock Cut State Park mentioned, "The staff were very friendly and helpful."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. One camper at Pleasant Creek Campground noted, "The bathrooms were clean and well maintained."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake pointed out, "The bathrooms being horrible. Hot water for showers did not work."
  • Noise Levels: Campgrounds near busy roads can be noisy. A camper at Blackwell Family Campground said, "You can hear cars passing by throughout the night."
  • Crowded Weekends: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly on weekends. A reviewer at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "Always full on weekends. Popular destination for locals."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One parent at Illinois Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park said, "Staff were very friendly and helpful."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Make sure to respect quiet hours, especially with kids. A camper at Illinois Illini State Park noted, "The quiet hours and no alcohol policy are not enforced at all."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A visitor at Starved Rock Campground mentioned, "We had a blast. It is deep enough in the forest preserve to feel like camping."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Rock Cut State Park Campground said, "The park was old and not updated."
  • Arrive Early: Get to the campground early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Pleasant Creek Campground noted, "If you want to meet new folks, stay here."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of nearby parks and attractions. A camper at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "We had breakfast at Shabbona Cafe in town, and we received a great portion."

Camping around Montgomery, IL, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for you to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Montgomery, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Montgomery, IL is Big Rock Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 18 reviews.