Big Rock Campground sits on open prairie land with young tree plantings throughout the preserve, about 40 miles west of Chicago. The campground features approximately 100 improved sites arranged in a field-like setting with minimal natural shade. Sites are mostly level and provide electrical and water hookups with a central dump station for RVs. While temperatures can reach the 90s during summer months, evening temperatures typically cool into the 60s.
What to do
Kayaking and water activities: At Camp Bullfrog Lake, visitors can rent kayaks for $15 per hour including life vests. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes Layla P. The lake provides a calm environment for beginners to practice paddling.
Fishing opportunities: Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area offers excellent fishing with boat rentals available. "The lake has produced a lot of trophy fish, if that's your thing. Otherwise it's quiet and peaceful," according to Scott C. The lake maintains a reputation for quality catches, making it a destination for anglers throughout the season.
Mountain biking trail access: Multi-use trails connect several dog friendly campgrounds near Montgomery. "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 Josh M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. The trail systems range from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging single track.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Blackwell Family Campground maintains well-kept shower buildings and outhouses. "The grounds are very well maintained. While the sites are pretty close together, there are a few good ones that feel more secluded. Designated chip bark tent sites are level," shares Marisa A. Regular maintenance keeps the bathrooms functional even during busy weekends.
Wide, level sites: "Our site was wooded which we loved. Neighbors all around but still secluded," writes Nikki O. about Shabbona Lake. Site designs throughout most campgrounds near Montgomery provide adequate space for standard camping setups and vehicle parking.
Family-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook offers structured activities for children. "Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day. RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay," explains Tori P. The Halloween weekends remain particularly popular for families with children.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most pet friendly campgrounds near Montgomery require advance booking during peak season. At Blackwell Family Campground, "County park district runs it and the fees are kinda steep, 20 res/30 non-res," notes John W. Reservations typically open 6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Limited shade coverage: Many sites lack mature trees. "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade," explains David W. about Big Rock Campground. Consider bringing additional shade structures during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Water hookup challenges: Water access points may require extra equipment. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises Rodney D. Some campers report needing over 100 feet of hose to reach water connections at certain sites.
Bathroom facilities vary: Facility quality differs between campgrounds. "The vault toilets are clean but smell like vault toilets at 95 degrees. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers," reports David W. about Paul Wolff Campground. Check facility descriptions before booking if showers are essential.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak visit timing: Consider weekday or spring/fall visits to avoid crowds. "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," suggests Josh M. Weekday camping typically offers more site availability and quieter conditions.
Site selection strategy: Corner sites generally provide more space and privacy. "Site 20 is turf and nicely secluded. Most of the sites are partial shade," mentions John W. Sites along outer loops typically offer more buffer space from neighboring campers.
Nature programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities. "New facility that is quiet and peaceful. Surrounded by trees and open prairie. Often used by local youth groups for hiking and scouting," explains Ellen S. about Big Rock Forest Preserve. Scheduled programs typically run weekends during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Dumping station timing: Plan dump station use strategically. "Took about 45 min for us to dump being 5th in line at 10:30am," reports Kim L. about Starved Rock Campground. Early morning or late afternoon typically sees shorter wait times at most area dump stations.
Electrical hookup details: Most sites offer 50-amp service rather than 30-amp. "There is electric at the sites and water spigots throughout, although not really at each space. I saw where some campers hooked about 150' of hose to spigots behind the loops to run to their campers," notes Jeff G. Bring adapters if your equipment requires 30-amp service.
Pad dimensions: "Sites seem to be mostly level. Wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers," explains Amanda K. Most pads accommodate standard-sized RVs with slides, though larger rigs may find limited options at older facilities.
