Camping near Mount Prospect offers options in Cook County forest preserves and state parks within a 40-mile radius. The area features lowland forest ecosystems with elevations ranging between 650-750 feet above sea level. Summer camping temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall drop to 45-65°F with higher precipitation rates.
What to do
Kayaking at Chain O' Lakes State Park: Access seven connected lakes via small tributaries from the Fox Den Campground area. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill. Also it is 30 miles from Shipshawana where the Amish have a flea market and auction (Tuesdays & Wednesday)," notes a visitor to Fox Den Campground.
Mountain biking on single track: Camp Bullfrog Lake connects directly to extensive trail systems. "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," shares a reviewer at Camp Bullfrog Lake. The single track is considered some of the best in the region.
Fishing at multiple locations: Fish Lake Beach offers stocked ponds and lake access for anglers. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The lake is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there," according to a camper at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Camp Reinberg maintains exceptionally well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Seriously the cleanest I've ever seen, even the ceilings were cleaned! This makes it very convenient to refill," notes a visitor at Camp Reinberg.
Trail access: Blackwell Family Campground offers direct connectivity to larger trail networks. "The grounds include a lake for boating, hiking trails, and bike paths. There is also an archery range, and some ranger programs. Very nice," shares one camper about their experience at Blackwell Family Campground.
Affordability: Non-electric sites at Turner Lake South cost as little as $12 per night. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner," notes a budget-conscious camper at Turner Lake South.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking from May to September. "Full hook-ups fill up fast with no spur-of-the-moment camping unless it is early or late in the season," according to experienced campers.
Gate closure times: Many campgrounds restrict late entry with physical barriers. "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark," warns a camper at Turner Lake South Camping Area.
Pest management: Summer brings significant insect pressure at most locations. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," advises a family at Honeysuckle Hollow. Ticks can literally fall from trees in some camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom locations: Check facility placements when booking sites. "In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60 & 61," notes a detailed review that helps families plan bathroom trips.
Activity planning: Paul Wolff Campground offers gentle hiking for all ages. "As a Troop we would rent one of the cabins for late season campouts. Clean facilities but the nice part is the scenic hiking for being close to town. Gentle hills and beautiful color. Always see turkey and other small game so great for Scout skills and badges," shares a leader from Paul Wolff Campground.
Food storage protocols: Wildlife management is crucial with children. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. So basically, eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down," warns a family camping at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Electric sites often lack corresponding water connections. "The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience for you and them. But they do it with a good attitude," explains an RV camper at Camp Reinberg.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site dimensions when booking. "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad. 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," advises an RV owner at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping offers more availability and privacy. "We prefer more brush/trees between sites so this campground was just ok with us. We would come back to Fox Den if other campgrounds were filled up. However reservations would be important to make first," notes a seasonal camper at Fox Den Campground.
