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Best Campgrounds near North Aurora, IL

606 Reviews

Campgrounds surrounding North Aurora, Illinois offer a mix of family-friendly developed sites and woodland experiences within an hour's drive of the city. Blackwell Family Campground in Warrenville provides tent and RV camping with electric hookups and water access, while Big Rock Campground offers year-round camping opportunities approximately 20 miles southwest of North Aurora. Established sites typically feature amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and electric hookups, with several locations including Paul Wolff Campground and Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area providing dedicated RV sites with 50-amp service alongside traditional tent camping areas.

Most campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during the peak summer season from May through September. "Just what my wife and I were looking for. Quiet campground not far off the highway! Didn't expect this kind of camping in Illinois! Nicely wooded and picturesque area," noted one camper about Starved Rock State Park. Weather conditions remain relatively consistent across the area with humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall popular camping seasons. Many sites close or reduce services during winter months, though Big Rock Campground maintains year-round operation. Campgrounds near North Aurora generally feature level terrain with paved roads, making them accessible for large RVs and trailers, though several reviews mention limited privacy between sites at locations like Big Rock Campground.

Campers consistently highlight the surprising amount of natural beauty available despite the proximity to Chicago's urban environment. Sites with water access, such as Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, receive particular praise for fishing opportunities. "Wooded sites with a fire ring, picnic table, water and electric hook-ups" make Shabbona Lake a popular destination according to reviewers. Forest preserves like Blackwell feature shaded sites that provide relief during hot summer months. Campgrounds in the region typically maintain modern restroom facilities and showers, though amenities vary by location. Mixed-use facilities serving both tent campers and RVs predominate, with several locations like Camp Bullfrog Lake also offering cabin rentals for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping. Limited primitive camping exists in the area, with most sites offering at least basic amenities and established camping pads.

Map showing campgrounds near North Aurora, IllinoisExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near North Aurora, Illinois (92)

    1. Blackwell Family Campground

    22 Reviews
    Warrenville, IL
    9 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."

    2. 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."

    3. Paul Wolff Campground

    20 Reviews
    Elgin, IL
    18 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."

    4. Camp Bullfrog Lake

    30 Reviews
    Willow Springs, IL
    24 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."

    5. 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."

    6. Fox Bluff CottageS & RV

    2 Reviews
    Yorkville, IL
    12 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."

    7. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook

    6 Reviews
    Newark, IL
    18 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."

    8. Sycamore RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Sycamore, IL
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 895-5590

    "Postage stamp space on gravel but we had things to do outside the resort. Nice walking path around the two ponds. The ponds are very low due to drought this summer."

    "Stayed here for a week, nice clean campground, quiet and beautiful lake for fishing, close to town, but yet just far enough out."

    9. Starved Rock Campground — Starved Rock State Park

    99 Reviews
    North Utica, IL
    47 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."

    10. Camp Reinberg

    12 Reviews
    Palatine, IL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-9750

    $45 - $60 / night

    "Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."

    "tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"

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Recent Camping Photos near North Aurora, IL

222 Photos of 92 North Aurora Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near North Aurora, IL

606 Reviews of 92 North Aurora 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 North Aurora

Camping near North Aurora, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the stunning landscapes at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park. A visitor remarked, "The campground itself was very nice with good size sites and lots of room."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment at Pleasant Creek Campground. One camper said, "Wife and I had a wonderful time to ourselves."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Blackwell Family Campground offers activities for kids. A parent mentioned, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Illinois Rock Cut State Park, have outdated facilities. A camper noted, "The electricity wasn't working... the park was old and not updated."
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect busy weekends at popular spots like Big Foot Beach State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Always full on weekends. Popular destination for locals."
  • No Alcohol Policies: Many campgrounds, including White Pines Forest State Park Campground, have strict no alcohol rules. A visitor mentioned, "The quiet hours and no alcohol policy are not enforced at all."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Starved Rock Campground that offer activities for kids. One family shared, "The park's unique geological formations... make it an ideal spot for nature lovers."
  • Plan for Amenities: Ensure your campground has clean bathrooms and showers. A camper at Illinois Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area noted, "The shower house was spacious and mostly clean."
  • Bring Entertainment: Pack games or outdoor activities to keep kids engaged. A parent at Blackwell Family Campground mentioned, "The ranger did stop by around 5 or 6ish with some activities for the kids to do."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A visitor at Rock Cut State Park Campground said, "We ended up having to go back to Camping World to get an adapter to use the 50 amp."
  • Look for Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for more comfort. One RV camper at Pleasant Creek Campground noted, "The campground was great as well. Completely surrounded by woods and nature."
  • Plan for Crowds: Be prepared for busy weekends, especially at popular spots like Big Foot Beach State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "The campground was full for the weekend but emptied out on Sunday."

Camping near North Aurora, IL, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find campgrounds near North Aurora, IL?

North Aurora has several quality campgrounds within a reasonable driving distance. Blackwell Family Campground is a popular option just outside Chicago, featuring electric hookups at all sites, level camping spots, and modern bathrooms. For those willing to drive a bit further, Big Rock Campground provides paved roads and clean facilities, though it lacks shade and showers. Additional options include Paul Wolff Campground near Elgin and Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, which offers lake access for fishing and boating. Many campgrounds in the region are reservable, so booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak summer months.

Are there RV parks available near North Aurora?

Several RV parks cater to travelers in the North Aurora area. Glenwood RV Resort is conveniently located just 5 minutes south of I-80 near the Illinois River, making it easily accessible for RVers. Tiki RV Park offers another option, though reviews suggest amenities may be basic. For those willing to travel slightly farther, Sycamore RV Resort near Sycamore offers water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with both drive-in and boat-in access. Fox Bluff Cottages & RV and Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Millbrook also accommodate RVs with various amenities. Most RV parks in the area require reservations, especially during busy summer months.

Are there any free or budget-friendly camping spots near North Aurora?

While truly free camping is limited near North Aurora, several affordable options exist. Channahon State Park Campground offers reasonably priced camping right in town with convenient access to the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail, making it perfect for cyclists and hikers on a budget. Illini State Park provides affordable camping with clean bathrooms, plenty of trees for hammocking, and river views. Many DuPage County forest preserves offer discounted rates for county residents, with Blackwell Family Campground selling reasonably priced firewood. For primitive camping at lower rates, consider Prairie View campground at Chain O' Lakes State Park, which offers no-service sites at budget-friendly prices with water available at central fill stations.

What tent camping options exist around North Aurora, Illinois?

Tent campers have multiple options within driving distance of North Aurora. Camp Reinberg offers excellent access to biking and walking trails with unique clearings and bridges to explore. The preserve connects to neighborhoods but maintains well-marked main trails. Chain O' Lakes State Park has several camping areas including Turner Lake South loop with private sites ideal for tent camping, and Prairie View loop featuring primitive sites with no electricity. For a riverside experience, Camp Bullfrog Lake near Willow Springs offers tent camping with water and toilet facilities. Most tent sites in the region range from basic to moderately developed, with varying levels of privacy and natural features.

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