Chain O' Lakes State Park, located approximately 45 miles northwest of North Chicago, offers a complex network of waterways across 6,500 acres of protected land. The park's glacial lakes and connecting channels create a distinctive ecosystem with marshlands that support diverse wildlife populations. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer days typically range from 75-85°F with moderate humidity levels that affect camping comfort.
What to Do
Kayaking and canoeing: Access Fox River and connected lakes at Fox Den Campground, where paddlers can explore multiple waterways. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill. Rangers were helpful and delivered firewood to our site daily," notes Aida K.
Horseback riding: Dedicated trails throughout the park accommodate equestrians. "There are horse/snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground," shares Brian O. at Turner Lake South.
Mountain biking: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers extensive trail networks for cyclists. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," according to Tim K.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide varied fishing environments across the region. "We stayed in one of the tent sites across the road from the lakefront sites. The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side," reports a Turner Lake South visitor.
What Campers Like
Lakeside camping: Turner Lake South offers waterfront sites with easy access. "The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by," explains Julia B.
Wildlife viewing: Natural areas provide habitat for diverse species. "I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," says Cora M. about paddling the waterways.
Camp stores and amenities: Honeysuckle Hollow provides convenient services. "The camp store by the boat launch has fire wood, live bait, food, and other supplies," notes Stefanie W.
Yurt camping North Chicago, Illinois options: Several parks within driving distance offer alternative accommodations. "There is also a park for the kids in several areas. Not far from town in case you need to go to the store and there is also a bait/shop store on premises," mentions a camper at Turner Lake.
What You Should Know
Gate closing times: Camp Sullivan has strict access policies. "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," warns Lisa S.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local fauna interactions. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. They literally fall out of the trees into people!" cautions Meg at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Raccoon activity: Secure food items properly at night. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," reports another Honeysuckle Hollow camper.
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