North Chicago offers camping options beyond Lake County, with access points reaching into neighboring counties. The region sits along the Chain O'Lakes waterway system where camping spots range from 600 to 800 feet above sea level. Water-based activities dominate in summer months when temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Fishing access points: Mud Lake East at Chain O' Lakes State Park provides multiple fishing opportunities across several small lakes. "There are tons of trails, a small fishing pond and ok bathrooms. The staff is very friendly. There is horse riding here as well. The views are breathtaking," notes one visitor. The park includes both Fox River access and several smaller lakes.
Horseback riding: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers guided trail rides for visitors without their own horses. "Horse stables and guided rides for horse lovers," mentions a camper at Mud Lake East. Trails wind through wooded areas and provide views of Turner Lake and surrounding wetlands.
Swimming options: Northwoods RV Resort maintains a heated swimming pool when operational. "Very clean and the staff helped us pick a better site upon arrival. They also have a very pretty river to fish. The pool is very clean," reports one visitor. Note that the natural swimming areas sometimes close due to water quality issues.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Cliffside Park Campground receives consistent praise for its layout. "All sites are spacious with their own power and water. Sites 1-41 are available for first come if not previously reserved," explains a camper. Another adds, "Flat sites, some shade in the center sections. Outer sites backed to woods for most sites."
Clean facilities: Sycamore RV Resort maintains well-kept shower and bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms are immaculate and are locked with electronic key cards," reports one camper. Another notes, "Very nice shower/ laundry house," while a third visitor observed "Reliable full hookups. Very clean and well cared for property; especially the laundry and bathroom/shower areas."
Lake access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for boating or paddling. One camper at Mud Lake East stated, "Perfect if you have a boat and want access to the Chain of Lakes." Many waterfront sites across rv parks in North Chicago, Illinois provide opportunities for fishing directly from campgrounds.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most rv parks near North Chicago, Illinois implement advanced booking systems with varying policies. Wisconsin State Fair RV Park implements seasonal minimums: "Summer months May through April you do have to book 2 nights minimum. That was a little annoying as it already seemed high price of $60 per night."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience train disruptions. At Northwoods RV Resort, a visitor warns: "You will want to take note that yes, you actually cross train tracks to get to this campground, so if you're sharp, you're going to want to ensure you haven't booked a site right next to where trains will shoot through every few hours."
Military restrictions: Military-affiliated campgrounds have specific access requirements. At NAVSTA Great Lakes RV Campground, concrete pads can accommodate most rigs, but larger units may face challenges. One visitor noted the limited sewage options: "None of the sites had sewage, the dump station was about a mile down the road."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for children. Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort offers "Play ground for the kids and a strict 5MPH speed limit," according to one visitor. The lakefront beach area provides additional recreation when water conditions permit.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds maintain swimming areas separate from fishing zones. "Nice fishing ponds and fun beach!!" reports one camper about Sycamore RV Resort, while another mentions "Great fishing and nice beach for swimming."
Off-site attractions: Proximity to urban amenities allows day trips from campgrounds. Wisconsin State Fair RV Park sits "1.7 miles on bike path to Brewer Baseball field" according to one visitor, making professional sports accessible during camping stays.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have varied site conditions. At Cliffside Park, a visitor notes: "Flat sites, some shade in the center sections. Outer sites backed to woods for most sites." Another mentions all sites are on "gravel with electric and water for a great price."
Water access variations: Hookup availability varies significantly across rv parks. At Northwoods RV Resort, full hookups are standard at most sites, but Wisconsin State Fair RV Park separates its service types: "We took an electric only site on the far right and were backed up against a band of grass. Full hookup sites are all blacktop."
Urban access benefits: For RVers needing city amenities, Wisconsin State Fair RV Park provides metropolitan convenience. "Perfect campground for what it is! Big paved parking lot with full hookups. Very close to downtown, right off of interstate. Clean facilities. We were visiting family downtown and it was very convenient."
