Camping options near North Riverside include several forest preserves within 40 miles of the city. This region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching the high 80s and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Campgrounds in the area typically operate from May through October, with some year-round options available for cabin campers.
What to do
Hiking trails at Palos Forest Preserve: Trails connect directly to Camp Bullfrog Lake campsites, providing miles of mountain biking and hiking options. "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. 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," notes Josh M.
Beach activities at Lake Michigan: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers access to sand dunes and swimming. "The lake and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype. The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," writes Greg S.
Boat rentals and fishing: Several forest preserve campgrounds provide fishing opportunities and equipment rentals. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," says Layla P. about the activities at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: Blackwell Family Campground in Warrenville offers convenient camping within 30 miles of North Riverside. "Located only 30 miles outside the city, and conveniently only 10 mins from my house, this is the perfect little getaway. The website is very descriptive when it comes to photos and explaining the campsite (i.e., if it's wooded or open) which I loved," reports Autumn D.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at several campgrounds. "The bathhouses are newer and kept fairly clean. I don't think they're checked everyday though because the ladies stalls were out of toilet paper our second morning," notes Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan.
Free firewood at some locations: "Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits," mentions Josh M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Several forest preserve campgrounds provide complimentary firewood with camping fees.
What you should know
Tent site limitations: Some campgrounds restrict tent camping duration. At Martin's Camping Ground, "they have a three day limit for campers with tents. Very disappointed with that. And it's three days a month," reports Katelyn G.
Variable site privacy: Open sites at some locations provide little separation between campers. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," mentions Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan. For more seclusion, look for sites along wooded areas.
Highway noise at some locations: Dunewood Campground and other locations may experience transportation noise. "Could hear trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. Great shading from trees and very green!" says Truly W.
Seasonal water issues: Water systems at some campgrounds may be unavailable during certain times. "The water is not yet potable so bring your own or check with the park team to ensure it's drinkable when you go," advises Hatie P. about early spring camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some dog friendly campgrounds near North Riverside include play areas for children. "Our site was right between the playground and beach trailhead, but still private," mentions Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Nature programs: Camp Reinberg offers educational activities for children. "Check out the office for fun seasonal events like group hikes and geocaching contests," suggests Kelsey G.
Site selection for privacy: "Most sites are wooded on each side for privacy," notes Jen E. about Blackwell Family Campground. "The sites are pretty close together, but neighbors were quiet," adds Lawrence B.
Dog-friendly hiking options: For pet-friendly camping near North Riverside, "the trails through the grounds are varied and long--you can find something to suit just about any preference for suburban midwest hiking," according to Kristy G. at Camp Reinberg, which also features a dog park area.
Tips from RVers
Pad length considerations: "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad," mentions Tim K. about Camp Bullfrog Lake, important for larger RVs requiring more space.
Limited water access at some sites: "There are no water spigots at the RV sites. 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," explains The School for Y. about camping at Camp Reinberg.
Leveling challenges: "Sites are crushed limestone and are level and wooded," notes Rich M. about Blackwell Family Campground, making setup easier for RVs requiring flat surfaces.
Gate hours restriction: "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning!" warns Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan. RVers planning early departures should verify access hours before booking.
