Best Cabin Camping near Oak Brook, IL

We all love roasting marshmallows over a campfire—and you can often still do that while cabin camping in Oak Brook. The Dyrt is the ultimate place to find cabins for your next outdoor adventure near Oak Brook. When you're looking for a quiet location in nature, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect cabin rental.

Best Cabin Sites Near Oak Brook, IL (19)

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake

    1. Camp Bullfrog Lake

    25 Reviews
    34 Photos
    369 Saves
    Willow Springs, Illinois

    Camp just steps from the water in the heart of the vast, hilly Palos Preserves. Camp Bullfrog Lake offers year-round camping, group activities and water-based recreation such as canoe rentals and fishing. Just around the corner from Maple Lake’s boathouse and the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, it’s also a perfect launching pad for hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching adventures on Palos’ 50-plus miles of trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $138 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan

    2. Camp Sullivan

    14 Reviews
    64 Photos
    57 Saves
    Oak Forest, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg

    3. Camp Reinberg

    12 Reviews
    52 Photos
    219 Saves
    Palatine, Illinois

    Camp Reinberg’s tent sites and heated year-round cabins—plus dining hall and outdoor gathering areas—make it perfect for a group event or private getaway. Set in the oak woods of historic Deer Grove, Camp Reinberg provides access to miles of trails, beautifully restored landscapes and nearly unlimited recreation opportunities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

    4. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    94 Photos
    176 Saves
    Shabbona, Illinois

    The Shabbona Lake SRA campground has available 150 Class A Premium campsites, with 90 campsites available for advanced reservation through www.reserveamerica.com. Additionally, 60 campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All sites have electricity, picnic table, fire rings, and vehicle access. A sanitary dump station is available to all campers. One family is allowed per campsite, or four unrelated adults with up to two tents. Campers must be ready to camp upon arrival. The campground may be closed during the spring thaw due to road conditions. Alcohol is prohibited. To check on the status of the campground or for further information, call 815-824-2106 during the week or the campground check station at 815-824-2565 on weekends. There is also a Campground Store on-site that offers firewood, groceries, snacks, ice cream, camping supplies, fishing tackle, and boat rentals. Camp Cabin Two rent-a-camp cabins are available at the park. The rustic cabins have two rooms and will accommodate a maximum of six people. They are located on the shore of Shabbona Lake. Electric baseboard heat allows year-round use of the cabins. No Pets are allowed in the cabins with the exception of service animals. Youth Group Shabbona Lake's Youth Group camping area will accommodate two groups of up to 50 campers each. Water and privies are available at the site, but there is no electricity.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA

    5. Chicago Northwest KOA

    15 Reviews
    33 Photos
    67 Saves
    Union, Illinois

    Enjoy a peaceful camping experience in a friendly and quiet country setting, with long, pull-through RV sites, shaded tent sites, rustic and deluxe camping cabins, and even fully equipped travel trailers for rent. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the park. There is a lot to do for families! Check out the Gem Mining, Jump Pad, Gagaball, Minigolf, Frisbee Golf, Polipong and huge playground! Join us for hay-wagon rides, face painting, flashlight candy hunt and more on weekends. Have fun at Onesti's Wild West Town next door, visit the Illinois Railway museum, Santa's Village Azoosment Park, Six Flags Great America and cool off at Magic Waters near Rockford or in our own crystal clear pool. Take the "Metra" train from nearby Crystal Lake or Woodstock to visit Chicago for sightseeing, festivals, and tours. We are also a convenient distance to the Woodfield Mall, Prime Outlet Discount Mall, and the Grand Victoria Riverboat Casino. Various local restaurants are within minutes. {Additional Info}: 2 Deluxe Studio Cabins with patios are set up next to each other in the RV park to facilitate families, that like to camp close to each other. All of our rustic cabins are equipped with an A/C unit. You will find us approximately 55 miles from downtown Chicago, 4.5 miles to I-90, in a rural setting of northwestern Illinois. Open from mid-April through mid-October. Gated campground 24hrs a day (after hour arrivals need a reservation) Dogs are allowed, but breed restrictions apply.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort

    6. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    16 Photos
    14 Saves
    Portage, Indiana

    Lakeshore Camp Resort Portage, IN is a 940 site Membership park. We have 115 full hookup campsites and 12 cabins available for rent to the general public. We offer you and your family a fun filled camping experience with access to our many amenities that include: 22 Acre lake, 4 pools, beaches, fishing, boat rental, mini golf, daily recreational activities, weekend entertainment, and much more! We are conveniently located 10 miles from the Indiana Dunes National Park, and approximately 45 miles from downtown Chicago, IL. Area attractions include; Deep River water park, Chicago train system, casinos, bike trails, zoos, and museums. Whether you are enjoying activities in or out of the park there is much to do.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $49 - $57 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    7. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    7 Photos
    133 Saves
    Round Lake, Illinois

    Fish Lake Beach is one of the largest, privately owned campgrounds in Illinois, with 580 seasonal sites occupying the majority of the 113-acre property along with 60 overnight campsites. Fish Lake Beach has been family owned and operated for over eight amazing decades. Our brief story in pictures and how we got started is just below. Fish Lake Beach has become a camping tradition or a home-away-from-home for generations of families. We take pleasure in providing a friendly and fun experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $43 - $73 / night

    • No image available

      8. Leisure Lake Resort

      3 Reviews
      37 Saves
      Joliet, Illinois

      Leisure Lake Membership Resort is a family camping and RV resort. Enjoy the great outdoors without the long drive. Located in Joliet, Illinois, we are 40 miles from Chicago and only minutes from Chicago Land's Route 66 Speedway, 10 miles from Metra Train Station. We are owned and operated by the members for the members. We do allow Good Sam members in based on availability.There are many organized activities, dances, and live entertainment provided throughout the year. We have many amenities to offer! Featuring a 24 acre stocked fishing lake, 2 acre sand bottom swimming lake, swimming pool, convenience store, and free WiFi.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • RVs

      $37 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      10. Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      12 Reviews
      39 Photos
      126 Saves
      Bourbonnais, Illinois

      Our Class-A Premium campground is located in the main park with shower facilities, flush toilets, and all sites have electricity. Water is available by pump at designated locations throughout the campground and at the sanitary dump station. This is a very wooded area with 4 loops-Oak, Hawthorne, Osage & Hickory. Pit toilets are also located near each loop. Alcohol is prohibited and credit cards are not accepted at the site.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
    Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

    Recent Cabin Reviews in Oak Brook

    180 Reviews of 19 Oak Brook Campgrounds


    • Addison G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Oct. 23, 2024

      Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

      Awesome choice for campers on a budget

      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. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night. Bathrooms could’ve been cleaner but we were grateful for the facility which doubled as a storm shelter. There’s indoor showers and bathrooms. There are also cabins at this campsite, not sure on pricing tho

    • TThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
      Oct. 21, 2024

      Camp Sullivan

      Urban Camping near Chicago

      Camp Sullivan offers a charming and well-maintained space for campers of all kinds, from tent enthusiasts to RV travelers like us. All the RV sites here are back in, and while they are tight, they are certainly manageable. We brought our 36-foot RV, the Badger, and although it barely fit, we were able to position it close enough to the power box by choosing not to extend the slide. This turned out to be a smart decision, considering the timbers that line the gravel surface of the site. These timbers add a bit of a challenge when maneuvering a larger rig, and in our case, (note to staff) removing the timber closest to the road would have made things much easier. 

      Each RV site is equipped with 15, 30, and 50-amp electrical connections, though it’s worth noting that there’s no water or sewer available at individual sites. As a result, water conservation becomes essential. The bathrooms here, however, are clean and well-kept, which is always appreciated, especially after a few days without on-site water. There is also a stainless steel sink for use in front of the RV area's bathroom where you can do dishes.

      Security at Camp Sullivan feels solid, and while there is some noise, it wasn’t disruptive. We stayed over a weekend, and though there was a lively group in the group campsite Saturday night, they respectfully wrapped up their activities by quiet hours, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. 

      The roads throughout the campground are in good condition, and the trees aren’t a concern for your RV clearance. In addition to RV sites, Camp Sullivan offers a range of accommodations for all kinds of campers. There are small rental cabins, large bunkhouses for group camping, and plenty of tent sites spread across the grounds. We didn’t have the chance to check out the"Barn" yet, but it’s a major feature here, housing a climbing wall and concessions. 

      We also noticed staff busy cleaning the bunkhouse areas and taking care of trash removal, even on a quiet Sunday. Everyone we encountered was friendly and added to the overall positive vibe of the place. Camp Sullivan is an excellent spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, (up to six days allowed) with plenty of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where we feel comfortable and cared for, with just the right balance of adventure and relaxation.

    • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Oct. 17, 2024

      Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

      Fine camping in Northern Illinois

      We stayed in the Turner lake south loop, which has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites. Fox den and Prairie view loops are nice as well with mostly primitive sites. Be aware that the map on www.ExloreMoreIL,com(where you make your reservations) doesn't show where the restrooms are. 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. Facilities are clean and well lit. Fire pits are slightly raised steel troughs with a heavy adjustable grill. This is a BIG park, the campgrounds are two miles from the front gate, and it's a drive to the main boat launch at Maple Grove, where you have access to the Fox River and Grass lake. This location has a huge parking lot for boat trailers, a very well stocked general store with fishing supplies, a cafe, boat rentals and good firewood. To get away from the crowd if you're a canoeist or kayaker it's nicer to leave the park and go back in at Oak Point picnic area and boat launch at the northern border. This will put you on the Fox river with developments to the north(including a bar& grill) or to the south which is all nature. I think the distance by boat between the two launches is 4-5 miles, but I'm not sure, Halfway there you'll meet up with the Goldfinch trail which is the shortest loop and the most diverse in term of flora. There are horse/ snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground. Chain o' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season. We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October, so I can't tell you how crowded, but the vast number of picnic areas must be there for a reason. An odd thing is that you can hear a Steam Train whistle quite often, this is from Richardson's Adventure Farm in Spring Grove. We don't have kids so we went to Stade's Farm& Orchard(which is also large and kid friendly) because they have an orchard and vegetable market. One last thing, 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:)

    • Iryna R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Lake Resort
      Oct. 6, 2024

      Leisure Lake Resort

      Good resort very bad water

      We booked a month stay but weren’t able to stay over 2 weeks because water is so horrible. Our cat got diarrhea, clothes got ruined, you can’t even make tea with that water. But everything else was good. Nice helpful staff, clean, quiet rv park.

    • Jennifer K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
      Sep. 15, 2024

      Camp Bullfrog Lake

      Pretty great!

      I somehow booked a different campground- website was confusing apparently. However the worker was so helpful and found me a spot anyway. Sites are kind of small so not a lot of space for big big campers. Cute lake and relatively quiet. Odd though that when I asked questions like where can we fill water and if they had a park map I got looked at like I had 3 heads.

    • Julia B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      Jul. 18, 2024

      Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

      Nice lake

      The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car. The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all rvs. The boat launch to the fox river was nice too but it does get busy.

    • Addison G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
      May. 14, 2024

      Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park

      Super cute little campsite

      We stayed in Honeysuckle Hollow for a night. Not many people were there that night, as it thunder stormed. However site was well kept and concession stand available by the boat dock with everything you might need.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hi-Tide Recreation
      Apr. 3, 2024

      Hi-Tide Recreation

      Crowded Water Wonderland Family Camping Experience

      OK, let’s put the most important thing here in perspective – you are in north central Illinois and there should be absolutely no reason to find a beach anywhere in this state apart from a few select places bordering Lake Michigan, right? Other than this, finding a proper beachhead is impossible. Yet, here at Hi-Tide Recreation, the sandy beach is exactly what you’ll find and what a great time it is for the whole family, complete with all of the many on-water distractions and entertainment options this place offers from sand castle building, waterslide, ‘moonwalk,’ ice berg (a 15’ climbing wall in the center of the lake), water trampoline, log roll, rocket balls, floaties, inner-tubes as well as floating ‘lilly pads’ and shallow waters for the young kids. Let’s just say, in the heat and humidity of a Midwest summer, Hi-Tide offers a really great respite with this toy-packed lake refuge.  

      As for the campground, upon entry, you will have no other choice but to head straight to the main lodge where you will check-in. Here you’ll meet the crew that run this place as well as see the market that’s here, offering up just about anything you could think of (and quite a bit of what you didn't imagine) while you are camping: ice, propane, s’mores, ice cream, chips, soda, water toys, firewood, fishing supplies, RV maintenance items and campground gear. You'll also discover an arcade complete with video games as well as air hockey, foosball and billiards.

      Behind the market, you’ll find both pedal carts for rent as well as a pretty decent 9-hole mini-golf course that has recently been upgraded. There’s also a picnic area back here, lakeside deck, fishing dock, further afield as well as an in-ground community heated pool and playground just in front of the main office. The on-site restroom and shower facilities are first-rate, offering sparkling clean and well-maintained showers, toilets and even baby changing stations. There’s also an on-site laundr-O-mat located right near the shower / restroom facilities with 4 sets of coin-operated washers and dryers. On-site, you’ll find a proper dump station as well as designated dumpsters throughout the entire property. A handful of reservable small pavilions (no electric, 60 people max) and large (electric, 80 people+) are offered for rent at $50/day and $100/day respectively as well as a very small ½ mile hiking loop that follows the Little Indian Creek, which is kind of a joke, but hey, it’s a nice stroll.

      Like most entertainment-themed campgrounds like Hi-Tide, every week has a theme, so there’s planned activities like bingo, hayrides and disco parties to keep both young and old alike busy and entertained. In short, what’s the upside to being here at Hi-Tide? Well, if you have a young family and are looking for a lot of distractions and planned activities that allows you to enjoy a fairly mindless planning experience that you can either participate in with the kids or just let them run wild and do their thing, well then, Hi-Tide has you covered in spades. Nobody is going to get bored in this place!

      Downside? While it is true that you are out in the middle of nowhere, which has a semblance of feeling as though you are engaging in nature, with all of the entertainment and distractions that you will discover here, along with arguably the biggest downside – the place is completely overrun with management packing in RVs and 5th Wheelers as close to each other as possible – it will be actually pretty difficult to truly commune with nature. This is a campground campus that packs RVs in pretty snug, while feigning at offering tent campers some nice flat land to pitch a tent, and for those that don’t have either, you can still rent a cabin. But make no mistake about this place, you are in a little ‘camping city’ and everywhere you go, you’ll have endless options to distract you and keep you entertained, as well as being overwhelmed by the sheer sense of over-crowdedness. So, if you want peace and quiet and some really pristine moments with nature and wildlife, this really isn’t going to be the place you want to call home for a night or two under the stars.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) When you get tired of rustling up beans & franks for dinner and want to try out some local fare, you’ll have to drive a decent distance from here to get to anything, let alone of quality. The closest place you could consider is Somonauk, located on 34 just continuing due east where there’s just a few joints: Hot Diggity Dogs, Rambo’s Bar & Grill where Uncle Milty’s Pizza Palace is located right next door too, but the standout favorite in town is Country Kitchen for down-home Midwestern comfort food; (2) If you have any form of watercraft, you won’t really be able (or want) to use it here on the small lake that Hi-Tide has, especially with all the kids swimming, but nearby and just east is Lake Holiday which makes for a very great place to dip your kayak, canoe or outboard in; (3) For kicking back and enjoying some drinks, I highly recommend Tin Roof Tavern right on 34, where Teeks serves ‘em up strong, there’s a juke playing good tunes and even a mechanical bull riding, but was unfortunately not working when we were there; and (4) If you are looking for a real outdoors encounter with nature that may (or may not) include camping, give Shabbona Lake State Park a visit – it’s only 20–25 minutes from Hi-Tide and has everything, whether that’s fishing, hunting, hiking, biking or kayaking – you’ll be amazed at what you have so nearby. 

      Happy Camping!

    • Joel K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
      Mar. 14, 2024

      Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

      Really nice state park

      My daughter and I stayed here twice.  Oct 2019 and Aug 2020.  We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting.

      The store is very nice and well stocked.  Never left the park so not sure how far to “town”.

    • Katie A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
      Nov. 29, 2023

      Camp Reinberg

      Great little camp ground!

      Loved everything about this place. The staff is so helpful, well maintained, nice trail system. We tent camped on site #1 and would definitely book that spot again. We also came back last weekend and stayed in one of the large cabins- game changer in the winter! It’s a perfect spot for a weekend away from Chicago, will definitely be back.

    • T
      Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
      Oct. 29, 2023

      Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook

      Perfect for the kids

      I’ve been to this site a handful of times growing up and it’s a good campsite for the kids. Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day. RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay. Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful. Always came here for trick or treating and it’s a fun event for the camp ground with plenty of spooky things to do. Might come here when I have kids of my own, but I know there are better camp sites out there!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
      Oct. 14, 2023

      Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

      Wooded Oasis in The Midst of Corn Patches

      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 by accident OR you are incredibly knowledgeable already or resourceful.  Whatever drew you to this particular location, here's the fact of the matter - you have arrived at an absolute natural treasure trove, whether in the midst of a humid and hot Illinois summer or in the bitter cold of a snow white winter looking for great cross-country skiing trails.  So now that you've found yourself nearby or contemplating a stay at Shabbona Lake SP, let me just forewarn you - you are about to embark upon one of the most amazing outdoor camping experiences Illinois has to offer!

      As for this campground, PLEASE NOTE: there exists not 1, but 3 separate, individual campgrounds here at Shabbona Lake State Park: Teal Bay Campground (Sites#1– 60), Merganser Circle (Sites#61– 100) as well as Canvasback Cove (Sites#101– 150). In this review, I will be isolating my contributions towards the Shabbona Lake State Park – Teal Bay Campground.  That said, please do look at all the reviews that I leave behind here on TheDyrt, in order to find the absolute best campground for you and your family / friends, should that be arriving by RV / 5th Wheel, those looking for an existing wooden cabin by the sea (er, as it were, because we're in Illinois, a lake) or for mi tent-pitching bredren.

      The first of these three campgrounds is the first loop you will encounter after passing the Ranger Station at the front of the park, where you’ll drive about a half mile around the bend before reaching the first of three clearly marked Camp Host spots. At this point, you’ll want to hang a right, where there will be a slight left bend where sites #2–10 will be on your right, wherein site #1 is earmarked for the Camp Host, and at site #10, you’ll see opposite this spot a small water / privy facility, following which, you will see the rest of Teal Bay campground as it encircles a small loop (effectively sites #11–31 on the exterior of the loop, interrupted by another small water / privy facility between sites #29 and #30, with sites #32– 47 being plotted on the interior of this loop and finally, you’ll see sites #48– 50 upon your exit from the loop, where you’ll encounter that first small water / privy house, before coming across the final sites #51– 60 on the right as you exit Teal Bay. Immediately to the right, once you exit this campground, you’ll come across the lone Shower Building (more on this below). You will need to pass the Shower Building to access the second campground, Merganser Circle and to access the third campground, Canvasback Cove, where you would have turned left before passing the Shower Building as you head towards the lakefront and boat launch area. 

      With Shabbona Lake State Park specifically in mind… Holy Cow! (nod to Harry Carey and all my Cubs loving friends there!) are you in for a treat if you find yourself in north-central Illinois right off the I39 corridor and are rolling with either your RV, 5th wheel or are packing a tent and looking for an exceptional lakeside camping experience completely surrounded by God’s greatest natural prairie! To be blunt, Shabbona Lake State Park could be, quite possibly, one of the best, most pristine camping experiences that exists in this sweet corn riddled and drilled bean harvested farmland in the entire Land O’ Lincoln. 

      From a clandestine entrance, beset with golden tall grasses and strategically planted old Pines along with its superbly laid out and easily sign-posted inner roadway to the non-stop 3 meter wide natural hiking trails that are jam-packed in this luscious, picturesque state park along with its signature sparkling clear blue, man-made Shabbona Lake, this is one multi-campus campground that you must prepare yourself for, because it packs quite the punch! All in, there’s 150 Class A Premium campsites with 90 of these available for reservation with the remaining open on a first-come, first-served basis through the state’s online reservation system: ExploreMoreIL. 

      With amenities in mind, you will discover scattered spots that accommodate both RV and tent camping brethren alike, where half of the slots are nicely paved concrete, while the other half are cleverly laid small pebble-strewn platforms. All sites come with a fire ring, picnic table, water and electric hook-ups and no matter where you go, you are surrounded by some solid wilderness so there is never the chance that you will wake up or go for a hike and feel as though you are not being embraced by one of the best wilderness areas in the country. 

      Beyond the basics, and this is where Shabbona Lake SP shines brightest, you’ll discover that there are tons of additional bonus features such as: scattered picnic tables and sheltered pavilions, designated dump stations, (2) lakefront log cabins for rent (complete with their own balcony / veranda, grill and fire pit), Pokanoka’s Dockside Café with spectacular views of Shabbona Lake, concession store offering wood, groceries, bait & tackle, snacks, soda and camping items, over 8 miles of hiking in pristine wood- and grasslands, fishing piers (this is the Muskie Capitol of Illinois, BTW!) where you’ll find no shortage of bluegill, walleye, perch and many other fish. If you’re into hunting, Shabbona Lake SP has you covered too with 744 acres of land that allows for archery hunting of deer, dove and waterfowl (for those wanting to use firearms, there is discretionary times of the year where deer and pheasant hunting is allowed). 

      Insider’s Tips? Here’s a few: (1) This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer; (2) Tired of fixing beans and franks and want to sample some local fare? Well, you’re in luck because in the nearby hamlet of Shabbona, there’s a few options, top of which I recommend Shabbona Café, which is a no-frills local diner serving up burgers, sandwiches, skillets, salads and typical Midwestern fare followed by a few scoops at Screamers Ice Cream; (3) If you don’t mind a slight drive to arguably the best fried chicken in the universe, then check out Rip’s Chicken in Ladd and trust me, while a longer drive than you might expect, this place is legend in these parts; (4) When thinking about Winter activities, this is one of the very few SP’s that allow for snow-mobiling and cross-country skiing where trails are open between 8am to 4pm with at least 4” of snow. Ice fishing and ice skating are also allowed if the thickness of the ice is good enough; and (5) During the summer months especially, this place fills up, so I would definitely recommend calling ahead for those first-come, first served campsites. Call 815-824-2106 during the week or the campground check station at 815-824-2565 on weekends. 

      Happy Camping!

    • S
      Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
      Aug. 14, 2023

      Lakeshore Camp Resort

      Over crowded and rude workers

      A group of us go camping at least 1 time a month and we were excited to find a campground with so many amenities very close to home. As soon as I pulled up the lady registering me couldn’t care less that I was there. It was like I was bothering her. She was more concerned what was going on on her phone. Then heading back to the site the park was entirely too crowded. They packed these spots in like sardines. The “security” was a joke. Our kids got yelled at 3 times for riding bikes. But they didn’t do anything with the drunks behind us making noise until 3am. Extremely disappointing and we will not be going back. We will warn everyone we know about this campground.

    • Vladimir M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
      Aug. 12, 2023

      Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

      Pontoon Heaven

      Our stay here was a great experience. The town of Shabbona has a population of 900, and you get that homely good-natured feel while being there as well. We had breakfast at Shabbona Cafe in town, and we received a great portion and oh so good as well. While leaving on the last day at the BP gas station there is even a corn 🌽 stand $5 for a dozen of oh so good and sweet corn, the best part is all you need is to drop the $5 in a cash box on the honor system, love that. Now the camping grounds was great as well. Completely surrounded by woods and nature at site 147, very close to bathroom shed, and also not far from the shower/bath house (clean). The Restaurant & Bait Shop are all in the same building. The restaurant had a great Nachos and grass-fed burger, top quality definitely. The bait shop we rented a pontoon boat (reserved online) they show you the safe areas to boat and where to look out for as well, before boarding the pontoon they also give you a refresher on operating the boat etc. Oh! I forgot about the store, the hours seemed off but once open the store has all the essentials one would need. $7 for a bundle of wood also on the honor system cash box.

      We highly recommend camping here.

    • K
      Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
      Aug. 4, 2023

      Lakeshore Camp Resort

      It’s a trailer park

      I couldn’t believe they pass this off for a campground. People live there full time. And it’s red neck.

    • Chris H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Chicago Northwest KOA
      Aug. 2, 2023

      Chicago Northwest KOA

      Nice, but far away from Chicago

      We use this as our base when we went to Chicago. The only problem is that it is anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half from downtown Chicago. The facilities were nice and maintained. We had a nice Prairie view spot.

    • Art S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Jul. 26, 2023

      Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      Simple state park along the river

      Potowatami campground is divided into four loops. We camped in the Osage loop. Garbage cans are at the start of the loop. A central shower house is on the main road midway between the loops. Right at the start of Osage is an entrance to the crushed gravel bike path. It gave us a great hike through the trees. You can find picnic areas and playground equipment by following the bike path. The camp host checks you in. He gave us the signal in case we drive out of camp. Wave the sign out your window and re-enter camp. He also told us about rock creek nature trail. It’s just across the main road near the ranger office entrance. There are another couple miles of trails if you want some diversity.

    • B
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Jul. 24, 2023

      Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      Nice on a Thursday

      First off the camp hosts were amazing! Very friendly and helpful!

      Ok. Came in on a Thursday with no reservations. Camp Hosts got me a spot for Thursday and only had 2 available spots in the whole campground for the weekend so I took Oak 1 over the only other open spot.
      Thursday night was GREAT. It was quiet and peaceful. Had a great day chilling on Friday during the day too. Friday afternoon people started funneling in and it still wasn’t too bad into the evening.

      About 8 is when it got a little worse. There was a group that came in and occupied 2 sites. They were a little more loud but bearable. About 9:45 another part of their group came rolling in. That’s when it wasn’t as nice. They were trying to set up their tent with headlights/flashlights shining into our camp. Yelling back and forth between the 3 sites, etc. Finally I think the quieted down about midnight. Saturday. Still loud and a few of the cars in their group were in and out several times. Not a big deal except every time they were driving out a one way.

    • C
      Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
      Jul. 15, 2023

      Lakeshore Camp Resort

      Amenity camping

      It offers all the amenities you could want for a weekend get away. A lake with water rentals, floating water slide, playgrounds and sport courts, general store with the stardust’s “convenience mark-ups”,and water/ electric at all sites. However, if you’re looking for a true camping experience or to visit the Indiana Dunes, you’ll make little use of the amenities and find the sites small and area as well the sites and bath houses overcrowded. It really offers anything a family would want for a weekend trip so depending on the goal for your trip, this could have everything you would need or leave you feeling less than fully satisfied.

    • E
      Camper-submitted photo from Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds
      Jun. 4, 2023

      Hi-Tide Beach & Campgrounds

      Great family place

      We go every year with another family. We have had sites 105-103 and 123-125 and 29/36. We love it. Tons of activities for kids and pretty chill for adults. Sometimes other people suck and you have to deal with that but that’s at every camping place I’ve ever been to. Love this place and we will be going back every year.

    • Richard M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
      May. 28, 2023

      Camp Bullfrog Lake

      Beautiful campsite but...

      The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept. The reason for the review is due to the bathrooms being horrible. Hot water for showers did not work and floors were nasty, need to be remodeled. There is no water near any of the sites. 2 of the 3 hosts I dealt with were very rude. The one on the late night shift was very nice and knowledgeable. The other guys who helped me on arrival act as if they didn't want to be there. The site overall is amazing. Just wouldn't ever camp here again due to the high price and the bathrooms being Terrible.

    • G
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
      May. 4, 2023

      Camp Reinberg

      Clean and quiet

      Upon arrival at the location, the host was very nice. The place is very quiet which is great after long nights of traveling.



    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Oak Brook, IL?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Oak Brook, IL is Camp Bullfrog Lake with a 4.3-star rating from 25 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find cabin camping near Oak Brook, IL?

      TheDyrt.com has all 19 cabin camping locations near Oak Brook, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.