Camp Sullivan provides a convenient base for exploring outdoor spaces near Oak Brook, Illinois, with sites located just 30 minutes from downtown. The surrounding forest preserves create a transitional ecosystem where prairie meets woodland, offering year-round camping opportunities with temperatures ranging from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region operate on reservations systems that allow bookings 6 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: Access to more than 15 miles of connected trails at Camp Sullivan makes it easy to explore without driving. "The camp site was fine. It was easy to level, they give you free firewood with your stay, the staff is kind at checkin and during rock wall activities," reports Amber H.
Mountain biking: The single track trails at Camp Bullfrog Lake provide technical routes for riders of all levels. "Some of the areas best mountain bike single track is right here. There is fishing kayaking and hiking trails too. Friendly staff and clean bathrooms," notes a reviewer named geoff.
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes throughout the forest preserves allow fishing from shore or small watercraft. "The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around. The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests," shares Layla P. about Bullfrog Lake.
Climbing wall activities: Organized climbing programs run regularly at Camp Sullivan's activities barn. "There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," explains Shane S.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at Indiana Dunes State Park. "The campground was pretty full but had a nice communal family feel to it. The beach and dunes are the star of this show, but the campground is a good supporting actor," writes Greg S.
Proximity to Chicago: Being close to the city while still offering natural surroundings is valued by visitors. "Really enjoyed this campground. Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet. Beautiful little lake. Bathrooms were warm and clean," says Lawrence B. about his stay at Bullfrog Lake.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Most campgrounds near Oak Brook maintain family-oriented environments. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)," shares Dane S. about their visits to Camp Sullivan.
Seasonal programming: Many sites offer structured activities during peak seasons. "The kids had a blast with the available activities, and it was the ideal setting for our family to come together and create lasting memories," notes Chad A. about his Easter weekend at Leisure Lake Resort.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Review campground maps before booking as some areas pack sites closely together. At Fish Lake Beach, "Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet."
Reservation timing matters: Peak summer weekends fill 4-6 months in advance. "The campground was fully booked, but not everyone showed, meaning that it didn't really feel crowded there," reports Katie O. about Dunewood Campground.
Noise considerations: Train lines run near several campgrounds in the region. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," warns Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Both beneficial and pest wildlife are common. "The hiking here is AWESOME with a bajillion different routes right from the campground. We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with young children. At Thomas Woods Campground, "We did our first (family of 5) camping trip at Thomas Woods. We were at site 4 which is electric hookup and it was a huge area! The kids had so much space to run around and explore."
Tick prevention: The wooded areas around Oak Brook can have heavy tick populations. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warns Meg about camping at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Water activities: Smaller lakes offer safer swimming for children than Lake Michigan. "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger programs during summer months. "The nature center is right next to the campground. The pavilion is being renovated, the ice cream shop was open, but they were still doing construction on the rest."
Tips from RVers
Electric-only sites: Most glamping close to Oak Brook, Illinois offers electrical hookups but limited water connections. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us - we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," advises Greg S.
Dump station timing: Plan dump station use during off-peak times. "The dump station was near the entrance to the camping loop and had potable water. It was also very busy and we had to wait when filling up and again when dumping."
Site selection strategy: End sites typically offer more space and privacy. "We pulled in around 4:30 in the evening. The sight was spacious with plenty of room in between sites. We had a back in sight #69. There was plenty of space on all sides."
Length limitations: Confirm your RV will fit before booking. "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad. I believe this is a relatively newer campground. There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small."
