Camp Bullfrog Lake and Camp Sullivan provide upscale glamping options close to Oak Lawn, Illinois, situated in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The area features a mix of wetlands, prairie, and woodlands at elevations ranging from 580 to 650 feet above sea level. Summers are warm with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons see temperature swings between 45-70°F.
What to do
Mountain biking at extensive trail networks: Camp Bullfrog Lake connects directly to miles of single-track trails popular with bikers of all skill levels. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. There are miles and miles of trails. We saw several vehicles carrying top of the line bikes in and out all day," notes Tim K.
Fishing in local waters: Fishing opportunities abound at nearby lakes and ponds. At Lakeshore Camp Resort, "We took the kids to the lake which was actually fun... we did fish in it and caught a bunch!" reports Rino S. Many sites rent fishing equipment for day use.
Water activities on Lake Michigan: The Indiana Dunes area offers swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding options within a 40-minute drive. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," explains Layla P. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Beach access and swimming: Several campgrounds offer direct beach access. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," remarks Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathroom facilities: Dunewood Campground receives consistent praise for its amenities. "The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers," notes Veronica S. Another camper adds, "Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus."
Site privacy and natural settings: Many campers appreciate the wooded sites available at certain campgrounds. "The sites are decently private with good tent pads," Katherine T. observed at Dunewood Campground. Camp Sullivan offers "smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," according to Shane S.
Convenient proximity to Chicago: Michigan City Campground provides a secure base for exploring the region. "It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter," notes Craig C., adding that it's "just outside Michigan City, IN" with "the best wifi I have seen at a campsite." This makes glamping near Oak Lawn, Illinois practical for weekend getaways.
Free firewood at select sites: Some campgrounds include firewood with your stay. "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, though quality can vary as "the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train and traffic sounds affect several campgrounds. At Indiana Dunes State Park, "It's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long. If you're a heavy sleeper and can deal with that, you'll be just fine," warns Kaley A.
Reservation requirements: Most sites in the region require advance booking, especially during summer months. "We stayed in April at Camp Reinberg and in June at Camp Sullivan, both for a few nights. The FOREST PRESERVES OF COOK COUNTY online camping reservation site is tricky but after several tries I figured it out," shares Kathryn.
Variable site spacing: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. Michigan City Campground offers premium sites that are "90ft pull through with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite," according to Craig C., while other campgrounds have more condensed layouts.
Seasonal considerations: Some amenities close during off-peak times. "We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars," explains Chad Y. about Lakeshore Camp Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook specializes in family entertainment. "Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day," explains Tori P., who adds, "Always came here for trick or treating and it's a fun event for the camp ground with plenty of spooky things to do."
Playground access: Several campsites feature dedicated play areas for children. "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 Camp Sullivan, noting they've successfully camped there with "three kids under 7."
Beach safety awareness: When glamping with family near Oak Lawn at lakefront sites, note the water conditions. "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," warns Anna G. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate repellents, especially during summer months. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," reports Katrin M. about Dunewood Campground, even though the site was otherwise "nice and clean."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Most sites offer electric hookups, but water and sewer connections vary. "Really nice campground. No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors," explains Kaitlin M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Site dimensions: Check length specifications when booking. Kankakee South KOA offers "a nice local getaway" according to Debbie B., with "full hookups" that larger RVs can appreciate. Sites at Camp Bullfrog Lake vary in size, with "sites #4 and 5 probably having the longest length parking pad," notes Tim K.
Secure camping options: Some RVers prioritize gated campgrounds for added security. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," reports Shane M. about Michigan City Campground, making it a popular choice for those seeking glamping accommodations near Oak Lawn with controlled access.
Dump station quality: Check the condition of waste facilities before arrival. "What's worse is the dump station I was forced to use. OMG what a disaster. It's a relic from decades ago. Uneven and puddles of 'water' all over the dump area," warns Jeff G. about Jellystone Chicago, recommending full-hookup sites instead.
