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Scout
ScoutBig Rock Campground
Beautiful And Quite
Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply
Camping near Oakwood Hills, IL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Northern Illinois around Oakwood Hills features a variety of camping options within a short drive, particularly concentrated along the Chain O' Lakes region. State parks and forest preserves dominate the landscape, with Chain O' Lakes State Park offering multiple campground loops including Fox Den, Turner Lake South, Prairie View, and Honeysuckle Hollow. Each provides different experiences from wooded privacy to open RV-friendly areas. Paul Wolff Campground in Burnidge Forest Preserve and Camp Reinberg in Palatine offer forest preserve camping closer to suburban areas. The Chicago Northwest KOA in Union and Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort in Volo round out the private camping options with more amenities for families and RV travelers.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter availability. Illinois state parks enforce a strict no-alcohol policy that applies even at individual campsites. Reservations through the ExploreMoreIL system are essential during summer weekends when lakefront sites fill quickly. As one camper noted about Chain O' Lakes, "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." Many campgrounds feature electric hookups and water access, though primitive camping options with fewer amenities exist at locations like Prairie View campground where "we could walk to fill up with water but no electric on site."
Lakefront access represents a significant draw throughout the region, with fishing, boating, and water recreation available at most locations. Campers consistently mention the contrast between busy summer waterways and quieter shoulder seasons. "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," reports one visitor. Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds and even within loops - Turner Lake South offers "nice and private sites" while Honeysuckle Hollow is described as "open and row after row of RV sites." Shade coverage is another important consideration during hot Illinois summers, with several reviewers noting its importance for comfort during peak season.
Best Campgrounds near Oakwood Hills (74)
1. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability2. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability3. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."
"We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"
from $25 / night
Check Availability4. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
"Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water."
"We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago."
from $43 - $73 / night
Check Availability5. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"
"Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"
6. Chicago Northwest KOA
"You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"
"We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"
7. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"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."
"You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly. But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"
8. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"We can both drive to work and then come back to relax. Close to some great places for antiquing if you don't want to hike the trails or fish."
"It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "
9. Thomas Woods Campground
"While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here."
"Most of the sites were right on the road and you’d need to position your car right for privacy. The tent sites are clumped pretty tight together with a couple exceptions."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability10. Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"Prairie View campground is in the Chain O Lakes State Park series. This is the no services campground. We could walk to fill up with water but no electric on site. Checking in was interesting."
"You could barely see the neighbors because of how overgrown the edges of the site were. We felt like we were in our own little bubble."
Drive Time
- 49 min from Kenosha, WI
- 52 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 1 min from Racine, WI
- 1 hr 2 min from Chicago, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Oakwood Hills, IL
238 Photos of 74 Oakwood Hills Campgrounds
Glenn T.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Linda M.
Escape to Nature
Janet P.
Mud Lake West — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Heather L.
Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Aida K.
Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Brian O.
Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Scott B.
Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Christie S.
Chicago Northwest KOA
Scott N.
Thomas Woods Campground
Jason S.
Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Oakwood Hills, IL
692 Reviews of 74 Oakwood Hills Campgrounds
- HHolly B.
GuideChicago Northwest KOA
A bit of a drive
It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
Bryan A.
TravelerMuskego Park by Waukesha County Parks
Always a great time
This park has always been a go to for me. As a full time RVer, I come here a lot. The scenery is beautiful, beach right next door, fishing holes not far from here. The people who come are all very friendly and the park rangers are very welcoming and always have firewood for the visitors. Highly recommend this spot for everyone.
- MManny A.Traveler
Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
Simple and local
First time RV’ing with my wife and we were able to navigate pretty easily in our rented 30’. Arrived on a Monday, and as posted, there was no one so we checked in online(they sent an email to check in). Simple camp site with tons of space(almost double our RV), a long wood picnic table and a fire pit. Everything was great until we left. Dumping was straight forward, but the person in front of me was taking a little while to dump. They had came up to my RV and let me know the dump tank was backing up, which I had also experienced when I tried dumping. I called to ask for assistance on Thursday and they said they would send a ranger out. 45 minutes of waiting and a couple other RV’s after us and we ended up giving up and going to another site closer to home to dump. Great experience otherwise.
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendRock Cut Equestrian Campground
A Peaceful Retreat for Horse-Loving Families
If your family's perfect camping trip includes saddling up and exploring miles of wooded trails together, the Equestrian Campground at Rock Cut State Park offers a wonderfully peaceful place to spend a few days. Tucked away from the park's busier camping loops, this rustic first-come, first-served campground provides spacious sites designed for campers traveling with horses, along with nearby potable water, restrooms and direct access to more than 14 miles of designated equestrian trails. While amenities are intentionally simple (erring on non-existent), the extra room to accommodate horse trailers and the quiet natural surroundings create exactly the kind of setting many riders are looking for. One of my favorite moments was watching families quietly prepare their horses in the early morning light before disappearing beneath the trees for a day on the trails, returning later with tired horses, dusty boots and smiles that needed no explanation. Arriving early is the best way to secure a site since camping is first-come, first-served and availability is limited. This campground is ideal for equestrian families given its spacious layout, direct trail access and peaceful atmosphere that allows both riders and horses to truly unwind.
Stuart K.LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Kings Camp
Where Still Mornings Feel a Little Like Grace
There’s a gentle spirit woven into Kings Camp that you feel the moment you pull in, the kind of quiet that settles over a family in a way that feels both grounding and a little bit spiritual, especially as the sun dips across the Illinois prairie. This long-loved, Christian-based campground offers wide grassy fields, simple but well-kept restrooms, a small swimming beach, a playground and an EZ layout that makes it feel safe and welcoming for little explorers. One of my favorite memories was watching the boys toast marshmallows at dusk while the evening breeze carried the soft sounds of families visiting and kids laughing, creating a peace that felt like an answered prayer at the end of a busy week. From what we saw, the best area is the westernmost RV loop because it offers the most shade, privacy and a sense of calm tucked slightly away from the main activity. I’d recommend Kings Camp for families seeking a wholesome, faith-centered environment, a quiet place for kids to roam freely and a setting that encourages everyone to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Thousand Trails Pine Country
Shaded, Family-Friendly Country Retreat
There’s something instantly calming about rolling into a campground wrapped in tall pines and soft breezes, and Pine Country had that peaceful, easy feeling that made all of us exhale before we even found our site. This campground is expansive and welcoming, with full-hookup spots laid out across wide loops, plenty of shade, clean bathrooms and a friendly mix of families settling in for weekends or longer stays. Our boys loved wandering between the fishing pond and the small recreation areas and we ended the evening sharing freshly baked chocolate chip cookies that we made over an open fire on a Camp Chef black skillet munching them down at the picnic table while listening to the trees rustle above us. For families looking for a convenient home base near Rockford with lots of room to spread out, EZ access to town for supplies and a campground that really does feel safe and relaxed, Pine Country is an EZ pick. Highly recommended for young families seeking space, shade and a low-key, gentle setting to recharge.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Sycamore RV Resort
Peaceful Lakeside Pause in the Heart of Corn Country
There’s something so comforting about pulling into Sycamore RV Resort and seeing the sunlight dance across those two spring-fed lakes, giving you that immediate exhale that only a calm Midwestern campground can bring. The property is medium-sized, incredibly tidy and thoughtfully laid out, with full-hookup RV sites circling the water, a small sandy beach for summer splashing, clean restrooms and showers, simple playgrounds and EZ walking loops that make it feel both manageable and welcoming for families. The boys were in heaven the next morning when we drove over to Elleson’s Bakery for fresh homemade donuts still warm from the oven. Later we wandered through historic downtown Sycamore during Pumpkinfest, taking in the decorated storefronts and carved pumpkins lined up like a little parade. Back at the RV Resort, from what we saw, the best campsites are any of the lakeside slots on the western shore because they offer the prettiest sunrise views and the quietest pockets of the resort. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its peaceful lakeside setting, its clean and convenient amenities and its proximity to a charming small provincial Midwestern town that makes even a simple weekend feel memorable.
Guide to Oakwood Hills
Campgrounds near Oakwood Hills, Illinois offer diverse outdoor recreation options throughout McHenry County. The area features several conservation district properties with well-maintained trails for hiking and biking. Most campsites in the region operate seasonally from May to October with varying levels of amenities and privacy. Rain can create muddy conditions on unpaved trails during spring and fall months.
What to do
Kayaking accessible waters: At Thomas Woods Campground, campers can enjoy nearby water access. "I biked to this campground from the Woodstock Metra station. While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here," reports one visitor who appreciated the natural surroundings.
Wildlife viewing: McHenry County forests provide habitat for various animals. "I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," notes a kayaker at Turner Lake South, highlighting the diverse wildlife visible from the water.
Equestrian options: Some parks offer horseback opportunities for visitors without their own horses. "There are even horse rentals and a trail designated as horse friendly," mentions a reviewer at Prairie View, describing the trail system available for riders of all experience levels.
What campers like
Budget-friendly pricing: Several sites offer affordable camping without sacrificing quality. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear," writes a visitor about Turner Lake South, noting the exceptional value for tent campers testing equipment.
Privacy variations: Site layouts differ significantly between loops. "This is the no services campground. We could walk to fill up with water but no electric on site," explains one camper about Prairie View Camping Area, whose site was "encased in foliage which gave us some privacy."
Firewood availability: Many campgrounds provide convenient firewood service. "The camp host delivered my fire wood right to my site (which was extra helpful because no car)," reports a Thomas Woods visitor, appreciating this accommodation for those without vehicles to haul supplies.
What you should know
Gate restrictions: Several parks enforce strict access hours that may impact evening plans. "The camp gates close at night and there are tire shredders - you can leave but you can't get back in unless you want to walk," explains a reviewer about evening curfews.
Alcohol policies: Different locations have varying rules about alcoholic beverages. "The upside of lots of bugs are lots of bird watching. Many pretty varieties," notes a visitor at Honeysuckle Hollow, who also mentioned that all Illinois state parks enforce no-alcohol policies.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for interactions with local fauna at night. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," warns a Prairie View camper, advising others to secure all food items in vehicles before dark.
Tips for camping with families
Tick prevention: Prepare for insects, especially with young children. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," cautions a Honeysuckle Hollow visitor who recommends having "a contained covered screen house and have them wear hats or a wagon shade on walks."
Playground access: Choose sites near recreational facilities when camping with children. "Child Friendly Campground. Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake," writes a reviewer at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
Family-friendly entertainment: Some campgrounds organize scheduled activities. "We got our tent up easy and painless, had to move a few sticks but otherwise fantastic!" shares a visitor to Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park, appreciating the straightforward setup process for families.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Power connections vary significantly between sites. "Each site has an individual electric post. Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad," explains a reviewer comparing Fox Den Campground to other Chain O'Lakes options.
Space considerations: Site dimensions vary widely between campgrounds. "A very nice, well manicured campground. Though a commercial-style, it does not feel like it. Sites are well spaced," describes an RV camper at Paul Wolff Campground, appreciating the balance of amenities and spacing.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment for comfortable setup. "The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. Our site was very shaded and quiet at night," notes a Fox Den camper, mentioning that most sites in that loop are relatively level compared to other options in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Oakwood Hills, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Oakwood Hills, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Oakwood Hills, IL is Paul Wolff Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 21 reviews.
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