Recreational vehicles find several well-appointed options within 30 miles of Oakwood Hills, Illinois. The area sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level in McHenry County with predominantly glaciated terrain creating gentle rolling hills and small lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with humidity levels making evening camping comfortable after hot days.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Paul Wolff Campground offers multiple fishing spots along trails through the preserve. "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to believe that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area just outside Elgin, IL," notes one visitor who enjoyed the wildlife viewing alongside fishing.
Beach activities: Sycamore RV Resort maintains a swimming beach area when water quality permits. "They have a well maintained laundry and shower facility. Propane, full hookups, fairly sized fenced in dog run area, a lake with a beach front. Play ground for the kids and a strict 5MPH speed limit," explains a camper who spent time at the lake.
Walking trails: Multiple connected trails wind through the forest preserves near Oakwood Hills. "There are miles of trails. On one hike we were on paved, sifted gravel, grass and single trek trails. There are a lot of loops giving you options. When we left we still hadn't hiked all of them," shares a Paul Wolff Campground visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention immaculate bathrooms at Thousand Trails Pine Country. "Very nice, private sites. Not many campers, lots of RVs. Folks in the office were very helpful," notes a tent camper who appreciated the well-maintained grounds despite primarily serving RVs.
Privacy between sites: Site layout at some campgrounds provides separation despite proximity. "The sites are pretty big. The campground is not congested at all. The people are very nice. Everyone waves to everyone," writes a reviewer at Northwoods RV Resort who enjoyed the social atmosphere without feeling crowded.
Diverse recreational options: Fox Bluff Cottages & RV offers multiple water features and play areas. "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful. We've developed quite a lovely community of really nice people. Personally, I love the view of the river. There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails," explains a long-term camper.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many waterfront amenities close during portions of the year. "We were here for three months this time as I get to business completed. The park was still kept up very nicely and this time I was here long enough to be able to see how. The grass is mowed every week," observes a camper at Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort who stayed during peak maintenance season.
Train noise: Chicago Northwest KOA and several other parks have railroad tracks nearby affecting certain sites. "My family stayed here a few years back and although it is a small campground it meets the standards of what you should expect of a KOA. Nice bathrooms, decent size level sites," writes a visitor who suggests requesting sites farther from tracks.
Reservation requirements: Two-night minimum stays common during peak season. "Plan ahead! The location requires a 2 night stay minimum," advises a Fox Bluff visitor who attempted a one-night reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds with dedicated children's areas receive higher ratings. "Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground. We'll be back for sure!" shares a Chicago Northwest KOA visitor who appreciated family-focused amenities.
Playground accessibility: Paul Wolff Campground offers ADA-compliant play areas. "There are a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees. There are 9 walk-in tent sites about 10-20 yards from parking. There are multiple ada sites and two 'walk-in/ie roll-in' site in the tent-only area," notes a visitor who appreciated the inclusive design.
Swimming options: Several parks feature pools with varying seasonal availability. "Great fishing and nice beach for swimming. Very nice shower/laundry house," writes a Sycamore RV Resort visitor about the water recreation options families enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort provides spacious pull-through sites. "Big park with tons of spots. The pull throughs were really long. We like dispersed sites so we wouldn't have liked this park 'in season' when it's packed," observes an RV owner who visited during quieter periods.
Water quality considerations: Some parks have mineral content affecting taste. "The camp water is high in Iron. The pot roads need service as they do have a lot of pot holes. Good thing for the 5mph speed limit," notes a long-term Lehmans Lakeside visitor.
Site specifications: Level concrete pads not universal at all rv parks near Oakwood Hills. "You can tell they're trying to remodel some of the sites. There is lots of grass so all the rain this weekend and we weren't muddy was awesome! Water pressure was steady. Power was consistent," explains a Lehmans Lakeside visitor highlighting the importance of checking site specifications before booking.
