Tent camping near Oakwood Hills, Illinois offers nature enthusiasts access to several preserves within a 60-minute drive radius. The area features rolling terrain with elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level, creating varied camping experiences from riverside locations to open meadows. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though campers should note seasonal closures typically run from November through April at most facilities.
What to do
Fishing access points: MacQueen Forest Preserve provides multiple river access locations along the Kishwaukee River, though experienced anglers note that fishing spots directly adjacent to campsites have limited success. According to Marcus D., "There isn't much in terms of hiking trails. Just the main path and a few paths connecting sites and sort of a path along the river...the places with access to the river were not good locations for fishing."
Seasonal tubing: During summer months, tent campers can coordinate their own tubing excursions on the South Branch of the Kishwaukee River. "Some fellow campers were doing a diy tubing right to the campground. (About a 2 hr lazy river tube from Kingston or 5hrs from Genoa on the slow moving S. Branch of the Kishwaukee River which can be pretty deep in places)," reports Marisa A. from MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Winter camping options: For cold-weather enthusiasts, several preserves remain open year-round with specific considerations. Nick C. shares his experience: "Second time coming to this great local spot. This time i stayed in site #8. By far the best spot on the grounds. Great remote location over looking the river. Great time minus the winter squall that rolled threw our first night."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site offers exceptional privacy for tent campers willing to hike in. "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside. There is a fire pit, but we found our own wood around the site. (Bring a small axe)," notes Erin Z.
Self-service camping: The simplified registration process appeals to spontaneous campers. "Well maintained bathrooms, great secluded sites. Super easy no registration its first come first serve. I will be goin again with my family," writes Darshon J. about his experience at MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Affordability: Budget-conscious tent campers appreciate the value provided by local forest preserves. "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4," shares Amy G. who also notes the campground feels well-maintained with recently mowed areas.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campsites experience regular train traffic throughout the night. Amy G. cautions about MacQueen Forest Preserve: "Note: if you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground."
Water availability: Non-potable water access exists at some locations, but requires treatment or alternative planning. "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable," emphasizes Amy G., making it essential for tent campers to bring sufficient drinking water supplies.
Site selection strategy: For those seeking wooded coverage rather than open field camping, specific site numbers offer forest canopy. Nick C. advises, "Spots are pretty spread out. Only sites 1,2,8 are forested the rest are around a large open field."
Tips for camping with families
Transport assistance: Families with young children should utilize provided equipment for gear transport. "You have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel path and mowed trail," explains Amy G.
Accessibility options: Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area provides walk-in tent sites with varying distances for families to consider based on mobility needs and gear requirements. Those with mobility concerns should note MacQueen Forest Preserve offers "one space near the parking lot that's handicap accessible."
Pet regulations: Dog-friendly policies exist at select preserves with specific restrictions. "Dog friendly, but must be leashed all of time or a $50 fine. My dog loved the trails and river crossings!" shares Marisa A., highlighting the importance of adhering to leash requirements.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only limitations: Most preserves near Oakwood Hills explicitly prohibit RVs in favor of tent-only camping experiences. According to Marisa A., this creates an environment that's ideal "if you don't like pitching a tent in a field of RVs," as these primitive campgrounds focus entirely on tent camping.
Large group facilities: Despite RV restrictions, groups can utilize dedicated spaces at certain preserves. Amy G. notes that MacQueen Forest Preserve features "a giant fire pit with benches. The perfect area for a small group camp (as long as each party paid for the campsite that's back there)," alongside "a lodge and pavilion which can be rented out for separate cost."
