RV camping near Joliet, Illinois offers access to several well-maintained sites within an hour's drive of the city. Located in the northeastern part of Illinois along the Des Plaines River, the area's flat terrain and four distinct seasons make year-round camping possible, though winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing from December through February. Most campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 500-700 feet above sea level, with varying levels of tree cover and proximity to water features.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The two lakes at Sycamore RV Resort offer catch and release fishing about 50 miles northwest of Joliet. "Beautiful spot, very peaceful. We've been here for 3 months. There are two lakes, catch and release fishing. A small beach with a snack shack," notes camper Deb M.
State park exploration: Several excellent state parks are within 30-45 minutes of the Joliet area camping sites. "If you are a hiker and looking for some trails to blaze, then check out either Starved Rock SP, which has more than 13 miles of hiking trails awaiting you, or better, the lesser known Matthiessen SP, which has 5-6 of fairly decent challenging, but completely isolated, non-touristy-laden trails," suggests a visitor to Nature's Way RV Park.
Swimming: Multiple campgrounds provide swimming options during summer months. "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" reports Jeana K. about Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, while another camper mentions Sycamore RV Resort has "a small beach with a snack shack" and "a nice beach for swimming."
What campers like
Proximity to highways: Campers appreciate quick access to major routes for both overnight stays and longer visits. "Just 5 minutes to Starved Rock state park and one mile from interstate 80. Great country setting with full hook ups, pool, laundry, camp store and showers," writes Wendy T. about Nature's Way RV Park.
Family activities: Many campgrounds offer amenities for children and families. At Glenwood RV Resort, "there's quite a bit: horseshoe pits, catch & release pond, covered pavilions, kitchen, telephone area, shower/restroom facilities, game room, 2 kid's playground, trading post, swimming lake, in-ground pool and kid's pool with outdoor deck, tennis court, baseball diamond, volleyball and basketball court."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a positive feature. "Campground is very well maintained with gravel pads. Nice lake for fishing and a beach area for the kids to go swimming... Bathrooms are immaculate and are locked with electronic key cards," notes Marc W. about Sycamore RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal water restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited water service in colder months. "Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive," says David N. about Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, adding "No water before 4/15."
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience nearby train activity. James B. mentions about Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort: "Rail yard behind the row of trees. I believe they were humbling train all night long."
Minimum stay requirements: Check for stay requirements when planning. "Plan ahead! The location requires a 2 night stay minimum," advises Ann S. about Fox Bluff CottageS & RV.
Site quality varies: Campground surfaces range from grass to gravel to dirt. At Glenwood RV Resort, one camper noted "the powdery gravel sites (muddy when wet) that were not very level, and the long road in is very rough."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: Consider scheduling October camping trips around special events. "They do an extremely large Halloween event Columbus Day weekend. Jam packed for this event. Awards for site decoration. Campsites set up haunted houses, candy for kids, drinks for adults. Fun to see adults and kids all dressed up," shares Lisa T. about Glenwood RV Resort.
Community amenities: Some campgrounds foster a sense of community. At Fox Bluff CottageS & RV, Gina H. reports, "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."
Beach and pool options: For summer visits, prioritize sites with water recreation. "The new pool, the game room, the playground, the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful," notes a camper at Fox Bluff Vacation Cottage & RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Budget options: For economical overnight RV stays near Chicago, consider alternatives to pricier parks. "Upon arrival you are greeted by the owner and staff. They are very friendly and escort you to your spot after check in," shares Brandy C. about Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground, adding, "$20. Yes, it's an hour from the city, but I'd take the drive over the bill at a nearby hotel."
Parking assistance: Some campgrounds offer special help with RV parking. At Sycamore RV Resort, Marc W. advises, "When we arrive, the host will bring you to your site and just listen to his directions and he will get you into your site perfectly. I asked if I could bring him on my future trips. I've never parked so easily."
Love's Travel Center option: For overnight stays, Love's RV Hookup in Morris provides basic amenities. "While scoring criteria may vary from one person to the next, here are the 5 most important criteria that informed my rating of this overnight location: convenience (EZ on- and off-access), safety & security, quality (of facilities), peace & quiet and amenities (either on-site or nearby)."
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