Tent campsites near Olympia Fields, Illinois occupy a mix of forest preserves and state parks situated along the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail system. Most sites require advance reservations, with seasonal availability primarily from April through October. During summer, temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers cooler temperatures but increased chance of precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking river confluences: At Kayak Morris, campers can paddle through calm waters at the confluence of major rivers. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M.
Cycle the canal trail: The historic I&M Canal Trail connects several campgrounds with crushed gravel surfaces ideal for cycling. A reviewer at Channahon State Park Campground noted, "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer opportunities to view river otters, herons, and migratory birds. "We were rudely woken up by the Woodpecker Association at 7am," reports a camper at McKinley Woods, indicating the active bird population in the area.
What campers like
Private, spaced-out sites: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campsites offer separation from neighbors. One camper at McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove appreciated that "the sites are far apart."
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer bank fishing without needing a boat. A reviewer at Mac Finn's Landing called it "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River" with "lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers."
Accessibility features: Some sites include concrete pads and accessible facilities. A camper at McKinley Woods noted, "Two of the four sites are paved as well" and "All sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs."
What you should know
Gate closing times: Many parks strictly enforce closing hours, requiring campers to be inside before gates lock. At Camp Shabbona Woods, a camper observed, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok."
Urban noise presence: Despite natural settings, proximity to Chicago means occasional urban sounds. At Camp Shabbona Woods, a visitor reported "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background."
Flooding concerns: Low-lying sites can become waterlogged after heavy rain. A camper at McKinley Woods reported, "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up."
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly sites: Some campgrounds specifically cater to camping novices. At Camp Shabbona Woods, a reviewer noted the "camp suite is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping."
Limited shade at newer sites: Recent reforestation means variable tree cover. The same reviewer at Camp Shabbona Woods observed "The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing."
Water activities for children: Access to calm water makes for safe paddling experiences. At Central Avenue Walk-in Sites in nearby Indiana Dunes National Park, a camper mentioned "The walk to the beach was not too long," making it suitable for families.
Tips from RVers
Walk-in limitations: Most tent sites require gear to be carried from parking areas. At McKinley Woods, a camper advised, "First off, we didn't realize this was a walk-in campground, the details on the Will county site were vague, and the satellite photo showed a paved road. The road is a path."
Toilet facilities vary: Bathroom options range from vault toilets to porta-potties with no showers at most sites. A camper at Kayak Morris noted availability of basic facilities, saying "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river" with minimal amenities.
Equipment rentals: Some campgrounds provide rental options for visitors without gear. A reviewer at Kayak Morris mentioned "If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," which can be helpful for occasional campers or those traveling from a distance.
