Cabin rentals near Orland Hills, Illinois offer a range of experiences from woodland retreats to waterfront accommodations. Located in the southwestern Chicago suburbs, the area sits at an elevation of approximately 720 feet with a typical Midwestern continental climate. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak cabin rental season, while spring and fall provide cooler options for visitors seeking less crowded conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides direct access to miles of hiking paths. "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits. What's great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," notes Josh M.
Fishing opportunities: Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park offers riverside fishing spots along the Kankakee River. "The river was nice to visit and we were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)," explains Linda N. who visited during summer.
Kayaking and water recreation: Several cabins provide water access, with Camp Bullfrog Lake offering affordable rentals. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," writes Layla P. who stayed at the campground.
Rock climbing activities: Some locations feature indoor climbing walls for family entertainment. Camp Sullivan has a climbing wall in their activities barn, making it an option for days when outdoor activities aren't possible.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Michigan City Campground maintains well-kept shower buildings. "The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing," reports Cassiey K. after a recent stay.
Evening campfires: Most cabin locations provide fire rings with firewood available for purchase. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, "Really enjoyed this campground. Sites are pretty close to each other, but neighbors were quiet. Beautiful little lake. Bathrooms were warm and clean. There's also a little store on site that was open until 10:00 PM," according to Lawrence B.
Nature viewing opportunities: Camp Reinberg in Palatine offers wildlife viewing along their preserve trails. "The campground provides easy access to hiking and bike trails directly in the park and they go for miles and miles. This was a highlight for me, along with the butterflies and fireflies that put on a beautiful show," notes Susan L.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Several Cook County Forest Preserve campgrounds implement security measures including nightly gate closures. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting. What if there was an emergency?" warns Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan.
Water quality concerns: Some locations have inconsistent water quality for drinking and showering. "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day," reports Iryna R. from Leisure Lake Resort.
Noise levels: Cabin proximity to highways can impact sleep quality. "Unless you own a seasonal site avoid this place. If you do not have a seasonal spot you will be stuck next to the 80/94 freeway where it is noisy 24/7/365," warns Aaron W. about Lakeshore Camp Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Water access may be limited at certain times. "The water is not yet potable so bring your own or check with the park team to ensure it's drinkable when you go," advises a camper about early spring stays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Great Falls Campground at Illini State Park provides play areas but with limited shade. "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," notes Linda N., suggesting morning or evening use during summer months.
Cabin selection strategy: For families seeking more space, specific sites offer advantages. "We were in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade," explains Layla P. about Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Weekly rental limitations: Cook County Forest Preserve cabins have stay restrictions. "A one week limit for all stays unless you get approval from higher-ups," explains a camper about Camp Reinberg, making these locations better for weekend family getaways than extended vacations.
Child-friendly activities: Some cabin locations offer structured programming. "We love this place with three kids under 7! We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites," shares Dane S. about Camp Sullivan.
Tips from RVers
Site size variations: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park offers full hookup sites with amenities. "We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. There's a playground as well," reports holly S.
Access constraints: Some cabins near Orland Hills have limited vehicle access. "You cannot pull your vehicle by the site but they provide wagons and staffs are willing to help," explains Yang L. about Camp Reinberg, important information for those bringing extensive equipment.
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between locations with different amp options. "RV spots are concrete, flat, and easy to get into," notes a visitor to Camp Reinberg, while others mention the need to fill water tanks before parking at certain locations.
