Camping near Orland Park provides outdoor recreation opportunities within 45 minutes of Chicago's southern suburbs. The area features a mix of forest preserves, state parks, and private campgrounds situated amid the glacial moraines that shaped the region's topography. Winter temperatures average 22°F while summer months often reach 85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails with varying difficulty: The Blackwell Family Campground in Warrenville offers multiple hiking paths for all skill levels. "The trails are nice and the water is crystal clear. Nice place for a winter hike. Canoe rentals and free archery range," according to Christian V.
Water recreation on multiple lakes: At Camp Bullfrog Lake, kayak rentals cost $15 per hour including life vests. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," reports Layla P.
Bicycle routes connecting preserves: The extensive paved paths and unpaved mountain bike trails around Camp Bullfrog Lake attract serious cyclists. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," notes Tim K.
Lake Michigan beaches and dunes: Indiana Dunes State Park offers beach activities approximately 40 miles from Orland Park. "The lake and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype. The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic," writes Greg S.
What campers like
Early morning nature sounds: The serenity and wildlife at Camp Bullfrog Lake provides peaceful mornings. "Amazing chirping of the birds in the morning. Just beautiful piece full with nature," according to Gina A.
Modern shower facilities: At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, bathroom facilities receive high marks. "It was also the nicest showers that I've been to to date," mentions Kaley A., while Jackie H. notes, "The campground was full, but not overcrowded. Very friendly neighbors and camp staff."
Proximity to Chicago: Several campgrounds offer convenient locations for city residents. Josh M. from Camp Bullfrog Lake states, "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," while Bruce K. has a different perspective: "It's just outside of Chicago and it feels like it. It's like camping in a city park."
Winter camping options: Kankakee River State Park remains open year-round, allowing for four-season camping. "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," shares Josh M.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: At Camp Sullivan, many sites lack natural screening. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," warns Lisa S., while Megan R. adds, "The campsites are pretty crowded, you can easily see and hear your neighbors the entire time you're there."
Train noise disrupts sleep: Proximity to railway lines affects several campgrounds. At Indiana Dunes State Park, Kaley A. reports, "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds experience periodic water issues. At Leisure Lake Resort, one camper notes, "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning."
Weekend crowding: During summer months, especially weekends, campgrounds fill quickly. Shane S. from Camp Sullivan comments, "Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled," but Kirk B. from Indiana Dunes State Park admits, "Well the weekend traffic can be a bummer."
Tips for camping with families
Climbing activities for kids: Martin's Camping Ground offers clean facilities despite highway proximity. "Cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen," notes Robert C., which helps when traveling with children who need regular bathroom access.
Evening wildlife viewing: Blackwell Family Campground provides opportunities to spot local animals. John R. shares, "Our Scouts were able to walk down to access the lake and fish. Additionally, there's an open space for sports/games and some great climbing trees within the group area."
Kid-friendly bathroom facilities: Kankakee River State Park maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8," reports Shannon H.
Insect preparation essential: The wooded settings mean mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near water. At Indiana Dunes Dunewood Campground, Katrin M. warns, "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Orland Park offer at least electric hookups. "We paid $122.00 for two nights," reports Tim K. about Camp Bullfrog Lake, indicating prices for RV sites with electricity.
Seasonal water connections: At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, David N. warns, "No water before 4/15," highlighting the importance of checking seasonal hookup availability when planning spring RV trips near Orland Park.
Dump station access: Blackwell Family Campground provides sanitary dump facilities but limited hookups. "County park district runs it and the fees are kinda steep, 20 res/30 non-res," shares John W., referring to the pricing structure for residents versus non-residents.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain at some campgrounds presents leveling difficulties. Kankakee River State Park receives high marks from Linda N. who notes, "The sites are straightforward and vary quite a bit: some are huge with open green space and others I feel like just for a car and a tent."
