Best Camping near Palos Heights, IL

Join the fun near Palos Heights. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Palos Heights is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Palos Heights, IL. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Palos Heights, IL (66)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    121 Reviews
    320 Photos
    446 Saves

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres (6070 ha) will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes. As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead ) are located within its boundaries. The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource. For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.

    Nearby Attractions

    Located close to the campground is Lake View Beach on Lake Michigan which is located 1.5 miles north of the campground. Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. Do NOT park in the Town of Beverly Shores' beach parking lot, which is located just to the east of the Lake View lot. You will get ticketed. The town is very strict. A gas station / convenience store is located mile north of the campground at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue. The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue, mile north of the campground. Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake

    2. Camp Bullfrog Lake

    25 Reviews
    34 Photos
    369 Saves

    Camp just steps from the water in the heart of the vast, hilly Palos Preserves. Camp Bullfrog Lake offers year-round camping, group activities and water-based recreation such as canoe rentals and fishing. Just around the corner from Maple Lake’s boathouse and the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, it’s also a perfect launching pad for hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching adventures on Palos’ 50-plus miles of trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $138 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground

    3. Blackwell Family Campground

    22 Reviews
    97 Photos
    303 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan

    4. Camp Sullivan

    14 Reviews
    64 Photos
    58 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park

    5. Indiana Dunes State Park

    44 Reviews
    96 Photos
    657 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort

    6. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    16 Photos
    14 Saves

    Lakeshore Camp Resort Portage, IN is a 940 site Membership park. We have 115 full hookup campsites and 12 cabins available for rent to the general public. We offer you and your family a fun filled camping experience with access to our many amenities that include: 22 Acre lake, 4 pools, beaches, fishing, boat rental, mini golf, daily recreational activities, weekend entertainment, and much more! We are conveniently located 10 miles from the Indiana Dunes National Park, and approximately 45 miles from downtown Chicago, IL. Area attractions include; Deep River water park, Chicago train system, casinos, bike trails, zoos, and museums. Whether you are enjoying activities in or out of the park there is much to do.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $49 - $57 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park

    7. Potowatomi Campground at Kankakee River State Park

    12 Reviews
    39 Photos
    126 Saves

    Our Class-A Premium campground is located in the main park with shower facilities, flush toilets, and all sites have electricity. Water is available by pump at designated locations throughout the campground and at the sanitary dump station. This is a very wooded area with 4 loops-Oak, Hawthorne, Osage & Hickory. Pit toilets are also located near each loop. Alcohol is prohibited and credit cards are not accepted at the site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground

    8. Big Rock Campground

    17 Reviews
    30 Photos
    67 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Martin’s Camping Ground

    9. Martin’s Camping Ground

    5 Reviews
    1 Photo
    10 Saves

    Martin's Camping Ground, in Joliet, IL, is the area's premier campground serving Chicago, Minooka, New Lenox, Lockport, Homer Glen and surrounding areas since 2017. We offer 30 and 50 amp RV hookups with electricity, a full service dump station, propane refills and much more. For more information, contact Martin's Camping Ground in Joliet.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from The Vaudeville
    Camper-submitted photo from The Vaudeville
    Camper-submitted photo from The Vaudeville
    Camper-submitted photo from The Vaudeville
    Camper-submitted photo from The Vaudeville
    Camper-submitted photo from The Vaudeville
Showing results 1-10 of 66 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Palos Heights

Recent Reviews In Palos Heights

438 Reviews of 66 Palos Heights Campgrounds


  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Lake RV Resort
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Oak Lake RV Resort

    Quiet, nice place.

    Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
    Oct. 21, 2024

    Camp Sullivan

    Urban Camping near Chicago

    Camp Sullivan offers a charming and well-maintained space for campers of all kinds, from tent enthusiasts to RV travelers like us. All the RV sites here are back in, and while they are tight, they are certainly manageable. We brought our 36-foot RV, the Badger, and although it barely fit, we were able to position it close enough to the power box by choosing not to extend the slide. This turned out to be a smart decision, considering the timbers that line the gravel surface of the site. These timbers add a bit of a challenge when maneuvering a larger rig, and in our case, (note to staff) removing the timber closest to the road would have made things much easier. 

    Each RV site is equipped with 15, 30, and 50-amp electrical connections, though it’s worth noting that there’s no water or sewer available at individual sites. As a result, water conservation becomes essential. The bathrooms here, however, are clean and well-kept, which is always appreciated, especially after a few days without on-site water. There is also a stainless steel sink for use in front of the RV area's bathroom where you can do dishes.

    Security at Camp Sullivan feels solid, and while there is some noise, it wasn’t disruptive. We stayed over a weekend, and though there was a lively group in the group campsite Saturday night, they respectfully wrapped up their activities by quiet hours, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. 

    The roads throughout the campground are in good condition, and the trees aren’t a concern for your RV clearance. In addition to RV sites, Camp Sullivan offers a range of accommodations for all kinds of campers. There are small rental cabins, large bunkhouses for group camping, and plenty of tent sites spread across the grounds. We didn’t have the chance to check out the"Barn" yet, but it’s a major feature here, housing a climbing wall and concessions. 

    We also noticed staff busy cleaning the bunkhouse areas and taking care of trash removal, even on a quiet Sunday. Everyone we encountered was friendly and added to the overall positive vibe of the place. Camp Sullivan is an excellent spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, (up to six days allowed) with plenty of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where we feel comfortable and cared for, with just the right balance of adventure and relaxation.

  • Iryna R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Lake Resort
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Leisure Lake Resort

    Good resort very bad water

    We booked a month stay but weren’t able to stay over 2 weeks because water is so horrible. Our cat got diarrhea, clothes got ruined, you can’t even make tea with that water. But everything else was good. Nice helpful staff, clean, quiet rv park.

  • Amy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    Safe and comfortable campground

    Convenient to Indiana dunes, each site is easily accessible and spacious. The facilities are fairly clean and showers are available though we didn’t use them. Would recommend as a stop over. As a solo female traveler I felt safe.

  • Jennifer K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Pretty great!

    I somehow booked a different campground- website was confusing apparently. However the worker was so helpful and found me a spot anyway. Sites are kind of small so not a lot of space for big big campers. Cute lake and relatively quiet. Odd though that when I asked questions like where can we fill water and if they had a park map I got looked at like I had 3 heads.

  • Jim L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin’s Camping Ground
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Martin’s Camping Ground

    Parking lot

    Sites are very close. You can watch the traffic on the highway from your camper.No picnic table, no firing, bathroom and showers were clean. Thought it strange that you needed a combination to get in the bathroom.Seems like most people live there. With a few sites for People passing through. If you’re looking for a place to park for the night and take a shower this is all I would recommend this place for

  • Linda N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Blackwell Family Campground

    Great little getaway

    This was our first time camping tryout and we had a blast. It is deep enough in the forest preserve to feel like camping but is not far from our home, which allows for a quick getaway. The campsite was very clean and the staff/ranger nice and knowledgeable. The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos and during our stay, blew gigantic bubbles for the kids to chase around.

    The toilets on the loops are vault and the ones by the main entrance are flush. Didn't use the showers on this trip but both facilities were well maintained and clean. 

    As other reviewers said, since it is in the forest preserve, the gates close an hour after sunset and reopen at sunrise. The ranger did cruise through the sites to make a formal announcement so that visitors could leave. It is also close to a main road and you could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night. We will definitely be revisiting as a quick getaway spot.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Lake Membership Resort
    Apr. 5, 2024

    Leisure Lake Membership Resort

    "Easter Week at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park"

    "Our family had an incredible stay at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park over Easter week. The location was perfect for a peaceful retreat, and the amenities provided everything we needed for a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The kids had a blast with the available activities, and it was the ideal setting for our family to come together and create lasting memories. The staff was exceptionally friendly and went above and beyond to ensure our stay was pleasant. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a family-friendly getaway!"

  • Gina H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fox Bluff CottageS & RV
    Feb. 7, 2024

    Fox Bluff CottageS & RV

    Great family facilities!

    I've had a river spot at this campground for 5 years and let me tell you it has not disappointed. 

    The new pool, the game room, the playground,the beautiful new bath house and the grounds are just wonderful. 

    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.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground
    Jan. 1, 2024

    Deer Creek Campground

    Corn Patch Camping @ It's Best

    Out of the barren, desolate field after field drive-by wasteland that is the Illinois countryside, at least in late Autumn / early Winter, you’ll be heading down winding roads with all sorts of twists and switchbacks before arriving to Deer Creek Campground. What I love most about this cleverly hidden natural outpost is that if you don’t know where you are going and don’t have this destination in mind, you will never find it. And I bet the very great people here at Deer Creek had that in mind when they purchased this land from nearby Mallard Bend Campground, but that’s likely a story for another day. 

    As for this hidden camping outpost, located somewhere south of Sandwich, whose main highway artery is 34, east of Sheridan, which is a tiny town I had never heard of before and due west of a hamlet called Millington, which is nothing short of purely residential, you’ll follow E 2750th Road south from 34 until you hit N 4351st Road, right as the road bends on a 45 degree curve, where you’ll head east until you come to your first possible right, about 200 yards give or take, where you’ll turn in, on gravel nonetheless, so drive slow, where after 100 yards, you’ll hang a left (do not go straight, or you’ll be visiting Mallard Bend Campground) and follow the gravel road till its completion. Here, there’s a guard station and gate where you’ll check-in. After doing so, you’ll have about 2 dozen spots to park your RV at. 

    Regarding the spaces themselves, they are large, tree-lined and completely surrounded by some of the most lovely people I have ever met while out in these parts camping. There is but a single lane with ample space on either side of this lane to park any size of RV or 5th wheeler. Unlike most of Illinois, the land here does slant sideways a bit, but at least where the gravel RV slabs are at, you’ll have to problems setting up on fairly flat land. All of the traditional hook-ups (30 / 50 electric amp, water, sewage) are available, along with a designated dump site. Beyond this, there are no other amenities per se, so those RVs outfitted with their own bathrooms and showers are better suited for this particular location. As for tent camping, this isn’t really the place for it as the place has been specifically designed for the wheeled camper in mind. Here, you’ll find all sorts of RVers that have parked for what looks to be an entire season, if not in some cases, for the whole year. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you come bearing watercraft, you’re in a lot of luck as just due south, you’ll have easy access to the Fox River – and if you can bribe your way onto Mallard Bend Campground, I’ve been told they have an excellent launch; (2) Thinking about fishing and don’t know where to go? Head back from whence you came to Lake Holiday, where there’s no shortage of great places to cast a line from to do some decent catch & release fishing for the likes of blue gill; and (3) When you get tired of opening up your onboard fridge trying to figure out that next meal, then head west to Sheridan to Old Mill Tavern, which on the weekends has an amazing fried chicken dinner or try out Calico Café, which has a pretty amazing breakfast spread; and (4) Looking for somewhere to kick back and throw some shine down? Then head on over to nearby Millington, where you have two options: Jimbo’s Place and The Last Chance Saloon – and if it were me, I would visit them in that particular order! 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859
    Jan. 1, 2024

    Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859

    Easy & Convenient Roadside Pit Stop

    As we were driving eastbound on I80 that day, we spotted the Love’s RV Hookup, which is a new concept that this oversized fueling depot / travel store has been working on for the past year or so. Having checked out one of their other locations in Bloomington earlier in the year, which I have to admit, I was fairly impressed by, we decided to stop in here to have a look. Located just due east on the outskirts of little known Morris, Illinois just off I80, this little roadside stand isn’t the largest Love’s I’ve ever seen, but it sure does pack a punch. 

    If you do find yourself hustling and bustling east or west along the I80 corridor and are in need of a pit stop or an overnight stay, then the good folks at the Love’s RV Hookup have you covered. While the other Love’s I have stopped by seem enormous by comparison, this spot felt more like a corner convenience store that also had a fairly large fueling bay (4 double-sided pumps) in the front, primarily for cars and SUVs. 

    As you pull in, there’s 4 spots earmarked to the right of the entrance for RV’s. As you pull further along in front of the Love’s fueling bay, on the other side, an additional 6 or so slots exist for other RVs to park. In all, there’s 10 back-in RV slots available and inside you’ll find that there’s 7 individual shower stalls (all of which were in pristine, brand-new shape when we stopped by) along with a laundry facility, which we were happily surprised by, as well as a designated RV dump service, propane refill station and all of the typical hook-ups (water, 30 / 50 amp electric and sewage) along with WiFi. Inside, there’s of course the Love’s retail market, which was just decent, an ATM, Hardee’s and Naf-Naf (think Subway, but instead, Middle Eastern food). There’s even a small dog park here. As I hinted at, quite a lot here for such a small location. 

    If you would like something more substantial to eat, just head back west on I80 to the next exit, where if you head north there’s an IHOP, Chili’s, Bellacino’s Pizza or you can head on back to the TA Travel Center where they actually have a proper sit-down 24 hour restaurant called R-Place. If instead of heading north, you drive south on the main drag (Road 47), there’s a Buffalo Wild Wings, Pizza Hut, Starbuck’s, Wendy’s, Culver’s, Dunkin' and Burger King. But if you want something a bit more memorable, I would recommend either Morris Diner & Pancake House or La Casa Michoacana. And if you don’t mind a slightly longer drive back towards Ottawa, there’s 2 amazing places I would recommend that you won’t soon forget: Hank’s and Lone Buffalo. 

    Should you want to actually enjoy a bit of the nature around these parts, you can continue to head south on N. Division Street / Road 47 where you’ll come to 2 parks: Goold and Chapin, where either would make for a great place to stretch your legs, walk the dog or grab a picnic. If you’d like something a bit more splendid, then head on over to William G. Stratton SP or Gebhard Woods SP where you will be able to hike the I&M Canal State Trail. 

    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). Here’s how I ranked this particular overnight spot: 

    Convenience: 5 

    Safety & Security: 4 

    Quality: 5 

    Peace & Quiet: 4 

    Amenities: 3 

    Overall, I scored this location a 4.

    Happy Overnighting!

  • Katie A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reinberg
    Nov. 29, 2023

    Camp Reinberg

    Great little camp ground!

    Loved everything about this place. The staff is so helpful, well maintained, nice trail system. We tent camped on site #1 and would definitely book that spot again. We also came back last weekend and stayed in one of the large cabins- game changer in the winter! It’s a perfect spot for a weekend away from Chicago, will definitely be back.

  • Steven C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Love's RV Stop-Demotte IN 394
    Nov. 13, 2023

    Love's RV Stop-Demotte IN 394

    Clean and convienent

    Great stop for the night, It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids. Plenty of space and Convenient. We reserved and checked in online. The only complaint I had is the site we were at showed a ground fault on the 50amp Circuit so I had to use the 30 amp circuit but it's Nov so no need to run dual ACs minor issue but still make sure your using your EPM devices.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
    Oct. 29, 2023

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook

    Perfect for the kids

    I’ve been to this site a handful of times growing up and it’s a good campsite for the kids. Lots of activities to do everyday like crafts to keep the kids preoccupied during the day. RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay. Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful. Always came here for trick or treating and it’s a fun event for the camp ground with plenty of spooky things to do. Might come here when I have kids of my own, but I know there are better camp sites out there!

  • Katherine T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Chippewa Campground at Kankakee River State Park Campground
    Sep. 26, 2023

    Chippewa Campground at Kankakee River State Park Campground

    Ok for an overnight

    The sites here are pretty close together and not particularly private. The good thing is it wasn't particularly booked up the night I stayed there. No showers and the pit toilets exist. (I've seen worse, I've seen better, clean but doors are a bit hard to shut the door, no handwashing readily available). I'd recommend this for folks bringing a camper more so than planning to pitch a tent if you want to stay more than one night.  It's a good spot for a quick overnight just outside Chicago.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Sep. 16, 2023

    Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

    Nice and private.

    The spot was clean. It’s far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long. Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail. You have to walk all the way down and take a left before you find sites 5, 4, 3, and 2 in that order.

  • Benjamin L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Sep. 16, 2023

    Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    Beautiful campground

    We stayed 2 nights and the campground was thickly wooded and beautiful. We had good cell service but obviously the trees prevented Starlink. Our site was huge and the bathrooms were clean with individual locking showers and a dish sink. Short drive to the beaches.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort
    Sep. 11, 2023

    Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort

    One night Stay

    A little pricey. $63 with tax and amenities. Did have free ice, free coffee, and juice, and donut in the morning. Rail yard behind the row of trees. I believe they were humbling train all night long.



Guide to Palos Heights

Camping near Palos Heights, Illinois, offers a great mix of nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, have beautiful trails. One visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed riding ebikes on the trails," highlighting the great biking opportunities.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area is a great spot. A camper shared, "The lake was beautiful and we hiked a few of the trails that go near/around it."
  • Beach Access: For those who love the water, Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park offers beach access. One reviewer noted, "Staff were very friendly and helpful. Would stay again!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Michigan City Campground said, "Very well kept safe supervision quiet clean facilities."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the helpfulness of campground staff. A reviewer at Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "The site overall is amazing. Just wouldn't ever camp here again due to the high price and the bathrooms being terrible."
  • Spacious Sites: Campgrounds like Dunewood Campground offer decent-sized sites. One camper remarked, "We had good cell service but obviously the trees prevented Starlink."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Dunewood Campground. A camper warned, "The mosquitos here are insane!!! I came back with giant welts from the bites even with bug spray on."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Blackwell Family Campground noted, "You could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Big Rock Campground mentioned, "There are no showers. There is one flush toilet and two pit toilets."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer family-friendly activities. A reviewer at Illinois Beach State Park said, "Great environment for undisturbed relaxation."
  • Plan for Bugs: Bring bug spray and nets to keep the mosquitoes at bay. A camper at Dunewood Campground had a tough time with the bugs, saying, "I honestly couldn’t wait to leave!"
  • Check for Amenities: Make sure the campground has the facilities you need. A visitor at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area appreciated the "clean bathrooms."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Big Rig Friendly Campgrounds: Many campgrounds, like Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park, are big rig friendly. A camper noted, "The campground itself was very nice with good size sites and lots of room."
  • Book in Advance: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly. A visitor at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground advised, "Very popular campground so you do have to book well in advance during regular season."
  • Check for Electric Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept."

Camping near Palos Heights, Illinois, has something for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions