RV parks near Palos Heights, Illinois offer varied terrain with most situated along the I-80 corridor within 30-40 miles of the city. Camping options range from basic overnight stops to larger resorts with recreational amenities. Winter camping is limited with only Hollywood Casino and Love's RV locations operating year-round, while seasonal campgrounds typically close from late October through mid-April.
What to do
Water recreation at nearby lakes: Fox Bluff Cottages & RV Resort provides access to water activities including swimming in their pool and fishing opportunities. "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," notes one camper at Fox Bluff.
River exploration: The Kankakee River offers swimming and boating options for campers at Lake Alexander RV Park. "Lake Alexander RV Park is a quiet, spacious, family owned and operated campground located near Momence, Illinois, within a 1-hour drive of Chicago. The camp is 120 acres of natural beauty on the banks of the Kankakee River," writes a visitor to Lake Alexander RV Park.
Walking trails: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park provides nature trails around the lake property. A camper notes, "There was a nice big field for the dog to run. Nature trails and of course Cedar Lake. People seemed friendly."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers prioritize clean bathrooms and showers when selecting RV parks near Palos Heights. "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" reports one visitor to Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to major highways, some campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. "We pulled in late & left early!! Did laundry...so quiet we slept hard! Nice safe location. Flat, pretty large spots..picnic tables," notes one camper about Hollywood Casino.
Convenient access: Love's RV locations provide easy highway access for overnight stays. "Found this on Dyrt and stopped for one night. Easy on and off I-65 yet barely any traffic noise. It just opened and it is well designed," writes a visitor to Love's RV Stop-Demotte.
What you should know
Water service limitations: Some campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions. "Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive," notes a Hollywood Casino visitor who added that there was "No water before 4/15."
Minimum stay requirements: Certain campgrounds require multiple-night bookings. "Plan ahead! The location requires a 2 night stay minimum," advises a camper at Fox Bluff.
Varying electrical services: RV parks offer different electrical hookup options. "Fueled up here and realized it was a loves rv overnight. Easy in and out with all the basics plus a nice convenient store and fuel," reports a Love's RV Stop visitor.
Noise factors: Industrial facilities or transportation corridors may create noise at some locations. "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," shares a Hollywood Casino guest.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Choose campgrounds with dedicated family facilities. At Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park, "You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open."
Security features: Look for campgrounds with secure facilities for families. "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," notes a Cedar Lake visitor.
Proximity to supplies: Stay near essential services when camping with children. A visitor to Love's RV Hookup in Morris highlights this benefit: "If you do find yourself hustling and bustling east or west along the I-80 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."
Tips from RVers
Electric circuit testing: Verify electrical connections before full setup. "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," advises a Love's RV Stop camper.
Budget alternatives: Consider more affordable options outside Chicago. "Don't Want a Pricey Chicago Hotel? Come Here! $20. Yes, it's an hour from the city, but I'd take the drive over the bill at a nearby hotel," suggests a visitor to Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground.
Water quality variations: Be prepared for water quality differences between parks. One Enchanted Shores visitor reported: "The stinkest water we've ever smelled, horrible!!!" This contrasts with positive reports from other area campgrounds, highlighting the importance of bringing drinking water.