Tent camping opportunities around Palos Heights, Illinois extend beyond forest preserves to riverfront sites and trail-connected locations within a 30-mile radius. Campers can find primitive sites along regional water systems including the Kankakee River, Illinois River, and the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal system. Seasonal variations affect water levels with spring typically offering higher flows for paddling activities and fall providing more secluded camping with fewer insects.
What to do
Fishing from your campsite: At Mac Finn's Landing, campers can access prime fishing spots directly from their sites. "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River imo! Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers," reports a visitor.
Paddling through multiple waterways: The river confluences near Morris provide extensive water recreation options. Kayaking directly from riverside campsites eliminates transportation hassles. "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap if you don't have your own," notes a camper about waterfront locations.
Cycling on canal trails: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail connects several camping areas, creating opportunities for multi-day bicycle touring trips. "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock," explains a cyclist who stayed at Channahon State Park Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront camping access: Sites directly on riverbanks allow for immediate water activities. "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 a fisher at Kayak Morris.
Evening water activities: Some locations offer special nighttime paddling events. A camper mentioned, "had my first experience of a lit up kayak tour for fireworks" after staying at Kayak Morris during a summer weekend.
Private tent sites near Lake Michigan: For those willing to travel slightly farther, walk-in sites provide seclusion. "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," notes a camper about Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Park.
What you should know
Urban environment impacts: Camping near Palos Heights means proximity to city sounds and services. A camper at Camp Shabbona Woods reported, "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok."
Flooding concerns at riverside sites: Low-lying campsites can flood during heavy rain. "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. We had three inches up the the fire pit," warns a camper who experienced flooding at McKinley Woods.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many locations offer basic amenities only. "Water is available by an old fashioned pump, and is drinkable, but cloudy. There's only one pit toilet," notes a visitor describing the facilities at one of the forest preserve campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
ADA accessible options: Some campsites provide concrete pads and accessible paths. "In McKinley Woods proper there is a large camping area and two of the sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility," explains a visitor to McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove.
First-timer friendly locations: Certain campgrounds specifically cater to newcomers. A reviewer noted one location "is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping," making it ideal for families new to tent camping.
Scheduled activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "Morning breakfast after the glampout night provided by the staff. Good food and quite environment," mentions a visitor describing the structured activities available at certain locations.
Tips from RVers
Walk-in tent sites with car parking: Most locations around Palos Heights require equipment to be carried in from parking areas. "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," explains a camper who brought a small trailer to Davis Creek Campground.
Park closure times: Operating hours vary significantly by location. "The park closes early, 8PM in summer, and earlier still off season. Check the fine print on your reservation!" advises a camper who was caught by surprise by early gate closures.
Limited hookup options: The best tent camping near Palos Heights, Illinois generally lacks RV amenities. Most sites have no electric or water hookups, making them more suitable for self-contained camping or tent camping only.
