Park Forest, Illinois sits within the Valparaiso Moraine region, characterized by gently rolling terrain formed during the last ice age. The area experiences distinct seasons with humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 85°F and cold winters that can drop below 10°F. Most RV campgrounds near Park Forest remain open from mid-April through mid-October, with only a few offering year-round access.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park provides access to a small private beach on Cedar Lake where campers can enjoy swimming in a controlled environment. As one reviewer noted, "There was a nice big field for the dog to run. Nature trails and of course Cedar Lake. People seemed friendly."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Alexander RV Park offers excellent fishing along the Kankakee River. A camper mentioned, "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."
River swimming: During hot summer months, the Kankakee River provides relief from the heat at Lake Alexander RV Park. One visitor shared, "There's a river that's a 5 min walk from the campground that we swam in and it kept us cool from the heat."
Playground access: Many rv campgrounds near Park Forest include playground facilities for children. At Oak Lake RV Resort, one family appreciated: "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Hygiene facilities vary widely among Park Forest area RV parks. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, a camper appreciated the "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!"
Helpful staff: Customer service stands out at many campgrounds. At Oak Lake RV Resort, one reviewer praised the personalized assistance: "From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup. We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless."
Convenient overnight stops: For travelers along I-80, Love's RV Hookup locations provide convenient places to rest. A reviewer at Love's RV Stop-Demotte IN 394 noted, "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. The check in online is very easy."
Security features: Several RV parks near Park Forest offer secure camping. A reviewer appreciated that Oak Lake RV Resort is "Gated for security and plenty of shade. Great family setting and staff."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Water quality varies significantly between Park Forest area campgrounds. At some locations, water quality can be problematic, while others like Love's RV Hookup-Morris IL 859 offer better amenities: "Inside, there's of course the Love's retail market, which was just decent, an ATM, Hardee's and Naf-Naf... As I hinted at, quite a lot here for such a small location."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance planning. At Fox Bluff Cottages & RV, a reviewer advised, "Plan ahead! The location requires a 2 night stay minimum."
Site conditions: Terrain varies significantly between RV campgrounds in the Park Forest region. While some offer level sites with concrete pads, others may have more natural settings. A reviewer at Tameling Campground and RV Park noted, "This is my second time staying here. I enjoy the secluded area and found the people to be friendly and helpful."
Traffic noise: Some RV parks near Park Forest experience road noise. One camper at Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground observed: "Located right on US45-US52. Lots of truck traffic stopping at the intersection makes lots of noise at night."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Fox Bluff CottageS & RV offers multiple water features for family enjoyment. A seasonal camper shared: "Personally, I love the view of the river. There's a gorgeous Creek, a lovely small lake and I really enjoy the walking trails."
Campground amenities: Several RV parks near Park Forest provide family-focused amenities. A reviewer highlighted Oak Lake RV Resort's activities: "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories."
Bathroom security: Family safety considerations include secure bathroom facilities. At Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park, a visitor appreciated that "there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering."
Seasonal activities: Many Park Forest area campgrounds operate from mid-April through mid-October, with peak season during summer months. Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park operates "Apr 1 to Oct 21" while Oak Lake RV Resort runs "Apr 15 to Oct 15."
Tips from RVers
Site access: RV campgrounds near Park Forest offer varying levels of accessibility. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, campers find "Friendly staff who were quick to respond to any issues. Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot."
Morning amenities: Some parks provide extra conveniences. One RVer at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort noted, "A little pricey. $63 with tax and amenities. Did have free ice, free coffee, and juice, and donut in the morning."
Electric service reliability: Power reliability can be inconsistent at some campgrounds. A Love's RV Stop-Demotte IN 394 visitor warned, "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."
Seasonal site opportunities: For frequent visitors to the Park Forest area, seasonal arrangements might be worthwhile. One reviewer at Oak Lake RV Resort shared, "We're already talking about being put on the list for a seasonal site for next year bc we know we'll be back again & again."