Top Tent Camping near Park Forest, IL

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Park Forest and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Park Forest, including sites, reviews, and tips. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Park Forest, IL (10)

    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Morris
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Morris
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Morris
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Morris
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Morris
    Camper-submitted photo from Kayak Morris

    1. Kayak Morris

    11 Reviews
    25 Photos
    180 Saves

    Located only 1 hour from Chicago! Our private Campground is PERFECT for the BEGINNER camper! Camp with your vehicle just steps from your tent. WE are right on the water! All sites are Fully wooded Sandy Beach camping. Forget Something? Downtown Morris is just steps away, or Walmart/Jewel(5min). Need a shower? No problem! Morris Community Swimming pool (1mile away) features a shower/locker room facility and swimming pool. KayakMorris Outdoor Learning Campground is a new concept in recreational fun for all. KayakMorris' Campground was created out of a need to connect a variety of people and groups to recreational land and outdoor experiential learning programs and features GLAMPING! We are combining easy access to kayaking, biking, canoeing, fishing, geocaching and hiking all in one great place! We make it FUN! We are even just steps away from historic downtown Morris, which features antique shops, novelty stores and great restaurants. We feature full sand beaches on the Illinois River and we are adjacent to the historic I & M canal and towpath featuring fishing, hiking, biking and geocaching. Our Campground is specifically for families, youth and those with the utmost respect for the Great Outdoors! We cater to those that seek to escape to the wilderness and spend relaxing time with their friends and family. We pride ourselves in limiting camping privileges to families, youth and those that are truly outdoor enthusiasts. All camping is online reservation only(unless you have camped with us before). You must be 21 y.o. to make a camping reservation.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $29 / night

    • No image available

      2. Camp Shabbona Woods

      1 Review
      37 Saves
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $30 - $80 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      3. Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      2 Reviews
      2 Photos
      12 Saves

      Davis Creek Campground is available by reservation for chaperoned youth and church groups. All areas require camping permits, available at the park office or from park personnel in state vehicles. Groups of 25 or more are required to obtain a free activity permit from the park office.

      • Reservable
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove

      4. McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove

      3 Reviews
      17 Photos
      39 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents

      $15 - $30 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing

      5. Mac Finn's Landing

      1 Review
      16 Photos
      24 Saves

      Tent camping fishmermen's retreat.

      Parking Available for guests.

      Boat friendly. (Kayak rental Available.)

      Season ending December 1st, 2022.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $35 - $50 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park

      6. Channahon State Park

      1 Review
      7 Photos
      29 Saves

      Channahon State Park is the official trailhead for the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. Channahon is an Indian word meaning "the meeting of the waters" and signifies the joining of the DuPage, Des Plaines and Kankakee rivers. Today, Channahon State Park is under the management of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and provides park visitors a look back at a historic waterway that transformed a state. Locks 6 & 7 and the original locktenders house at Lock 6 located at the Channahon State Park enable visitors to daydream of a time when one of the loudest noises heard came from a blacksmith pounding out a new set of horse shoes. Only primitive tent camping is available and gear must be walked to the campsite. Fire rings, picnic tables, and grills are located in the camping area. A drinking fountain and pit toilets are located within a short distance from the camping area. A camping permit must be obtained from the information center.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Trash
      • Picnic Table
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

      7. Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

      1 Review
      10 Photos
      24 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.

      Facilities

      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

      Central Avenue Beach on Lake Michigan is located nearby, less than 5,000 feet (1524 m) from the campground. Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. A gas station / convenience store is located 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southwest of the campground on U.S. Highway 12. The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue. Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

      Charges & Cancellations

      A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (camping reservations cancelled the day before or day of arrival) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus a forfeiture of the first night's use fee.__ For more information please review Recreation.gov's Rules and Reservations Policies.__

      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Toilets

      $25 / night

      • No image available

        8. Illinois and Michigan Canal

        Be the first to review!
        4 Saves

        Backpack carry-in is allowed at designated sites along the 61 mile trail. Tent and youth group camping are also available at Channahon and Gebhard Woods. Open fires are permitted in camp stoves and fire pits provided at the sites. Permits must be obtained from the park offices prior to camping.

        Call the park office for location of these sites. Class D sites are for tent camping or primitive sites (walk-in or backpack) with no vehicular access.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents

        $6 / night

        • No image available

          9. Hammel Woods

          Be the first to review!
          • Reservable
          • Tents
          • Group

          $20 - $40 / night

          • No image available

            10. Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area

            Be the first to review!
            2 Saves

            For those who like rustic, primitive environs, an area overlooking the Fox River is available for Youth Group camping. No vehicles are permitted in the camp area, so it requires backpacking a short distance. Only the sounds of nature surround campers in this heavily-wooded area along the river, a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of life.

            • Pets
            • Phone Service
            • Tents
            • Group

          Recent Tent Reviews In Park Forest

          408 Reviews of 10 Park Forest 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!"

          • 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.

          • 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.

          • KThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
            Aug. 23, 2023

            Big Rock Campground

            Pleasant experience

            Stayed 4 nights- first come first served- no reservations- bring plenty of hose for water connections- first site we tried was just too far to connect- toilets but no showers available- electric/ water no full hook ups. Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi

          • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sand Creek Campground
            Aug. 18, 2023

            Sand Creek Campground

            Would stay again!

            Privately-owned and just a short distance from Indiana Dunes. The owner was very nice and helpful at check-in. There were several open spots on that rainy Sunday, so we were allowed to pick any open spot. Some spots were out in the open, others along the tree line, and a few in the woods. All sites had a picnic table, fire ring, and seemed fairly level.

          • Russell S.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Last Resort Campground
            Aug. 14, 2023

            Last Resort Campground

            Quiet, reasonably priced rest spot.

            We stayed here two weeks while visiting friends in the area. The site was a little small but was pull through and full hookup. Even though we were close to a highway and railroad, traffic noise did bother us. The wifi did not reach out area but I know they plan to expand it's capabilities soon. The best part was free access to the pond, paddle boats etc and friendly staff. The low points were very hard (with odd smell) water to the point where we didn't trust using the on camp laundry. Make sure you have a good on-line water filter.

          • S
            Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
            Aug. 14, 2023

            Lakeshore Camp Resort

            Over crowded and rude workers

            A group of us go camping at least 1 time a month and we were excited to find a campground with so many amenities very close to home. As soon as I pulled up the lady registering me couldn’t care less that I was there. It was like I was bothering her. She was more concerned what was going on on her phone. Then heading back to the site the park was entirely too crowded. They packed these spots in like sardines. The “security” was a joke. Our kids got yelled at 3 times for riding bikes. But they didn’t do anything with the drunks behind us making noise until 3am. Extremely disappointing and we will not be going back. We will warn everyone we know about this campground.

          • K
            Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Camp Resort
            Aug. 4, 2023

            Lakeshore Camp Resort

            It’s a trailer park

            I couldn’t believe they pass this off for a campground. People live there full time. And it’s red neck.

          • Katherine T.
            Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
            Aug. 3, 2023

            Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

            Nice wooded sites

            The sites are decently private with good tent pads. Shower house was clean with good hot water. Acamper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus. The hosts were friendly. Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service.



          Guide to Park Forest

          Camping near Park Forest, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

          What to do:

          What campers like:

          What you should know:

          • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. A camper at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground warned, "The mosquitoes are absolutely terrible due to the campground's proximity to the river."
          • Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, particularly on weekends. A visitor at Michigan City Campground noted, "The sites are close together and the fire rings are small."
          • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A review for Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "The campsite overall is beautiful... but the bathrooms were horrible."

          Tips for camping with families:

          • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. Lakeshore Camp Resort has a floating water slide and playgrounds, making it great for families.
          • Plan for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near roads. A camper at Blackwell Family Campground mentioned, "You could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night."
          • Book Early: Popular campgrounds fill up fast, especially during peak season. A visitor at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground advised, "Very popular campground so you do have to book well in advance during regular season."

          Tips from RVers:

          • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Tippecanoe River State Park Campground noted, "The sites are typical state park. No privacy for most."
          • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if you need them. Camp Bullfrog Lake offers electric and water at all sites.
          • Avoid Busy Times: If you prefer peace and quiet, try to camp during the week. A camper at Big Rock Campground shared, "Fortunately it was only about 25% full."

          For those seeking the best camping near Park Forest, IL, these campgrounds offer a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family fun.

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Park Forest, IL?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Park Forest, IL is Kayak Morris with a 4.9-star rating from 11 reviews.

          • What is the best site to find tent camping near Park Forest, IL?

            TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Park Forest, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.