Equestrian camping near Park Ridge, Illinois remains limited, with most nearby facilities lacking dedicated horse amenities. While the Forest Preserve District of Cook County maintains riding trails throughout the Chicago region, overnight camping with horses requires planning and often longer travel. The terrain around Park Ridge consists primarily of prairie restoration areas and wooded sections that transition between suburban development and natural areas.
What to do
Hiking varied terrain: Paul Wolff Campground at Burnidge Forest Preserve offers multiple trail types. "On one hike we were on paved, sifted gravel, grass and single trek trails. There are a lot of loops giving you options. When we left we still hadn't hiked all of them," notes Art S.
Fishing opportunities: Turner Lake at Chain O'Lakes State Park provides access to multiple connected waterways. "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by," reports Julia B.
Water recreation: At Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, campers access swimming and boating facilities. "We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago," mentions Jenifer K. The resort includes a beach area with scheduled activities for families.
What campers like
Natural wildlife viewing: Burnidge Forest Preserve contains diverse habitats attracting various species. "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to belive that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area just outside elgin, il," says Tricia E.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities at Fox Den Campground. "The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. Our site was very shaded and quiet at night. The bath house was very clean," notes Michelle M.
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers have options within driving distance. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner," reports Addison G. about Turner Lake South camping area.
What you should know
Limited shower access: Many campgrounds near Park Ridge have limited bathroom facilities. At Paul Wolff Campground, "The vault toilets are clean but smell like vault toilets at 95 degrees. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers. They don't advertise showers, but this is the newest and nicest campsite I have seen without showers," explains David W.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, particularly on weekends. "This IL state campground fills up quickly on the weekends over the summer. The best sites for those hoping for privacy are in Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East," advises Marisa A.
Alcohol restrictions: Several area campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption. The Fox Den reviewer notes, "ALL Illinois State Parks are now enforcing a no alcohol policy even if you are on your own site." This restriction applies to multiple facilities in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Big Foot Beach State Park offers amenities for younger campers. "Good fishing ponds for the kids, and great hiking trails throughout the property. I look forward to more quick trips to Big Foot State Park with the family!" shares Brenton S.
Off-season trips: For quieter family camping, consider spring or fall visits. "Took my daughter for a simple overnight and it was great. Open campground with nearly zero tree. We had a great campfire but didn't take advantage of the whole park to explore. She wants to again this year but we will spend more time hiking," reports Mike D. about Big Rock Forest Preserve.
Wildlife education: Chain O'Lakes offers natural educational opportunities. "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels," notes Marisa A., making this an ideal location for nature observation with children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup distances: Water connections may require additional equipment at some campgrounds. At Big Rock Forest Preserve, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" warns Amanda K., highlighting the importance of bringing extra hose length.
Level sites: Most RV sites in the region feature relatively level surfaces. At Fox Den Campground, "Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers," notes Ian C. Similarly, Big Rock Campground offers "big, level sites" according to Melissa C.
Dump station access: Full-service campgrounds with sanitary dumps remain limited. One camper notes, "Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out," describing Fox Den Campground. This infrastructure pattern is common throughout the region, with most campgrounds offering central water access rather than individual site connections.
