Camp Bullfrog Lake sits about 20 miles southwest of River Forest, Illinois, amid the forested hills of the Palos region. The area features unique glacial topography with rolling terrain and small kettle lakes throughout the Cook County Forest Preserves. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while fall brings moderate 50-65°F days with colorful foliage making it ideal for camping with pets.
What to do
Kayaking on Bullfrog Lake: Rent kayaks for $15 per hour at Camp Bullfrog Lake, with life vests included. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares Layla P. at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Bike trail exploration: Access miles of mountain biking paths directly from your campsite at several preserves. "If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," notes Tim K. who camped with his pet.
Archery practice: Visit Blackwell Family Campground's free archery range with your pet (must be leashed when not at campsite). "There is also archery, a dog park, picnic areas, boat rental/ramp, and a compass course. It is a great place for families," says Marisa A. at Blackwell Family Campground.
What campers like
Camp store conveniences: Many pet-friendly sites offer on-site stores with supplies. "Bathrooms were warm and clean. There's also a little store on site that was open until 10:00 PM," reports Lawrence B. about his experience at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Clean, modern facilities: The bathroom buildings at most campgrounds are well-maintained. "The campsite was large and beautiful. The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers," says Veronica S. about her stay at Dunewood Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites provide excellent wildlife spotting chances while walking pets. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," reports Hatie P. from her camping experience.
What you should know
Shade variations: Many tent sites have minimal tree cover, important when camping with pets in summer. "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small," warns Tim K. about one location.
Train noise considerations: At several campgrounds near River Forest, passing trains can be heard throughout the night. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," cautions Kaley A. at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Seasonal bug activity: Insects can be problematic during warmer months when camping with pets. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," notes Katrin M. about her experience at Dunewood Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly cabin options: For those who prefer not to tent camp with animals, cabins provide comfort. "There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," explains Shane S. at Camp Sullivan.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites away from high-traffic areas for better experience with pets. "For privacy, my favorite site is #27 on the north loop road which makes you feel like you are alone in the woods," recommends Marisa A.
Water access points: Consider proximity to water for cooling off pets. "We like to hike and this site had great (kid and beginner adult level) trails. We were in town for the Sgt Tommys fishing day and lived that event as well," shares Nicole R.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup planning: At several campgrounds, water connections may be inconveniently placed. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises Rodney D. from his experience at Big Rock Campground.
Electric-only considerations: Some pet-friendly campgrounds offer electric but no water hookups. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us- we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," suggests Greg S. about camping at Indiana Dunes State Park.
Gate closure awareness: Some campgrounds secure entrances overnight, affecting late arrival or early departure. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting," cautions Lisa S.
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