Carole I.
Traveler
TravelerWoodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park
Woodland
Helpful staff.
No picnic table at site #500
Best Campgrounds near Riverdale, IL
Developed campgrounds around Riverdale, Illinois provide convenient camping access within Cook County Forest Preserves, about 20 miles south of Chicago. Camp Sullivan and Camp Shabbona Woods offer tent camping, RV sites, and cabin accommodations with varying amenities. Camp Bullfrog Lake, located in the Palos region, features lakeside campsites with water activities and access to extensive trail networks. Several Indiana camping options like Indiana Dunes State Park and Dunewood Campground are within 30-40 miles east of Riverdale, offering additional camping areas along Lake Michigan.
Reservations are required at most campgrounds in the region, with availability often limited during summer weekends. "The campsites do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing. Caretakers were very helpful and did a great job keeping the campground clean," noted one visitor about Camp Shabbona Woods. Access to camping areas varies significantly, with most Cook County Forest Preserve campgrounds offering paved roads suitable for all vehicles. Many campgrounds close their entrance gates at night, requiring advance planning for arrivals and departures. Cell service is generally good throughout the region due to proximity to urban areas, though bathroom and shower facilities receive mixed reviews for cleanliness and maintenance.
Campers report that the Cook County Forest Preserve camping areas provide an unexpected natural escape despite their proximity to urban surroundings. A frequent visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "kudos goes to CCFPD for making an incredible campground on what was once just a weed-ridden pond." Most campground options include fire pits and picnic tables, though firewood availability policies differ between locations. Urban sounds like traffic, trains, and emergency vehicles are commonly mentioned in reviews, with several campers noting the contrast between natural settings and urban noise. Hiking trails and fishing opportunities represent popular activities at these campgrounds, with Camp Bullfrog Lake receiving particularly positive feedback for its trail access and water features. Winter camping is limited, with many campground options operating seasonally from April through October.
Best Camping Sites Near Riverdale, Illinois (66)
1. Camp Bullfrog Lake
30 ReviewsWillow Springs, IL15 milesWebsite+1 (312) 636-9785$20 - $138 / night
"Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life. Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."
"What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."
2. Camp Sullivan
15 ReviewsOak Forest, IL8 milesWebsite+1 (312) 636-0041$35 - $250 / night
"Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern."
"There are several bathrooms around and they are clean. Staff is friendly and welcoming."
3. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
125 ReviewsBeverly Shores, IN34 milesWebsite+1 (219) 395-1882$25 / night
"You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."
"You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."
4. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
49 ReviewsIndiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN30 milesWebsite+1 (219) 926-1952$43 / night
"We spent the afternoon on the lakeside and drove back to the site to set up for the evening."
"This campground was very nice and clean and for a packed park was very quiet and we did not feel too close to the sites next to us. "
6. Lakeshore Camp Resort
17 ReviewsPortage, IN22 milesWebsite+1 (219) 762-7757$49 - $57 / night
"We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars."
"A lake with water rentals, floating water slide, playgrounds and sport courts, general store with the stardust’s “convenience mark-ups”,and water/ electric at all sites."
7. The Vaudeville
4 ReviewsChicago, IL17 miles+1 (312) 420-4204"There is easy access to public transportation. It was HOT and there are no plug ins or use of generators so plan accordingly"
8. Blackwell Family Campground
22 ReviewsWarrenville, IL31 milesWebsite+1 (630) 933-7248$20 - $30 / night
"Just outside of Chicago, we have been staying here for quick weekend trips and absolutely love the proximity to home."
"I always loved going to the parks in Illinois with my grandparents when I was little. They love hiking and nature and definitely got me interested in it also. I love them and miss them everyday."
9. Martin’s Camping Ground
6 ReviewsNew Lenox, IL22 milesWebsite+1 (815) 726-3173"If you like having access to a bathroom and shower its great and because no one really hd a tent here but us we had some privacy. It is next to a highway so be mindful of that."
10. Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park
2 ReviewsLowell, IN21 milesWebsite+1 (219) 374-5941$45 - $55 / night
"You have access to the perks of the conference grounds I clouding access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open."
"Nature trails and of course Cedar Lake. People seemed friendly."
Recent Camping Photos near Riverdale, IL
147 Photos of 66 Riverdale Campgrounds
Jeffrey L.
Camp Shabbona Woods
Megan R.
Camp Sullivan
Josh M.
Camp Bullfrog Lake
Katherine T.
The Vaudeville
holly S.
Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park
Katelyn G.
Martin’s Camping Ground
Marc W.
Lakeshore Camp Resort
Kirk B.
Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
Martin C.
Blackwell Family Campground
Josephine B.
Lake O' The Woods Club
Danielle C.
Sand Creek Campground
Ariel B.
Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
Recent Reviews near Riverdale, IL
497 Reviews of 66 Riverdale Campgrounds
Jacob H.
ScoutChippewa Campground — Kankakee River State Park
Good spot!
Did a night of tent camping here to test out some gear for a backpacking trip. Lots for tent camping class C are gravel or paved which isnt the best. You are also only able to reserve a spot 48hrs in advance which can be a bit annoying. Water is potable but orange from rust so I would recommend bringing some type of filter to get rid of the taste and color. Very chill staff from what I saw has a state park police truck that patrols ever now and then.
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendGebhard Woods State Park Campground
A Tiny, Peaceful Hideaway by Nettle Creek
The soft hush of Nettle Creek and the canopy of old hardwoods set the tone the moment we rolled into the tiny family campground at Gebhard Woods, which I would describe as a simple and wooded pocket tucked along the historic I&M Canal in the very quaint nearby town of Morris that feels like stepping back into a gentler, slower rhythm. With only a very small number of walk-in and car-accessible sites, everything here is intentionally uncomplicated with basic picnic tables, simple fire rings, primitive vault toilets, functional stand-up grills, expansive shelter in case of rain and an abundance of shade. The entire campground opens up within EZ walking distance of the creek, footbridges and a canal path that our little ones immediately ran off to explore. One of my favorite moments came as we watched them marvel at all of the turtles they discovered near the creek banks, their laughter echoing under the trees while my husband and I stirred the campfire and breathed in that cool creek-bank air ... grateful for a night that asked so little of us except to be present. While Gebhard Woods is primitive in every way with no hookups, no frills and no store, it’s absolutely perfect for families who want quiet, nature and room for little imaginations to run wild with the best spots being the shaded sites closest to Nettle Creek where the breeze and water sounds soften everything just right. Highly recommended for families seeking peaceful simplicity, kid-friendly exploring and a truly low-key overnight in the woods.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Camp Reinberg
A Forest Preserve Escape for the Whole Family
From the moment we pulled into Camp Reinberg, our entire family felt something was unique and different about the peacefulness that you immediately encounter when arriving here to Camp Reinberg – it was the kind of quiet that settles over you long before the bags are unpacked, which felt remarkable considering how close this little retreat sits to suburban Palatine. This Forest Preserve of Cook County campground is modest in size with a mix of tent pads, a very small circuit of RV-friendly sites and several modern cabins that give it the feeling of a thoughtfully managed woodland outpost rather than a crowded complex. Amenities are simple but well-cared-for, including clean restrooms, hot showers, shaded picnic areas, a proper indoor camping kitchen and dining hall as well as a large open field for play complete with an enormous bonfire pit and BBQ grill area with direct access to the miles of hiking paths that wind through Deer Grove Forest Preserve. Our favorite moment came just before sunset when the boys darted between the oaks spotting chipmunks while we lingered at the picnic table with a thermos of hot cocoa, savoring the calm and popping in extra marshmallows for full effect. For families, this campground is genuinely recommended thanks to its safety, gentle trails and close-to-town convenience with the best site choice being either one of the tent pads along the wooded northeastern edge (sites#6-10) or the northernmost corner of the RV loop if you’re looking for a spot for your rig (#2-4), where the privacy and tree cover make the stay feel much more like a deep-forest escape.
Beth D.
GuideIndiana Dunes State Park Campground
Dry nice place
They’re busy for early May. We found out that we could not add an extra day and the likelihood of being able to take advantage of a cancellation with slim due to the fact that you pre-pay and there’s no refunds without at least 24 hours notice. The campsites are a decent size and the facilities are quite nice.
- Beth D.Guide
Paul Wolff Campground
Good place for a night or 2
First, you have to make reservations in advance online. The website says otherwise. They are spacious sites and well maintained the water. Spicket are a significant distance from each campsite so come prepared for that.
Sarah R.ScoutKankakee South KOA
Close to Chicagoland
We love this KOA that is the closest one to our home.
Abby B.TravelerMichigan City Campground
Best campground in area
This campground is conveniently located near interstate 94, town, Lake Michigan and food. The spots closer to the highway are a bit noisy, but it’s a great park overall!
Stuart K.LegendSilver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
Primitive Camp Right by the Fox River Under Ancient Oaks
Situated about five miles west of Yorkville in Kendall County, Silver Springs State Fish& Wildlife Area spans over 1,350 acres including the beautiful Silver Springs, two manmade lakes and several miles of Fox River shoreline. Camping here is highly primitive and organized around youth and group backpack sites that offer a peaceful, history-rich wilderness setting. It’s not your typical family campground, but more of a lean-into-nature, group-only campout.
The camping experience here is stripped-down with no vehicle access to campsites, no RV hookups and no showers, just ground-based tents in shaded woods along the river. You’ll need to carry in all your gear and water, as this is basic trail-side camping. What you get is serenity, solitude and a tapestry of oak forests, prairie restoration zones and natural spring magic that makes this place feel timeless.
What really sets this park apart is its raw connection to landscape and wildlife. The spring itself bubbles a clear, cold pool that doesn’t freeze in winter, offering a shimmering focal point amid oaks and prairie grasses. Beyond that, the park offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing on Loon & Beaver Lakes as well as the Fox River, plus a robust network of trails stretching 4 miles for hikers and 7 miles for horseback riders. In winter, you can even ice-skate or cross-country ski weather permitting (read: wait for the snow to fall and the water to freeze over).
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you hadn’t picked up on it already, bring everything you need as this is primitive camping to the max with no potable water or facilities at campsites; (2) The spring is a must-see and I would encourage you to visit during sunset when the light turns the waters silvery; (3) You definitely want to plan some trail time hiking near those lake and river paths that are perfect for wildlife viewing and quiet reflection; (4) While you certainly could do solo camping here, this place ideal for organized youth groups or scout trips; (5) While you won’t be able to drive up to your site, there is a decent parking lot that will at least allow you to get pretty close to where you will eventually be camping, so while it will take a handful of trips, depending upon how many people you come with, at least you’ll be able to hike in ¼ mile to the first spot or a ½ mile further in where there are larger group sites; and (6) For groceries or hot meals after camping, head into Yorkville for the nearest comforts with excellent digs like Smokey’s for some authentic BBQ, Crusade Burger Bar for its namesake handhelds and craft beer as well as The Vault, which is a former bank offering up Midwestern comfort food.
Happy Camping!
Guide to Riverdale
Campsites near Riverdale, Illinois offer different experiences across both urban-adjacent forest preserves and Indiana's lakeside areas. While Cook County Forest Preserves provide the closest camping options to Riverdale, several additional alternatives exist within a 40-mile radius. Cell service remains strong at most locations due to proximity to Chicago's metropolitan area, though noise levels can vary significantly between campgrounds.
What to do
Mountain biking at Palos trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides direct access to extensive mountain bike trails. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," notes Josh M. The trail system is highly regarded by serious riders who bring "top of the line bikes in and out all day."
Kayaking on small lakes: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers kayak rentals at $15 per hour including life vests. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," explains Layla P. The small lake size makes it ideal for beginners or those wanting a leisurely paddle.
Climbing the dunes challenge: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground features the popular "3 Dune Challenge" hiking trail. "The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," shares Greg S. The trail offers moderate difficulty with significant elevation changes uncommon in the Chicago region.
Rock climbing indoors: For rainy days, Camp Sullivan features an indoor climbing wall. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," mentions Shane S. The facility provides a supervised climbing experience for both beginners and more experienced climbers when outdoor activities aren't possible.
What campers like
Urban escape proximity: Being close to Chicago while feeling removed from urban sprawl is highly valued. "Awesome place to stay when you live in the city and wanna get away," notes Deanna B. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. The quick access from urban areas makes these sites popular for weekend getaways.
Clean shower facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms at certain campgrounds. "The bathroom/shower facility at Martin's Camping Ground is super clean and modern," notes Beth B., though she adds that "water temperature is lukewarm at best." Blackwell Family Campground also receives positive feedback for its "modern bathrooms."
Free firewood at select locations: Some campgrounds include complimentary firewood with site rental. "Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits," explains Josh M. about Camp Bullfrog Lake. This amenity saves campers from needing to purchase or transport firewood.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Blackwell Family Campground offers abundant wildlife sightings along its trails. "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. The preserve's varied habitats support diverse wildlife populations.
What you should know
Train noise affects sleep quality: Railway lines near several campgrounds create significant noise disturbances. "The trains going through and blasting their horns all night long" affected Kaley A.'s experience at Indiana Dunes State Park. Similar issues occur at Dunewood Campground where Truly W. notes "could hear trains throughout the night."
Gate closure policies vary: Several campgrounds implement strict entrance gate policies. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning!" explains Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan. This can complicate early departures or late arrivals without advance planning.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Several Cook County Forest Preserve campgrounds have young trees that don't yet provide adequate shade. Beth B. notes at Martin's Camping Ground that "spaces are small, muddy, and un-level" with minimal shade. Tim K. comments about Camp Bullfrog Lake: "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small."
Bathroom facility variations: Facilities range widely between campgrounds. At Camp Sullivan, one camper reported: "It's ridiculous there are two bathroom stalls and complete strangers have to pass a toilet paper roll between the stalls." Conversely, Robert C. praised Martin's Camping Ground for having "cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Sullivan features playground facilities near campsites. "We love this place with three kids under 7! Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites," shares Dane S. The playground provides entertainment for children between hiking or other activities.
Weekend activity programming: Several campgrounds offer structured activities during peak season. "Lakeshore Camp Resort has always lots of activities on the weekends for kids and adults," notes Angie G. Activities typically run Friday through Sunday with more extensive programming on holiday weekends.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Multiple campgrounds offer accessible fishing opportunities suitable for children. "There is fishing, kayaking and hiking trails too," mentions a reviewer about Camp Bullfrog Lake. Blackwell Family Campground is known for "outstanding" fishing with "lots of places along the lake and ponds to get an easy catch and release."
Lake beach options: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park provides access to a small private beach. "You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets," reports Holly S. The controlled environment offers safer swimming than larger public beaches.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. Beth B. notes at Martin's Camping Ground that "spaces are small, muddy, and un-level." RVers frequently recommend bringing extra leveling blocks, especially at forest preserve campgrounds.
Limited hookup configurations: Hookup placement can be problematic at certain locations. "Sewer connection at our site was technically on neighbors...we had to use extension," notes Beth B. Bringing extra-length hoses and cables is advised for several campgrounds in the region.
RV size limitations: Dunewood Campground has restrictions that affect larger vehicles. While technically "big-rig friendly," Katherine T. notes that "the sites are decently private with good tent pads" but can be challenging for larger RVs to maneuver. Several sites cannot accommodate RVs exceeding 35 feet.
Electric-only options predominate: Many campgrounds offer only electric hookups without water or sewer. At Indiana Dunes State Park, Greg S. explains: "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." Arrival with full fresh water tanks is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Riverdale, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Riverdale, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Riverdale, IL is Camp Bullfrog Lake with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.
What parks are near Riverdale, IL?
What parks are near Riverdale, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Riverdale, IL that allow camping, notably Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes National Park.
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