A
Abdulrahman A.
Scout
ScoutBig Rock Campground
Beautiful And Quite
Away from All the City Noise And Not Very Far Away Dump Station And Potable Water Supply
Camping near Rolling Meadows, IL
66 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Rolling Meadows, Illinois provide options for RV travelers, tent campers, and those seeking cabin experiences. Several established facilities, including Camp Reinberg in Palatine and Camp Bullfrog Lake in Willow Springs, offer both primitive and developed sites. The landscape around these campgrounds features a mix of forest preserves, prairie lands, and water access points, with most camping areas situated within 20-30 miles of Rolling Meadows. Many locations support multiple accommodation types, with the Chicago Northwest KOA and Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.
Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when local campgrounds reach capacity quickly. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with several facilities including Paul Wolff Campground and Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort closing for winter. Amenities vary significantly across locations, with electric hookups common at most developed campgrounds while water and sewer connections are less universal. Weather patterns affect camping experiences throughout the season, with summer humidity and occasional storms presenting challenges. Several campgrounds enforce alcohol prohibitions, which campers should note when planning their stays. A camper noted, "This is a typical Illinois state park. Run down and not well taken care of. Positive is the lake."
The forest preserve campgrounds provide relatively secluded experiences despite their proximity to suburban areas. Campers report high satisfaction with sites offering water access, including Chain O' Lakes State Park with its multiple camping areas. Shaded sites prove valuable during summer heat, as one visitor shared: "The Turner lake south loop has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites." While most camping areas offer basic amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets, shower availability varies considerably between locations. Proximity to Chicago makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations, resulting in crowded conditions during peak summer months. For those seeking more isolation, primitive sites in less developed areas of the forest preserves generally provide quieter experiences with fewer amenities.
Best Campgrounds near Rolling Meadows (66)
1. Camp Reinberg
"Lots of biking and walking trails and plenty of off trail paths that lead to unique clearings, bridges, etc."
"tucked alongside a bike and walking path that goes through a beautiful forest preserve. The path is gorgeous dipping through forested sections, open fields, and lilly pad covered ponds!"
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability2. Paul Wolff Campground
"Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."
"The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability3. Blackwell Family Campground
"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."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability4. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"The group camp site is located pretty far away from the rest of the campsites, bathrooms, trails and amenities."
"We had a phenomenal time at Illinois State Park camping facilities! Space was clean, nature was alive, and the neighbors so friendly!"
from $25 / night
Check Availability5. Camp Bullfrog Lake
"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."
from $20 - $138 / night
Check Availability6. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
"Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water."
"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."
from $43 - $73 / night
Check Availability7. Chicago Northwest KOA
"You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"
"We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"
8. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"
"Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"
9. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"We can both drive to work and then come back to relax. Close to some great places for antiquing if you don't want to hike the trails or fish."
"It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "
10. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."
"You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly. But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"
Drive Time
- 32 min from Chicago, IL
- 45 min from Rockford, IL
- 49 min from Kenosha, WI
- 1 hr from Racine, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Rolling Meadows, IL
188 Photos of 66 Rolling Meadows Campgrounds
Art S.
Paul Wolff Campground
Marc W.
Blackwell Family Campground
Glenn T.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Tyler J.
Backyard Bonfire
Katherine T.
The Vaudeville
Linda M.
Escape to Nature
Andrew S.
Camp Bullfrog Lake
Janet P.
Mud Lake West — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Aida K.
Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Heather L.
Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Brian O.
Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Recent Reviews near Rolling Meadows, IL
507 Reviews of 66 Rolling Meadows Campgrounds
- HHolly B.
GuideChicago Northwest KOA
A bit of a drive
It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
- MManny A.
TravelerBig Foot Beach State Park Campground
Simple and local
First time RV’ing with my wife and we were able to navigate pretty easily in our rented 30’. Arrived on a Monday, and as posted, there was no one so we checked in online(they sent an email to check in). Simple camp site with tons of space(almost double our RV), a long wood picnic table and a fire pit. Everything was great until we left. Dumping was straight forward, but the person in front of me was taking a little while to dump. They had came up to my RV and let me know the dump tank was backing up, which I had also experienced when I tried dumping. I called to ask for assistance on Thursday and they said they would send a ranger out. 45 minutes of waiting and a couple other RV’s after us and we ended up giving up and going to another site closer to home to dump. Great experience otherwise.
Stuart K.
LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendThousand Trails Pine Country
Shaded, Family-Friendly Country Retreat
There’s something instantly calming about rolling into a campground wrapped in tall pines and soft breezes, and Pine Country had that peaceful, easy feeling that made all of us exhale before we even found our site. This campground is expansive and welcoming, with full-hookup spots laid out across wide loops, plenty of shade, clean bathrooms and a friendly mix of families settling in for weekends or longer stays. Our boys loved wandering between the fishing pond and the small recreation areas and we ended the evening sharing freshly baked chocolate chip cookies that we made over an open fire on a Camp Chef black skillet munching them down at the picnic table while listening to the trees rustle above us. For families looking for a convenient home base near Rockford with lots of room to spread out, EZ access to town for supplies and a campground that really does feel safe and relaxed, Pine Country is an EZ pick. Highly recommended for young families seeking space, shade and a low-key, gentle setting to recharge.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Sycamore RV Resort
Peaceful Lakeside Pause in the Heart of Corn Country
There’s something so comforting about pulling into Sycamore RV Resort and seeing the sunlight dance across those two spring-fed lakes, giving you that immediate exhale that only a calm Midwestern campground can bring. The property is medium-sized, incredibly tidy and thoughtfully laid out, with full-hookup RV sites circling the water, a small sandy beach for summer splashing, clean restrooms and showers, simple playgrounds and EZ walking loops that make it feel both manageable and welcoming for families. The boys were in heaven the next morning when we drove over to Elleson’s Bakery for fresh homemade donuts still warm from the oven. Later we wandered through historic downtown Sycamore during Pumpkinfest, taking in the decorated storefronts and carved pumpkins lined up like a little parade. Back at the RV Resort, from what we saw, the best campsites are any of the lakeside slots on the western shore because they offer the prettiest sunrise views and the quietest pockets of the resort. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its peaceful lakeside setting, its clean and convenient amenities and its proximity to a charming small provincial Midwestern town that makes even a simple weekend feel memorable.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Holiday Acres Camping Resort
Country Calm with a Dash of Classic Campground Fun
The moment we pulled into Holiday Acres, that cozy ‘old-school campground’ feeling washed over us, with tall trees, winding lanes and a big, friendly welcome from the office that instantly made the boys sit up and take notice. The campground is beautifully laid out with roomy sites, full hookups, a well-kept swimming pond, mini golf, a little camp store and restrooms that were impressively clean for a busy family spot. After a long drive, the boys made a beeline for the playground and the pedal carts, and later that night we all sat under the string lights eating ice cream sandwiches from the camp store while fireflies blinked and buzzed through the trees. If you’re a family looking for somewhere safe, shaded and EZ-going with just enough activities to keep the kids happily worn out, this place absolutely fits the bill. Highly recommended for its friendly atmosphere, great kid-focused amenities and peaceful, wooded setting.
- 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.
Denise B.TravelerSanders Park Campground
Sanders park
Love this quaint smaller campground, close to home although you feel like you're way up north! Clean restrooms showers! Walking trails with preservation.
Guide to Rolling Meadows
Campgrounds around Rolling Meadows, Illinois function primarily as warm-weather destinations with most facilities operating from May through October. Located in northeastern Illinois at approximately 700 feet above sea level, the area features gently rolling terrain with small lakes and forest preserves. Seasonal temperatures typically range from 60°F to 85°F during peak camping months, with higher humidity levels in July and August.
What to do
Horseback riding at Chain O' Lakes State Park: The park offers designated equestrian trails for visitors with their own horses. While no horse corral facilities exist at the campgrounds, there are multiple trail systems. "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels. Lots of people bring their leashed dogs," notes a reviewer from Paul Wolff Campground.
Kayaking through multiple waterways: Chain O' Lakes provides interconnected lakes and streams perfect for paddling. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," shares a camper at Turner Lake South Camping Area.
Archery practice: Some parks offer archery facilities for visitors. "Other than plenty of hiking options including a big hill, the fishing is outstanding. There are lots of places along the lake and ponds to get an easy catch and release. There is also archery, a dog park, picnic areas, boat rental/ramp, and a compass course," mentions a visitor to Blackwell Forest Preserve.
What campers like
Clean facilities near urban areas: Many campgrounds maintain high standards despite being close to populated areas. "This gem of a campground is run by the Cook County Forest Preserve District and the care they have for it shows! There are pavilions, air conditioned/heated dining hall, shower building, restrooms (seriously the cleanest I've ever seen, even the ceilings were cleaned!)," writes a visitor to Camp Reinberg.
Midweek tranquility: Weekday camping offers a dramatically different experience than weekends. "We were there during the week and had the place to ourselves. Rangers were helpful and delivered firewood to our site daily. Bathrooms could use a bit of paint but were clean enough," notes a camper at Fox Den Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer shoreline fishing access or boat rentals. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side," shares a visitor at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
What you should know
Tick and mosquito preparation: Insects can be problematic, especially in wooded areas. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. They literally fall out of the trees into people! Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house," warns a camper at Honeysuckle Hollow Camping Area.
Wildlife activity after dark: Nocturnal visitors are common at campgrounds in this region. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. Eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down," advises a visitor at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "This IL state campground fills up quickly on the weekends over the summer. While these sites are usually slated for walk-ups on the weekends, it seems like a lot of people go early on Thursday or even Wednesday to secure their sites for the weekends," notes a camper at Turner Lake South.
Tips for camping with families
Water-based activities: Lakes provide swimming and boating options for children. "The concessions/camp store is located near the boat docks and is easily walked or driven to with decent selection of foods, gear, and fishing items," shares a visitor to Fox Den Campground.
Camp store convenience: On-site stores allow for easier meal planning and forgotten items. "The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids! This is not private or rustic camping but still very fun and relaxing," notes a camper at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
Group camping options: Some campgrounds offer specialized areas for large gatherings. "Each group site has a nice cooking area and open space for tents. We had a group of about 20 kids plus moms and dads, so we grabbed three sites in the same area. This made for a great private space for our pack," explains a visitor to Blackwell Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Water access limitations: Not all sites with electrical hookups offer full water connections. "This was a sweet camping spot. Only 4 sites (only site 3 is shady!) tucked alongside a bike and walking path. The staff were very helpful, and are on site 24 hours a day. This was necessary as there are no water spigots at the RV sites. The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site," explains an RVer at Camp Reinberg.
Varying site dimensions: RV pad sizes and configurations differ significantly between campgrounds. "RV spots are concrete, flat, and easy to get into," notes one visitor to Camp Reinberg, while another at Camp Bullfrog Lake shares, "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad. I believe this is a relatively newer campground. There is NO shade during the day."
Electrical hookups: Understanding power options is important for planning. "It's a good mix of young people, retired people, and families. Because there is electrical it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise," explains a camper at Paul Wolff Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Rolling Meadows, IL?
Which is the most popular campground near Rolling Meadows, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rolling Meadows, IL is Camp Reinberg with a 4.8-star rating from 13 reviews.
Keep Exploring