Chain O' Lakes State Park offers primitive camping options for visitors seeking a more rustic experience near Russell, Illinois. Located within the 6,500-acre park, several non-electric camping areas provide alternatives to the luxury glamping options. The park sits at approximately 840 feet above sea level and experiences warm summers with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, limiting access to certain camping facilities.
What to do
Kayaking the Fox River: Access the Fox River system at either Oak Point or through the main Maple Grove boat launch. "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," notes a camper at Turner Lake South.
Horseback riding: The park maintains dedicated horse trails throughout. "There is so much to do at this campground. Horseback riding, archery, hiking, boating, fishing. There is also a park for the kids in several areas," mentions a visitor to Turner Lake South.
Winter camping opportunities: Some sites remain accessible during colder months. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports a camper at Ottawa Lake Campground in nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest, which offers similar seasonal camping experiences to Chain O' Lakes.
Antiquing in nearby towns: The area features several antique shops within short driving distance. "If you like antiques or fun local places, head to The Milk House in Pingree and hit up the antique shops on your way," recommends a camper from Chicago Northwest KOA.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Non-electric sites often provide more separation than RV areas. "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees," explains a visitor to Fox Den Campground.
Budget-friendly camping options: Tent sites start at just $12 per night. "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," notes a camper at Turner Lake South.
Spring and fall visits: Many campers prefer shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. "The fall is beautiful and less crowded," mentions a visitor to Big Foot Beach State Park, reflecting a common preference across the region's campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "The bathhouse wasn't too far of a walk from any site," shares a camper at Honeysuckle Hollow.
What you should know
Ticks and mosquitoes: Be prepared for insects, particularly in summer months. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. Luckily our screen house pop up on a tarp that was sprayed ahead for tick repellent plus a blanket on top of that did the trick, but they literally fall out of the trees into people," warns a camper at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are active after dark. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. So basically, eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down," advises another Honeysuckle Hollow camper.
Alcohol restrictions: Rules vary by campground. "ALL Illinois State Parks are now enforcing a no alcohol policy even if you are on your own site," notes a visitor to Fox Den Campground.
Weekend availability: Some campgrounds fill quickly or have limited operating schedules. "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites," reports a camper at Thomas Woods Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Screen houses recommended: Bring insect protection for small children. "With a baby crawling that needed to be set free... Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house and have them wear hats or a wagon shade on walks so nothing lands in their hair," advises a Honeysuckle Hollow camper.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. "This was our first time at this campground and we were impressed. We stayed in the Fox Den electric sites. The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. There is a lot to do at this park from hiking to water sports to horse back riding," explains a visitor to Fox Den.
Easy hiking trails: Look for beginner-friendly paths suitable for all ages. "This particular campground was just about as far away into the park as you could go without going to the youth/group camp. There is a boat launch with rentals and a bunch of hiking trails closer to the entrance," shares a camper at Fox Den.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Check site specifications carefully before booking. "Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. A lot of the spaces are also crowded together. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance," advises a camper at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Dump station availability: Plan accordingly for busy weekends. "We had 50 amp, but no water/sewer, although there was a water spigot next to our site that we could use to fill up jugs of water. The dump station was near the entrance to the camping loop and had potable water. It was also very busy and we had to wait when filling up and again when dumping," reports a Honeysuckle Hollow visitor.
Site selection for privacy: Research specific site numbers to maximize seclusion. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers," notes a visitor to Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
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