Tent camping opportunities near South Barrington, Illinois extend beyond forest preserves to include state parks, wildlife areas, and canal trail sites. Most locations are within 40-60 miles of South Barrington, with campgrounds scattered throughout DeKalb, Will, and Kendall counties. Winter camping is available at select sites like MacQueen Forest Preserve, though most locations operate seasonally from April through October with varying regulations regarding advance reservations.
What to do
Paddling excursions: At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, campers can access multiple waterways. "The canal is navigable, but swampy with algae and some downed trees. We canoed 3 miles up to the state park before we could cross over to the DuPage (a lovely river) and then back on the Des Plaines," notes one visitor who found diverse paddling options.
Stargazing in open meadows: Several sites feature open fields ideal for night sky viewing. "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing! There's also a giant fire pit with benches," writes a MacQueen Forest Preserve camper who appreciated the open spaces.
Cycling the canal trails: The I&M Canal Trail provides excellent biking opportunities connecting multiple campgrounds. "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride," reports a cyclist who stayed at Channahon State Park Campground.
What campers like
Site privacy and spacing: The generous distance between campsites at MacQueen Forest Preserve consistently impresses visitors. "This is one of those places that's so awesome, you really don't want to tell people about it. It used to be an old boy scout camp, and now they let the public use it. There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart," explains one camper who values seclusion.
Affordable rates: The low cost of primitive camping attracts budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4," shares a MacQueen visitor who appreciated the value.
River views: Select sites offer scenic water vistas. "I stayed in site #8. By far the best spot on the grounds. Great remote location overlooking the river," notes a winter camper who found the riverside location worth braving cold weather.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Many campgrounds require gear hauling from parking areas. "You have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel road and mowed trail," explains a MacQueen Forest Preserve visitor who found the walk-in process manageable.
Water availability concerns: Potable water access varies significantly between sites. "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable," warns one camper about MacQueen, while another notes at Camp Shabbona Woods that "No electric or water hook ups" are available at campsites.
Environmental considerations: Some areas experience seasonal flooding. "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up to the fire pit," cautions a camper at McKinley Woods who encountered unexpected water issues.
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly options: Some locations specifically cater to camping novices. "Camp site is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping. The campgrounds 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," notes a visitor to Camp Shabbona Woods.
Accessibility features: Several sites offer ADA-compliant amenities. "There is one wheelchair accessible tent site on a blacktop path in the forest canopy," explains a camper about MacQueen Forest Preserve, noting its inclusive design.
Noise considerations: Train and urban sounds affect some locations. "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok," reports a Shabbona Woods camper, while another notes at MacQueen: "if you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you."
Tips from RVers
RV restrictions: Most tent camping areas near South Barrington prohibit RVs entirely. "This is where to go if you don't like pitching a tent in a field of RVs," explains a visitor to McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, highlighting the tent-only nature of these campsites with "All sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs."
