Several campgrounds near South Elgin offer diverse camping options within an hour's drive. South Elgin sits in northeastern Illinois, where summer temperatures average 75-85°F with moderate humidity. The area features a mix of prairie and woodland terrain with several lakes that freeze in winter months, making camping a seasonal activity typically from April through October.
What to do
Kayaking at Chain O' Lakes State Park: Turner Lake South at Chain O' Lakes offers multiple water access points. "The lake was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy," notes one camper at Turner Lake South.
Mountain biking trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides extensive trail systems for biking enthusiasts. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. 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," mentions a visitor who gave Camp Bullfrog Lake 4 stars.
Rock climbing activities: Camp Sullivan offers indoor climbing options for families. A reviewer notes, "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," though they also mention, "But they have a nice Rockwall," even when providing criticism about other aspects of their stay.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Thomas Woods Campground offers secluded tent sites. "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites. Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers. Hand pumps for water and well-kept pit toilets. Hiking galore!" shares a camper at Thomas Woods.
Family-focused activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park provides structured entertainment. "My family and I have been going to Jellystone in Millbrook for the past 4 years now. The last 2 years have been the best out of the 4. This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest!" explains a frequent visitor at Jellystone Park Millbrook.
Clean facilities: Chicago Northwest KOA maintains well-kept grounds. "Staff was very friendly and the facilities were kept very clean. Plenty for the little kids to do, and the text message communication was great with regards to weather updates or any goings on around the campground," states a camper who stayed with their family.
What you should know
Tent site availability: Many campgrounds have limited tent-only areas. "This IL state campground fills up quickly on the weekends over the summer. The best sites for those hoping for privacy are in Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East... 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."
Yurt camping South Elgin, Illinois options: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers premium yurt accommodations. "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. Clean bathrooms and shower," shares a recent visitor who gave the resort 5 stars.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds have limited operations. "The campsites are a nice size and have electric hookups. Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out... There is a boat launch with rentals and a bunch of hiking trails closer to the entrance," notes a visitor regarding Fox Den Campground's layout and seasonal amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access water activities: "I recommend the lakefront tent sites, they are spacious and you can fish right from your site! 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 camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Wildlife awareness: "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! Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house."
Bring entertainment: "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)," shares a family about their experiences at Camp Sullivan, highlighting the importance of choosing a family-friendly campground with activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: "There are a variety of sites from electric to non-electric. A boat rental area for canoes and kayaks makes this great for getting on the water and there are some decent bike trails in the park as well," mentions an RVer about their experience at Chain O' Lakes State Park.
Site selection strategy: "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post. Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees. In Honeysuckle you will have clear line of site to very close neighbor."
