Tent campsites near South Holland, Illinois sit within a landscape of former glacial lake beds and wetlands. Most sites are located within 25-45 minutes of South Holland in forest preserves and along waterways. Winter camping options are limited, with most campgrounds closing between October and April due to freezing temperatures and seasonal park maintenance.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: Launch directly from riverside campsites at Kayak Morris where the water conditions are ideal for beginners. "The river here is so calm it's awesome. My friends rented the dual kayaks and they loved them," notes camper Art P.
Fishing at convergence points: The junction of waterways creates prime fishing spots near Mac Finn's Landing. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if it's the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M.
Cycling on crushed gravel trails: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail connects multiple campgrounds in the region. Channahon State Park Campground offers easy access for cyclists. "Perfect for cyclists along the canal trail. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock," writes Art S.
What campers like
Privacy levels between sites: The walk-in sites at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites provide separation from neighbors. "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy," notes Don W. who appreciated the secluded setting.
Water views from tent sites: Many campers value waterfront camping options. "We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing. There is a confluence across the river which is great to float on," explains Amanda W. about her experience at Kayak Morris.
Urban-adjacent nature experiences: Some campsites balance natural settings with proximity to urban areas. "Camp site is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping," reports Scott M. about his stay at Camp Shabbona Woods.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Most parks in the area have strict entry/exit hours. At Camp Shabbona Woods, "They close the gates after 10pm which was weird but overall ok," according to Jeffrey L.
Water conditions vary seasonally: The I&M Canal can become problematic during certain times of year. At McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove, Brian O. warns: "The canal is navigable, but swampy with algae and some downed trees. The Chanahan state park website says you can paddle from there to Morris IL, 15 miles, but this is best done in spring or fall."
True walk-in distances: Parking can be significantly separated from actual tent sites. "We didn't realize this was a walk-in campground. We ended up rolling our small trailer down hill 100 yards then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem," explains Brian O. about McKinley Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection for shade: Mature trees aren't universal at all campgrounds. "The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing," notes Scott M. about Camp Shabbona Woods, making site selection important during summer months.
Noise expectations: Urban sounds can reach many campgrounds. Ambulances, firetrucks, motorboats, and jet-skis are commonly reported. At McKinley Woods, "You can hear owls and distant trains, but motorboats and jet-skis begin around 6:AM," reports Brian O.
Special events access: Some campgrounds host unique seasonal activities. At Davis Creek Campground, Andrea F. mentions, "I have been here several times in high school and in my adult years. Lots of what I did was participate in cross country practice here. This campground is open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept."
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: For those wanting to camp without tent setup, Kayak Morris offers options. "If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," mentions Eric R., who also noted, "25 sites to choose from, they fill up fast on weekends so plan to make reservations early."
Water source considerations: Many tent campsites near South Holland have limited water access. At McKinley Woods, "Water is available by an old fashioned pump, and is drinkable, but cloudy," reports Brian O., suggesting campers might want to bring their own supply.
Towing challenges: Small trailers face difficulties at walk-in sites. Consider equipment weight and portability for sites like McKinley Woods where one camper struggled with "rolling our small trailer down hill 100 yards then back again after our 2 night stay."
