Camping options near Thornton, Illinois include a mix of public forest preserve sites and private campgrounds within commuting distance of Chicago. Located in the northeastern corner of Illinois at 600 feet above sea level, the area consists primarily of gentle terrain with some woodland areas and lake access points. Seasonal camping in this region extends from mid-April through October, with significant humidity during summer months and moderate temperatures in spring and fall.
What to do
Water activities at Bullfrog Lake: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers kayak rentals for $15 per hour including life vests. "The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," notes one visitor, while another mentions "fishing opportunities" on the small lake that adds recreation options beyond hiking.
Mountain biking trails: The trail system near Camp Bullfrog Lake provides extensive riding opportunities. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," explains one camper. Another visitor confirms: "Some of the area's best mountain bike single track is right here."
Dunes exploration: At Indiana Dunes State Park, visitors can tackle the 3 Dune Challenge. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," writes one camper who appreciated this signature activity.
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: Many campgrounds serve as convenient getaways for city dwellers. At Camp Sullivan, campers appreciate its accessibility. "This family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern," notes one reviewer who enjoyed this quick escape option.
Cabin options: Multiple campgrounds offer cabin accommodations for those without tents or RVs. One visitor to Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "There are small and medium cabins, some heated with their own bathrooms, that feature bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold."
Natural settings despite urban proximity: Dunewood Campground at Indiana Dunes National Park offers surprising natural experiences. "Really nice campground... Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors," reports one visitor. Another camper describes the area as "Foresty and beautiful" with "great shading from trees and very green!"
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. At Indiana Dunes State Park, "The sight was spacious with plenty of room in between sites," according to one RVer. However, at Camp Shabbona Woods, a visitor noted "The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing."
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds in this region experience noise from nearby transportation. At Dunewood Campground, one camper mentioned they "Could hear Trains throughout the night." Urban sounds are common at Camp Shabbona Woods where campers "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, particularly on summer weekends. One visitor to Camp Sullivan noted, "I was at the main office for 20 minutes or more before my fiancé could track down a staff member to check us in," highlighting the importance of confirmed reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Lakeshore Camp Resort runs family programming regularly. "This is a busy campground during the summer weekends. Activities for the kids are all weekend and evenings are busy with golf carts parades," describes one family visitor. Another mentioned it was "a fun campground. We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating."
Campground amenities: Camp Sullivan offers family-friendly facilities. "There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall. There are smaller family cabins with heat available to rent as well as large bunkhouses for organized groups," notes one visitor. Another camper shared, "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites."
Beach access: Indiana Dunes State Park provides lake swimming opportunities. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," reported a family camper. The park also features "nice bathroom facilities, and changing room facilities there."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park provides complete RV services. "We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering," explains one RVer. The park also offers "access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room."
Site types and privacy: Indiana Dunes State Park offers decent RV accommodation. One visitor noted, "We have a 37' motorhome and pulled a Jeep behind it. There was plenty of room to maneuver around. The sight also had a wood picnic table and fire ring for a wood fire pit."
Leveling considerations: Several campgrounds require extra attention for leveling. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, one RVer mentioned, "For the most part, all of the 30/50 amp sites are very similar. Can't really say one appears to be better than the rest. Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad."
