Tent camping near Tinley Park, Illinois offers several waterfront options within a 25-40 mile radius. The region features a mix of walk-in sites, boat-accessible campgrounds, and primitive camping areas that typically operate from April through October, though some sites remain open year-round. Several locations require advance booking, particularly on summer weekends, with some parks implementing early closure times between 8-10 PM.
What to do
Kayaking river confluences: At Kayak Morris, campers can paddle at the meeting point of major waterways. "Between me and my buddies we caught over 50 striper. I don't know if its the river convergence or the lake but they bite here hard!" reports Sam Murphy M.
Fishing the Kankakee River: Mac Finn's Landing provides excellent angling opportunities with calm waters. "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River imo! Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers," notes Raven Rock S.
Cycling the canal trail: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail connects several campgrounds in the region, making it ideal for bike touring. "The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride," reports Art S., who found it "a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock."
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Kayak Morris offers sites directly on the Illinois River. "We stayed when there were not many people there so we had plenty of space but could see it getting crowded when it's full. We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite," explains Amanda W.
Privacy between sites: At Central Avenue Walk-in Sites in Indiana Dunes National Park, campers appreciate the seclusion. "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long," shares Don W.
Accessibility features: Some locations offer ADA-compliant facilities. "In McKinley Woods proper there is a large camping area and two of the sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility," notes Scott N., who particularly enjoyed the connecting trail system.
What you should know
Weather and flooding risks: Some sites experience flooding during heavy rain. "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 the the fire pit," cautions Rita S.
Urban proximity effects: Camp Shabbona Woods in South Holland reminds campers they're near civilization. "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 Jeffrey L.
Park closure times: Several parks enforce strict closing hours that affect access. "The park closes early, 8PM in summer, and earlier still off season. Check the fine print on your reservation!" advises Brian O.
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly sites: Camp Shabbona Woods offers an approachable introduction to camping. "Camp suite 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," notes Scott M.
Educational opportunities: Several locations offer nature programming. "Caretakers were very helpful and did a great job keeping the campground clean," adds Scott M., highlighting the supportive staff environment.
Special events access: Some campgrounds organize unique experiences for families. "Had my first experience of a lit up kayak tour for fireworks," shares Eric R., describing one of the organized activities available at certain locations.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent-oriented campgrounds near Tinley Park have minimal RV amenities. "No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite," notes Jeffrey L.
Alternative accommodations: For those without equipment, rentals might be available. "Camp sites are dotted next to the shore of the river, there's kayak rentals, and there's enough space for multiple tents on one site. If you forgot your tent they rent them out as well," explains Eric R.
Organized gatherings: Some locations host special events for groups. "The glampouts are a blast," mentions Eric R., adding that "morning breakfast after the glampout night provided by the staff, good food and quite environment" makes for a memorable experience.
