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Best Campgrounds near Union, IL

745 Reviews

Campgrounds near Union, Illinois include several established sites catering to a range of camping styles within a short drive of the city. Chicago Northwest KOA, located on South Union Road, offers tent camping, RV sites with full hookups, and cabin rentals, while just a few miles away, Thomas Woods Campground in Marengo provides more natural surroundings with electric hookups and tent sites. The area features a mix of state parks, county forest preserves, and private campgrounds, most within a 30-minute drive of Union, creating a hub for outdoor recreation in northern Illinois with proximity to lakes and prairie landscapes.

Seasonal operations affect campground availability throughout the region, with most facilities operating from April or May through October or November. Rock Cut State Park, about 30 miles northwest, remains open year-round, providing camping opportunities during winter months when other campgrounds close. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends, especially for electric sites or cabins, which typically book well in advance. Most campgrounds in the area offer at least basic amenities including toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, though shower facilities vary by location. As one camper noted about nearby Chain O'Lakes State Park, "This is a BIG park, the campgrounds are two miles from the front gate, and it's a drive to the main boat launch at Maple Grove."

Campers frequently mention the wooded settings and lake access as highlights when staying near Union. The region's proximity to both Chicago and Wisconsin makes it popular for weekend trips, with several reviewers noting its convenience as a quick getaway. Family-friendly amenities appear in many reviews, with attractions like the Illinois Railway Museum near Chicago Northwest KOA adding appeal for those traveling with children. Privacy between sites varies significantly across campgrounds, with some providing more secluded, tree-lined spots while others offer more open layouts. According to feedback, Shabbona Lake State Park provides "one of the most amazing outdoor camping experiences Illinois has to offer" with its mix of natural surroundings and lake activities, while other visitors appreciate the region's prairie landscapes and forest preserves that create contrast to the agricultural fields dominating much of the area.

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Best Camping Sites Near Union, Illinois (91)

    1. Chicago Northwest KOA

    16 Reviews
    Union, IL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 923-4206

    "You can walk from one side to other no problem. Plenty of large and small RV's and Trailers with tent camping. Our home away from home, so relaxing!"

    "We stayed here for a weekend and there were plenty of activities for the kids...the staff was friendly and the bathrooms were clean...our camp site was near the bathrooms, pool, and store so we were nice"

    2. Thomas Woods Campground

    17 Reviews
    Marengo, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 338-6223

    $20 - $35 / night

    "The trails are both wooded and hilly, but there's also a large prairie nature walk. 
    The campground has many secluded walk-in tent sites and a variety of sites for other types of campers."

    "While the highway riding was occasionally a bit harrowing, it was absolutely worth it for the beautiful views and camping here."

    3. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

    81 Reviews
    Machesney Park, IL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 885-3311

    $12 - $50 / night

    "Normal Illinois state park. Not a lot of services but good size sites and peaceful. Lake with canoe rentals and fishing. Nice walking trails."

    ", with Highway 173 to the west and Harlem Road to the east."

    4. Paul Wolff Campground

    20 Reviews
    Elgin, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 444-1200

    $12 - $35 / night

    "Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."

    "The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."

    5. Lehmans Lakeside RV Resort

    7 Reviews
    Union, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 923-4533

    $45 - $70 / night

    "Propane, full hookups, fairly sized fenced in dog run area, a lake with a beach front.  Play ground for the kids and a strict 5MPH speed limit. "

    "We couldn’t reach the WiFi from our site but it was good closer to the lake. They also have free TV but we didn’t hook up to that."

    6. Northwoods RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Marengo, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 317-3775

    $65 - $85 / night

    "Things started to slowly open up around the 4th of July. Now, it’s our favorite place to go! The most impressive aspect in our opinion are the people."

    7. Thousand Trails Pine Country

    4 Reviews
    Belvidere, IL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It is close to home and we start and finish the camping season here."

    "We did not end up signing up as we prefer to visit many more locations than they had listed."

    8. Holiday Acres Camping Resort

    5 Reviews
    Belvidere, IL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 547-7846

    $49 - $99 / night

    "Lots of people leaving bad reviews for silly little things. let me say first off this place is HUGE. plenty of room for the kids and the dogs and just a short walk from the kish. good fishing and friendly"

    9. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Lake Geneva, WI
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 248-2528

    "Conveniently located next to Lake Geneva with a tiny roadside beach area. I recommend camping sites on the west side of the camping loop to cut down on sun. Not enough electric sites for campers."

    "Popular destination for locals and people from Illinois. 4 stars because it's not the camping in nature experience I am looking for. Lots of noise. Lots of kids. Lots of dogs."

    10. Sycamore RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Sycamore, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 895-5590

    "Postage stamp space on gravel but we had things to do outside the resort. Nice walking path around the two ponds. The ponds are very low due to drought this summer."

    "Stayed here for a week, nice clean campground, quiet and beautiful lake for fishing, close to town, but yet just far enough out."

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Recent Camping Photos near Union, IL

286 Photos of 91 Union Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Union, IL

745 Reviews of 91 Union Campgrounds

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lakeland Camping Resort

    Lakefront Fun

    As a mom, I found Lakeland RV Campground in Milton to be the kind of place where the whole family can truly unwind and have fun together. Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have an RV. The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends and I loved the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities. In the evenings, we enjoyed gathering around the campfire under the stars, and during the day we ventured onto the lake for kayaking and fishing, which felt like a little adventure just steps from our site. It was also nice knowing that if we wanted a change of pace, Milton and Janesville offered small-town charm and great dining and Madison wasn’t far for a day trip. My mom tips? Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake, and don’t worry if you forgot gear as nearby shops have you covered. Lakeland made it easy for me to relax while my kids had a blast, and that combination is what makes it such a special family getaway.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    Nostalgic Campground

    As a mom, I can honestly say that Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson is one of those rare campgrounds where the kids are entertained from morning till night and parents can actually relax a little too. The whole place feels designed with families in mind: colorful playgrounds, themed weekends, wagon rides, character visits from Yogi and Boo Boo, and a pool with splash zones that keep little ones happy for hours. Our campsite was clean and level, with options for full hookups or cozy cabins if you’d rather skip the RV, and the bathhouses were spotless, which is something I always look for. What I appreciated most was the balance: the kids could run from the jumping pillow to the mini golf course to the craft barn without ever getting bored, while my husband and I enjoyed sitting by the campfire or joining in on family activities like outdoor 'movies under the stars.' The campground store was well-stocked with snacks, s’mores supplies, and those 'oops, we forgot it' supplies, which saved us more than once. And while there’s plenty to do onsite, being near Lake Koshkonong and Fort Atkinson means you can easily slip away for a day of fishing, boating, or exploring. For me, the best part was watching my kids’ faces light up during the evening hayride, sticky with marshmallow, waving at Yogi like he was a celebrity that felt like the kind of wholesome, memory-making trip I hope they’ll look back on for years.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    Solid KOA Experience

    The Milton-Madison KOA is one of the larger campgrounds in the KOA network, offering over 200 sites with a mix of full hookups and water/electric-only hookups, along with a selection of pull-through and back-in options, gravel or concrete pads, and some upgraded patio sites. While primarily catering to RVs and fifth wheels, the campground also has about a dozen tent sites and half a dozen cabins. Amenities are extensive, ranging from an in-ground heated pool with a waterfall and two-story patio deck, hot tub, clubhouse, market store, snack shack, arcade, meeting and TV rooms, multiple restroom and shower facilities, laundromat and Wi-Fi, to a wide variety of recreation such as basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, baseball, disc golf, playgrounds, gaga ball, hayrack rides, barrel rides, train rides, and nature trails. Guests will also find a Kamp K9 dog area, golf cart and bike rentals, propane refill station, firewood, and plenty of seating throughout the grounds. Just minutes away, Lake Koshkonong offers excellent kayaking, canoeing and fishing. For dining, nearby Milton serves up hearty Midwestern fare, from Mary’s Café’s biscuits and gravy to Paul Revere’s homemade pies and the upscale Frederick’s Supper Club, known for its prime rib bites and Diablo pasta. Insider tips include enjoying the warm hospitality of the Riggio family hosts, taking a short drive to Madison for big-city attractions, noting that tent sites - though equipped with water and electric - feel basic and pricey, and being aware that cabin rentals also run higher than average. Thankfully, Milton’s local shops, grocery stores, and hardware options make resupplying convenient, rounding out a destination that’s both activity-packed and well-situated for Wisconsin adventures.  Overall, my family and I really enjoyed this place and would definitely come back!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Close to "home" beautiful sites

    We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to "home". We stay here a couple of times each year for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Great camping spot

    This is my second time staying at Bullfrog lake. The first time I was in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade.

    The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch to photos for me of me kayaking. The other guy seemed mad to be alive lol.

    The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around.

    Unfortunately the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames—my other two neighbors had the same issue.

    Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked.

    Overall I’d definitely stay here again.

Guide to Union

Camping near Union, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic trails to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails available at Rock Cut State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, “Tons of trails, fishing, and even a swimming pond,” making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area. A visitor shared, “We kayaked around the lake and enjoyed the natural setting,” highlighting the lake's beauty and recreational opportunities.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife at Blackwell Family Campground. One camper noted, “You could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night,” indicating that while it’s close to civilization, nature is still very present.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park mentioned, “Staff were very friendly and helpful. Would stay again!”
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Ottawa Lake Campground. One visitor said, “Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors,” indicating a good balance of space and community.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Big Foot Beach State Park Campground are popular for families. A reviewer stated, “Clean, family-friendly and basic amenities available,” making it a great choice for those with kids.

What you should know

  • No Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, enforce strict no alcohol rules. One camper mentioned, “This SP strictly enforces its ‘no alcohol’ policy, which is a massive bummer.”
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect busy weekends at popular spots like Camp Bullfrog Lake. A visitor noted, “Good if you want to be close to the city but otherwise it’s not very worth it. The spots are small and it’s very crowded.”
  • Limited Water Access: Some sites may not have water nearby. A review for Camp Bullfrog Lake stated, “There is no water near any of the sites,” so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Rock Cut State Park Campground that offer trails and a swimming pond. One family shared, “We camp here at least 5 times a year. It’s only 8 miles from our home.”
  • Check for Clean Facilities: Make sure to pick campgrounds with good restroom facilities. A review for Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park mentioned, “The bathrooms were old and wet,” so it’s worth checking recent reviews.
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campgrounds have strict quiet hours. A camper at Blackwell Family Campground noted, “The ranger did cruise through the sites to make a formal announcement,” which can help keep the peace.

Tips from RVers

  • Look for Big Rig-Friendly Sites: Campgrounds like Ottawa Lake Campground are big rig-friendly. A review mentioned, “Campsites are kept up and quite clean,” which is a plus for RV travelers.
  • Check Electrical Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake noted, “The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept,” but mentioned issues with the bathrooms.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground said, “Always full on weekends,” so make reservations in advance.

Camping near Union, Illinois, has its perks and challenges. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Union, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Union, IL is Chicago Northwest KOA with a 4.1-star rating from 16 reviews.

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