Camping options near Northbrook, Illinois range from state parks to forest preserves within a 45-minute drive radius. Most camping facilities remain open from April through October, with limited winter availability at certain locations. Northern sites near the Wisconsin border offer more water recreation opportunities while western locations provide better hiking trails and woodland settings.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on connected lakes: Chain O' Lakes State Park features seven interconnected lakes with small tributaries perfect for paddling. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill. Also it is 30 miles from Shipshawana where the Amish have a flea market and auction," notes a visitor to Fox Den Campground.
Mountain biking on extensive trail systems: Many Northbrook area campgrounds connect to trail networks suitable for various skill levels. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, a camper reports, "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."
Fishing in stocked ponds: Several local campgrounds maintain fishing areas accessible directly from campsites. "These sites are for boy/Girl Scout or large groups only. The trails are nice and the water is crystal clear. Nice place for a winter hike. Canoe rentals and free archery range," mentions a visitor about Blackwell Forest Preserve.
What campers like
Clean, maintained facilities: Many campgrounds near Northbrook receive praise for their upkeep. "The shower facilities were clean and the staff very friendly," shares a visitor to Camp Reinberg, while another notes it has "seriously the cleanest [restrooms] I've ever seen, even the ceilings were cleaned!"
Accessible nature close to urban areas: Campers appreciate finding natural settings so close to Chicago. "For nature that's close to civilization, Deer Grove Forest Preserve is the best. While the camp sites are small, the amenities are super clean and the rentable cabins are as well," says a Camp Reinberg visitor.
Lakefront camping options: Several campgrounds offer sites with water views. "Relaxing but no water hook up. We love camping here. It truly feels rural. Small shower house but water pressure is amazing. It's always quiet and the view is beautiful," reports a camper at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Northbrook require advance booking, especially for electric sites. "The full hook ups fill up fast, no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season," warns a Fox Den Campground visitor.
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds have close site spacing with limited privacy. "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," explains a camper comparing options at Chain O' Lakes State Park.
Insect preparation essential: Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in wooded areas. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. They literally fall out of the trees into people!" warns a visitor to Honeysuckle Hollow Camping Area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Several locations offer playgrounds and recreational facilities. "This is a great campground. The grounds are beautiful and well maintained. We kayaked in the lake and it's small but nice. Great for kids, lots of activities and space to play, but very quiet and relaxing by nighttime," reports a camper at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
Consider cabin options for easier family trips: Many campgrounds offer cabin rentals as alternatives to tent camping. "We stayed in one of the tent sites across the road from the lakefront sites. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids," shares a Fish Lake Beach visitor.
Select campsites close to facilities: When camping with children, proximity to restrooms matters. "This gets 4 stars because you cannot put down a mat outside. Busy campground in July. Smaller, mainly RVs. Friendly staff and friendly people staying on the grounds," notes a camper at Paul Wolff Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric sites, but amperage varies. "There are a large number of RV pads overlooking the prairie and a few along a grove of trees. Because there is electrical it is a peaceful campground with no generator noise," explains a visitor to Paul Wolff Campground.
Water access challenges: Several campgrounds have limited water hookups. "The staff has to hook up a very very long hose and will bring it to your site. You can get water, it's just an inconvenience for you and them. But they do it with a good attitude," reports a Camp Reinberg visitor.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have conveniently located dump stations. "Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out. This particular campground was just about as far away into the park as you could go without going to the youth/group camp," notes a Fox Den Campground visitor.
