kelsea D.
Traveler
TravelerPrairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park
A lot to do.
There’s a lot of things to do out here. We did some hiking with our boy. The site we were at was maintained. It’s a nice place to go camping.
Glamping near West Chicago, IL
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Camp Bullfrog Lake offers a selection of upscale glamping cabins within the Palos region, just 30 minutes from Chicago's western suburbs. The property features spacious, clean cabins situated around a scenic lake, with many units offering heating and private bathrooms for year-round comfort. Chicago Northwest KOA expands the area's glamping options with yurts that provide a more distinctive overnight experience. Both locations include fire pits, picnic tables, and access to modern shower facilities. Trails wind through the surrounding forest preserves, creating opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation without venturing far from the metropolitan area. "The cabins are large and clean with bunk beds and are great for getting out of the cold," one guest shared about their Bullfrog Lake experience.
Extensive trail systems surround these glamping destinations, with miles of mountain bike single track accessible directly from Camp Bullfrog Lake. Fishing opportunities abound on the properties' lakes, with both locations offering waterfront accommodations that provide scenic morning views. During warmer months, visitors can rent kayaks to explore the water or simply relax at lakeside fire pits included with each glamping site. Free firewood comes with bookings at Bullfrog Lake, making these glamping campgrounds near West Chicago a practical choice for weekend getaways without extensive travel time. According to a camper, "It's a wonderful campground with everything accessible for a few days respite - clean showers, space to walk, gorgeous lake - quiet just outside of the city!"
Best Glamping Campgrounds near West Chicago (18)
1. Camp Bullfrog Lake
"Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits."
"The tent sites are right next to the water which is beautiful but can get very windy. There is no privacy between the sites (no trees, etc)."
from $20 - $138 / night
Check Availability2. Chicago Northwest KOA
"It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family."
"Plus they have a quiet time at night.So people and kids can go to bed without a bunch of noise."
3. Camp Sullivan
"As stated, there is electric hookup but no water at the site. However, staff was more than happy to meet us at the bathrooms to allow us to fill our tanks before we set up camp."
"Wooded electric paved sites with fairly new bathhouse facilities. Pretty clean. Only one indoor water faucet working but this may be a COVID casualty."
from $35 - $250 / night
Check Availability4. Thomas Woods Campground
"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.""Firewood is cheap on-site and delivered to your site on demand."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability5. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook
"But noise was not an issue. Bathrooms were clean. Everything was good."
"Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful. Always came here for trick or treating and it’s a fun event for the camp ground with plenty of spooky things to do."
6. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
"Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water."
"The staff is very friendly the grounds are beautiful and well maintained We kayaked in the lake and it's small but nice."
from $43 - $73 / night
Check Availability7. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"
"Non-electric sites in the loop on the small fishing pond were relatively quiet, well shaded, with decent screening between sites."
8. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"There’s some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night."
"In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."
9. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park
"We stayed in the Fox Den electric sites. The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. Our site was very shaded and quiet at night. The bath house was very clean."
"Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas."
10. Leisure Lake Membership Resort
"The beach and lake were always well maintained, and we had often enjoyed live music at the pavilion. You can even play mini golf here! I would highly recommend for anyone that can invest."
"Our family had an incredible stay at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park over Easter week."
Drive Time
- 40 min from Chicago, IL
- 55 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 11 min from Kenosha, WI
- 1 hr 17 min from Kankakee, IL
Recent Glamping Photos near West Chicago, IL
6 Photos of 18 West Chicago Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Glamping Reviews near West Chicago, IL
184 Reviews of 18 West Chicago Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendHoneysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park
Lively Little Campground Beside Turner Lake
There’s something wonderfully EZ about camping where the kids can wander down toward the water and suddenly the whole weekend seems to slow down ... and that’s the entire charm of Honeysuckle Hollow. Here at Chain O’Lakes State Park, Honeysuckle Hollow is the largest and most wide open of the park’s camping areas, with electric sites geared particularly well toward RV families, although the tradeoff is noticeably less shade and almost zero privacy between nearly every campsite, compared with neighboring Fox Den, which offers up much more seclusion and shade. The greatest asset here is undoubtedly the direct access to Turner Lake (although you could also have direct access over at Turner Lake South), giving families an EZ place to fish, paddle or simply explore the shoreline, while electric hookups, picnic tables, grills and a nearby restroom/shower building keep the actual camping comfortably simple. We especially loved those unhurried moments when the boys could wander toward the lake while dinner was getting started and everyone seemed perfectly happy just being outside together. The shower facility here is convenient, although we found it just slightly more dilapidated conditions than the bathhouse located closer to Fox Den. From what we saw, I’d choose one of the better-spaced sites toward the Turner Lake side of the campground, where EZ water access helps compensate for Honeysuckle’s limited privacy. I’d recommend Honeysuckle for families who value electricity, lake access and a lively campground atmosphere, particularly if having Turner Lake practically in your backyard matters more than having your neighbors hidden behind the trees. One point to note is that the pier was in an advanced state of disrepair and so we were not able to fully maximize this particular amenity - so if accessing Turner Lake is important to you and your family, we would recommend calling ahead to verify the condition of the pier.
- HHolly B.
GuideChicago Northwest KOA
A bit of a drive
It was a bit of a drive to Chicago but nothing overly horrible. We went in October and it was very busy. Lost of activities for the family. We arrived very late but the staff was very gracious and hospitable. The grounds were well kept. They had trash pick up. Nice laundry area. The surrounding area was very nice and rural. We took our dogs on the architecture boat tour.
- MManny A.Traveler
Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
Simple and local
First time RV’ing with my wife and we were able to navigate pretty easily in our rented 30’. Arrived on a Monday, and as posted, there was no one so we checked in online(they sent an email to check in). Simple camp site with tons of space(almost double our RV), a long wood picnic table and a fire pit. Everything was great until we left. Dumping was straight forward, but the person in front of me was taking a little while to dump. They had came up to my RV and let me know the dump tank was backing up, which I had also experienced when I tried dumping. I called to ask for assistance on Thursday and they said they would send a ranger out. 45 minutes of waiting and a couple other RV’s after us and we ended up giving up and going to another site closer to home to dump. Great experience otherwise.
Stuart K.LegendLakefront Cabins - Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
Lakefront Seclusion Meets Cabin Convenience at Shabbona Lake
Tucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Kings Camp
Where Still Mornings Feel a Little Like Grace
There’s a gentle spirit woven into Kings Camp that you feel the moment you pull in, the kind of quiet that settles over a family in a way that feels both grounding and a little bit spiritual, especially as the sun dips across the Illinois prairie. This long-loved, Christian-based campground offers wide grassy fields, simple but well-kept restrooms, a small swimming beach, a playground and an EZ layout that makes it feel safe and welcoming for little explorers. One of my favorite memories was watching the boys toast marshmallows at dusk while the evening breeze carried the soft sounds of families visiting and kids laughing, creating a peace that felt like an answered prayer at the end of a busy week. From what we saw, the best area is the westernmost RV loop because it offers the most shade, privacy and a sense of calm tucked slightly away from the main activity. I’d recommend Kings Camp for families seeking a wholesome, faith-centered environment, a quiet place for kids to roam freely and a setting that encourages everyone to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect.
- LLayla P.Guide
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.
- KKatrina D.
ScoutFish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Not communicable, fraud administration
I reserved 5 nights, paid in full. After just one night, management cancelled my stay because my service dogs(Maltese) supposedly barked. I was fully cooperative, kept them quiet, and even documented this in emails. There was a stray cat near my RV that caused the issue, but instead of solving it, they forced me to leave. No refund for 4 nights. This is unfair, discriminatory, and against ADA law.
Kevin B.ScoutCamp Sullivan
Enjoyed the camping experience
Nice and clean areas, staff was very professional and helpful while I was there
Guide to West Chicago
Campsites near West Chicago provide diverse overnight options across McHenry and Cook counties, with elevations ranging from 600-850 feet above sea level. The region's four distinct seasons affect camping conditions, with summer humidity levels often reaching 75-85% during July and August. Weather patterns create ideal spring and fall conditions when temperatures typically stay between 50-70°F—perfect for outdoor activities without summer's crowds.
What to Do
Kayaking on interconnected waterways: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers multiple launch points for paddlers across its seven connected lakes. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill," shares one Fox Den Campground visitor who appreciated the park's water-based recreation options.
Mountain biking single-track: The Palos region features miles of dedicated mountain biking trails with varying difficulty levels for all rider abilities. A visitor at Camp Sullivan noted, "There are a lot of groomed and ungroomed walking trails," making it perfect for both hikers and cyclists looking to explore without traveling far.
Wildlife observation: The region's preserves host diverse ecosystems where campers regularly spot native wildlife. "We hiked 10 miles and saw tons of animals and birds including a snake, loads of herons and songbirds, deer, a raccoon and a Cooper's Hawk," reports one visitor who documented their wildlife encounters during spring camping.
What Campers Like
Proximity to urban areas: Many campgrounds provide natural settings surprisingly close to metropolitan areas. "It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything," explains one Fox Den Campground visitor who appreciated being able to access civilization when needed.
Family activities: Campgrounds like Jellystone Park Millbrook focus on structured recreation for children. "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water," reports one camper about their experience at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
Fire pit arrangements: Several campgrounds provide well-designed fire rings with cooking options. "Fire pits are slightly raised steel troughs with a heavy adjustable grill," notes a camper at Turner Lake South, describing practical features that enhance cooking capabilities beyond basic fire containment.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. One camper at Thomas Woods Campground explains, "While these sites are usually slated for walk-ups on the weekends, it seems like a lot of people go early on Thursday or even Wednesday to secure their sites for the weekends."
Wildlife encounters: Ticks and mosquitoes present challenges during warm months. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," warns a visitor about conditions at Honeysuckle Hollow, recommending containment solutions for young children.
Campsite privacy variations: Site privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds and loops. "Sites # 4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad," notes one camper about specific sites at Camp Sullivan, while another mentions, "This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all RVs."
Tips for Camping with Families
Screen enclosures essential: Bring screen shelters for bug protection, especially with small children. A visitor to Honeysuckle Hollow Camping Area advises, "Luckily our screen house pop up on a tarp that was sprayed ahead for tick repellent plus a blanket on top of that did the trick, but they literally fall out of the trees into people!"
Playground accessibility: Choose sites near recreation areas when traveling with children. "We chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms," shares one family about their strategic site selection at a local campground.
Food storage protocols: Raccoons actively visit campsites after dusk. A camper at Honeysuckle Hollow cautions, "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," recommending early dinner and thorough cleanup before nightfall.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Check electric post placement before booking. "Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad," warns an RVer at Honeysuckle Hollow Camping Area, explaining, "We originally booked 96 but could not extend our slide because of large trees on either side of the pad and then the electric was about 50 feet away."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Site was not level but it had a lot of shade which was nice," notes one RVer about their glamping experience near West Chicago at Chicago Northwest KOA, highlighting the trade-off between perfectly level sites and desirable shade.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential lines at single dump stations during peak checkout times. One RVer from Thomas Woods Campground shared, "The dump station was near the entrance to the camping loop and had potable water. It was also very busy and we had to wait when filling up and again when dumping."
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near West Chicago, IL?
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near West Chicago, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near West Chicago, IL is Camp Bullfrog Lake with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.
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glamping camping near
West Chicago, IL?
What is the best site to find glamping camping near West Chicago, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 glamping camping locations near West Chicago, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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