Tent camping near Western Springs, Illinois provides campers access to both urban-adjacent and more secluded nature settings along rivers and canals. Most sites require walk-in access with parking areas located a short distance from actual campsites. Temperatures range from summer highs averaging 85°F to spring and fall temperatures between 45-65°F, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: At Kayak Morris, campers can enjoy paddling directly from their tent sites. "We loved this campsite! We brought our own kayaks and launched right from our campsite which was amazing but they rent kayaks for pretty cheap If you don't have your own," notes Amanda W. The confluence across the river creates excellent floating conditions.
Fishing for striped bass: The river convergence at Kayak Morris creates prime fishing conditions. According to Sam Murphy M., "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!"
Cycling along canal trails: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail connects multiple campgrounds in the region. Art S. mentions that Channahon State Park Campground "is a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride."
Cross-country running and hiking: The terrain at Davis Creek Campground offers varied elevation and scenic routes. Andrea F. notes, "I have been here several times in high school and in my adult years. Lots of what i did was participate in cross country practice here."
What campers like
Riverside tent spots: Waterfront camping is available at several locations. Eric R. says of Mac Finn's Landing, "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."
Shaded campsites: Unlike some exposed sites in the region, Channahon State Park offers good tree coverage. "This campground is surrounded by trees. When we showed up, a classic car gathering was going on. They even set a campfire to use throughout the morning," reports Art S.
Privacy between sites: The Central Avenue Walk-in Sites provide good separation between campers. Don W. explains, "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."
Accessible options: For campers with mobility considerations, McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove offers wheelchair-accessible sites. Brian O. notes, "Two of the four sites are paved as well... All sites have enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding potential: Some sites may experience water issues during heavy rainfall. Rita S. reports about McKinley Woods: "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."
Early gate closures: Many campgrounds in the area restrict entry after certain hours. For Camp Shabbona Woods, Jeffrey L. mentions, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok."
Limited facilities: Primitive camping is common at tent sites in this area. Brian O. explains about McKinley Woods: "Water is available by an old fashioned pump, and is drinkable, but cloudy. There's only one pit toilet."
Walk-in distances: Most tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. Brian O. from McKinley Woods states, "First off, we didn't realize this was a walk-in campground, the details on the Will county site were vague, and the satellite photo showed a paved road. The road is a path."
Tips for camping with families
Site numbering system: At Central Avenue Walk-in Sites, understand the layout before arrival. Don W. advises, "Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail. You have to walk all the way down and take a left before you find sites 5, 4, 3, and 2 in that order."
First-time camper friendly sites: Certain campgrounds are better suited for novice outdoor enthusiasts. Scott M. mentions that Camp Shabbona Woods "is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping."
Noise considerations: Urban-adjacent campgrounds often have background sounds. Jeffrey L. notes about Camp Shabbona Woods, "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background."
Water activities: For families with children, Kayak Morris offers engaging water options. Art P. states, "I have my own kayak and the river here is so calm its awesome. My friends rented the dual kayaks ant they loved them."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most campgrounds near Western Springs focus on tent camping with few RV-friendly options. At Davis Creek Campground, phillip R. notes the campground has good amenities but primarily serves tent campers.
Small trailer considerations: Some sites may accommodate modest trailers. Brian O. explains at McKinley Woods: "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem."
Hookup limitations: Electric and water connections are rare at these campgrounds. Jeffrey L. mentions that Camp Shabbona Woods has "no electric or water hook ups" and "can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite."
