Located about 20 miles southwest of Chicago, Willowbrook, Illinois provides access to yurt accommodations and cabin camping within a 40-mile radius. The area features a mix of prairie and woodland terrain with elevations ranging from 600-800 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with moderate humidity, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below 20°F.
What to do
Hiking trails at multiple skill levels: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers miles of mountain biking and hiking paths directly from the campsite. One visitor noted, "We've camped here a few times and it is always a great experience. Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits." The trails provide both beginner and intermediate options.
Fishing opportunities year-round: Thomas Woods Campground includes a pond for fishing and multiple hiking options through prairie and woodland. A camper described it as having "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites. Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers. Hand pumps for water and well-kept pit toilets."
Stargazing without city lights: While not completely free of light pollution, certain campgrounds offer better night sky visibility. One camper at Chicago Northwest KOA mentioned it's "Far enough from the city lights, close enough to civilization. Cozy, small park with friendly staff and plenty of amenities."
What campers like
Seasonal camping events: Halloween camping at Jellystone Chicago draws families for decorated sites and organized activities. A visitor explained, "This is an activity packed weekend which is amazing. Good for kids of all ages including the adults. All the campers do amazing decorations for the weekend and trick or treating here."
Proximity to Lake Michigan beaches: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground provides direct access to the lake shore where "The lake and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype. The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic!" according to one camper.
Free firewood at select locations: Some campgrounds include complimentary firewood with site rental. A Thomas Woods camper noted "Firewood is cheap on-site and delivered to your site on demand. Love this spot for proximity to my home so I can get out more frequently than a longer drive into Wisconsin."
What you should know
Limited weekend-only operations: Thomas Woods Campground only operates on weekends, which affects planning. "Limited to weekend camping, but spread out private-like tent sites. Camp hosts are super engaged and seem to love being caretakers," reported one visitor.
Train noise at several locations: Multiple campgrounds report railway noise. At Dunewood Campground, a camper mentioned "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. great shading from trees and very green!"
Seasonal operation schedules: Many campgrounds close during winter months. A visitor to Thomas Woods reported, "I've been here two other weekends. Generally quiet and many of the tent spots are spaced out enough to provide privacy and quiet."
Membership requirements at some locations: Leisure Lake Membership Resort requires either a membership or association with existing members. A reviewer noted, "The list of amenities is remarkable, but membership is required. The beach and lake were always well maintained."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly programming: Yurt camping near Willowbrook, Illinois offers structured activities for children. A Camp Sullivan visitor shared, "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)."
Water activities for summer months: Several campgrounds feature swimming options. At Leisure Lake, one guest mentioned, "My family would frequently visit her camper during the summers. Always a great time! The beach and lake were always well maintained, and we had often enjoyed live music at the pavilion."
Nature education opportunities: Indiana Dunes provides wildlife viewing and educational programs. "The nature center is right next to the campground. The pavilion is being renovated, the ice cream shop was open, but they were still doing construction on the rest," reported one camper.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups common: Many campgrounds offer electric but lack water connections. An Indiana Dunes State Park camper advised: "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us- we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves."
Variable site sizes and privacy: Site spacing differs significantly between campgrounds. At Chicago Northwest KOA, a camper observed, "Very nice campground. It's on the smaller side and the RV sites are a little close together but they have it set up where your RVs doors open on opposite sides so it gives a little privacy."
Limited dump station facilities: Some campgrounds have basic dump stations. One Camp Sullivan visitor warned, "No water or dumping hook up. Electric only. Would only stay here again in a pinch. The only upside is that it is very close to Chicago."
