Camp Bullfrog Lake cabins accommodate a range of sizes for travelers with pets, from small heated units to medium cabins with multiple rooms. The campground maintains a 30-minute driving distance from Chicago's western suburbs, making it accessible for weekend trips. Water recreational activities center around the small lake where kayak rentals cost $15 per hour including life vests, though the paddling area is limited in size.
What to do
Hike extensive trail networks: At Blackwell Family Campground, hikers access multiple trail difficulties suitable for all experience levels. "There is a nice shower facility. The grounds include a lake for boating, hiking trails, and bike paths. There is also an archery range, and some ranger programs," reports Jen E.
Fishing opportunities: Illinois Beach State Park offers shoreline fishing access along Lake Michigan with various catch possibilities. "Easy access to the beach, great sites and was very quiet," notes Chrissy E. The campground provides direct water access for anglers seeking Great Lakes species.
Climbing activities: Camp Sullivan features an indoor climbing wall inside their activities barn. "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern. There are trails to walk. There is an activities barn with a rock climbing wall," explains Shane S. This activity provides entertainment during inclement weather.
Geocaching adventures: Camp Reinberg offers seasonal geocaching contests organized by staff. "Check out the office for fun seasonal events like group hikes and geocaching contests," advises Kelsey G. Geocaching supplies participants with coordinates to locate hidden containers throughout the forest preserve.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Willowbrook consistently receive praise for bathroom cleanliness. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, campers appreciate "Clean campsite, clean showers & bathrooms!" as reported by Jeana K. Facility maintenance appears prioritized across most campgrounds.
Free firewood policies: Camp Reinberg provides complimentary firewood with each stay. "Free firewood and you can purchase more for just $5," notes Leo V. This uncommon amenity reduces camping costs while ensuring proper wood sourcing.
Prairie landscapes: Big Rock Campground offers open prairie views with developing tree growth. "Nice campground with big, level sites. Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability. Lovely grasslands, ponds, hiking trails," states Melissa C. These landscapes provide habitat for regional wildlife and wildflowers.
Proximity to urban amenities: Pet-friendly campsites near Willowbrook offer convenience to city services. "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," comments Kristy G. Grocery stores remain within 10-15 minutes of most campgrounds.
What you should know
Variable water hookup access: Multiple campgrounds provide water hookups, though with limitations. At Big Rock Campground, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" warns Amanda K. Sites often require 100+ feet of hose to reach connection points.
Shower temperature inconsistencies: Bathroom facilities sometimes lack reliable hot water. At Camp Sullivan, one camper noted: "Small shower house but water pressure is amazing. It's always quiet and the view is beautiful. Bugs were awful this stay," reports Kaitlin M.
Gate closing times: Dunewood Campground implements evening access restrictions. "Management was very attentive to making sure the campground was quiet and calm," explains Veronica S. These policies help maintain peaceful camping environments but require planning for late returns.
Seasonal insect populations: Illinois Beach State Park experiences significant insect activity during summer months. "Beautiful views and amazing sunrises but...be warned flies and mosquitos are wild," cautions Liz M. Bringing appropriate repellent proves essential for comfortable outdoor activities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for archery programs: Blackwell Family Campground offers free archery ranges ideal for supervised youth activities. "There is also archery, a dog park, picnic areas, boat rental/ramp, and a compass course. It is a great place for families," mentions Marisa A.
Consider climbing walls for rainy days: Camp Sullivan provides indoor recreation when weather disrupts outdoor plans. "We love this place with three kids under 7! Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods). Highly recommend," shares Dane S.
Choose shaded sites when available: At Paul Wolff Campground, site selection impacts comfort during summer months. "The most shaded sites are p1,3,5,7 and 9. Many of the sites in the middle are wide open with little shade but nice summer breezes," advises Marisa A. Shade differences significantly affect tent camping experiences with children and pets.
Utilize fishing opportunities: Multiple pet-friendly campgrounds near Willowbrook feature fishing access. "There is fishing kayaking and hiking trails too. Friendly staff and clean bathrooms," notes Geoff at Camp Bullfrog Lake. Stocked ponds provide higher catch rates for children compared to natural waterways.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords required: Many electrical hookups position farther from parking pads than expected. Big Rock Campground RV sites need "Water + 50amp hookups. Wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers," but Amanda K. cautions, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!"
Limited sewer connections: Few campgrounds offer full hookups with sewer connections. At Martin's Camping Ground, "Sewer connection at our site was technically on neighbors…we had to use extension," reports Beth B. Extension hoses and portable waste tanks prove useful for longer stays.
Early season water limitations: RVers arriving before mid-April should check water availability. At Hollywood Casino RV Resort, a camper noted "No water before 4/15," indicating seasonal restrictions despite being advertised as a full-hookup site.
Campground navigation challenges: Several facilities have complex internal road systems. For Camp Sullivan, a reviewer advised: "When you are checking in with trailer make sure you don't turn left to the office. It will be hard to turn around. I recommend stopping when you get to the fork in the road as the RV sites are to the right." Poor signage complicates first-time arrivals.
