Camp Bullfrog Lake and Camp Sullivan provide upscale glamping accommodations near Worth, Illinois, situated within the Forest Preserves of Cook County. These campgrounds remain open year-round with varying seasonal availability. Camp Bullfrog Lake sites cost around $122 for two nights, while Camp Sullivan offers both tent camping and cabin options with heated family cabins available during colder months. Most sites include electric hookups, clean bathroom facilities, and convenient access to nature trails that connect directly to camping areas.
What to do
Mountain biking on extensive trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake connects to miles of mountain biking trails in the Palos area. "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. We saw several vehicles carrying top of the line bikes in and out all day," notes one Camp Bullfrog Lake visitor.
Kayaking on Bullfrog Lake: Rentals available at $15 per hour including life vests. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shared a Camp Bullfrog Lake camper.
Beach activities at Indiana Dunes: Just 45 miles from Worth, Indiana Dunes offers swimming and lakefront relaxation. "The beach and dunes are the star of this show, but the campground is a good supporting actor," reports a visitor to Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. The state park beach has lifeguards during certain hours for safer swimming with children.
Three Dune Challenge: Hike the marked trail at Indiana Dunes State Park. "Do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," recommends one camper who enjoyed the marked trail system.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Camp Sullivan provides well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The facilities are all newly built or remodeled," notes a visitor who appreciates the updated amenities.
Free firewood included: Several campgrounds provide complimentary wood. "Each site comes with a free bundle of oak firewood which is nice to use on the fire pits," reports a regular visitor to Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Family-friendly atmosphere: The camping areas attract families looking for outdoor activities. "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)," shares a regular camper at Camp Sullivan.
Easy access from Chicago: These campgrounds provide nature escapes within short driving distances. "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," mentions a local who values the convenience of Camp Bullfrog Lake.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds have more private sites than others. "The campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," reports a visitor to Michigan City Campground, while at Camp Sullivan, sites on the right side of the bathhouse are in full sun with limited shade.
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Railroad proximity can disrupt sleep at certain locations. "The train is so loud that it's bound to wake you up numerous times in the middle of the night," warns a camper who stayed at Lakeshore Camp Resort.
Limited water hookups: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "No water hooks up. Water on site but, not ideal," mentions a camper at Camp Bullfrog Lake, suggesting visitors arrive with filled water tanks when possible.
Gate closure policies: Some campgrounds restrict nighttime access. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning," cautions a camper about Camp Sullivan's security procedures.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Dunewood Campground offers kid-friendly facilities with shaded sites. "The campsite was large and beautiful. The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers. Lots of nature, chill vibe," reports a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature pools or beach access. "Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," notes a family who visited Michigan City Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can spot various animals on trails. "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. Great shading from trees and very green!" shares a Dunewood visitor who enjoyed the natural setting.
Off-season visits: Consider camping during spring or fall for fewer crowds. "We visited Palos early this week (mid-April) for a very very chilly three days," reports a camper who still found plenty to do despite cooler temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Kankakee South KOA accommodates larger vehicles with full hookups. "Had a great time this weekend camping with my wife and two boys. We camp in an Hybrid trailer and really appreciated the price point with full hookups," shares a visitor who found the sites adequate for their needs.
Electric hookup availability: Most glamping sites near Worth offer electric options. "We were in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids," notes an RVer who stayed at Michigan City Campground.
Dump station quality: Some facilities have better waste disposal than others. "What's worse is the dump station I was forced to use. OMG what a disaster. It's a relic from decades ago. Uneven and puddles of 'water' all over the dump area," warns an RVer about an older facility.
Security features: Gated campgrounds provide added safety. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean," mentions a visitor appreciating Michigan City Campground's security measures.
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