The Windy City is always a great place to take a vacation, and traveling in an RV can cut your costs significantly. Although there are plenty of big-city activities to enjoy, you can also find some quiet spots just outside the Chicago area for peace and serenity. Here is our comprehensive list of top-rated campgrounds near Chicago and their most important features including rate, location, reviews and amenities.
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Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in the Chicago area has been ranked in the top 10 of all the Yogi Bear Parks in the country. Enjoy all the on-site amenities, nearby activities and planned weekend festivities. Families will appreciate the activities for children throughout the campground.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park offers horseshoes, mini golf, a playground, a pool table and volleyball courts. Whether you want to stay on-site or head into the big city, this park will provide all that you require for your RV vacation.
“Excellent campground, well put together. Their entire staff is run by (from what I saw) a very mature and well-trained group of people. They knew how to run all of the activities, which were well planned out. There’s food at the gift shop. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Just an overall great 5-star experience. Thank you!!!” – Jerry, Google Review
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Kankakee South KOA is a Chicago, Illinois, campground that offers a quiet retreat from the daily grind. Although the big city is just an hour away, you can find excellent restaurants, golf courses and canoe trips nearby. Large lots, a group pavilion and a seasonal pool are available on-site.
If you’re a Chicago Bears fan, the training camp is right around the corner from Kankakee South KOA. For outdoor lovers, enjoy the Kankakee River State Park where hiking, biking, fishing and canoeing are popular activities.
“I must say this is one truly great campground. All the sites are 4 star and most 5 star. Fills up on weekends, so make reservations. They have hay wagon rides, kids barrel train rides, and movies on the weekends. Also has a small general store, with a pool, and coin laundry room. I have met numerous campers there and everyone was polite and friendly. Pet friendly with a large fenced dog run.” – Stan, Google Review
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Chicago Northwest KOA is a family campground with many activities. Enjoy gem mining, GaGa ball, a jump pad, Frisbee golf and a playground. Weekend activities abound, including flashlight candy hunts and hay rides.
Chicago Northwest KOA is one of the peaceful Chicago campgrounds just outside the big city. The friendly country setting provides a quiet escape from hectic daily life. If you decide to do some daytrips, you can visit Donley’s Wild West Town, the Illinois Railway Museum or Six Flags Great America.
“Friendly staff and very clean bathrooms. Staff regularly makes their way around the park and ensures the park is clean. Sites are fairly close together, but nothing out of the ordiry for this area. Good activities for the kids, albeit very short regarding how long they last. Miniature golf does look like something out of an abandoned theme park and doesn’t look like it’s been maintained in years. Gym set and pool are very well maintained and the kids spent a lot of time there.” – Scott, Google Review
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Enchanted Shores is one of the campgrounds in Chicago, Illinois, that is a gem to find. Quiet and peaceful, the park features lovely scenery, beautiful birds and a friendly environment. Many local attractions are a short distance away.
Come as a stranger, leave as a friend! When you camp at Enchanted Shores, you’ll enjoy the on-site playground, basketball court, volleyball, and horseshoe areas. When you’re ready to get out and about, you’ll find golfing, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, shopping and bowling nearby. For meals, you can find a local restaurant or cookout by a campfire.
“I have loved staying there. The people are very friendly and always making you feel at home. I recommend it highly. The people who run it are always coming up with fun activities for everyone to get together and have a good time. Thank you for such a fun experience. I will be back with family.” – Penny, Google Review
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Race View Farms is a family-owned and -operated business. Located on 160 acres, the family has had the property for more than a century. The family opened its property to provide RV camping for fans of the nearby Rt 66 Drag strip and the Chicagoland Speedway.
If you’re in the area for the races that take place on nearby racetracks, you’ll want to stay at Race View Farms. Although the campground has limited amenities, it is only “2,000 feet to your seat” for these popular racing events in the Chicago area, making it a convenient place to camp for race fans.
“Crash up derby was great! Fireworks were good. Prices are middle of the road. Great fun for the whole family!!”- Kerry, Google Review
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MWR Navy Gateways RV Campground borders Lake Michigan. This facility is available year-round, and you have access to the beach and fishing piers as well as a playground area for children. If you’re looking at RV parks near Chicago and you have a military affiliation, be sure to consider this one.
If you are active or retired military or affiliated with the Department of Defense, this is a great campground to consider. You have access to the beach with a beach house, piers and cleaning stations for fishing, an archery range, playground and plenty of picnic spots to enjoy. The Community Recreation Rental Center and the Marina’s Ship’s Store are just a short drive away.
“Open to military, military retirees and DOD civilians. Narrow sites with nearly no shade — BUT a GORGEOUS VIEW of Lake Michigan!”- Bruce, Google Review
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If you are looking for a campground near Aurora, Illinois, that offers year-round camping, this is the perfect option. Camp Bullfrog Lake is especially great if you enjoy water-based activities. In addition, there are daily activities that are run by the staff for campers to enjoy.
Individuals who enjoy being outdoors will love the 50 miles of trail that surround the area. Whether you are hiking, biking, or birdwatching in the area, these trails will provide some amazing vistas that you will not want to miss. Since the actual campground is small, you can expect to get a quiet night’s sleep.
“My family and I did an overnight camping trip. We enjoyed the entire stay. The staff was very helpful and friendly. There were camp activities and the campsite is a controlled environment where you feel safe but enjoying the camping experience. This is my family's new campsite, Bull Frog Lake.” – Val, Google Reviews
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Blackwell Family Campground is one of the Joliet campgrounds that are operated by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. This large preserve comprises 1,366 acres, and the terrain includes grasslands, wetlands, prairies, and hickory and oak forests. You can hike, jog, bike, cross-country ski, or even ride a horse on most of the trails.
Silver Lake is located near Blackwell Family Campground, and it is stocked with fish. You can use engineless boats like rowboats, kayaks, or canoes, and you can bring your own or rent one. Silver Lake is the only lake in the Forest Preserve District where sailboats are allowed. You can also enjoy the hiking trails and archery range.
“This place was huge and a great drive to look at the fall colors. It just kept going and going and going. I would love to come back in the summer and check out the trails, but gorgeous to look at fall colors on the trees. And the lake was huge.” – Chris, TripAdvisor Review
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Camp Reinberg offers a convenient location in Palatine, Illinois. It is open year-round and set inside the oak-filled woods of Deer Grove. Various RV campsites are available, and they’re all surrounded by beautiful trails for hiking and wildlife spotting.
At Camp Reinberg, you’ll find RV campsites that provide you with a gravel parking space. You will have a fire ring along with a picnic table and dumping station. Additionally, there are nature trails, bike rentals, and large outdoor group spaces. There is a snack and concessions shop on-site, plus a dining hall, restrooms, and showers. When you stay here, it’s easy to visit the nearby Crabtree Nature Center.
“Beautiful park and wonderful campsites. There is road noise but the proximity to the city makes up for it. The trails are awesome and there is so much wildlife. We stayed for a week and every single day there were deer hanging around our site!” – Melinda, Google Review
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Nestled within the serene expanse of Lakeshore Camp Resort is a sprawling haven boasting 940 sites, including 115 full hookup campsites and 12 charming cabins available for rent. This family-friendly retreat promises an immersive camping experience, where nature meets entertainment. A plethora of amenities await, offering campers access to a 22-acre lake, four inviting pools, sandy beaches, fishing spots, boat rentals, a delightful mini-golf course, and a calendar brimming with daily recreational activities and weekend entertainment. Lakeshore Camp Resort transforms camping into an adventure, ensuring a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for all who seek refuge in its spacious grounds.
Strategically positioned just 10 miles away from the scenic beauty of Indiana Dunes National Park, Lakeshore Camp Resort serves as an ideal gateway to nature's wonders. Additionally, its convenient location, approximately 45 miles from downtown Chicago, IL, opens up a world of urban exploration. Campers can venture into a realm of diverse attractions, including the thrills of Deep River water park, Chicago's efficient train system, bustling casinos, picturesque bike trails, captivating zoos, and enriching museums. Lakeshore Camp Resort not only provides a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts but also offers easy access to a myriad of experiences for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.
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Established in 1957, Woodland Village Park seamlessly blends timeless charm with modern comforts, offering a mix of full hook-up, big-rig friendly RV sites, and well-maintained mobile homes. The RV sites, thoughtfully designed for convenience, feature back-in spaces situated on leveled concrete slabs or concrete runners. Embracing a year-round allure, the park has recently upgraded sewer lines and electric hook-ups (20/30/50 amps) across all sites. Benefit from a plethora of entertainment options with approximately 50 over-the-air antenna channels, and for those planning an extended stay, Cable TV is available through Comcast. Woodland Village promises a tranquil haven, providing a perfect balance of natural beauty and accessibility for a delightful camping experience.
Found conveniently along the historic Route 20 in Portage, Indiana, Woodland Village beckons travelers seeking a peaceful retreat just 41 miles outside the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. With an approximately one-hour drive time, the park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. For those preferring a scenic train journey, the Portage/Ogden Dunes station is merely 5 miles away, providing easy access to transportation. Enjoy the proximity to major highways and convenient shopping, including the nearby Walmart, enhancing the accessibility and convenience of Woodland Village.
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Martin’s Camping Ground is a family-owned business that strives to provide well-maintained RV camping near Aurora. Located right off of Route 80, this is a convenient location to find for any traveler. Whether you are staying for a while or just passing through, you’ll be taken care of.
This is a quiet campground that is perfect for someone who is in the area for work. When you return to the park from a long day, you’ll be able to get a peaceful night of rest. It is also a great option for individuals who love to hike.
“We visit this campground every time we come to Chicago to utilize their hospitality for dumping, water, and propane. Since our last visit, it was sold and the new owners are super, super helpful and accommodating. Highly recommend.” – Maggie, Google Reviews
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Martin Campground is a family-run Joliet, Illinois campground that caters to people who are traveling either for work or for pleasure. Therefore, it is situated right off the I-80, an arrangement that has the advantage of being convenient for travelers. Martin Campground provides lots for RVs, tents, and storage units.
Martin Campground is a family-run Joliet, Illinois campground that caters to people who are traveling either for work or for pleasure. Therefore, it is situated right off the I-80, an arrangement that has the advantage of being convenient for travelers. Martin Campground provides lots for RVs, tents, and storage units.
“My husband and I had an amazing visit to Chicago and an awesome stay at the Martin Campground. The new owners have really updated the park and created a beautiful RV location. Clean, big, level lots. Plenty of space. Friendly people, and friendly staff and owners. We both highly recommend Martins Campground. Until next time. Thank you, A.G. and R.G.”
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Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park is in Cedar Lake, Indiana, on the shores of Cedar Lake. This RV park is operated by a Christian church and is an alcohol and drug-free environment. Free kayak rentals are available at Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park.
The shower house at Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park is ADA-accessible, and there are outdoor tennis courts on-site. This campground offers beach access, and beach volleyball is available. To top it off, most sites at Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park include a picnic table and firepit.
“Restrooms are very clean, quiet campground and didn’t have much trouble with anything. Our site didn’t have a picnic table though and that was very inconvenient. Fire pit had trash in it from other campers and overgrown but again, usual campground problems. Bring extension cords and extensions for water hose, hookups were too far for my hose and electric.” – Hailey, Google Review
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Situated less than a mile from the pristine shoreline and a convenient stroll from the South Shore Rail Station, the Indiana Dunes State Park Campground stands out as a sought-after haven in the region. Renowned for its popularity, securing reservations promptly is advisable due to the campground's swift occupancy. Each site is equipped with full electrical hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the natural beauty. The campground's commitment to modern amenities extends to well-maintained restrooms and shower houses accessible to every camper, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Camping at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground is not only about proximity to the beach and convenient facilities but also the joy of embracing nature in the comfort of an RV. With full electrical hookups at every site, RV enthusiasts can revel in the convenience of a home away from home while immersing themselves in the breathtaking surroundings. Whether it's a family getaway or a solo exploration, the campground's blend of coastal charm and accessibility ensures that camping in an RV becomes a delightful and memorable experience for all.
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Hollywood Casino Joliet RV Park is one of a few RV parks in Joliet that are associated with a casino. The park is only open seasonally, typically from the middle of April to the middle of October, and campers have to be at least 21 years of age. The RV park provides many of the same amenities as the hotel, like a business center and laundry facility, and NASCAR fans will appreciate the fact that it is just four miles away from the Chicagoland Speedway.
Hollywood Casino Joliet RV Park can be considered as a playground for adults. In addition to the casino, you can enjoy the garden, bar, and restaurant. There are several other restaurants in the area. You can also visit the nearby Joliet Area Historical Museum.
“Very nice facility, though there are no sewer hookups. The shuttle service to the casino was appreciated and easy to use. We enjoyed the morning breakfast as a nice perk for staying in the park. I would recommend this park as a really nice place to stay.” – Elbert, Good Sam Review
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Within the picturesque Sunset Hill Farm County Park in the Indiana Dunes region, this seasonal campground offers a unique retreat surrounded by natural beauty. The campground provides an ideal setting for both group and family camping experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the park's 238 acres. With campsites strategically positioned adjacent to over 10 miles of scenic trails, outdoor enthusiasts can embark on exploratory hikes through the diverse landscapes that define Sunset Hill Farm County Park. While the camping experience retains a rustic charm, amenities such as primitive toilets, a communal fire pit for group gatherings, and a rentable shelter enhance the overall camping experience.
Embrace the simplicity of camping in this natural haven where electricity is intentionally absent, encouraging visitors to unplug and immerse themselves in the serene surroundings. Please note that the campground exclusively caters to walk-in tent camping, creating an intimate and immersive connection with the natural environment. Reservations are essential to secure your spot within this sought-after seasonal campground, as campsites tend to fill up quickly. Discover the joy of a technology-free escape and relish the opportunity to connect with nature while creating cherished memories within the peaceful ambiance of Sunset Hill Farm County Park.
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Indiana Dunes National Park unfolds along 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan's southern shoreline, beckoning visitors with a myriad of captivating experiences. Whether you're a bird enthusiast seeking rare species or a beachgoer reveling in kite-flying adventures, the park's expansive 15,000 acres (6070 ha) promise an enduring enchantment. Hikers can traverse 50 miles (80 km) of trails that wind through rugged dunes, mystical wetlands, sunlit prairies, meandering rivers, and tranquil forests. Found within this natural haven is Dunewood Campground, offering 66 campsites (54 drive-in and 12 walk-in, with 4 fully accessible sites), boasting well-appointed restrooms and showers. While electric and water hookups are absent, the campground caters to visitors with mobility impairments, and some sites have specific limitations on recreational vehicle length.
Embrace the ever-changing beauty of Indiana Dunes National Park as each season unveils unique delights. Spring graces the Heron Rookery's riverbanks with a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, creating a birder's paradise. Summer on Lake Michigan brings stunning sunsets that paint the skies with hues so vivid they set the stage for idyllic picnics. In the fall, Maple trees don warm red and golden tones, providing a breathtaking backdrop for hikes near the historic Chellberg Farm. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene canvas of pristine white snow, inviting adventure-seekers to embark on cross-country skiing escapades amidst the enchanting Glenwood Dunes.
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Discover a haven of tranquility just moments away from the renowned Indiana Dunes National and State Parks at this serene, family-oriented campground. Tucked away amidst the expansive farming fields southeast of Chesterton, Indiana, and a mere ten miles from Indiana Dunes State Park, this forty-acre retreat beckons with the promise of a peaceful summer escape. Positioned along Sand Creek, the campground is not just a gateway to the dunes but a destination in itself. With over 100 tent or RV sites, including two bathhouses, four cozy cabins, a spacious playing field, and a welcoming meeting room, the property offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every camper's preference.
Embrace the comforts of modern camping with full electric and water hookups, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable stay. Impeccably maintained facilities include clean restrooms, invigorating hot showers, a convenient picnic shelter, fire pits for cozy gatherings, and a refreshing pool to cool off during the warm summer days. Beyond the essentials, the campground caters to families with a swing set for the little ones and additional recreational spaces. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or a base for exploring the natural wonders nearby, this family-friendly campground invites you to create lasting memories amid the beauty of Indiana's landscape.
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Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort is located just outside of Elgin. The camping season runs from May 1 through Oct. 15, and RVs and travel trailers are welcome. Daily and monthly rates are available for your convenience at this park that’s conveniently located near Six Flags Great America.
With its emphasis on family-oriented activities, your entire family can have a great time here making memories. Even your four-legged friend can get in on the fun at the well-maintained off-leash dog park. There are various activities held here on weekends, including hayrides. Coin-operated laundry facilities and restrooms with hot showers will provide you with a touch of home. You can also enjoy rowboat and kayak rentals, an outdoor movie theater and a 10-hole miniature golf course.
“We have a seasonal site here for the past five years. The staff is super friendly and accommodating. Everything is clean and the activities are plentiful if you like and you can always find a quiet place if you don’t like the partying. Pool is great and my family and dogs love it here. A great get away for the weekend.” – Nicky, Google Review
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There are a few Good Sam RV parks near Aurora, Illinois, but the one that stands out as the best option is the Leisure Lake Resort. It is only 40 minutes from Chicago. This means that you can spend the day in the city and the evening relaxing by one of the lakes that can be found at the resort.
This is truly a resort, which means there are plenty of activities and things to do at all hours of the day. This is great for families, especially if you have children camping with you. There is a 24-acre fishing lake, a 2-acre swimming lake, dance parties, and live entertainment for campers to enjoy.
“My stay at Leisure Lake Resort was great. I’ve been a member for years and enjoy all the resort has to offer. The place is clean and family-friendly. If you are looking for a campground close to the city this is the place to be.” – Robert, Google Reviews
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Paul Wolff Campground is conveniently located inside of the beautiful Burnridge Forest Reserve. It features a number of improved campsites, complete with electric, water, and 50-amp electrical service.
The preserve is open 365 days a year, allowing you to enjoy camping. In addition to providing you with a campsite, you will also have water access and a fire ring. You will also have a dump station to use. Throughout the preserve, you can go fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. There are also various winter activities available so you can find something fun to do year-round. Plus, you’re close to the conveniences that the town of Elgin has to offer when you stay here.
“Great place not too far from home. The staff are very helpful and nice. Easy to get in and out of. They have water and electric hook up but no sewer. There are two dump stations located within the campground.” – Doug, Google Review
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Hide-A-Way Lakes is nestled in a wooded area where guests can camp right on the Fox River. There’s always plenty of shade at the 200 full hook-up sites that are available on the grounds. For added convenience, you can check-in at any time, day, or night
This is a great campground to consider for anyone who likes to enjoy nature. There are trails to go hiking, bike paths to explore, and plenty of places to toss in your line to see if any fish are biting. The river is also prime for tubing, so you can cool off during the heat of the summer with ease.
“This place is amazing! The staff are friendly and helpful, the locals watch out for the park and the people in it, and the general store carries whatever you forgot you need. The pavilion is a great escape from the heat when needed and the campers for rent have ice cold A/C. Definitely returning for our annual conventions! Anyone looking to host a large camping getaway will love this place.” – Jonathan Volpert, Google Review
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The Big Rock Campground is located in a mature woodland area that creates a lot of shade. This is a property that is open all year, so whether you want to fish, hike, bird watch, or go skiing, you can camp here for the night. The reserve is a popular camping destination for anglers because of the variety of species that can be found in the water.
Of course, this is a great place to stay if you enjoy fishing and being close to nature. However, one of the aspects that you will really enjoy at this location is the equestrian trails that allow you to go horseback riding. There are bike trails in the area as well.
“Amazing, quiet, and peaceful place. The gentleman at the gate are very nice and very helpful. He amazed me with his hospitality. Very secure campground. Will be visiting again in the future.” – Eve, Google Reviews
The Chicago, Illinois area is a fantastic place to take a vacation. You can easily find camping spots close to the city that allow you to take advantage of the art, culture, theater, and cuisine that Chicago has to offer. Many campgrounds are also on the outskirts where you can find some peace and quiet communing with nature as well.
While you’re in the heartland of America, be sure to check out the best trips in Illinois and make the most of your next RV trip to Chicago.
The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.
Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.
Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.
Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.