Best Camping Near Chicago, IL

Explore Chicago's scenic campgrounds: Top camping spots, outdoor activities, and nature adventures in the Windy City.

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Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

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Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Chicago, Illinois

6 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Chicago, Illinois

  • Millennium Park - Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this iconic park features the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as "The Bean"), beautiful gardens, and outdoor concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

  • Navy Pier - A bustling entertainment destination on Lake Michigan offering rides, restaurants, shops, and seasonal events. It's a great spot for family fun and stunning lake views.

  • Lincoln Park Zoo - One of the oldest zoos in North America, this free zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and is set within Lincoln Park's expansive green space.

  • Morton Arboretum - About 25 miles west of Chicago in Lisle, IL, this 1,700-acre living museum offers hiking trails through diverse plant collections and seasonal events like tree-lighting displays during winter.

  • Indiana Dunes National Park - Approximately 50 miles from Chicago along Lake Michigan's southern shore. This national park features sandy beaches, towering dunes, wetlands, prairies, rivers and forests perfect for hiking or bird-watching.

  • Brookfield Zoo - Located about 14 miles west of downtown Chicago in Brookfield. This large zoo offers extensive exhibits including Tropic World indoor rainforest and Great Bear Wilderness with polar bears.

  • Chicago Botanic Garden - Situated about 20 miles north of downtown in Glencoe. The garden spans over 385 acres with beautifully designed landscapes including themed gardens like Japanese Garden and English Walled Garden.

  • Starved Rock State Park - Roughly 75 miles southwest of Chicago near Utica. Known for its stunning sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago; it’s ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

Ways to camp near Chicago, Illinois

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa's Village Azoosment Park offers rides, a petting zoo, and shows for all ages.

The Farmers Market in Huntley provides fresh produce every Saturday morning.

The Morton Arboretum features stunning gardens and extensive walking trails.

You can find excellent golfing opportunities at nearby courses such as Marengo Ridge Golf Club.

U.S. Cellular Field is home to the Chicago White Sox baseball team.

Plan a trip to Chicago, Illinois

Plan a trip to Chicago, Illinois

Plan Your Perfect Camping Trip to Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL is a vibrant city with a rich blend of culture and nature. For those looking to explore the great outdoors while staying close to the city, KOA campgrounds offer an ideal base. Here’s how you can plan an unforgettable camping trip near Chicago.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are fantastic times for camping around Chicago. The weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring local attractions.

Weather Expectations

In spring, expect blooming flowers and cool breezes. Summer brings warmer temperatures ideal for water activities at nearby lakes. Fall offers stunning foliage views with crisp air—perfect for cozy campfires.

Packing Essentials

Pack layers! A mix of T-shirts, long sleeves, and a waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable in changing weather conditions. Don’t forget hiking boots for exploring trails and a camera to capture scenic views.

Nearby KOA Campgrounds

  • Chicago Northwest KOA Holiday: Enjoy amenities like swimming pools and bike rentals.
  • Kankakee South KOA Holiday: Offers fishing opportunities right on site.
  • Coloma / St. Joseph KOA Holiday: Close proximity to Lake Michigan beaches makes it perfect for sun-seekers.

Planning Tips

Consider booking your campsite in advance during peak seasons as spots fill up quickly. Check out local events happening in Chicago during your stay; from music festivals to food fairs, there’s always something exciting going on!

Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, camping near Chicago provides the best of both worlds—urban excitement paired with serene natural beauty at nearby KOAs!

Blog posts related to camping near Chicago, Illinois

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Save money when camping near Chicago, Illinois with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Chicago, Illinois, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.