Best Camping Near Thornton, IL

Explore the best campgrounds near Thornton, IL for an unforgettable camping adventure with family and friends.

6

Nearby Campgrounds

729

Nearby Camp Sites

4.6

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Thornton, Illinois

6 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Thornton, Illinois

  • Indiana Dunes National Park - Located about 72 miles from Thornton, IL, this national park offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and features diverse ecosystems including dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. It's a great spot for hiking and bird watching.

  • Chicago Botanic Garden - Situated approximately 40 miles from Thornton in Glencoe, IL. This expansive garden showcases a variety of themed gardens and natural habitats across its 385 acres.

  • Brookfield Zoo - About 30 miles from Thornton in Brookfield, IL. This renowned zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing around 450 species.

  • Morton Arboretum - Located roughly 45 miles away in Lisle, IL. The arboretum spans over 1,700 acres with collections of trees and plants from around the world along with beautiful walking trails.

  • Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens - Just about 15 miles away in Palos Heights, IL. This nature center offers scenic trails around a lake as well as educational programs focused on environmental conservation.

  • Pullman National Monument - Approximately 20 miles from Thornton in Chicago's Pullman neighborhood. It preserves the historic district that was one of the first planned industrial communities in the United States.

  • Shedd Aquarium - Around 25 miles north in Chicago's Museum Campus area. The aquarium is known for its vast array of aquatic life exhibits ranging from oceanic creatures to freshwater species found locally.

Ways to camp near Thornton, Illinois

RV Camping
Visit

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
Visit

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
Visit

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
Visit

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

Lollapalooza and the Annual Chicago Jazz Festival are popular music festivals near Thornton, Illinois.

You can visit Fruitshine Wine for a unique wine tasting experience near Thornton, Illinois.

Exploration Station is a family-friendly attraction you can visit near Thornton, Illinois.

The Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce and local goods around Thornton, Illinois.

You can attend events at Soldier Field or visit Chicagoland/Route 66 Speedways from Thornton, Illinois.

Lilac Time in Lombard is an annual event celebrating nature and flowers close to Thornton, Illinois.

Plan a trip to Thornton, Illinois

Plan a trip to Thornton, Illinois

Planning a camping trip to Thornton, IL, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and local charm. Nestled in the heart of Illinois, this area is perfect for those seeking a refreshing escape with plenty of activities to enjoy.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Thornton. These seasons offer mild weather, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors without the summer crowds or winter chill.

Weather Expectations: In spring, expect blooming flowers and occasional rain showers. Summer brings warm days ideal for swimming or hiking. Fall showcases vibrant foliage with crisp air—perfect for cozy campfires. Winter can be chilly but offers serene landscapes if you’re up for bundling up.

Packing Essentials:

  • Spring/Fall: Layered clothing is key due to fluctuating temperatures.
  • Summer: Pack light clothing, sunscreen, hats, and swimwear.
  • Winter: Warm layers including thermal wear and waterproof boots are essential.

Nearby KOA Campgrounds:

  1. Kankakee South KOA Holiday - Enjoy fishing or canoeing on nearby rivers.
  2. Chicago Northwest KOA Holiday - Offers easy access to Chicago’s attractions while providing a peaceful retreat.
  3. Indiana Beach / Monticello KOA Holiday - Perfect for thrill-seekers with its proximity to amusement parks.

When planning your trip:

  • Consider booking early during peak seasons like summer and fall weekends.
  • Check local events; festivals often add an extra layer of fun!
  • Ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready; safety checks can prevent unexpected hiccups.

Thornton’s proximity to both natural beauty and urban excitement makes it an excellent destination for campers looking to experience the best of both worlds!

Nearby Locations

Blog posts related to camping near Thornton, Illinois

North America's 10 Best Corn Mazes to Visit this Fall Image
North America's 10 Best Corn Mazes to Visit this Fall April 18, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to Route 66 Image
The Ultimate Guide to Route 66 April 18, 2024
View Blog
Family Eating Outside of Airstream
KOA Rewards Logo

Save money when camping near Thornton, 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.

Learn More & Purchase

Reserve Your Stay Today!

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

Find Your KOA Stay