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Camping near Chicago

Watch the sunrise over Lake Michigan or fish in the Illinois River on a camping escape near Chicago.

95% (586 reviews)
95% (586 reviews)

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Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds near Chicago

95%
(233)

The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents1 acre ¡ Chicago, IL
Twenty years of growing this farm... Not what grows here but the farm itself! Stone and brick pulled from the ground till we found the beautiful earth beneath and built an incredible community around it. Or rather, it grew itself from the energy that surrounds it. It's a special spot where you may happen upon a fire in the sugar shack while we boil city collected sap into maple syrup or have an open jam night with world class jazz musicians. Enjoy the morning serenade of our rooster! Really, just come and be here. Though we think we're pretty cool, a few things to note that you may not think are so cool: There is a train that runs directly behind the farm. Light sleepers, may want to bring ear plugs. Bring your tent to The Vaudeville! (RVs, campers, trailers, vans please see the ** at the bottom). Our urban farm is smack in the middle of Chicago only a 10 minute bike or train ride from Downtown, Lake Michigan, The Mag Mile and all Chicago has to offer! Bike the Lake Shore Trail, walk the 606, kayak the Chicago River, catch a blues show or Hawks game or just relax with the goats and chickens in the 9,000 square foot farm that we absolutely love to share with fellow campers! ** We have stopped hosting RVs, campers/vans, pull behinds and larger vehicles because we are finding it difficult to get them in the entrance gate but if you feel amazingly capable with your backing in skills in your rig and you're super patient, laid back and extra cool, let us know and we may be able to make it work!! :)
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$48
 / night
97%
(125)

Willowthorne

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents9 acres ¡ Lynwood, IL
Discover the Charm of Willowthorne: Your Rustic Sanctuary Amid Natural Beauty.Willowthorne invites you to revel in the natural allure and organic rhythm of life on the farm, fostering enduring memories that extend long after your visit. Nestled within a serene 9-acre organic blueberry farm , Willowthorne emerges as an idyllic escape where the sunsets are sublime, and the night sky brims with twinkling stars, and the hosts are charming and delightful. This unique getaway marries the essence of organic farming, educational pursuits, and warm hospitality to create an unparalleled outdoor experience. Catering to tent camping aficionados and retreat groups, our pastoral campgrounds are graced with picturesque views of a tranquil pond and willow trees. While our space welcomes the modest charm of tents, small RVs, and campers, we maintain a rustic essence without power hook-ups, encouraging guests to connect with nature. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a personal fire ring and table for your convenience. Our area offers an incredible variety of recreational and sightseeing activities. Find peace and tranquility among nature or travel just 25 miles north to visit the heart of Chicago! We are central to many Illinois, Indiana and Michigan State Parks and beaches. Several good restaurants and breweries are also nearby. PLEASE NOTE: Please drive slowly and cautiously through our property. We are an active farm with a lot of activity all year round. Please pitch your tent in the designated campground area. In support of conservation of the natural ecosystem, please refrain from broadcast pesticides, i.e. Raid, Yard Guard, etc. Spraying skin, clothing, and personal property with mosquito repellent in your designated camping is fine. Our farm has beehives placed at a safe distance from the campsites to ensure guest safety. Obey posted signs and please stay out of designated work areas OBSERVE FIRE SAFETY. Leave fire ring in designated spot. Never leave fire unattended. No fires on windy days. Extinguish fire before leaving campsite. Please read: https://www.hipcamp.com/journal/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fire-safety For Your Convenience: Firewood: Purchase bundles of wood on site as non-local wood can disrupt the local ecosystem through disease or invasive species. Feel free to collect any small, fallen twigs for kindling. (Wood in stacked piles is not for burning but reserved for mushroom cultivation and other projects.) Honey: We offer honey harvested from blueberry blossoms in spring and the rich flavors of black locust and clover in late summer. Blueberries: Come July, partake in our U-pick blueberry farm, an experience seamlessly woven into your stay. Misc. We also offer a variety of organic garden vegetables and herbs throughout the growing season. Kindly inquire on availability upon arrival if you are interested in any of these farm fresh goodies. We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!
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$50
 / night
100%
(12)

Michigan City Camping/4min to Beach

1 site ¡ RV, Tent9 acres ¡ Michiana Shores, IN
Discover the ultimate outdoor retreat at our secluded campsite in Michigan City, Indiana, nestled on 9 acres of lush woodland just minutes from the beach. Our spacious site accommodates multiple tents and features a hammock, bonfire pit (Fire wood provided), and picnic table for your comfort. Enjoy the tranquility of nature with the convenience of local breweries, wineries, and the Indiana Dunes National Park nearby. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, our campsite offers the perfect backdrop for your next camping getaway.
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$105
 / night
100%
(2)

Rocking Horse Camping Farm

1 site ¡ Lodging15 acres ¡ Gary, IN
This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min ride
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$100
 / night
99%
(245)

Escape to Nature

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Huntley, IL
This property is located on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard. What to do here: Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks. If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking. Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit. The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. Kids love Thomas the train and Percy too! When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants. We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff. Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com. FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂 Here are some answers to common questions. We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent. Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour. ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door. WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done. CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing. WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood. PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits. INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent. HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage. EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking. ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.
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$35
 / night
98%
(111)

Gun Smoke Ranch

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents7 acres ¡ Grant Park, IL
Beautiful camping spots with fire pit and picnic table. Seasoned Firewood is available for purchase. Three beautiful sites with campfire pits and area for tents. Sites 1&2 overlook a manicured range. Site 3 is nearby. Waivers must be signed to use range, Hipcamp is not liable for range use. Car, suv, truck, trailer and smaller RV parking. 15 minute drive to Cedar Lake, 10 minutes to Badlandz Paintball Field. No electrical hookup, no plumbing. (Yet) Porta potty provided
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$50
 / night
96%
(41)

Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

2 sites ¡ Lodging56 acres ¡ Crown Point, IN
Learn more about this land:Come enjoy a stay at the rustic Hruby Ranch. 50 acres of private land to explore. A cozy comfortable excursion tent with queen bed heated by a toasty 89,000 BTU wood stove. There are trails throughout of which you are free to explore. And our animals will surely delight. A fire pit is always a wonderful way to end the day. Located 12 minutes from I 65 and 15 minutes from downtown Crown Point and 20 from Valporaiso. If the beach is more your style, we are 25 minutes from the Indiana dunes and Lake Michigan! We are in winter/inclimate weather conditions, all stays are hike in and out approximately 150yards from the barn and stable areas.
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$100
 / night
98%
(26)

Bear Bottom Ranch

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents32 acres ¡ Millbrook, IL
Welcome to Bear Bottom Ranch! Come and enjoy our 32 acres of wooded property where a creek runs through. We have gorgeous oak trees and walnut trees all throughout the property. Ifare looking for a private camping experience, this place is for you. We usually have a couple horses on the property and I have two unleashed dogs that are friendly with people and dogs. We will be at the top of the property, keeping to ourselves. We hope you’ll enjoy our place!
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$35
 / night

Cohen’s Nature Retreat Riverwoods

1 site ¡ Tent1 acre ¡ Riverwoods, IL
One acre land. Enjoy a glamping set up in the heart of Chicago’s Northshore. Minutes to the beach, golf courses, nature preserve biking, canoeing, horseback riding, kitesurfing, kayaking, restaurants, rock climbing, museums, trains to Chicago and Milwaukee. Access to the 12 person swim spa, grill, bonfire, outdoor fireplace.
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$180
 / night
100%
(16)

Camp at Farm in the Woods

2 sites ¡ Lodging6 acres ¡ Michigan City, IN
Stay in our beautiful bell tent set along a private pond. Listen to the frog songs while you relax away from the hustle and bustle. The 16 foot tent is fit with a queen size Japanese Shikubuton mattress. Linens, pillows and extra comforters are provided. Twin size cots available upon request. Please note that while we try to take the hassle out of camping for you, this is still very much a rustic camping experience. You may want to bring things like a bright flash light, a cooler and bug spray.
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$125
 / night
100%
(3)

Jihari's Safari

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Portage, IN
Located inside a gated campground, Jihari's Safari is a vintage RV Mobile home that has been renovated into a cozy safari motif get a way! It comfortably sleeps three adults. Less than 50 ft from the camper are three pools and just a short walking distance from the lake where guest can enjoy boating, Kayaking, fishing and much more. Enjoy a game of miniature golf, tennis or biking; Guest with smaller children can enjoy a splash pad, bouncing house and secured playlot. Enjoy a meal at a on-site restaurant with a varied menu. Various themed activities for all ages. Enjoyable fun for all....... HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON!
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$99
 / night
87%
(15)

Outdoor Private Camping.

7 sites ¡ Tents6 acres ¡ Barrington Hills, IL
Camping ⛺️ Private Land, Pitch your Tents Outdoors. Vans, RV'S, Campers Trailers, Group Camping. Camping w/ fire pits, Grills, Wood Pizza Brick Oven. Pets Welcome fenced property. Privacy surrounded by trees Woods. Pool open during summer seasons. Fire Pit wood included, Walking Trails, Picnic Table. We LOVE our equestrian Chickens Goats on site free eggs. Equestrian Community Private Wooded Land Campers, Trailers, Mobile Homes space. Special Rates for extended stays.  Water and 30amp included. Picnic Tables, Pet Friendly.
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$80
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Star Hosts in Chicago

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Camping near Chicago guide

Overview

At the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Chicago mixes urban energy with expansive natural beauty. Stroll through Starved Rock State Park and fish for catfish in the Illinois River, or take a day trip to Indiana Dunes National Park to splash in the lake and enjoy the beach. Channahon State Park offers a look at local history with walking, fishing, and canoeing opportunities along the historic waterway. Campers can then find tent campgrounds and RV parks near Chicago and its natural attractions with amenities like restrooms and showers. Or try glamping accommodations like cabins and yurts with kitchens and wifi for extra luxury. Lakeside camping is also especially popular near Chicago, featuring boat docks, swimming, and beach access.

Where to go

Starved Rock State Park

Visit Starved Rock State Park to wander the banks of the Illinois River; fish for catfish, walleye, white bass, and carp; or kayak along the water. Thirteen miles of hiking trails are available year-round, and on-leash dog walking is welcome on the paths. A state park campground with showers, pit toilets, and seasonal porta-potties is available inside Starved Rock, with easy access to picnic areas and stargazing. Since it’s one of the most popular parks in Illinois, those looking to enjoy the on-site campground are advised to reserve a spot at least six months in advance.

Indiana Dunes National Park

Admire the natural coastline of Lake Michigan and relax in the sandy landscape on 15,000 acres of parkland at Indiana Dunes. Wander through spring wildflowers, beat summer heat with lake swimming, or snowshoe across the dunes in winter to make the most of year-round park access. Three campgrounds offer a range of camping options, including primitive walk-in tent camping, group camping, campsites with vehicle access, as well as campsites with access to restrooms and hot showers.

Channahon State Park

At the meeting place of the Kankakee, DuPage, and Des Plaines Rivers sits Channahon State Park. It makes a great trip for anyone seeking river views with a touch of local history. Fifteen miles of canal offer a sheltered space for canoeing, while an abundance of bass, crappie, and catfish make for exciting fishing. Primitive tent campsites with fire rings and picnic tables put campers on the edge of the I&M Canal Trail, where a stroll along the waterway affords views of historical buildings and original locks.

When to go

Most campgrounds are open year-round in Illinois, though winter snow can temporarily close some campsites and water amenities. Spring and fall are popular times to visit to avoid summer heat. Temperatures average in the mid 80s during these seasons. Lake and river trails often display beautiful wildflower blooms through April and May, while vibrant forest colors offer an attraction in fall. Chicago’s nickname as the windy city is well-deserved. Pack a few layers and a windbreaker to enjoy the fresh breezes along the coast of Lake Michigan.

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