The best river, stream, or creek glamping near Carol Stream, Illinois

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Carol Stream, Illinois while enjoying the comforts of glamping? Hipcamp offers over 50 options in this area that cater to those who want to camp near the river. Some of the top-reviewed sites include Beaver Point Cabin (117 reviews), Blooming Bus Farms (82 reviews), and Escape to Nature (80 reviews). Average prices per night hover around $105, but there are options available for as low as $15. Popular amenities include toilets, cooking equipment, and pet-friendly accommodations, while boating, off-roading, and climbing are among the most popular activities.

96% (24)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Carol Stream, Illinois while enjoying the comforts of glamping? Hipcamp offers over 50 options in this area that cater to those who want to camp near the river. Some of the top-reviewed sites include Beaver Point Cabin (117 reviews), Blooming Bus Farms (82 reviews), and Escape to Nature (80 reviews). Average prices per night hover around $105, but there are options available for as low as $15. Popular amenities include toilets, cooking equipment, and pet-friendly accommodations, while boating, off-roading, and climbing are among the most popular activities.

96% (24)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%

(24)

50mi from Carol Stream · 5 sites · Lodging · 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 drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away. Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet 25 dollars for 2nd pet (75) 2 max pets

2. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

100%

(2)

185 sites · Channel Lake, Illinois

Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

3. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(4)

92 sites · Shabbona, Illinois

Follow the yellow brick road, follow the yellow brick road (otherwise known as Route 30) about an hour west of Chicago and find yourself amidst 1,550 acres of rolling prairie! Shabbona Lake encompasses a unique mix of habitats, providing superb outdoor recreation in an untarnished environment. There’s prairie restoration areas where you can spy a variety of native wildflowers and grasses. Spot your feathered friends on their vacation in the 15-acre migratory waterfowl seasonal nesting area.And for the fishers: the park concession stand sells bait and tackle and rents boats, so you can take a spin and cast a line on the 318.8-acre lake. Tent, RV and cabin camping is available, as well as endless picnicking opportunities. FYI: no booze is allowed in the park, so maybe save your famous margs for another occasion.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Carol Stream

Honeysuckle Hollow Campground

37mi from Carol Stream · 86 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chain O'Lakes State Park IL

100%

(4)

Shabbona Lake Campground

40mi from Carol Stream · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

C

Camilla

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

We had a wonderful stay. Nice to have a getaway like this so close to the city. We enjoyed the site- absolutely beautiful view of ponies and goats. Camper was worn and comfortable and very well stocked. There’s some highway noise but it becomes like white noise- I didn’t notice it really. The host was incredibly nice and helpful and communicative. We hope to return.

s

smita

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

We had such a wonderful stay here! Derek is a very helpful and responsive host. My daughter absolutely loved all the animals — cats, dogs, horses, and goats — which made the trip extra special. The location is perfect, close to the beach and just a short drive from Chicago, so it was both relaxing and convenient. We would definitely love to come back again.

Amanda

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

Love this place so much, this was my second time back and plan to come again next summer. Beautiful spot and beautiful beach 10 min away. It’s close to Illinois so it’s a short drive. Highly recommend

B

Ben

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

Great host, great place! Tips: bring bug spray and the water heater is a 6 gallon dudad. Great for camping, though. Enjoyed the rocking swing.

Amanda

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

I loved this place sooo much. The location was perfect and the private beach that we were able to go to from the Host was AMAZING! I unfortunately had to come later and leave earlier but I already booked another stay cause I cannot stop thinking about it! This was absolutely needed after a rough week. Cannot wait to go back. Highly recommend.

D

Davin

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

Derek was super helpful and responsive! Cute RV and super comfy bed! Has all your amenities and nice and quiet. Highly recommend!