Farm stays near Chicago, Illinois 2026

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.

97% (652)

Top-rated campgrounds near Chicago

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.

97% (652)

Top-rated campgrounds near Chicago

1. The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!

93%

(315)

3.7mi from Chicago · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

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. We try to accommodate parking your car on site but it's weather and situation conditional. Assume the possibility that you may need to park on the street. 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!! :)

2. Willowthorne

97%

(253)

23mi from Chicago · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

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. Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome. We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!

3. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%

(24)

27mi from Chicago · 6 sites · Lodging

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

4. Barrington Camp Close to Town

100%

(14)

34mi from Chicago · 4 sites · RVs

Small farm property conveniently located 10 minutes from town, bike trails, recreation center, hospital, train to downtown Chicago, and restaurants including a popular marina bar/grill/ music venue called the Broken Oar. Property includes access to large shared fire pit, bicycles, and electric/water hook ups (no sewage). Hipcampers are welcome to fill water tanks as needed, but constant connection is not always available. Note: campers have access to 15 & 30 amp electrical power via extension cords. We welcome horses and pets, but clean up by visitors is required. For the safety of all Hipcampers and their pets, supervised off-leash playtime is expected. Please be outside with your pets while they are off-leash. The country-like property is a setting with wildlife, neighbors, pets, and free range chickens. Owners Sam and Sylvia also reside on the property in the red home. Enjoy your stay and thanks for visiting our listing!

5. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

93%

(57)

38mi from Chicago · 2 sites · Lodging

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. 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.

6. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

99%

(41)

44mi from Chicago · 10 sites · Tents

Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. May see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less to Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open May 1 through Sept 30 (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be September 30th. And then we will be closed for the winter until May first. Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean close by. Local forest preserve has toilets or bring your own porti-john. Bring your horses. Set up a temp spot. We have the space. And there is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner. Camp with your HORSES! We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A tire swing. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, or gardens. 💕🙏

7. Millbrook Trail Rides

96%

(111)

48mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent

We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!

8. Cozy Country Camping

94%

(9)

42mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent, RV

Owners of a Van Conversion company, we have several acres in the back of our property with a flat area to pull in your van or camper and tuck yourself against a tree line or tent camping in the woods. Whether you're passing through Northern Indiana, or just need to get away for a camping weekend, we can accommodate you. Currently, we don't offer any formal amenities, however can supply water or a power station upon request.

9. Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(3)

45mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent

7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. And yes — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️

10. Rehm Acres

100%

(5)

48mi from Chicago · 1 site · RV

Offering a great little spot to overnight as a rest area between Chicago and Milwaukee only 2 miles off of 294. Nothing special but a low cost option to park and relax. Do have a donkey and peacocks that can make noise and do have morning traffic, but the area is indeed rural and the property is relaxing. Site is close to house but our property is your property during your stay.

Camper favorites near Chicago

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Barrington Camp Close to Town

100%

(14)

34mi from Chicago · 4 sites · RVs

Small farm property conveniently located 10 minutes from town, bike trails, recreation center, hospital, train to downtown Chicago, and restaurants including a popular marina bar/grill/ music venue called the Broken Oar. Property includes access to large shared fire pit, bicycles, and electric/water hook ups (no sewage). Hipcampers are welcome to fill water tanks as needed, but constant connection is not always available. Note: campers have access to 15 & 30 amp electrical power via extension cords. We welcome horses and pets, but clean up by visitors is required. For the safety of all Hipcampers and their pets, supervised off-leash playtime is expected. Please be outside with your pets while they are off-leash. The country-like property is a setting with wildlife, neighbors, pets, and free range chickens. Owners Sam and Sylvia also reside on the property in the red home. Enjoy your stay and thanks for visiting our listing!

Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

93%

(57)

38mi from Chicago · 2 sites · Lodging

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. 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.

Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

99%

(41)

44mi from Chicago · 10 sites · Tents

Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. May see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less to Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open May 1 through Sept 30 (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be September 30th. And then we will be closed for the winter until May first. Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean close by. Local forest preserve has toilets or bring your own porti-john. Bring your horses. Set up a temp spot. We have the space. And there is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner. Camp with your HORSES! We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A tire swing. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, or gardens. 💕🙏

Millbrook Trail Rides

96%

(111)

48mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent

We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!

Cozy Country Camping

94%

(9)

42mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent, RV

Owners of a Van Conversion company, we have several acres in the back of our property with a flat area to pull in your van or camper and tuck yourself against a tree line or tent camping in the woods. Whether you're passing through Northern Indiana, or just need to get away for a camping weekend, we can accommodate you. Currently, we don't offer any formal amenities, however can supply water or a power station upon request.

Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(3)

45mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent

7 acres with a mile of winding trails on a working horse farm, featuring two ponds (one stocked for fishing) and a rustic hike-in private campsite. The property offers two small private campsites and a fenced area for horse camping. Explore pristine fenlands, a young black walnut grove, a small prairie restoration, and more. An archery range and horse camping are also available. Owners live on-site and are happy to help if needed, but never intrusive. And yes — therapy chickens are available for cuddles! 🐔❤️

Rehm Acres

100%

(5)

48mi from Chicago · 1 site · RV

Offering a great little spot to overnight as a rest area between Chicago and Milwaukee only 2 miles off of 294. Nothing special but a low cost option to park and relax. Do have a donkey and peacocks that can make noise and do have morning traffic, but the area is indeed rural and the property is relaxing. Site is close to house but our property is your property during your stay.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Isabelle

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Cozy Country Camping

Great experience, felt very private. Directions to property and camp site were very clear. Great view of the stars and sky. We camped a bit late at night and left early in the morning to see cranes at jasper Pulaski

J

James

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Willowthorne

Omg Gosia +Mike thank you for being gracious host any questions I had were answered quickly and clear beautiful land my son and I tent and car camped nice flat land beautiful pond , bee hive , blueberry,chickens, clean bathroom station and water .going back with my daughter very soon and also guys when you go you have to try the homemade blueberry jams it’s amazing. Thanks again gosia and mike.

J

Jawad

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Millbrook Trail Rides

This is a beautiful site just 1.5 hours from downtown. Also, didn't knew silver springs state wildlife park was just 5 mins from here. I would come here in spring and summer when the creek level is enough for paddling.

A

Ali

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Willowthorne

Beautiful sunset views, perfect amenities as promised, and Gosia came out and saw to every need. We’ll definitely be back for blueberry season!

H

Hazzan Sarah

November 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Willowthorne

The view over the lake at sunrise was absolutely beautiful! Even the rain couldn’t detract from how lovely our stay was.

J

Jennifer

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walnut Woods Farm

Suzanne, Jeremy and roommates were AMAZING! I love their property and the work they have put in to it to share with others. They spent so much time with me, teaching me! The horses , chickens (Beta ❤️), stocked pond and mowed paths. Beautiful!

C

Curt

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cozy Country Camping

Excellent campsite. Easy to find, clean, private. Host was responsive.

E

ERICH

November 2025

21 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Willowthorne

I had planned on only staying the first night, but it was so peaceful and the host so accommodating that I decided to stay another night. Mike was kind enough to spend some time with me telling me about the land in the history surrounding it, as well as a brief tour of the various gardens and small store where they have fresh honey, jams, etc. lovely place and will love to stay here in the spring to see everything growing!

E

ERICH

November 2025

21 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Willowthorne

Perfect little getaway from Chicago. The description and pictures are accurate. The hosts were extremely communicative and very friendly. Got to chat with both of them a little bit. Will definitely stay here again!

S

Sunny

November 2025

26 ft travel trailer

20 nights at Barrington Camp Close to Town

Lovely quiet spot. Easy to find, easy to park, close to the train to the city. Sam was a very nice host. I’ll be back next year.

K

KATE

October 2025

16 ft campervan

1 night at Willowthorne

Two nicely laid out large shaded campsites facing a pond. Cute working farm between a field and what felt like busy suburban life driving in. Camp area was pretty quiet but I could hear traffic noises. Tables, grill, toilet and running water for hand washing. They offer organic jams and sauces made there on the farm. A nice little addition that make Hipcamp sites unique.

Big rock forest preserve right around the corner. Hiking trails. Allows horses! I’ll allow horses on the farm. Ask me on advance to set something up. Camp with your horses!

C

Cristian

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

Easy check in and check out simple signs and location. Nice set up.

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Millbrook Trail Rides

Nice property. Gorgeous sunset. Portapottie is on the other side of the property which I wish I knew beforehand as I may have camped elsewhere. It's a bit dark since it's in a barn and has no hand sanitizer so just make sure you've got a flashlight and hand sanitizer if needed. The instructions say if you have a car small enough with high clearance you can cross the bridge (mine was too big to drive across which is fine), but the owner said the bridge isnt built to be driven across. So for anyone thinking of driving to your campsite, just be aware of that! :)

A

Allie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cozy Country Camping

I loved this spot! It was quiet, I had lots of privacy, and the directions were clear and easy.

E

Eva

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Willowthorne

Absolutely loved Gosia and Mike! It was such a great experience and so close to the city!!!

N

Nahyun

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

The site had such great vibes and we enjoyed camping under the stars very much. We arrived late in the dark and Kimberly was so kind to leave out some fire starters and delicious eggs. It was very easy to communicate with her and find our campsite in the dark. I would 100% come back here in a heartbeat if i were to drive cross country again. Thank you Kimberly!!!

M

Mary Jo

October 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!

Nicky's urban farm was truly an oasis and refuge in the big city. After spending the day in Chicago, to come just 6 miles away and have grass, trees, goats, and chickens, potential for a fire in a fire pit, and calm, was priceless. Nicky and her partner are super friendly and helpful. The train does come behind her property, but they are quieter and fewer at night and did not disturb us. A wonderful stay!

R

Ruben

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!

Great little hidden gem just outside downtown! The space is gated, peaceful, and perfect for posting up , my small tent fit like a dream. Nicole was super kind and accommodating, and the Green Line’s only a 5 minute walk (if that). Oh, and there are goats. Actual, adorable goats. Baaah. 10/10 would camp again.

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.

M

Mike

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Millbrook Trail Rides

A really great spot and a really amazing experience being around the horses. Can't wait to visit again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Farm stays near Chicago guide

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.