95% (297) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Chicago
The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
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!! :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$90
/ night
Paradise Quarry
3. Paradise Quarry
97%
(52)
40mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our beautiful property! This is a very special place, located an hour from Chicago and only minutes from the west suburbs, you will be transported to another time! This has to be the best “swimming/ fishing hole” in Chicagoland and you can have it all to yourself.
The property features 20 acres of woods, prairie and an 8 acre lake!!! The lake is crystal clear because it’s so deep (reportedly 125 ft) and is sandy on the bottom. We created a massive beach area with many camping spots to choose from. The kids will love exploring the trails on foot and on bike. Everyone will love lounging under the umbrellas on the comfy chaise lounges and enjoying the views.
You won’t want to leave, but if you need to restock, there a gas station 1/4 mile away and full service grocery store and restaurant under a mile away. We even get pizza delivered! There’s a nice driveway of gravel that leads to a nice open field for RV campers. Tent campers can continue to the beach and set up in style.
The property was once an active quarry and was then basically abandoned for 40-50 years. Nature took over over, Trees matured, the stocked lake grew some massive fish. A few years ago we started camping out there and just loved it. We’ve worked hard to make it amazing and we want to share it with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$108
/ night
Indiana Dunes State Park
4. Indiana Dunes State Park
92%
(39)
141 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana
Take advantage of year-round family recreation on the Lake Michigan shore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Indiana Dunes National Park
5. Indiana Dunes National Park
95%
(41)
66 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
6. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
100%
(1)
30mi from Chicago · 1 site · Lodging
Glamping at its best. This lot is at the highest point over looking the lake. This travel trailer sleeps 6. Made for children, the park offers a lake for fishing, boat rentals, beach, swimming pools, game room, mini-golf, kids activities, and more. Air conditioning when it is cold, heat when it is hot, stay dry on a rainy day, inside bathroom. Is this really camping? It is more like Glamour Camping; Glamping. Only 45 minutes from Chicago, and 10 minutes to the Indiana Dunes State Park.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$104
/ night
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
7. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
83%
(9)
224 sites · Zion, Illinois
Illinois’ only beach ridge shoreline sits within an hour of the city.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
8. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
22 sites · Channahon, Illinois
Experience an echo of the expansive natural prairies of an Illinois past when you come to Des Plaines Fish & Wildlife Area. The tranquil vibes of the park will refresh your soul. The smooth flowing rivers and natural prairie lands stretch across the horizon—making that campfire glow all the more spectacular.
There is so much diversity at this park; woodland turns to farmland, prairie turns to swamp, calm waters turn to rushing rivers. This makes for an exceptional array of epic outdoor activities to partake in. We’re talking something for nature lovers and huntsmen alike. The fishing here is on point, with bass, walleye, northern pike, and catfish jumping at the bait on the banks of Miliken Lake and Kankakee River. Explore the acres of naturally preserved beauty, embrace the lush water sources, and just have a hell of a good time all around at this park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
9. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
185 sites · Channel Lake, Illinois
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
95% (297) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Chicago
The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
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!! :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$90
/ night
Paradise Quarry
3. Paradise Quarry
97%
(52)
40mi from Chicago · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our beautiful property! This is a very special place, located an hour from Chicago and only minutes from the west suburbs, you will be transported to another time! This has to be the best “swimming/ fishing hole” in Chicagoland and you can have it all to yourself.
The property features 20 acres of woods, prairie and an 8 acre lake!!! The lake is crystal clear because it’s so deep (reportedly 125 ft) and is sandy on the bottom. We created a massive beach area with many camping spots to choose from. The kids will love exploring the trails on foot and on bike. Everyone will love lounging under the umbrellas on the comfy chaise lounges and enjoying the views.
You won’t want to leave, but if you need to restock, there a gas station 1/4 mile away and full service grocery store and restaurant under a mile away. We even get pizza delivered! There’s a nice driveway of gravel that leads to a nice open field for RV campers. Tent campers can continue to the beach and set up in style.
The property was once an active quarry and was then basically abandoned for 40-50 years. Nature took over over, Trees matured, the stocked lake grew some massive fish. A few years ago we started camping out there and just loved it. We’ve worked hard to make it amazing and we want to share it with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$108
/ night
Indiana Dunes State Park
4. Indiana Dunes State Park
92%
(39)
141 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana
Take advantage of year-round family recreation on the Lake Michigan shore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Indiana Dunes National Park
5. Indiana Dunes National Park
95%
(41)
66 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
6. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
100%
(1)
30mi from Chicago · 1 site · Lodging
Glamping at its best. This lot is at the highest point over looking the lake. This travel trailer sleeps 6. Made for children, the park offers a lake for fishing, boat rentals, beach, swimming pools, game room, mini-golf, kids activities, and more. Air conditioning when it is cold, heat when it is hot, stay dry on a rainy day, inside bathroom. Is this really camping? It is more like Glamour Camping; Glamping. Only 45 minutes from Chicago, and 10 minutes to the Indiana Dunes State Park.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$104
/ night
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
7. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
83%
(9)
224 sites · Zion, Illinois
Illinois’ only beach ridge shoreline sits within an hour of the city.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
8. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
22 sites · Channahon, Illinois
Experience an echo of the expansive natural prairies of an Illinois past when you come to Des Plaines Fish & Wildlife Area. The tranquil vibes of the park will refresh your soul. The smooth flowing rivers and natural prairie lands stretch across the horizon—making that campfire glow all the more spectacular.
There is so much diversity at this park; woodland turns to farmland, prairie turns to swamp, calm waters turn to rushing rivers. This makes for an exceptional array of epic outdoor activities to partake in. We’re talking something for nature lovers and huntsmen alike. The fishing here is on point, with bass, walleye, northern pike, and catfish jumping at the bait on the banks of Miliken Lake and Kankakee River. Explore the acres of naturally preserved beauty, embrace the lush water sources, and just have a hell of a good time all around at this park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
9. Chain O'Lakes State Park IL
100%
(2)
185 sites · Channel Lake, Illinois
Explore these connecting lakes on the water or on land!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Mary Jo
October 2025
21 ft campervan
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!
See more
D
Daddy
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Ms. B’s, Quarry is a beautiful private property. Easy to find the property. Very close to town and yet has the feel of being secluded. On an A,B,C grade scale I give it a solid “A”. I would book Ms. B’s property again in the future. I left some fire wood for the next hip campers. Ms. B is good on responding back to messages. Our dogs absolutely loved it. Please clean up after yourself & respect this paradise as we have! Truly this place is worth every penny spent. Also as anything there could be improvements, but really it’s perfectly beautiful as is and the ports potty was extremely clean!
See moreR
Ruben
October 2025
Tent
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.
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C
Camilla
October 2025
With pets
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.
See more
D
David
October 2025
21 ft travel trailer
We picked this site because it was private with only one site and a small lake. The weather perfect! We would go back again. A small draw back that should be fixed is the gate. As stated in other reviews, it is very hard to open! Very hard. Also out of now where three people showed up to fill in a hole. We were not expecting visitors. A little earlier an we all would have been very embarrassed
See moreJ
Jersey
September 2025
Tent
sweet host & adorable animals! camping here was such a unique experience :)
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jim
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Very nice location in the city. Nicky was super nice and accommodating.
See moreD
Dominick
September 2025
Tent
Nicky was an amazing host with an awesome spot for relaxing and conversing. It was a very welcoming environment and met my needs perfectly. I will be back!
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s
smita
September 2025
With kids
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.
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J
Josh
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Great spot, plenty of room and we caught some fish!
See moreC
Clark
September 2025
Tent
Had a great time camping here - enjoyed the views and the paddle boards. Great spot for a campfire and plenty of places to sit! Anyone who complains of bugs… it’s the great outdoors get over yourself!
See moreD
Dakota
September 2025
Tent
Won’t find a spot better than this close to the city. Accommodating and fun place to stay. Would recommend to anyone
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M
Michael
September 2025
16 ft car
A wonderful, special place. the metro and fraight lines run behind the property. The trains run on limited hours. They run very little on sun. It the city.
See moreA
Annie
September 2025
Tent
Perfect!! exactly what we were looking for. Nicky Was so accommodating and helpful upon arrival and we hit it off with the other camper and have a new friend now! I’ll definitely plan to stay in the future!
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Krista
September 2025
Tent
With kids
We’ve stayed two years in a row, and will most likely make this place a tradition! It’s perfect for a weekend camp get away.
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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
See moreI
Ian
August 2025
Tent
We had a great time tent camping here! Directions were super clear and there was a nice sandy spot for our tent. The place was very private, looked like somebody else had a dock on the pond too, but never saw anyone on it. Campsite was well equipped with chairs, picnic table, umbrella, and water floats. 5 star review!
See moreC
Connor Cunningham
August 2025
Tent
With kids
This is a hidden gem! My family and I had an awesome time the kids loved swimming and paddle boarding. Great for a quick family get away. I could also imagine a great spot to bring a group of friends too. Lots of room to set up and camp. The beach and the fire pit area was the perfect set up. Definitely will be coming back!
See moreK
Karen
August 2025
29 ft Class C
With pets
This is a wonderful place to camp with some understanding of what you are getting! The water is fantastic and we would return for that alone. We stayed on a hot August weekend and sent 2 texts and needed to call the host before we received our code for the gate. The gate rolls and requires a lot of force to roll aside. I had two offensive linemen with me, but would not have been able to open it alone. (The gate does need to be serviced.) The porta potty was clean, had paper, but was relatively full. The umbrella looked a little worse for wear and the place needed a trim...but the little quarry was private and a wonderful oasis to float, splash and paddle board. There were some rafts and beach toys in various conditions that were a nice surprise. The clearing for an RV is not huge so that could be a factor for some. Close restaurant called Burnt Barrel was great. An electric hook up would have been quite welcome, but all in all it was worth $200/day. A later check out would be nice or an earlier check in could be offered if available! We did not have issues with mosquitos or ticks.
See moreS
Samantha
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Fantastic place to stay!! Camp site was very private while still being close to everything. The lake was clear and the site had floats and paddle boards. The fire pit and porta potty were a big plus. The adults loved it, the dogs loved it and the 3 year old loved it. Will absolutely be back.
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