Beach Camping Near Kankakee, Illinois, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a beach camping experience near Kankakee, Illinois, we've got you covered with over 70 options to choose from. You'll find campsites like The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun! (136 reviews), Escape to Nature (80 reviews), and Lochloosa River Retreat (16 reviews) that offer the perfect combination of sandy shores and outdoor adventure. With popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and trash facilities, you can enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort. And with activities like boating, surfing, and wildlife watching, there's something for everyone. Plus, you'll be happy to know that the average price per night is $39, with options as low as $35. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable beach camping experience in Kankakee, Illinois!

96% (24)

Top-rated campgrounds near Kankakee

1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%

(24)

44mi from Kankakee · 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

2. Kankakee River State Park

100%

(2)

207 sites · Limestone, Illinois

Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a beach camping experience near Kankakee, Illinois, we've got you covered with over 70 options to choose from. You'll find campsites like The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun! (136 reviews), Escape to Nature (80 reviews), and Lochloosa River Retreat (16 reviews) that offer the perfect combination of sandy shores and outdoor adventure. With popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and trash facilities, you can enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort. And with activities like boating, surfing, and wildlife watching, there's something for everyone. Plus, you'll be happy to know that the average price per night is $39, with options as low as $35. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable beach camping experience in Kankakee, Illinois!

96% (24)

Top-rated campgrounds near Kankakee

1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%

(24)

44mi from Kankakee · 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

2. Kankakee River State Park

100%

(2)

207 sites · Limestone, Illinois

Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Kankakee

100%

(1)

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp 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!