Camping Near South Shore, IL, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

Looking for the best camping near South Shore? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of Illinois hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near South Shore.

96% (639)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for the best camping near South Shore? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of Illinois hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near South Shore.

96% (639)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite

97%

(17)

13mi from South Shore · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Chicago, IL

Welcome to Glamp Chicago: Chicago’s Premier Urban Glamping Experience Discover the perfect fusion of city vibrance and outdoor serenity at Glamp Chicago, Chicago's only enchanting urban glamping retreat. ✨ Where Boho Chic Meets Urban Comfort Step into our stylish sanctuary, thoughtfully designed with eclectic décor and modern amenities to create a luxurious yet down-to-earth retreat. Our oversized safari tent is adorned with plush bedding, curated furnishings and kitchenette, giving you the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. 📍 Prime Location for Every Adventure Compared to other glamping options, Glamp Chicago is uniquely positioned to deliver an urban escape without compromising on luxury or location. Spend your day exploring iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, diving into local foodie favorites, or uncovering hidden gems in bustling neighborhoods. 🌟 Plan Your 2025 Glamp Chicago Stay Around Chicago’s Spring & Summer Events! Spring and summer are the heartbeat of Chicago’s cultural calendar, and there’s no better way to experience it all than by staying at Glamp Chicago, your luxurious urban oasis. With so much happening, our site is a prime location for access to the city's most vibrant festivals, concerts, and events. 🎶 Can’t-Miss Events in 2025: • Chicago Cubs Baseball (March – October) • Grant Park Music Festival (June-August) • Lollapalooza (August) • Northalsted Market Days (August) • Open House Chicago (October) 🔥 Nights to Remember As the city lights twinkle overhead, gather around your personal fire pit to swap stories, share laughter, and enjoy a nightcap. Our gated setting offers a secure, intimate space to unwind from the day's adventures while embracing the hum of the city under the shadows of the city skyline. 📆 Don’t Wait—Reserve Your Stay Now! Whether you're attending the city’s most iconic events, celebrating a special occasion, or simply seeking a unique escape, Glamp Chicago is your gateway to unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Our prime location ensures you’re always close to the action while enjoying the serenity of a private retreat. • Act fast—availability for spring and summer 2025 will fill up quickly!

2. Willowthorne

97%

(251)

17mi from South Shore · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. Catch-and-Release fishing is welcome. We look forward to having you enjoy the natural beauty at Willowthorne!

3. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

99%

(41)

50mi from South Shore · 10 sites · Tents · Big Rock, IL

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. 💕🙏

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

Potable water

Toilets

5. Indiana Dunes National Park

95%

(40)

66 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana

Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

6. Crash Pad

11mi from South Shore · 1 site · Lodging · Chicago, IL

Welcome to the Crash Pad – Your Chicago Home Away From Home! Looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of city charm? You’ve found it. The Crash Pad is a refreshed 2-bedroom apartment that sleeps up to 4 guests, perfectly situated close to Lake Michigan and just minutes from the best food, entertainment, and culture that Chicago has to offer. What You’ll Love: • A fully functional kitchen, living room, and laundry – all the essentials plus a few luxuries to make your stay effortless. • Comfortable private bedrooms: relax and recharge after a busy day exploring. • Modern bathroom with flush toilet and a refreshing shower. • Prime location: walk to local restaurants and bars, bike to the lake, or hop on public transit to see more of the city. Whether you're in town for the sights, the food, or a weekend getaway, the Crash Pad gives you a cozy, convenient base. Sleep well, explore much – you’re in Chicago.

7. Cozy Country Camping

94%

(8)

34mi from South Shore · 1 site · Tent, RV · Valparaiso, IN

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.

8. The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!

93%

(315)

11mi from South Shore · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. 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!! :)

9. A Creek Runs Through It

93%

(15)

44mi from South Shore · 2 sites · RVs · Elgin, IL

I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!

10. Channahon State Park

25 sites · Channahon, Illinois

This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. 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

Potable water

Toilets

12. Kankakee River State Park

100%

(2)

207 sites · Limestone, Illinois

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. 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

Potable water

Toilets

14. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%

(24)

20mi from South Shore · 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

15. Paradise Quarry

97%

(52)

46mi from South Shore · 1 site · Tent, RV · Sugar Grove, IL

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.

16. Walnut Woods Farm

100%

(3)

49mi from South Shore · 1 site · Tent · Yorkville, IL

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! 🐔❤️

17. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

93%

(57)

30mi from South Shore · 2 sites · Lodging · 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. 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.

18. The Mannex! Indiana Dunes Nat'l Pk

100%

(12)

31mi from South Shore · 1 site · RV · Beverly Shores, IN

The Man's Annex aka the Mannex is located on Scenic US HWY 12 to the South and The South Shore Commuter Rail to the North. The campsite is very clean, tidy and safe. The main pebble parking area slopes gently to the North so you will want levelers if you're in a camper. I have a brand new RV Pedestal complete with 50 and 30amp service, a mechanical timer for the LED lights encompassing the parking area as well as a rheostat so you can dim the lights. I have a 40" firepit with spark arrestor (please use to be in compliance with local laws) as well as a polywood octagonal picnic table and well water with 100' hose. Trash and human waste is to be carried out. Please keep your camper to the east of the blue and yellow birdhouses as access to the building is needed. The location is great! You're inside the dunes national park and only 1.35 miles to the beach. Just north of the train tracks is the Calumet bike path. .35 to the west is a gas station with a bathroom, the south shore train station (day trip to Chicago anyone?), a great restaurant and liquor store as well. Bikes are HIGHLY recommended to be able to help facilitate your exploring of this very unique part of the country. If you're a birder and you don't already know, bring your binocs, this is one of the best birding towns in the Midwest / country due to the location and it's biodiversity.

19. Barrington Camp Close to Town

100%

(14)

42mi from South Shore · 4 sites · RVs · Barrington, IL

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!

20. Harbor Country Cabins

100%

(13)

49mi from South Shore · 2 sites · Lodging · Sawyer, MI

I become owner of this property in 2017. The cabins were built in the late 90's financed by the previous owner. The property was vacant for decades prior to that. In the 1950's, the property was a drive-in motel called the 'Harbert Motel'. We have an arial photo from this time period which showed a number of small bungalows for guests, each with its own carport. I love all the stories I hear from locals who have been around long enough to remember how things 'used to be'. Southwest Michigan has an interesting history and has been a 'destination' from city dwellers for close to 100 years. Even Al Capone and his goon's frequented the area as they moved illegal good during the days of prohibition. Learn more about this land: Breweries, Wineries, Berry Picking, Art Studios, Farmers Markets, hiking trails, biking trails, Lake Michigan boating, kayaking, fishing, canoeing.......all those things and more await you in Southwest Michigan. We have 6 'tiny house' style cabins on 1-acre property we call - Harbor Country Cabins. Harbor Country Cabins is located along the Lake Michigan Wine Trail. Our resort offers a unique lodging and gathering location in the center of Harbor Country, near Southwest Michigan’s premier destination for beaches, breweries, wineries, dining and summer fun. With 12 queen bunk and 4 twin bunk beds spaced across 6 cabins, our property can hold up to 28 people. Price in this listing is for rental of all 6 cabins.

Camper favorites near South Shore

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Barrington Camp Close to Town

100%

(14)

42mi from South Shore · 4 sites · RVs · Barrington, IL

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!

Harbor Country Cabins

100%

(13)

49mi from South Shore · 2 sites · Lodging · Sawyer, MI

I become owner of this property in 2017. The cabins were built in the late 90's financed by the previous owner. The property was vacant for decades prior to that. In the 1950's, the property was a drive-in motel called the 'Harbert Motel'. We have an arial photo from this time period which showed a number of small bungalows for guests, each with its own carport. I love all the stories I hear from locals who have been around long enough to remember how things 'used to be'. Southwest Michigan has an interesting history and has been a 'destination' from city dwellers for close to 100 years. Even Al Capone and his goon's frequented the area as they moved illegal good during the days of prohibition. Learn more about this land: Breweries, Wineries, Berry Picking, Art Studios, Farmers Markets, hiking trails, biking trails, Lake Michigan boating, kayaking, fishing, canoeing.......all those things and more await you in Southwest Michigan. We have 6 'tiny house' style cabins on 1-acre property we call - Harbor Country Cabins. Harbor Country Cabins is located along the Lake Michigan Wine Trail. Our resort offers a unique lodging and gathering location in the center of Harbor Country, near Southwest Michigan’s premier destination for beaches, breweries, wineries, dining and summer fun. With 12 queen bunk and 4 twin bunk beds spaced across 6 cabins, our property can hold up to 28 people. Price in this listing is for rental of all 6 cabins.

The Dunes Escape

27mi from South Shore · 1 site · Lodging · Porter, IN

We live 4 miles from the National Lake Shore ..

Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238

100%

(1)

22mi from South Shore · 1 site · Lodging · Portage, IN

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.

Earth Mama’s Farm

47mi from South Shore · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pembroke Township, IL

A small rural farm tucked away in the beautiful black oak savanna prairie ecosystem. The farm features several acres of native prairie restoration, along with hiking trails in nearby woods. The campsite is set within the prairie restoration area along a wooded edge — a perfect location for those seeking starlit Midwest skies, the sounds of native birds and wildlife, and scenic views throughout their stay. Located about 30 minutes from town, you’ll have easy access to major stores via all paved roads while still escaping the hustle and bustle of urban life. Enjoy a fresh country experience in this beautiful part of Illinois, once part of the historic Grand Kankakee River Valley Marshland. A fire pit is provided at the campsite, with firewood included in your fee.

Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239

67%

(3)

22mi from South Shore · 1 site · Lodging · Portage, IN

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. This is a nice travel trailer that has two bunk beds in the rear, a dinette and couch that converts to sleepers, and a front bedroom with a queen size bed. Sheets/blankets are supplied, clean towels for up to four people are provided. There is a fire pit, charcoal grill (you have to supply your own charcoal) and gazebo that you can use. Although you are on the lake, you do not have direct access to the lake. Parking is located on the grassy area across the road from the lot. The campground is between the highway and train, so you will hear both day and night with a lot of golf cart traffic. Guest must follow all campground rules, no refunds will be issued. You will have access to all the amenities of the park including use of the pools, beach, and park. Cost of the miniature golf course is not included. There is a restaurant at the park that serves fast food and deserts.

Creekside Dunes

30mi from South Shore · 2 sites · Lodging · Chesterton, IN

Wooded lot very close to the Indiana dunes national lake shore located close to down town Chesterton Indiana!

Organic Vegetable Farm

46mi from South Shore · 5 sites · RVs · Demotte, IN

At Perkins' Good Earth Farm, we offer a peaceful, scenic place to rest with convenient electrical hook-ups (50/30/20 amp options). Our on-site farm store features our own USDA Certified Organic produce, along with other locally sourced foods, grab-and-go soups and salads made in our farm kitchen, gourmet hardneck garlic, and a weekly veggie adventure through our CSA program. Guests can enjoy our beautiful half-mile trail that winds through woodland and native prairie. Leashed animals are always welcome! Campsites are open year-round. Our farm store is open with regular hours from May through mid-November (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 9–5 and Saturday 9–12, plus Fridays 9–5 in June–September). Even when the store is closed, items are still available for order and pickup through our online store. On the day of your arrival, we’ll send self-check-in instructions, including how to make after-hours purchases from the online store. One last tip: we strongly recommend avoiding Chicago traffic during rush hour—or altogether, if you can!

Public campgrounds near South Shore

92%

(39)

Indiana Dunes Campground

27mi from South Shore · 141 sites · Tents, RVs · in Indiana Dunes State Park

95%

(40)

Dunewood Campground

31mi from South Shore · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Indiana Dunes National Park

Channahon Campground

42mi from South Shore · 25 sites · in Channahon State Park

Des Plaines Campground

44mi from South Shore · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

A shallow part of rock creek, near the campground.

100%

(1)

Chippewa Campground

44mi from South Shore · 94 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

Equestrian Campground

45mi from South Shore · 8 sites · in Kankakee River State Park

100%

(1)

Potawatomi Campground

46mi from South Shore · 105 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

83%

(9)

Illinois Beach Campground

48mi from South Shore · 224 sites · Tents, RVs · in Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park

Stories from the community

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.

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!!!

Tent location within locked and secured private gate

E

Eddie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite

This is a great little spot to spend a couple nights at or even a weekend. The check in process was smooth and clear and the host was well-responsive and courteous. Would recommend booking if you’re looking to spend some time in the outdoors in the city!

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!

D

Daddy

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Paradise Quarry

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!

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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.

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Jonathan

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to A Creek Runs Through It

When we pulled up to the site, Kristen made sure we knew exactly where to park and gave us the layout of her land. It was nice to be able to park our camper there while we visited the nearby town. This site was quiet and private. We felt very safe here. Kristen communicated well and we knew everything we needed to know before even showing up. We would definitely camp here again!

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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.

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Deron

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

3 nights at The Mannex! Indiana Dunes Nat'l Pk

Absolutely PERFECT private camping spot!! Geoff has done an immaculate job of setting up a well maintained and comfortable stay. 30amp plug in, hose to transfer water, fire pit and café lighting hung for ambiance. Timer and dimmer in the electric box. As it says in his profile, there is the e-train that goes by occasionally- but by no means does it minimize the stay! Geoff stopped by to welcome us, great guy. Had some common threads and ended up having a couple beers with him and great conversation. Ended up booking with him b/c the campgrounds were full - but will easily stay there again no matter what!

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Gerald

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Willowthorne

Super easy and peaceful. I plan to be back. For camping.

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David

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

1 night at Paradise Quarry

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