92% (92) • 16 campsites
Top-rated glamping sites near South Shore
Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
1. Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
97%
(17)
13mi from South Shore · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
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 2026 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 2026:
• 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 2026 will fill up quickly!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
20mi from South Shore · 6 sites
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
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
3. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
30mi from South Shore · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Kankakee River State Park
4. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
State park 44mi from South Shore · 207 sites
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Harbor Country Cabins
5. Harbor Country Cabins
100%
(13)
49mi from South Shore · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$855
/ night
Crash Pad
6. Crash Pad
11mi from South Shore · 1 site
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.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$150
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
7. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
67%
(3)
22mi from South Shore · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$119
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
8. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
100%
(1)
22mi from South Shore · 1 site
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
The Dunes Escape
9. The Dunes Escape
27mi from South Shore · 1 site
We live 4 miles from the National Lake Shore.
Explore the Indiana Dunes just minutes away—climb sandy dunes at the State Park, relax at West Beach, hike the scenic Cowles Bog Trail, or wander historic trails at Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$234
/ night
Creekside Dunes
10. Creekside Dunes
30mi from South Shore · 2 sites
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, located close to downtown Chesterton, Indiana!Just minutes from your spot, discover outdoor fun at Indiana Dunes State Park, where forest, dunes, and beach await, or hike through the wetlands and scenic landscapes on the Indiana Dunes National Park Cowles Bog Trail. Closer to town, wander the nature paths and boardwalks of Coffee Creek Preserve, or enjoy biking and strolls along the Prairie Duneland Trail for a mix of easy adventure and beautiful scenery — all within about 15 miles of your campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
RC River Retreat
11. RC River Retreat
42mi from South Shore · 1 site
Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax.
With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system.
2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock.
Non-smoking.
The space
We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs.
Guest access
The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners.
Other things to note
There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four).
So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$240
/ night
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
12. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
50mi from South Shore · 172 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Fish Lake Beach stands out as one of Illinois' largest privately owned campgrounds, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities across its expansive 113-acre property. With over 500 seasonal sites and 60 overnight campsites, it has become a cherished destination for families seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
For more than eight decades, Fish Lake Beach has been family-owned and operated, creating lasting memories for generations. Our story, illustrated through a brief collection of pictures, showcases our journey and commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
At Fish Lake Beach, we pride ourselves on delivering a fun, family-oriented experience. Our sandy beach features a designated swimming area, picnic tables, grills, sun shelters, and fire pits, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Guests can fish from the shore or floating piers, with a variety of species available, including bluegill, crappie, bass, northern pike, catfish, stripers, and carp. Non-motorized watercraft rentals are also available at our concessions.
In addition to our beach, campers can enjoy our heated pool, kiddie pool, and hot tub, which are exclusive to our guests.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$56
/ night
92% (92) • 16 campsites
Top-rated glamping sites near South Shore
Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
1. Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
97%
(17)
13mi from South Shore · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
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 2026 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 2026:
• 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 2026 will fill up quickly!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
20mi from South Shore · 6 sites
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
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
3. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
30mi from South Shore · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Kankakee River State Park
4. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
State park 44mi from South Shore · 207 sites
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Harbor Country Cabins
5. Harbor Country Cabins
100%
(13)
49mi from South Shore · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$855
/ night
Crash Pad
6. Crash Pad
11mi from South Shore · 1 site
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.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$150
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
7. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
67%
(3)
22mi from South Shore · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$119
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
8. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
100%
(1)
22mi from South Shore · 1 site
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
The Dunes Escape
9. The Dunes Escape
27mi from South Shore · 1 site
We live 4 miles from the National Lake Shore.
Explore the Indiana Dunes just minutes away—climb sandy dunes at the State Park, relax at West Beach, hike the scenic Cowles Bog Trail, or wander historic trails at Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$234
/ night
Creekside Dunes
10. Creekside Dunes
30mi from South Shore · 2 sites
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, located close to downtown Chesterton, Indiana!Just minutes from your spot, discover outdoor fun at Indiana Dunes State Park, where forest, dunes, and beach await, or hike through the wetlands and scenic landscapes on the Indiana Dunes National Park Cowles Bog Trail. Closer to town, wander the nature paths and boardwalks of Coffee Creek Preserve, or enjoy biking and strolls along the Prairie Duneland Trail for a mix of easy adventure and beautiful scenery — all within about 15 miles of your campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
RC River Retreat
11. RC River Retreat
42mi from South Shore · 1 site
Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax.
With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system.
2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock.
Non-smoking.
The space
We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs.
Guest access
The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners.
Other things to note
There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four).
So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$240
/ night
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
12. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
50mi from South Shore · 172 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Fish Lake Beach stands out as one of Illinois' largest privately owned campgrounds, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities across its expansive 113-acre property. With over 500 seasonal sites and 60 overnight campsites, it has become a cherished destination for families seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
For more than eight decades, Fish Lake Beach has been family-owned and operated, creating lasting memories for generations. Our story, illustrated through a brief collection of pictures, showcases our journey and commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
At Fish Lake Beach, we pride ourselves on delivering a fun, family-oriented experience. Our sandy beach features a designated swimming area, picnic tables, grills, sun shelters, and fire pits, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Guests can fish from the shore or floating piers, with a variety of species available, including bluegill, crappie, bass, northern pike, catfish, stripers, and carp. Non-motorized watercraft rentals are also available at our concessions.
In addition to our beach, campers can enjoy our heated pool, kiddie pool, and hot tub, which are exclusive to our guests.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$56
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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
Vanisa
September 2025
With kids
The Hruby Ranch was everything we were hoping for and more. You can tell immediately that there is a lot of love put into the property. It is very well maintained and easy to do our overnight getaway, having comforts of home and still outdoor camping feeling. Seeing both sunset and sunrise from our site was so special. The animals were our kiddos favorite along with the trampoline!
Thank you Tom and Ally for the hospitality, we hope to make this at least an annual getaway.
See more
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.
See more
M
Megan
September 2025
2 nights at Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
Awesome experience! I previously tent camped at Glamp Chicago (great experience) and this time the yurt was available. It was PERFECT. The decor is cute, the extra accommodations provided are thoughtful and add to the allure of staying in a yurt. Recommend and will definitely be back!!!
See moreJ
Jayden
August 2025
Tent
This place was awesome!! It was my first trip to Chicago, and the site provided a cozy place to relax
See more
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 more
Erinn
August 2025
With kids
I Loved camping at Rocking Horse Camp. Derek is a wonderful host. It is such a a peaceful place. I can't wait to go back!
See more
S
Sara
July 2025
With kids
We enjoyed staying by Derek's RV with our 3 kids. It is cozy, comfortable and romantic with the animals and nice nature. The highway is quite close, you can hear it, but otherwise everyting was great. Nice beaches, restaurants are close. Derek is very helpful and kind. I recommend it!
See more
J
John
July 2025
Tent
Best part is the location. It’s walking distance to tons of restaurants, and bike stations are just around the corner, making it super easy for us to explore the city . The tent setup itself was extremely comfortable and well thought out clean, cozy, and stylish inside . Wonderful landscaping. We felt safe the entire time , and really enjoyed how accessible everything was . You’re right in the city , so it’s definitely not silent at night but they thoughtfully provide earplugs, and we were still able to sleep well. That said , this is urban camping , just like it says in the listing . Just come in with the mindset that it’s camping but in the middle of Chicago and you ll love it. If you re looking for a city adventure with a twist , this is a fantastic option.
Things we brought that helped make our stay more comfortable.
* Ended up buying a box fan at the Walgreens across the street, since it was the middle of summer.
* Sound machine for sleeping
See moreB
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.
See moreAmanda
July 2025
With pets
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.
See more
L
Lindsey
July 2025
With kids
This spot is a gem on the outskirts of Gary, IN that you would never know was there. Our family of four enjoyed camping here. It was a hot July so we were thankful for the camper with AC. The camper was well supplied with bath towels and bedding provided. It was so nice to step out onto the porch and see horses and goats grazing as well as listen to the birds and wildlife. We enjoyed the fire with supplied firewood. It’s close enough to Chicago that we took a day there. Most of the time we went to the beach. The host was so kind to allow us to park in town for free and walk to the beach. We were there for the Fourth of July and Marquette beach park was a great spot to watch fireworks. Our stay was pretty smooth despite a few hiccups but the host was readily available and helpful if we ever needed him. I would stay here again.
See more
Ethan
June 2025
Tent
My wife and I had a great time camping here during our weekend getaway to Chicago. We had to change some plans last minute and were happy to find that this site was available! It was private which was nice, the area was also very clean and spacious. Bob was also very nice in his messages and over the phone when we called with questions. We had a great time by the fire playing games and sharing drinks, should we come to Chicago again we would definitely stay here again!
See more
Lev
June 2025
Tent
this was a fantastic site in a really cool location— it embodied the spirit of chicago well, where one can encounter surprisingly beautiful natural spaces in the midst of a sparse, aggressive urban landscape. i really enjoyed my stay and would come again!
overall pros:
- affordable!!
- well-stocked (there is a keurig! body wipes! tea!) with thoughtfully chosen furniture- the bed was actually comfortable, and it was nice to see an host doing something other than the absolute bare minimum
- good host communication
- accessible public transportation
- walkable groceries, park, laundromat, and gym
reminder to bring
- robe/slippers so you can scoot off to the portapotty
- water!!! seriously, bring water.
- wet wipes (for bathrooming)
- sleep mask— it stays fairly bright throughout the night due to streetlights and etc
- a lint roller (see below)
cons
- “Getting There/Directions” might be improved by an aerial map that highlights points of access: the alley was a bit difficult to find, and the adjacent street access was not mention
- parking (advice: Be creative but not stupid. Obey signs, chicago LOVES towing)
- the jute rug, while useful and aesthetically pleasing, sheds A LOT. you will get little twine-hairs all over everything.
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Jerry
May 2025
Tent
So this review is coming from a Hipcamper whose favorite sites so far include 80 private acres in the Black Hills, a mountain top site in the Rockies, a ledge high along the Blue Ridge and on the Superior waters in the UP.
But we had a concert and a Cubs game to attend and this turned out to be an excellent base camp for us. Aside from the fact I even found a campsite in Chicago.
Regardless of the fact you are right in middle of the 3rd largest city in the nation, that is the charm. The traffic and the noise is really a part of the experience. We never felt uncomfortable or unsafe. Including anywhere we walked. The site is located in a great area.
Eating options are endless within walking distance. We walked the Cubs game.
The site itself is fully landscaped and welcoming. Definitely its own oasis. The yurt was perfect in all ways for comfort. We simply rented both sites available so we had all the property to ourselves. I would suggest it, personally. We pitched a tent on the strip as that’s where I slept.
The port-o-let was perfect. The firepit was a nice as it was a little cold during our stay. We made use of the power available and a nice extension cord is provided.
The parking is challenging, but you have to understand you’re in Chicago.
The host communicated well and does a lot to help you make the most out of your stay.
At the end of the day for me anyway, life is an adventure. And this was a perfect way to create the great experience for us.
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Mike
April 2025
Tent
It’s a fantastic spot both in the accommodation and access to public transport (the 94 and 76 bus stops are right there). Also, having IHOP, Popeyes, and Walgreens within short walking distance was very nice.
The host was very easy to work with and the yurt was very comfortable. I will be going back again — six stars out of five!
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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!
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