- Waterside Camping
The best lakeside camping near Whiting
96% (272) • 8 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Whiting
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
12mi from Whiting · 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
The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
2. The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
93%
(315)
19mi from Whiting · 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
Harbor Country Cabins
3. Harbor Country Cabins
100%
(13)
46mi from Whiting · 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
Indiana Dunes State Park
4. Indiana Dunes State Park
92%
(39)
State park 21mi from Whiting · 141 sites
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)
National park 22mi from Whiting · 66 sites
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)
15mi from Whiting · 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
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
7. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 43mi from Whiting · 22 sites
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
Warren Dunes State Park
8. Warren Dunes State Park
90%
(21)
State park 48mi from Whiting · 186 sites
Bring your bucket and spade for a beach vacation on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
96% (272) • 8 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Whiting
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
12mi from Whiting · 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
The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
2. The Vaudeville Urban Farm Fun!
93%
(315)
19mi from Whiting · 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
Harbor Country Cabins
3. Harbor Country Cabins
100%
(13)
46mi from Whiting · 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
Indiana Dunes State Park
4. Indiana Dunes State Park
92%
(39)
State park 21mi from Whiting · 141 sites
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)
National park 22mi from Whiting · 66 sites
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)
15mi from Whiting · 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
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
7. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 43mi from Whiting · 22 sites
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
Warren Dunes State Park
8. Warren Dunes State Park
90%
(21)
State park 48mi from Whiting · 186 sites
Bring your bucket and spade for a beach vacation on the shores of Lake Michigan.
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 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.
See more
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 moreJ
Jersey
September 2025
Tent
sweet host & adorable animals! camping here was such a unique experience :)
See more
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!
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 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
See more
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!
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 moreR
Ryan
July 2025
16 ft car
Fun time back at the farm with Nicky! Be aware you’re on a city block, so expect some city noises.
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 more
M
Megan
July 2025
16 ft car
With kids
I took my two kiddos to Chicago in the midst of a long camping road trip. I was a little nervous because I’m not that great at camping and was solo with kids- but man this was the perfect spot. We did have to park on the street but there was plenty right in front of the farm, so that was easy and convenient. It was also super easy to navigate getting to the train to get downtown. Nicky was simply awesome offering drinks and snacks and helping us out by closing up our tent when it rained and we were out at museums. She was also just a super cool person. We felt so welcomed and the kids absolutely loved the animals and it was all around a great place to stay.
See moreT
Tina
July 2025
Tent
This place is amazing. The people are, too. Home farm in Chicago, goats and chickens on one side, train tracks on the other. Street parking was fine. I actually slept quite well, even with the train noise. Perhaps not for the faint of heart, but if you like adventure and cool places, this is where you need to be.
See moreD
Donna
July 2025
16 ft car
This is a super convenient spot in Chicago and Nicky is a very welcoming host. Nicky helped me out a lot when i had an issue with my car, and was very generous in letting me back out of my reservation. I’d definitely recommend this spot to a friend!
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 moreJ
J
July 2025
Tent
Nicky was completely accommodating to my needs- booked last minute. Site was perfect as pictured, very charming, with adorable farm life.
See mores
steven
June 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Nicky was a great host. Provided great directions and check in. Had fun hanging on the farm. Can’t ask for better access to Chicago and surrounding area if you’re able to fit.
See moreE
Ember
June 2025
16 ft car
nicky was awesome!! the farm is really cute, and i got to see a goat standing on a roof eating a tree leaves. the dog is lovely too. she helped us out when it was supposed to storm and made us feel very safe and welcomed. 6 out of 5 stars
See more
