Escape the City with These Charming Camping Destinations Around Chicagoland

Camping season is upon us with the perfect weather for pitching a tent, roasting marshmallows and hitting some trails. Whether you’re looking for a rustic tent or a bit of “glamping,” you’ll find what you’re after in the abundant camping destinations located around Chicago.

1. Illinois Beach State Park
1 Lake Front Dr, Zion, IL

Illinois Beach State Park is roughly 90 minutes from either of our Chicago area apartment communities. Situated on 6.5 miles of Lake Michigan lakeshore, this park offers a beach experience, even in the landlocked Midwest. Activities include fishing, boating and swimming in the lake as well as hiking and picnicking in the adjacent forests. Camping reservations are strongly recommended at this popular spot.

2. Kinnikinnick Farm
21123 Grade School Rd, Caledonia, IL

Located north of the city, Kinnikinnick Farm is about an hour and 20 minutes from our Springs at Orchard Road apartments. This charming farm offers a camping experience like none other. Your tent and basic supplies are provided and guests will find a comfortable tent, beds made up with European-style linens, wood and kindling, pots and pans, a cooling chest, a dispenser with drinking water and more. A stocked farm larder is accessible to all with produce and meat sourced right on-site.

Popular activities in the area include hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. On the farm, kids can help gather eggs, harvest produce, milk goats and get to know the pigs and sheep. Book well in advance for this wildly popular camping experience.

3. Smokey Hollow Campground
W9935 McGowan Rd, Lodi, WI

For those willing to travel north across the border, Smokey Hollow will reward you with a wide variety of unique camping experiences, from traditional campsites with electric and wi-fi, to cabins, yurts, and even cozy Conestoga wagons complete with a microwave, refrigerator and coffee pot. Activities abound including outdoor movies, mini golf, pedal carts, sport courts, carnival games and a swimming pond. Grab fresh-squeezed lemonade from the lemonade stand or hit the ice cream social for tasty sweets at this action-packed destination.

4. Starved Rock State Park
2668 E. 875th Road, Oglesby, IL

Campers have enjoyed this camping area for more than 100 years. Today’s modern campsites come with electricity and a bathhouse with flush toilets. Situated on the shores of the Illinois River, this park offers fishing, boating, and hiking. Abundant canyons and waterfalls beckon visitors into the surrounding woods for stunning views with every exploration.

5. Indiana Dunes State Park
1600 N 25 E, Chesterton, IN

Just an hour and 15 minutes from our Springs at Weber Road Apartments, this camping destination is easily accessible. The park has 140 electric campsites and the soft sandy beach is perfect for sunning, swimming and fishing. Head further into the park to explore hiking trails or visit the nature center.

Do you have a favorite camping spot around Chicagoland? Share your top picks in the comments section below.