Fall is the best season for camping, and there are always a few cities that rank top on the bucket list. Among all the popping metropolitan areas, Chicago might be the best place to go for a fall camping trip. That’s why we hand-picked 10 campgrounds and RV Parks in Chicago for your next exploration.
No more trying to determine between the urban vibrance and countryside tranquility, because Chicago has both. From beach glamping to forest trails, from natural preservations to a cultural experience, we guarantee you one of these campsites will hit the spot.
Also, check out our roundup on beach glamping spots on the East Coast.
Camp Sullivan at Forest Preserve of Cook County
14630 Oak Park Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452
Many know Camp Sullivan for its iconic red barn right at the entrance. Its campsites are tucked away in the woods, giving you plenty of space and privacy while providing you with electricity.
Camp Sullivan provides a sweet off-season discount for RV glampers. For Cook County residents, reservations are $37 per night Sunday through Wednesday and $47 per night Thursday through Saturday. For non-residents, the prices are only $10 higher.
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach
1 Lake Front Dr, Zion, IL 60099
Who said you must go to the coast to get the right beach experience? The Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Beach in the Illinois Beach State Park is no short with its stunning view down the miles of shorelines.
Reservations for RV are $25 per day and must be made 180 days in advance. However, there are also plenty of walk-in options. And if you’re camping off-season, chances are you can snatch a spot pretty easily.
Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
1600 N 25 E, Chesterton, IN 46304
If you’re looking for the best RV camping spot near Chicago, check out Indiana Dunes State Park. The site is only a mile from the beach and is within walking distance to the Rail Station. Therefore, it is one of the most popular RV Parks near Chicago.
The RV sites are $23 per night plus a slight vehicle fee. The sites come with electricity, and are pet-friendly. Keep in mind you’ll also need to pay for an entrance permit upon your first night of staying.
Ottawa Lake Campground at Kettle Moraine State Forest
S59 W36630 County Rd ZZ - Dousman, WI 53118
The Ottawa Lake Campground is in the southern unit and offers 49 electrical sites. The campground is within walking distance to the beach, and you will find plenty of dining experiences and special events throughout the year at this location.
For RVs up to 50’, you can reserve a site for $28 per night. Additionally, you’ll need a vehicle admission sticker to enter the campground.
Nature Escape Place
Private camping has been a game-changer because it allows you to find cool spots that were never available before, one of them being this quaint little joint called Nature Escape Place.
This small property features a big oak tree, wetlands, and small woods. You’ll be able to escape the metropolitan’s car honks and bright lights. You’ll never be short of outdoor activities to fully enjoy yourself with either because there is plenty of hiking, festivals, and expos nearby year-round.
Mid-way on the Mountain Bay Trail
Haven’t we always wished the “if only”s? For example, if only there’s a good spot to camp somewhere in the middle of a long trail so you can go straight to the best scenery.
Well, now you can. Roll your RV up to this beautiful farmstead mid-way on the Mountain Bay Trail. This spot also comes with a firepit, electric outlets, and an emergency shed you can use.
Weldon Springs Campground
Weldon Springs Park brings you 550-acres of all-season beauty right outside southeast DeWitt County, There will be picnics, boats, fishing docks, hiking trails, and a ton of opportunities to just chill and relax.
The campground comes with 75 Class A sites with electricity hookups and other amenities. It is open year-round and also has a handful of sites reserved for walk-in campers.
Wolf Creek Campground
Hidden in the Eldorado National Forest, the Wolf Creek Campground is on the north shore of Union Valley Reservoir, bringing plenty of water activity opportunities and some breathtaking views in nature’s tranquility.
This site is only open between May 29th through September 6th each year. Nonelectric standard sites start at $28 per night plus other fees charged by the park. Make a reservation at https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232366