With National Camp Day just around the corner, you want to consider looking for great places for camping. If you’re headed to Chicago for it, you’ve come to the right place!

The city offers a diverse array of activities. Although you can’t exactly camp inside Chicago, there are lots of nearby locations to consider.

Keep reading to find out some of the best places to check out for camping near Chicago.

Indiana Dunes State Park

If you’re looking for a fairly nearby place, the Indiana Dunes State Park is the best place to start because it’s less than an hour away from Chicago. This way, you can easily head back to your Chicago hotel or explore the city afterward.

Lots of people tend to visit the park to enjoy the view and ambiance. But you can also set up your tent at specific campsites that sit close enough to the beach.

Big Foot Beach State Park

The Big Foot Beach State Park is a great place to check out during the summer, especially if you’re coming from Chicago. Here, you can get lodging with the campsites available. Moreover, lots of them have electrical hookups!

Kankakee River State Park

If you’re a fan of the water as much as the land, the Kankakee River State Park is the perfect place for camping near Chicago. Only an hour away, you can enjoy the wonders of nature in both ways, wet and dry.

They have over a hundred campsites, allowing you to choose between a place that’s electrically-equipped or more primitive. Either way, you still get to enjoy anything from kayaking and fishing to hiking and horseback riding.

Illinois Beach State Park

Also being an hour’s drive away, you can consider the Illinois Beach State Park if you want a close-to-authentic camping experience. When you choose to stay here, you get access to showers, firewood, and electricity. Moreover, you get to enjoy the nearby beach and explore the dunes, forests, and more around the park.

Camp Sullivan

Another nearby location made perfectly for campers is Camp Sullivan. Not only is it half an hour away, but it’s the ideal site for campers looking for a smaller space. You get access to an indoor climbing wall, bunkhouses and cabins, and other amenities.

Regardless of the size, it allows you to enjoy the typical camping experience, especially when you bring your own tent or RV!

Camp Aramoni

If you want something more modern, you can consider Camp Aramoni for its glamping style. You get your own tent with amenities that top a hotel stay while enjoying the outdoors. It may feel different from the typical camping experience, but it’s best for those who consider camping an unwinding time rather than an activity.

Consider Going Camping Near Chicago

Whether you want to unwind or spend time with friends or family, camping near Chicago is a fun activity to try. With all the sites you can choose from, you can enjoy a diverse camping experience while still being able to enjoy the Windy City and what’s beyond it.