Top RV Destinations Around Chicago

From the exciting city life to an escape to beautiful Lake Michigan, whatever you're looking for in an adventure, the United States' third-largest city has it. And with Cruise America, you can save your money for all the fun experiences to come with an affordable RV Rental.

Chicago, Illinois Facts

The Windy City comes equipped with plenty of rich history and unique facts that make it stand out as one of America’s most visited cities. Knowing more about your destination can add to the fun of the adventure, so let’s dive into some compelling Chicago facts!

The name Chicago originates from the Algonquin word for “onion field.”
Nearly one-third of the city was destroyed in 1871 by The Great Chicago Fire, with only a few buildings remaining from the pre-fire days. To this day, the cause of the fire is still unknown.
Over 2.7 million people call the sprawling city home. It’s currently the third-largest city in the United States.
Chicago boasts a plethora of nicknames, from the classic Windy City to The City That Works.
The downtown area, known as “The Loop,” is encircled by a complex elevated train system that’s great for quick transportation.
Underneath the city lies nearly 5 miles of pedestrian walkways, known as “Pedway,” connecting over 40 blocks of the city. The tunnels and bridges cover the main area of the Chicago business district and connect retail stores, skyscrapers, hotels, and more.

Learning the history of a city as you plan your adventure can add a fun element to your exploration. Be sure to schedule a quick trip through the Pedway to capture the underground life of Chicago!

Best Chicago RV Parks and Campgrounds

Whether you plan to take on the city or enjoy some time to yourself, there are plenty of places to go RV camping near Chicago. Spend some time on a road trip adventure to one of these RV parks.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park

Amenities: With plenty of activities for all ages, the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is ideal for families. Enjoy all the pleasures of the outdoors, like hiking, kayaking, and fishing, just a short trip from downtown Chicago. This beautiful RV camping site near Chicago offers full hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables.

Capacity: 366 sites

More information: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park

Chicago Northwest KOA

Amenities: Enjoy a convenient curbside check-in and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the park at Chicago Northwest KOA. The park boasts fun-filled activities such as haywagon rides and frisbee golf that will keep you entertained on your RV camping trip near Chicago. Sites offer full hookups and back-in and pull-through spots.

Capacity: 142 sites

More information: Chicago Northwest KOA

Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground

Amenities: The Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground offers family-friendly activities, so you can enjoy the stunning views of downtown while still experiencing the great outdoors. Only a quick trip from the heart of Chicago, you have the opportunity to spend your days fishing and hiking or enjoying a movie at the nearest theater. The campground offers full hookups as well as pull-through and back-in sites.

Capacity: 40 sites

More information: Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground

Blackwell Family Campground

Amenities: Blackwell Family Campground offers a wide variety of activities to entertain your whole family. Each site comes with electricity, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Portable and flush toilets, running water, and a dump station are available nearby. If you’re interested in sitting around the campfire sharing spooky stories, you’ll have to buy wood from the campground office, as outside wood is not allowed.

Capacity: 60 sites

More information: Blackwell Family Campground

Camp Bullfrog Lake

Amenities: Sites at Camp Bullfrog Lake have quite a few helpful amenities, particularly for anyone looking for handicap-accessible camps. Of the 26 openings, two are designed for campers with accessibility needs, including an indoor bathroom and raised fire pit. All RV sites offer a picnic table, fire ring, and electric hookups. The campground also provides showers and sanitary stations.

Capacity: 26 sites

More information: Camp Bullfrog Lake

Best Time to Visit Chicago for RV Camping

Visiting the Midwest means dealing with four different seasons, sometimes all in one day! No matter when you decide to explore the city, it’s best to be prepared for the weather you’ll likely face. Read on to plan the best time to go RV camping near Chicago.

Winter

If winter RV camping is your thing, you’ll be pleased to hear that the months of December through January see temperatures as cold as below zero. During the day, you may be lucky enough to experience the “warm” temps of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. While the cold weather may require multiple layers to keep your fingers and toes warm, the stunning sight of Chicago blanketed in a snowy white is worth the frigid temperatures.

Fall

The fall season in Chicago can be a bit unpredictable. September through November may see temperatures as high as 75 degrees or as low as 36 degrees. It’s best to pack a few extra layers, especially if you’ll be setting up camp along the shore of Lake Michigan. However, watching the colors change as you hike your way through the outskirts of the city is an unbeatable experience you won’t want to miss while RV camping near Chicago.

Summer

Summer is prime camping time in the Midwest. With temperatures rising to just above 80 degrees, many people take to the shoreline to relax and cool off along the edge of Lake Michigan. There is plenty to do downtown as Millennium Park bursts with activity and the city comes alive under the warm sunshine.

Spring

Much like fall, the weather of a Chicago spring may vary from day to day. Bring along those extra layers just in case temperatures decide to drop as you enjoy the budding flowers that bloom across the city. The sunny days of spring provide ideal weather for exploring the lakeshore or taking in the artistic structure of Chicago.

Things to Do in Chicago

Whether it's entertainment, architecture, or fantastic food that sparks your interest, Chicago has it all. Chicago is not only home to the famous Steppenwolf Theatre Company but also popular music festivals like Lollapalooza. It's also known for its skyscrapers and has the world's tallest skyline. And Chicago-style pizza? You haven't lived until you've tasted it within its birthplace.

Being in such a popular city can cost you big bucks when it comes to a hotel stay. And with the amount of exploration you're going to do, constantly moving your belongings should be the least of your worries. RV camping near Chicago will help you focus on all its attractions and allow you to enjoy every last second of your vacation.

Explore the Singing Sands of Lake Michigan

Chicago definitely has nature to explore. Take a walk along Lake Michigan, and you just might hear the beach actually sing to you, thanks to the sand's high quartz content. As you enjoy the beautiful off-white shores, you'll also hear an interesting noise with each step—known around the world as the "Singing Sands.”

NASCAR Fan? Race to the Chicagoland Speedway

There's no better way to hit the races than with an RV rental. Chicago is home to the famous Chicagoland Speedway, one of the best tracks to experience NASCAR and IRL events. There are several recreational vehicle locations trackside and non-trackside, all allowing you immediate access to the speedway.

With Cruise America, affordable RV rentals make it easy for you to cheer on your NASCAR heroes. Visit the Chicagoland Speedway for more information because RV spots sell out quickly.

Tips for Visiting Chicago

Before you book your trip and hit the road, plan ahead with these handy tips to camping around the Windy City.

Use the lake for directions. The city can be a bit overwhelming to navigate, but remembering that Lake Michigan is on the east edge of the city can help you maintain your sense of direction.
Memorize the grid system. Like New York, Chicago was designed as a grid system of streets. Review how the system works before you find yourself lost in the heart of Chicago.
Prepare for traffic. No matter where you’re headed in the Chicago area, you’re bound to hit traffic from the city. Be prepared and make sure your gas tank is full and ready to go.

The last thing you want is to find yourself lost while trying to make it to your RV paradise. Learning the city system before you hit the road is an ideal way to navigate your crew to your intended destination.

RV Rental for Chicago

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to hit the road! With so many opportunities and activities, you’ll want to get a head start on booking your trip to the city. Consider RV camping near Chicago to experience the best of both worlds of busy downtown and the natural beauty of Lake Michigan. Check out our RV rental rates and availability today, and start planning your RV vacation to the beautiful Windy City.