92% (190) • 14 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near St John
Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
1. Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
97%
(17)
36mi from St John · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Glamp Chicago: Chicago’s Premier Urban Glamping Experience
Discover the perfect fusion of city vibrance and outdoor serenity at Glamp Chicago, Chicago's only enchanting urban glamping retreat.
✨ Where Boho Chic Meets Urban Comfort
Step into our stylish sanctuary, thoughtfully designed with eclectic décor and modern amenities to create a luxurious yet down-to-earth retreat. Our oversized safari tent is adorned with plush bedding, curated furnishings and kitchenette, giving you the perfect balance of comfort and convenience.
📍 Prime Location for Every Adventure
Compared to other glamping options, Glamp Chicago is uniquely positioned to deliver an urban escape without compromising on luxury or location. Spend your day exploring iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, diving into local foodie favorites, or uncovering hidden gems in bustling neighborhoods.
🌟 Plan Your 2025 Glamp Chicago Stay Around Chicago’s Spring & Summer Events!
Spring and summer are the heartbeat of Chicago’s cultural calendar, and there’s no better way to experience it all than by staying at Glamp Chicago, your luxurious urban oasis. With so much happening, our site is a prime location for access to the city's most vibrant festivals, concerts, and events.
🎶 Can’t-Miss Events in 2025:
• Chicago Cubs Baseball (March – October)
• Grant Park Music Festival (June-August)
• Lollapalooza (August)
• Northalsted Market Days (August)
• Open House Chicago (October)
🔥 Nights to Remember
As the city lights twinkle overhead, gather around your personal fire pit to swap stories, share laughter, and enjoy a nightcap. Our gated setting offers a secure, intimate space to unwind from the day's adventures while embracing the hum of the city under the shadows of the city skyline.
📆 Don’t Wait—Reserve Your Stay Now!
Whether you're attending the city’s most iconic events, celebrating a special occasion, or simply seeking a unique escape, Glamp Chicago is your gateway to unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Our prime location ensures you’re always close to the action while enjoying the serenity of a private retreat.
• Act fast—availability for spring and summer 2025 will fill up quickly!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$41
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
13mi from St John · 6 sites · Lodging
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
CSC Permaculture Project
3. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
49mi from St John · 5 sites · Lodging
8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Kankakee River State Park
4. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
207 sites · Limestone, Illinois
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Creekside Dunes
5. Creekside Dunes
26mi from St John · 2 sites · Lodging
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana dunes national lake shore located close to down town Chesterton Indiana!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
6. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
11mi from St John · 2 sites · Lodging
Learn more about this land:
Come enjoy a stay at the rustic Hruby Ranch. 50 acres of private land to explore. A cozy comfortable excursion tent with queen bed. There are trails throughout of which you are free to explore. And our animals will surely delight. A fire pit is always a wonderful way to end the day. Located 12 minutes from I 65 and 15 minutes from downtown Crown Point and 20 from Valporaiso. If the beach is more your style, we are 25 minutes from the Indiana dunes and Lake Michigan!
We are in winter/inclimate weather conditions, all stays are hike in and out approximately 150yards from the barn and stable areas.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
7. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
67%
(3)
17mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
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. This is a nice travel trailer that has two bunk beds in the rear, a dinette and couch that converts to sleepers, and a front bedroom with a queen size bed. Sheets/blankets are supplied, clean towels for up to four people are provided. There is a fire pit, charcoal grill (you have to supply your own charcoal) and gazebo that you can use. Although you are on the lake, you do not have direct access to the lake. Parking is located on the grassy area across the road from the lot. The campground is between the highway and train, so you will hear both day and night with a lot of golf cart traffic. Guest must follow all campground rules, no refunds will be issued. You will have access to all the amenities of the park including use of the pools, beach, and park. Cost of the miniature golf course is not included. There is a restaurant at the park that serves fast food and deserts.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$119
/ night
The Mill Creek Hideout
8. The Mill Creek Hideout
48mi from St John · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging
Hi! My name is Macy, and this is a project that my grandmother, father, brother, and I have been working on together. Our goal is to share our property with families who have children that love to ride.
A quick story:
When I was a kid, one of my dad’s best friends’ parents let us use about 20 acres of their farm and woods, where we set up a little campground. We had a small camper, tents, a fire pit, and a track out in the woods where we rode dirt bikes, four-wheelers, and side-by-sides.
The best part was that we could keep our belongings and machines there during the week, so when the weekend came, all we had to do was show up and make memories with family and friends. To this day, we still talk about those times.
With that in mind, we want to rent this cabin out to families so they can experience the same thing. We’ve tried to make it as easy as possible for you to simply show up and focus on creating memories. We hope that keeping things simple will allow for more time riding and enjoying the woods.
We’re also located close to many attractions, which are listed in the cabin description.
Since it’s private property, it’s a safe environment—even for beginner riders.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to reach out to us.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
The Dunes Escape
9. The Dunes Escape
23mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
We live 4 miles from the National Lake Shore ..
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$234
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
10. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
100%
(1)
17mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
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
RC River Retreat
11. RC River Retreat
20mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax.
With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system.
2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock.
Non-smoking.
The space
We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs.
Guest access
The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners.
Other things to note
There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four).
So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$240
/ night
Crash Pad
12. Crash Pad
33mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
Welcome to the Crash Pad – Your Chicago Home Away From Home!
Looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of city charm? You’ve found it. The Crash Pad is a refreshed 2-bedroom apartment that sleeps up to 4 guests, perfectly situated close to Lake Michigan and just minutes from the best food, entertainment, and culture that Chicago has to offer.
What You’ll Love:
• A fully functional kitchen, living room, and laundry – all the essentials plus a few luxuries to make your stay effortless.
• Comfortable private bedrooms: relax and recharge after a busy day exploring.
• Modern bathroom with flush toilet and a refreshing shower.
• Prime location: walk to local restaurants and bars, bike to the lake, or hop on public transit to see more of the city.
Whether you're in town for the sights, the food, or a weekend getaway, the Crash Pad gives you a cozy, convenient base. Sleep well, explore much – you’re in Chicago.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$150
/ night
Tall Oaks RV Campground
13. Tall Oaks RV Campground
50mi from St John · 61 sites
Discover the unique charm of Tall Oaks RV Campground, where family friendly camping meets a wealth of outdoor adventures. Nestled just minutes from the serene Lake Koontz, our campground offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement amidst the beauty of nature.
At Tall Oaks RV Campground, there's never a dull moment! Our extensive amenities cater to all ages, featuring a heated swimming pool for those warm summer days, volleyball courts for friendly competition, and a playground where kids can unleash their energy. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon fishing at our stocked pond, or stop by our general store for all your camping essentials.
Whether you're looking to bond with family and friends, unwind in a picturesque setting, or dive into outdoor activities, Tall Oaks RV Campground has everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Come and create lasting memories in this beautiful outdoor haven!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
92% (190) • 14 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near St John
Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
1. Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
97%
(17)
36mi from St John · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Glamp Chicago: Chicago’s Premier Urban Glamping Experience
Discover the perfect fusion of city vibrance and outdoor serenity at Glamp Chicago, Chicago's only enchanting urban glamping retreat.
✨ Where Boho Chic Meets Urban Comfort
Step into our stylish sanctuary, thoughtfully designed with eclectic décor and modern amenities to create a luxurious yet down-to-earth retreat. Our oversized safari tent is adorned with plush bedding, curated furnishings and kitchenette, giving you the perfect balance of comfort and convenience.
📍 Prime Location for Every Adventure
Compared to other glamping options, Glamp Chicago is uniquely positioned to deliver an urban escape without compromising on luxury or location. Spend your day exploring iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, diving into local foodie favorites, or uncovering hidden gems in bustling neighborhoods.
🌟 Plan Your 2025 Glamp Chicago Stay Around Chicago’s Spring & Summer Events!
Spring and summer are the heartbeat of Chicago’s cultural calendar, and there’s no better way to experience it all than by staying at Glamp Chicago, your luxurious urban oasis. With so much happening, our site is a prime location for access to the city's most vibrant festivals, concerts, and events.
🎶 Can’t-Miss Events in 2025:
• Chicago Cubs Baseball (March – October)
• Grant Park Music Festival (June-August)
• Lollapalooza (August)
• Northalsted Market Days (August)
• Open House Chicago (October)
🔥 Nights to Remember
As the city lights twinkle overhead, gather around your personal fire pit to swap stories, share laughter, and enjoy a nightcap. Our gated setting offers a secure, intimate space to unwind from the day's adventures while embracing the hum of the city under the shadows of the city skyline.
📆 Don’t Wait—Reserve Your Stay Now!
Whether you're attending the city’s most iconic events, celebrating a special occasion, or simply seeking a unique escape, Glamp Chicago is your gateway to unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Our prime location ensures you’re always close to the action while enjoying the serenity of a private retreat.
• Act fast—availability for spring and summer 2025 will fill up quickly!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$41
/ night
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
2. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
13mi from St John · 6 sites · Lodging
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
CSC Permaculture Project
3. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
49mi from St John · 5 sites · Lodging
8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Kankakee River State Park
4. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
207 sites · Limestone, Illinois
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Creekside Dunes
5. Creekside Dunes
26mi from St John · 2 sites · Lodging
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana dunes national lake shore located close to down town Chesterton Indiana!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
6. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
11mi from St John · 2 sites · Lodging
Learn more about this land:
Come enjoy a stay at the rustic Hruby Ranch. 50 acres of private land to explore. A cozy comfortable excursion tent with queen bed. There are trails throughout of which you are free to explore. And our animals will surely delight. A fire pit is always a wonderful way to end the day. Located 12 minutes from I 65 and 15 minutes from downtown Crown Point and 20 from Valporaiso. If the beach is more your style, we are 25 minutes from the Indiana dunes and Lake Michigan!
We are in winter/inclimate weather conditions, all stays are hike in and out approximately 150yards from the barn and stable areas.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
7. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lake Lot 239
67%
(3)
17mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
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. This is a nice travel trailer that has two bunk beds in the rear, a dinette and couch that converts to sleepers, and a front bedroom with a queen size bed. Sheets/blankets are supplied, clean towels for up to four people are provided. There is a fire pit, charcoal grill (you have to supply your own charcoal) and gazebo that you can use. Although you are on the lake, you do not have direct access to the lake. Parking is located on the grassy area across the road from the lot. The campground is between the highway and train, so you will hear both day and night with a lot of golf cart traffic. Guest must follow all campground rules, no refunds will be issued. You will have access to all the amenities of the park including use of the pools, beach, and park. Cost of the miniature golf course is not included. There is a restaurant at the park that serves fast food and deserts.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$119
/ night
The Mill Creek Hideout
8. The Mill Creek Hideout
48mi from St John · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging
Hi! My name is Macy, and this is a project that my grandmother, father, brother, and I have been working on together. Our goal is to share our property with families who have children that love to ride.
A quick story:
When I was a kid, one of my dad’s best friends’ parents let us use about 20 acres of their farm and woods, where we set up a little campground. We had a small camper, tents, a fire pit, and a track out in the woods where we rode dirt bikes, four-wheelers, and side-by-sides.
The best part was that we could keep our belongings and machines there during the week, so when the weekend came, all we had to do was show up and make memories with family and friends. To this day, we still talk about those times.
With that in mind, we want to rent this cabin out to families so they can experience the same thing. We’ve tried to make it as easy as possible for you to simply show up and focus on creating memories. We hope that keeping things simple will allow for more time riding and enjoying the woods.
We’re also located close to many attractions, which are listed in the cabin description.
Since it’s private property, it’s a safe environment—even for beginner riders.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to reach out to us.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
The Dunes Escape
9. The Dunes Escape
23mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
We live 4 miles from the National Lake Shore ..
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$234
/ night
Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
10. Lakeshore Camp Resort Lot 238
100%
(1)
17mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
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
RC River Retreat
11. RC River Retreat
20mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax.
With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system.
2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock.
Non-smoking.
The space
We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs.
Guest access
The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners.
Other things to note
There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four).
So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$240
/ night
Crash Pad
12. Crash Pad
33mi from St John · 1 site · Lodging
Welcome to the Crash Pad – Your Chicago Home Away From Home!
Looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of city charm? You’ve found it. The Crash Pad is a refreshed 2-bedroom apartment that sleeps up to 4 guests, perfectly situated close to Lake Michigan and just minutes from the best food, entertainment, and culture that Chicago has to offer.
What You’ll Love:
• A fully functional kitchen, living room, and laundry – all the essentials plus a few luxuries to make your stay effortless.
• Comfortable private bedrooms: relax and recharge after a busy day exploring.
• Modern bathroom with flush toilet and a refreshing shower.
• Prime location: walk to local restaurants and bars, bike to the lake, or hop on public transit to see more of the city.
Whether you're in town for the sights, the food, or a weekend getaway, the Crash Pad gives you a cozy, convenient base. Sleep well, explore much – you’re in Chicago.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$150
/ night
Tall Oaks RV Campground
13. Tall Oaks RV Campground
50mi from St John · 61 sites
Discover the unique charm of Tall Oaks RV Campground, where family friendly camping meets a wealth of outdoor adventures. Nestled just minutes from the serene Lake Koontz, our campground offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement amidst the beauty of nature.
At Tall Oaks RV Campground, there's never a dull moment! Our extensive amenities cater to all ages, featuring a heated swimming pool for those warm summer days, volleyball courts for friendly competition, and a playground where kids can unleash their energy. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon fishing at our stocked pond, or stop by our general store for all your camping essentials.
Whether you're looking to bond with family and friends, unwind in a picturesque setting, or dive into outdoor activities, Tall Oaks RV Campground has everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Come and create lasting memories in this beautiful outdoor haven!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
Raquel
October 2025
Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project
This was my favorite camping experience yet. The host was very helpful and hands on. The set up was perfect for sunny and rainy days. It was sooo cozy and had a private feel to it. The stars were sooo bright and clear. I enjoyed walking around the sight. I had everything I needed. I will come back to this site again!
See more
B
Ben
October 2025
With kids
This is the second visit to CSC. It’s a great, quiet, place. No other campers around. If you’re primary goal is to enjoy time at camp, and perhaps take some walks/short hikes around the property, it’s perfect. Planning to return 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 more
Vanisa
September 2025
With kids
The Hruby Ranch was everything we were hoping for and more. You can tell immediately that there is a lot of love put into the property. It is very well maintained and easy to do our overnight getaway, having comforts of home and still outdoor camping feeling. Seeing both sunset and sunrise from our site was so special. The animals were our kiddos favorite along with the trampoline!
Thank you Tom and Ally for the hospitality, we hope to make this at least an annual getaway.
See moreW
Weslynne
September 2025
With kids
Wonderful, peaceful stay at CSC. First time in the earth shelter site, which made this such a comfortable sleep. Lots of space for tents too. We fished, biked, had dinner and games at the campfire, and overall had a wonderful relaxing visit. Bill helped us out with many small things that really made the visit extra special, like loaning us bug spray, getting my kids new fishing gear sorted and helping fix an issue with my car. Can't wait to go 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 more
M
Megan
September 2025
2 nights at Glamp Chicago Yurt Urban Campsite
Awesome experience! I previously tent camped at Glamp Chicago (great experience) and this time the yurt was available. It was PERFECT. The decor is cute, the extra accommodations provided are thoughtful and add to the allure of staying in a yurt. Recommend and will definitely be back!!!
See moreJ
Jonathon
September 2025
Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project
My spouse and I had a great time at this camp - Bill gave us an excellent tour of the space and talked to us about their philosophy on permaculture.
The cabin was comfortable - great place to get out of Chicago for a bit.
See moreJ
Jayden
August 2025
Tent
This place was awesome!! It was my first trip to Chicago, and the site provided a cozy place to relax
See more
X
Xavier
August 2025
3 nights at CSC Permaculture Project
I originally booked this property simply as a place to film, expecting just a small house and some land to move around on. What I actually found was something far beyond that: a magical piece of earth, a community with a fascinating history, and hosts who were kind, inspiring, and deeply connected to the land.
The property itself is breathtaking—everywhere I turned felt alive with meaning, from the gardens to the woods to the stars overhead. Within minutes of being here, I realized this wasn’t just a backdrop for my project—it was a character in the story itself. I learned about permaculture, about the unique history of the community, and left with new friends and a new perspective on what sustainable living can look like.
My hosts were wonderful. They made me feel welcome, answered every question, and even took the time to give me a tour that changed the way I look at both farming and community. Their generosity and openness made this more than a stay—it was a life experience.
If you’re looking for a getaway where the land feels alive, where every corner holds a story, and where you can breathe in something truly unique, this is it. I came here thinking I’d just make a film. I left with inspiration, gratitude, and a genuine connection to a place I’ll never forget.
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 moreD
David
August 2025
With kids
What a great trip! Loved the beautiful cabin with tons of ambience. Lots of firewood available. Site has good privacy, although I highly recommend chatting with the friendly hosts and learning more about the permaculture. They've done really beautiful work creating a meaningful and abundant space. Cheers!
See more
Erinn
August 2025
With kids
I Loved camping at Rocking Horse Camp. Derek is a wonderful host. It is such a a peaceful place. I can't wait to go back!
See more
S
Sara
July 2025
With kids
We enjoyed staying by Derek's RV with our 3 kids. It is cozy, comfortable and romantic with the animals and nice nature. The highway is quite close, you can hear it, but otherwise everyting was great. Nice beaches, restaurants are close. Derek is very helpful and kind. I recommend it!
See more
J
John
July 2025
Tent
Best part is the location. It’s walking distance to tons of restaurants, and bike stations are just around the corner, making it super easy for us to explore the city . The tent setup itself was extremely comfortable and well thought out clean, cozy, and stylish inside . Wonderful landscaping. We felt safe the entire time , and really enjoyed how accessible everything was . You’re right in the city , so it’s definitely not silent at night but they thoughtfully provide earplugs, and we were still able to sleep well. That said , this is urban camping , just like it says in the listing . Just come in with the mindset that it’s camping but in the middle of Chicago and you ll love it. If you re looking for a city adventure with a twist , this is a fantastic option.
Things we brought that helped make our stay more comfortable.
* Ended up buying a box fan at the Walgreens across the street, since it was the middle of summer.
* Sound machine for sleeping
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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 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.
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L
Lindsey
July 2025
With kids
This spot is a gem on the outskirts of Gary, IN that you would never know was there. Our family of four enjoyed camping here. It was a hot July so we were thankful for the camper with AC. The camper was well supplied with bath towels and bedding provided. It was so nice to step out onto the porch and see horses and goats grazing as well as listen to the birds and wildlife. We enjoyed the fire with supplied firewood. It’s close enough to Chicago that we took a day there. Most of the time we went to the beach. The host was so kind to allow us to park in town for free and walk to the beach. We were there for the Fourth of July and Marquette beach park was a great spot to watch fireworks. Our stay was pretty smooth despite a few hiccups but the host was readily available and helpful if we ever needed him. I would stay here again.
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Ethan
June 2025
Tent
My wife and I had a great time camping here during our weekend getaway to Chicago. We had to change some plans last minute and were happy to find that this site was available! It was private which was nice, the area was also very clean and spacious. Bob was also very nice in his messages and over the phone when we called with questions. We had a great time by the fire playing games and sharing drinks, should we come to Chicago again we would definitely stay here again!
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Lev
June 2025
Tent
this was a fantastic site in a really cool location— it embodied the spirit of chicago well, where one can encounter surprisingly beautiful natural spaces in the midst of a sparse, aggressive urban landscape. i really enjoyed my stay and would come again!
overall pros:
- affordable!!
- well-stocked (there is a keurig! body wipes! tea!) with thoughtfully chosen furniture- the bed was actually comfortable, and it was nice to see an host doing something other than the absolute bare minimum
- good host communication
- accessible public transportation
- walkable groceries, park, laundromat, and gym
reminder to bring
- robe/slippers so you can scoot off to the portapotty
- water!!! seriously, bring water.
- wet wipes (for bathrooming)
- sleep mask— it stays fairly bright throughout the night due to streetlights and etc
- a lint roller (see below)
cons
- “Getting There/Directions” might be improved by an aerial map that highlights points of access: the alley was a bit difficult to find, and the adjacent street access was not mention
- parking (advice: Be creative but not stupid. Obey signs, chicago LOVES towing)
- the jute rug, while useful and aesthetically pleasing, sheds A LOT. you will get little twine-hairs all over everything.
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John.