Kane County Campgrounds Opening Soon for Summer Season

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is encouraging residents to “Camp Local” this year. 

Forest preserve campgrounds will open for the summer season on May 1. 

"You don’t have to drive far or spend a fortune to experience camping — it’s available right here in Kane County," according to the Forest Preserve District of Kane County press release. "Whether you’re interested in vehicle camping, tent camping or even camping with your horses, Forest Preserve District campgrounds have sites available."

Paul Wolff Campground

Recreational camping is open each year from May 1 through Oct. 31 at Paul Wolff Campground and Big Rock Campground.

Paul Wolff Campground, located within Burnidge Forest Preserve in Elgin, contains 105 total camp sites. Ninety are improved sites complete with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings.  

There are 10 primitive sites for tents-only camping. Primitive sites do not have electricity. There are also five equestrian camp sites. 

The surrounding Burnidge Forest Preserve contains nearly 600 acres of rolling hills and woodlands along with 9 miles of hiking trails, fully stocked fish ponds, a picnic shelter, and a climbing rock. Paul Wolff Campground is located at 38W235 Big Timber Road, Elgin.

Big Rock Campground

Big Rock Campground within Big Rock Forest Preserve contains 110 total camp sites. This new facility opened last summer. There are 96 improved campsites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings. 

There are 10 primitive, tent-only sites without electric access. There are also four equestrian sites.  The surrounding Big Rock Forest Preserve is an 842-acre preserve containing several sandy hills that overlook the valley filled with woodlands and crystal clear streams. 

Catch-and-release fishing is permitted at the campground pond, as well as in the preserve’s former quarry, Siegler Lake. Big Rock Campground is located at 46W499 Granart Rd., in Big Rock.

Daily Fees, Availability 

Daily fees for the improved or equestrian camp sites at either campground are $15 for Kane County residents and $25 for nonresidents. Primitive/non-electric camp sites are $10 per day for residents, $15 for nonresidents.

Sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.  Campground reservations are not taken. Our campground hotline at 630-444-1200 is updated daily during the camping season, and provides more information on camp site availability and conditions.

Also, be sure to watch the District Web site at www.kaneforest.com for information about monthly movie nights in the campgrounds, as well as details on our “Camp with a Ranger: Introduction to Camping” program.

Make plans to Camp Local this summer, in Forest Preserve District of Kane County campgrounds.