Family camping is always a fun idea but hard to master, especially if you’ve never done it together before. These events throughout the Chicagoland area are not only fun but also provide the tools and assistance to make your wildlife adventure a walk in the park.
Washington Park
This family camping program is an opportunity for Chicago residents to campout overnight in Chicago parks such as this one. Programming including fishing, fire building, guided nature hikes and more will be provided.
Riis Park
Novice campers can camp overnight. Activities include guided nature hikes, fire building and, of course, marshmallow roasting. Bring your own sleeping bag and brown bag lunches.
Gompers Park
This camping experience is fit for everyone–even families new to camping! Staff onsite are available to help set up tents, lead programming and assist with logistics. Programming includes hiking tours, assistance building fires and even fishing. Hotdogs and marshmallows will be provided, but be sure to bring your own sleeping bag and sack lunch.
Northerly Island
Take a nature hike, go fishing, learn basic camping principles and enjoy a campfire. Bring your own sleeping bag and sack lunches. Hotdogs and marshmallows will be provided.
Willowbrook Wildlife Center
Bring your camping gear and sleep with your family under the stars. Enjoy fun, spooky stories by the fire; learn about owls and other animals; meet the centerÂ’s raptors; and hit the trails for a star-lit hike. Dinner and breakfast are included, and some tents are available for rent for an extra fee.
Brookfield Zoo
Get a glimpse into what happens at Brookfield Zoo at night. Join the night hike that highlights the zoo after dark and nocturnal Illinois wildlife, and then enjoy the ice cream social before settling in for the indoor camping experience. The next morning, wake up to a hot breakfast buffet, a morning hike and a visit to an animal exhibit before the park opens to the public. Safari dates include September 16, October 21, October 28 and November 18.
Oak Forest
A great introduction to camping for novices. Gear (sleeping bags, pads, tent), basic skills training, dinner and breakfast cookouts and outdoor activities are included.
The Hollows
Conservation District staff will be onsite to help you choose a good area to set up your tent. We will prepare dinner together, cooking over the campfire. Following dinner, we will hike to Lake Atwood for a sunset canoe. Canoe instruction will be provided. After we explore the lake, we will enjoy a sweet treat around the campfire and some stargazing. In the morning, a light continental breakfast will be provided, and staff will assist taking down tents.
