Kane County Forest Preserve Campgrounds Open in Coming Weeks

 Forest preserve officials are encouraging residents to "camp local" this year.

Recreational camping at Kane County Forest Preserve District campgrounds begins on May 1 and continues through Oct. 31. Here is more information from the forest preserve district press release:

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

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 104 total camp sites. There are 89 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. ADA-accessible camp sites are available upon request. The surrounding Burnidge Forest Preserve contains more than 700 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 within Big Rock Forest Preserve contains 109 total camp sites. There are 96 improved campsites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings. There are 9 primitive, tent-only sites without electric access. There are four equestrian sites. There are also ADA-accessible camp sites available upon request. The surrounding Big Rock Forest Preserve is an 840-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. There are more than 10 miles of hiking trails, and 2 picnic shelters for campers to utilize. Big Rock Campground is located at 46W499 Granart Rd., Big Rock. 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 for the public, however, we do take reservations for camping clubs with a minimum number of sites reserved and paid in advance. Our campground hotline at 630-444-1200is updated daily during the camping season, and provides more information on camp site availability and conditions.

If you want to go camping but don’t have the experience or equipment to do so, try out our “Camp with a Ranger: Introduction to Camping” program. This is designed to introduce first-time families to the exciting world of camping. Our experienced staff will guide you through the necessary steps such as site setup, cooking and fire building. Registration is $40 and is intended for one family or group of up to 6 people. Call 630-232-5980 to register or for more information.

Make plans to Camp Local this summer, in Forest Preserve District of Kane County campgrounds. For more information, visit www.kaneforest.com.