Recreational camping is now open through Oct. 19 at Forest Preserve District of Kane County’s campgrounds.
Check-in time for campsites is at 3 p.m. and check-out is at noon, and online reservations are required, according to a press release from the district.
Campers can secure their preferred campsite at either Paul Wolff Campground at 38W235 Big Timber Road in Elgin or Big Rock Campground at 46W499 Granart Road in Big Rock via the district’s online system at www.kaneforest.com/camping.
Paul Wolff Campground, located within Burnidge Forest Preserve in Elgin, contains 104 total campsites. There are 89 improved sites complete with 50/30/20-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings, district officials said. There are 10 primitive sites for tents-only camping. Primitive sites do not have electricity.
There are also five equestrian campsites, according to the release. ADA-accessible campsites are available upon request.
The surrounding Burnidge Forest Preserve contains more than 700 acres of rolling hills and woodlands along with nine miles of trails, including a 2.25-mile multi-purpose trail suitable for hiking, biking or equestrian use, officials said. There is also a picnic shelter, fishing ponds and a climbing rock.
Big Rock Campground, located within Big Rock Forest Preserve in Big Rock, contains 109 total campsites. There are 96 improved campsites with 50/30/20-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings, according to the release. There are nine primitive, tent-only sites without electrical access, officials said, and there are four equestrian sites. There are also ADA-accessible campsites available upon request.
The surrounding Big Rock Forest Preserve is a 1,100-acre preserve containing several sandy hills that overlook the valley filled with woodlands and streams, according to the release. Fishing is permitted at the campground pond, or Siegler Lake. Kayaking is also permitted on Siegler Lake.
There are more than nine miles of hiking trails suitable for hiking, biking or equestrian use, and two picnic shelters for campers to utilize, district officials said.
For fishing regulations, go to www.kaneforest.com/location/big-rock-forest-preserve.
Daily fees for the improved campsites (with pad, electric, water) at both campgrounds are $26 for Kane County residents and $41 for nonresidents, according to the release. Primitive/non-electric campsites are $18 per day for Kane County residents and $24 for nonresidents.
Equestrian campsites are $21 per day for Kane County residents and $31 for nonresidents, according to the release.
Dump stations are included with camping, or $15 for single use. Firewood is available for $10 per bundle.
The campgrounds operate on a cashless system, accepting Visa, Mastercard and Discover for online reservations, the release stated. The district will accept cash or checks for firewood and dump station fees.
To book an equestrian site, call the campground hotline at 630-444-1200. International travelers should call 630-444-1200 to reserve a campsite.
For more information, go to www.kaneforest.com, call the campground hotline at 630-444-1200 or find the district on social media by searching @forestpreserve.