Camping near me Cook County

Cook County is the most populous county in Illinois and the second-most populous county in the United States after Los Angeles County. It encompasses the city of Chicago and many of its suburbs, making it a major economic, political, and cultural hub.

Key Facts About Cook County:

  • Population: Over 5 million people.
  • County Seat: Chicago.
  • Geography: Located in northeastern Illinois, bordered by Lake Michigan to the east.
  • Government: Operates under a home rule charter, with a Board of Commissioners led by a County Board President (currently Toni Preckwinkle).
  • Economy: Home to a diverse economy, including finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
  • Transportation: Served by major highways, Metra commuter trains, CTA transit in Chicago, and O’Hare and Midway International Airports.
  • Judicial System: Houses the Circuit Court of Cook County, one of the largest unified court systems in the U.S.
  • Parks & Recreation: Includes the Cook County Forest Preserves, offering thousands of acres of green space, trails, and wildlife habitats.
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
Kayak Starved Rock Campground

If you’re looking for a kayaking and camping experience near Cook County, the Kayak Starved Rock Campground in Ottawa, Illinois, is a notable option. Located along the Illinois River, directly across from Starved Rock State Park, this campground offers high-end kayak rentals, guided kayak tours, and rustic riverside camping.

kayakstarvedrock.com

The campground is  southwest of Oak Brook, Illinois, making it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway. They provide both single and tandem kayaks suitable for beginners, and guided tours are available on weekends and holidays. The site accommodates tents, pop-up campers, and teardrop campers, and leashed dogs are welcome.

kayakstarvedrock.com

For more information or to make reservations, you can visit their official website:

kayakstarvedrock.com

Alternatively, Kayak Morris is another option closer to Cook County, located in Morris, Illinois. They offer kayak rentals and have a private campground adjacent to the William G. Stratton State Park, featuring 1,700 feet of sandy wooded beachfront.

Both locations provide opportunities to enjoy kayaking and camping within a reasonable distance from Cook County.