Chicago Northwest KOA

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Chicago or exploring the Windy City itself, Chicago Northwest KOA might be the “pawfect” spot to set up camp. Chicago Northwest is KOA’s closest campground to the city of Chicago, located 55 miles from the downtown area in Union, IL.

In terms of accommodation, the campground offers a choice of RV and tent sites, “glamping” sites, rustic and deluxe cabins, and rental travel trailers. RVers can take advantage of a mix of pull-through and back-in sites, including some with full hookups and others with water and electric only.

Dogs are welcome in the park, but not in all accommodation options. For example, while pets are allowed in a deluxe cabin for a nightly fee, they’re not permitted in rental travel trailers. Check the fine print closely to check whether pets are welcome before you make a reservation.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the park, along with plenty of activities and facilities to keep the family entertained. Bike rentals are available if you want to do some exploring, while there’s a mini-golf course on-site for a bit of family fun. A swimming pool, open from late May until early September, is available when you need to escape the summer heat. 

Finally, weekend haywagon rides are also provided in the summer months, while the Onesti’s Wild West Town amusement park is basically right next door.

But as far as your pup is concerned, the best thing about Chicago Northwest KOA is that it has its very own dog park. This offers a space for canine campers to stretch their legs, have some fun, and make some new four-legged friends. There are also walking trails nearby if you feel like taking your dog for a longer stroll. 

If you’re camping with a dog, you’ll need to keep your pet on a leash of 6 feet or shorter when outside your vehicle. It’s also essential to clean up after your pup at all times, while any dogs that are hostile or aggressive will be asked to leave. Tethered pooches should never be left unattended in the campground, while you’ll also need to keep your pet’s barking to a minimum.

However, due to insurance requirements, certain breeds of dogs are not allowed in this campground. You’ll need to phone the campground directly to find out which breeds are prohibited, plus check about any other specific pet policies that may apply.

Once you’ve sorted out a campsite for you and your pup, you can sit back, relax, and start planning your next camping getaway in the Chicago area.