Kane Co. Forest Preserve Campsites Open on May 1

ST. CHARLES, IL – Local residents can make plans to “Camp Local” this year, with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. Recreational camping will open for the year on May 1 and will remain open through Oct. 31 at Paul Wolff Campground and Big Rock Campground, according to a news release from the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

Paul Wolff Campground, located within Burnidge Forest Preserve in Elgin at 38W235 Big Timber Road in Elgin, contains 104 total camp sites. The surrounding Burnidge Forest Preserve contains more than 700 acres of rolling hills and woodlands along with nine miles of hiking trails including a 2.25-mile multi-purpose trail suitable for hiking, biking or equestrian use, fully stocked fish ponds, a picnic shelter, and a climbing rock, according to the news release.

Big Rock Campground within Big Rock Forest Preserve in Big Rock contains 109 total camp sites. The surrounding Big Rock Forest Preserve is an 850-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 suitable for hiking, biking or equestrian use, and 2 picnic shelters for campers to utilize. Big Rock Campground is located at 46W499 Granart Road, Big Rock.

Daily fees for the improved camp sites (with pad, electric, water) at both campgrounds are $20 for Kane County residents and $35 for nonresidents, according to a news release.

Primitive/non-electric camp sites are $12 per day for Kane County residents and $18 for nonresidents. Equestrian camp sites are $15 per day for Kane County residents and $25 for nonresidents. Dump stations are $15 per day. Firewood is available at registration for $5 per bundle.

Sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Campground reservations are not taken for the public, however, the forest preserve district does take reservations for camping clubs with a minimum number of sites reserved and paid in advance.

The campground hotline at 630-444-1200 is updated daily during the camping season, and provides more information on camp site availability and conditions.

For more information, visit www.kaneforest.com and find us on social by searching @forestpreserve.