Camp Bullfrog Lake offers year-round camping, group activities and water-based recreation such as kayak rentals and fishing. Camp steps from the water in the heart of the vast, hilly Palos Preserves and fill your days with hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching adventures. Accommodations offered: Tent Campsite RV/Tent Campsite (with Electricity) Large & Small Cabins Group Campsites Full Campground Rental
Mixed reviews on staff interactions; some praised helpfulness while others reported poor communication and unprofessional behavior.
Cleanliness
Facilities and bathrooms received criticism for cleanliness, with reports of dirty showers and insect infestations in cabins.
Amenities
Lack of basic amenities like running water and proper maintenance of facilities were highlighted as major issues.
Location and Environment
The campground's natural beauty and proximity to Chicago were frequently praised, making it a desirable getaway.
Noise Levels
Complaints about loud music and disturbances during quiet hours were common, affecting the overall camping experience.
MM
Maggie Miller
Nov 7, 2025
1.0
We had the WORST experience staying at Camp Bullfrog. We stayed in November, so definitely the off season. They had turned the water off but were still charging $40 a night. We explained when we got there with the people at the front desk that we do food deliveries and we would be paying every day but might not get it in by noon. We live in our travel trailer and every other camp ground we’ve stayed in (private, state, and municipal) hasn’t had issues as long as we pay the same day. They said that was fine as long as we stayed in touch and got it in by EOD. Every day we had to field multiple phone calls from the main office bc no one ever talked to each other or put in notes and so every single office person would call us wondering why we hadn’t paid. Then one day I had a medical emergency and we had to start our deliveries late the next day. We got three different calls and then got a call from someone in the office who REAMED us out for not paying yet. He laid into my spouse after I had a psychiatric episode the night before, which we had told to the office already. We were in a grocery store getting tore into by some jerk and it was absolutely uncalled for and when we called back to make the payment and I was understandably angry he said he “didn’t like our tone”. Also, the showers weren’t clean when I used them, they were the standard dirty campground showers. And the people next to us had dogs who barked the WHOLE TIME. So maybe some of the energy could have been spent cleaning and stocking the bathroom and shower and making sure people aren’t being annoying campers and less about the payments. It’s the offseason and there were like 5 other campsites being used, it’s not like we were talking sites others needed. I do have to say there were a couple nice office workers but their communication between each other needs work. It’s becoming much more common for people to be in these situations. A lot of people are struggling and a lot of people are working for their pay day to day like this. So having a better system than calling people when they already reached out is kind of necessary. Also the person who reamed us out claimed that he was never told about us paying later but another person in the office verified he knew about it, so he lied to have some kind of weird power trip. I genuinely would not stay here if you have a family as well. There were people playing SUPER loud music and people shouting and screaming even after quiet hours. We usually don’t complain but if you’re charging that much you’d expect better service. All the bad reviews people have left are very fair.
BY
beck yeah
Oct 9, 2025
3.0
Bullfrog Lake and the campgrounds definitely have a great essence and good feel. The only negative I have to say about it is if you're staying in their cabins they definitely do have roaches!! I am not kidding you when I say that the roaches on the ceiling are huge.(1-2 inched long) You just got to be cautious about that.
PB
p d bowman
Sep 20, 2025
5.0
A favorite spot.
LL
Livia Ly
Sep 7, 2025
2.0
Unfortunately, Camp Bullfrog Lake feels like a place with great potential that has been abandoned. The biggest issue was that there was no running water. Bathrooms could not be flushed, and there was no way to wash hands or dishes; an obvious health hazard. Thankfully, we came prepared with Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer wipes and spray, and baby wipes, but we also had to purchase bottled water to get by.
The cabin itself was somewhat clean (no spider webs or heavy dust), but the bathroom was not up to standard. On the positive side, the cabin does have both AC and heat, which is useful year-round, especially if you’re visiting with kids or seniors.
The office supplied firewood, though they ran out at one point. Another inconvenience is that cars are not allowed in after 10 p.m. or before 7 a.m., which may be restrictive for some families.
The surroundings are nice for kids, with a safe deck for fishing, a lake where you can rent kayaks, and trails for hiking and biking. However, the lake itself did not seem to be very clean, and during our stay we only saw one person catch one fish. It doesn’t seem like they stock the lake often, if at all. On top of that, many trees throughout the hiking area look like they’ve been badly affected by pests, with broken and damaged trees.
Overall, if you bring your own water, this place may be fine for a one-night stay with kids. But given the lack of basic amenities, upkeep, and nature conditions, we would not return.
JM
Jeff Martin
Sep 3, 2025
3.0
Electric only, nothing special the rest of the park looked great.
Frequently Asked Questions About Camp Bullfrog Lake
What types of camping accommodations does Camp Bullfrog Lake offer?
Camp Bullfrog Lake offers tent campsites, RV/tent campsites with electricity, large and small cabins, group campsites, and full campground rentals.
What water-based recreational activities are available at Camp Bullfrog Lake?
You can enjoy kayak rentals and fishing at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Is Camp Bullfrog Lake open year-round and what are its operating hours?
Yes, Camp Bullfrog Lake is open year-round from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
Where is Camp Bullfrog Lake located?
Camp Bullfrog Lake is located at 9600 Wolf Road, Willow Springs, IL 60480, USA.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy around Camp Bullfrog Lake?
Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching in the hilly Palos Preserves near Camp Bullfrog Lake.
How can I contact Camp Bullfrog Lake for more information?
You can reach Camp Bullfrog Lake by phone at +1 312-636-9785.
What categories does Camp Bullfrog Lake fall under?
Camp Bullfrog Lake is categorized as a campground, camp, RV park, hiking area, and kayak store.
What nearby places can I visit along with Camp Bullfrog Lake?
Nearby places include Bullfrog Lake Campground, Pulaski Woods, Tomahawk Slough, and Palos Forest Preserve, which offer additional hiking, parks, and lake activities.
Can I combine a visit to Camp Bullfrog Lake with boating or fishing activities nearby?
Yes, Maple Lake Boating Center nearby offers boat rentals and fishing supplies, making it convenient to enjoy boating and fishing along with your stay at Camp Bullfrog Lake.
How can nearby parks enhance my visit to Camp Bullfrog Lake?
Nearby parks like Red Gate Woods, Henry De Tonty Woods, and Wolf Road Woods provide nature reserves and hiking opportunities, perfect for adding more outdoor exploration to your trip.