Make plans to “camp local” this year with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

You don’t have to drive far or spend a fortune to experience camping — it’s available right here. Whether you’re interested in vehicle camping, tent camping or even camping with your horses, Forest Preserve District campgrounds have sites available.

Recreational camping is open each year from May 1 through Oct. 31 at Paul Wolff Campground and Big Rock Campground.

Paul Wolff Campground

There are also five equestrian camp sites. Five ADA-accessible camp sites are available upon request.

The surrounding Burnidge Forest Preserve contains more than 700 acres of rolling hills and woodlands along with 9 miles of hiking trails, fully stocked fish ponds, a picnic shelter and a climbing rock. Paul Wolff Campground is located at 38W235 Big Timber Road, Elgin.

Big Rock Campground

Big Rock Campground within Big Rock Forest Preserve contains 109 total camp sites. There are 96 improved campsites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings,and nine primitive, tent-only sites without electric access. There are four equestrian sites. There are also ADA-accessible camp sites available upon request.

The surrounding Big Rock Forest Preserve is an 840-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. Big Rock Campground is located at 46W499 Granart Rd., Big Rock.

Daily fees for the improved or equestrian camp sites at either campground are $15 for Kane County residents and $25 for nonresidents. Primitive/non-electric camp sites are $10 per day for residents, $15 for nonresidents.

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

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

If you want to go camping but don’t have the experience or equipment to do so, try out the district’s “Camp with a Ranger: Introduction to Camping” program. This is designed to introduce first-time families to the exciting world of camping. Our experienced staff will guide you through the necessary steps such as site setup, cooking and fire building. Registration is $40 and is intended for one family or group of up to six people. Call 630-232-5980 to register or for more information.

Make plans to Camp Local this summer, in Forest Preserve District of Kane County campgrounds.

For more information, visit www.kaneforest.com.

SOURCE: Forest Preserve District of Kane County news release

About the Forest Preserve District of Kane County

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County acquires, holds and maintains land to preserve natural and historic resources, habitats, flora and fauna. The district restores, restocks, protects and preserves open space for the education, recreation and pleasure of Kane County citizens. For more information, visit the district’s website or find them on social media via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Also, sign up for the quarterly TreeLine Newsletter.