Emerald Trails Campgrounds Introduce
For local residents in Illinois and the Chicago area seeking a tranquil and well-maintained 'camping near me' experience, Emerald Trails Campgrounds, located at 3132 E Goodenow Rd, Crete, IL 60417, USA, offers a welcoming retreat. Reachable by phone at (708) 672-8700 or mobile at +1 708-672-8700, this campground distinguishes itself with its clean environment, shaded campsites, and peaceful atmosphere, as highlighted by several satisfied campers.
One recurring theme in the customer reviews is the cleanliness of Emerald Trails Campgrounds. One camper described it as a "really nice clean country campground," setting a positive tone for the overall maintenance and upkeep of the property. This is a significant factor for local users when choosing a 'camping near me' option, as cleanliness contributes directly to comfort and enjoyment during their outdoor stay.
The location of the campground, situated "a little more than a mile from the road on a nicely graded gravel driveway," suggests a sense of seclusion and quietude, further enhancing its appeal as a peaceful getaway. The distance from the main road likely minimizes traffic noise, contributing to the serene environment that reviewers consistently mention. This quiet setting is a valuable asset for local campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
For those who appreciate convenient amenities, Emerald Trails Campgrounds offers "reasonably priced and clean" laundry facilities. This is particularly beneficial for longer stays or for campers who value the ability to refresh their clothing during their trip. The cleanliness of the laundry area reflects the overall attention to maintenance at the campground.
The natural environment of Emerald Trails Campgrounds is another significant draw. The reviews note that "the entire camping area has lots of trees and is nicely shaded." This abundance of trees provides welcome relief from the sun, creating comfortable and cooler campsites, especially during the warmer months. The shade also contributes to the overall ambiance of the campground, fostering a more natural and relaxing atmosphere for local campers.
The peacefulness of the campground is repeatedly emphasized, with one reviewer stating, "It is very quiet at this campground." This tranquility is a major advantage for those seeking a restful outdoor experience. Additionally, the friendly nature of the other campers is highlighted, with mentions of "people are friendly" and permanent campers who "tend to be really nice people that would help you if you needed it." This sense of community can enhance the overall camping experience, making it feel more welcoming and secure for local users.
One reviewer specifically mentioned using Emerald Trails Campgrounds as an alternative to an "overpriced hotel" while visiting Chicago for a conference. The fact that they were able to secure a "great camp spot" for their tent, even on a holiday weekend without a reservation, speaks to the potential availability and flexibility of the campground. The ability to "grab a shower" further underscores the provision of essential amenities for tent campers. This positive experience highlights Emerald Trails as a convenient option for local residents or those visiting the area who prefer the outdoors to traditional lodging.
Regarding pet policies, one reviewer noted a stated "15 lb weight limit for dogs" but observed numerous dogs well in excess of this limit, with no apparent enforcement. While this inconsistency might be a point of consideration for dog owners, the reviewer ultimately did not find it to be a significant issue. However, local users with larger dogs might want to inquire directly with the campground about their current pet policies to avoid any misunderstandings.
The same reviewer also addressed the presence of a few motorcycles, noting that it was not a disturbance. This suggests that while there might be some motorcycles on-site, it is not necessarily a pervasive or disruptive element of the campground environment.
The only significant negative feedback pertained to some dog owners not adhering to leash rules and failing to clean up after their pets, with the reviewer suggesting a lack of enforcement of these rules. While this is a point of concern, the reviewer still found the campground to be generally positive, indicating that the other positive aspects outweigh this issue for many visitors. For local users who are particularly sensitive to this, it might be worth raising the issue with the campground management.
Based on the comprehensive feedback, the features and benefits of Emerald Trails Campgrounds for local users seeking 'camping near me' include:
- Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Including the campsites and laundry area.
- Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Located away from the main road, ensuring a tranquil environment.
- Shaded Campsites with Plenty of Trees: Providing a comfortable and natural setting.
- Friendly Campers and Welcoming Community: Including helpful permanent residents.
- Convenient Location Near Chicago: Offering an accessible nature escape for city dwellers.
- Availability for Tent Camping: Accommodating those who prefer a more traditional outdoor experience.
- Essential Amenities: Such as reasonably priced and clean laundry facilities and showers.
While specific promotional offers were not mentioned in the reviews, the positive word-of-mouth regarding the cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and friendly environment serves as a strong recommendation for Emerald Trails Campgrounds. Local users looking for a reliable and pleasant 'camping near me' option in the Crete, Illinois area should consider this campground for their next outdoor adventure. We encourage you to contact Emerald Trails Campgrounds directly at (708) 672-8700 to inquire about site availability, specific amenities, and any current policies or recommendations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.
Emerald Trails Campgrounds Photos










Emerald Trails Campgrounds Location
Emerald Trails Campgrounds
3132 E Goodenow Rd, Crete, IL 60417, USA
Emerald Trails Campgrounds3132 E Goodenow Rd
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Emerald Trails Campgrounds Reviews
This is a really nice clean country campground. The camping area is a little more than a mile from the road on a nicely graded gravel driveway. The laundry is reasonably priced and clean. The entire camping area has lots of trees and is nicely shaded. It is very quiet at this campground and people are friendly. There are quite a few permanent campers but that never bothers us, they tend to be really nice people that would help you if you needed it. When we booked, they told us they had a 15 lb weight limit for dogs. There are plenty of dogs well in excess of that, 50, 60, 70 lbs, which we don’t care about. Don’t let the 15 lb limit keep you away, just tell them your dog is less than that, it obviously works. I even witnessed the owner allow someone to take their unleashed Alaskan Husky in the office with them. It was a puppy, sure, but even the most ignorant person knows that dog is going to be more than 60 lbs very shortly. I don’t know what the motorcycle thing people are talking about is, there is one on the site next to me and two others that I have seen. Motorcycles don’t bother me, I’ve had them for more than 50 years. As at every campground, there is always deadbeats who don’t keep their dogs on a leash and don’t pick up after them, apparently the owners don’t care despite written rules, since they clearly see it everyday. Except for the dog deadbeats, I don’t have anything negative to say about this campground. If dog policies were reasonably enforced (the leashing and pickup), this would be 5 stars.
Aug 31, 2024 · Rodney BarnettI was in Chicago for a conference. Prefer camping in nature to staying in an overpriced hotel. They had a great camp spot for me to place my tent and I was able to grab a shower. This was a holiday weekend and I was still able to get a spot with no reservation. Thanks so much Emerald Trails. You made my stay in Illinois a great success!
Sep 08, 2024 · Nicholas ShillingfordWhere to start. Big Bob made my friend and I feel welcome all the way through our stay. The best camping experience I’ve had in a long time. Only local camping in the area ( steger ) also. The showers have the best water pressure. Thanks Bob for the hospitality and I will see you again.
Jun 04, 2024 · VictorVery clean. Nicest people that work here. I’ve been here for 5 months. Very beautiful and peaceful. I will definitely be back!
Oct 04, 2024 · kim carlsonThis was my second time visiting Emerald Trails campground the first time was six years ago. I enjoyed myself six years ago but I must say on this last visit the place has been updated with a well kept road great camping spaces and had a wonderful and welcoming feel if your looking for a camping getaway I highly recommend Views in all directions and has a beautiful pond and hiking trails. Everyone working there was amazing. Highly recommend
Nov 22, 2023 · David Worley
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