Hammel Woods Campground

For local users in the Shorewood, Illinois, area, or even those near Chicago seeking a quick "camping near me" option, Hammel Woods Campground, located in Shorewood, presents a choice that comes with both advantages and notable drawbacks, according to recent visitor reviews. Situated at an unspecified address within Shorewood, IL 60404, this campground offers a convenient location, particularly for those seeking proximity to the city when other options are limited. However, potential campers should be aware of several factors that might impact their overall experience.

One of the primary advantages highlighted by a reviewer is the campground's close proximity to Chicago. For individuals looking for a relatively quick escape from the urban environment without traveling too far, Hammel Woods could serve as a viable option when other campgrounds are unavailable. Additionally, the pricing structure appears to favor local residents, with one review mentioning a "reasonable price for residents." This suggests a tiered pricing system where non-residents may face a higher cost.

The campground is also noted for being "relatively clean," which is a positive aspect for any camping facility. Maintaining cleanliness contributes to a more pleasant and hygienic environment for campers. Furthermore, the availability of "good drinking water" is another essential service that receives positive mention, ensuring campers have access to a basic necessity.

Another practical advantage is the campground's proximity to a highway. While this contributes to one of the cons discussed later, the easy access to a major thoroughfare can be beneficial for arrival and departure, as well as for accessing nearby amenities or attractions outside the campground.

However, the reviews also raise several significant concerns that potential visitors should carefully consider. One of the most alarming issues reported is the presence of "swarms of dipluras," described as "horrible double-tail insects," on at least one campsite. The reviewer expresses a strong aversion to these insects, highlighting the potential for them to negatively impact the camping experience, such as entering tents or even ending up in personal items like coffee pots. This suggests that insect activity could be a notable issue at certain times or in specific areas of the campground.

Another significant drawback mentioned is the noise emanating from the nearby highway. While one reviewer notes that it may not be excessively disturbing, it is clearly audible and "spoils the experience of nature" for some visitors. For those seeking a tranquil and immersive natural retreat, the presence of highway noise could be a considerable deterrent.

Perhaps one of the most criticized aspects of Hammel Woods Campground is its strict closing policy. According to a reviewer, all campers "HAVE TO be in the campground at 8:30" in the evening. Failure to do so results in the gate being locked, preventing entry even for those who have already pitched their tents earlier. The reviewer recounts an unsuccessful attempt to contact the campground regarding a late arrival, emphasizing the inflexibility of this rule. This policy could be particularly problematic for campers who plan to arrive late due to travel or other commitments, or those who wish to enjoy activities outside the campground in the evening.

The pricing for non-residents also comes under scrutiny. One reviewer finds the $40 per night fee for non-residents to be excessive, especially considering the described limitations of the campground. They compare this price unfavorably to campgrounds in "gorgeous national parks" that charge less. The reviewer questions the value proposition of a "town campground" with an early lockout time, limited facilities (other than water and restrooms), no scenic views, and the issue with insects, especially at a premium price point for non-residents.

Adding to the mixed feedback, another reviewer mentions that the campground does not have power supplies for camping, indicating a more rustic experience. While they appreciate the cleanliness and the "huge" trails and "fun" forest, they also note a lack of consideration from other trail users, with hikers and joggers frequently passing through tent sites. This lack of designated pathways or considerate behavior from other visitors could detract from the privacy and peacefulness of individual campsites.

Considering these points, Hammel Woods Campground presents a complex picture for local users searching for "camping near me." While it offers the advantage of proximity to Chicago and potentially reasonable rates for residents, it also comes with significant downsides such as insect issues, highway noise, a very strict evening lockout policy, and potentially high non-resident fees for what is described as a campground with limited amenities and no exceptional scenery. The lack of power supplies further points to a more basic camping experience.

Promotional information is absent from the provided reviews. Therefore, local users interested in Hammel Woods Campground should weigh the convenience of its location and potential resident pricing against the reported negative aspects. It would be prudent to contact Will County, which manages the campground, directly at an unlisted phone number to inquire about current rates (for both residents and non-residents), the severity of the insect problem during different times of the year, the level of highway noise at various campsites, the specifics of the closing policy and any potential exceptions, and the availability of any amenities beyond water and restrooms. Additionally, information about the trail system and measures to ensure privacy at campsites could be valuable.

In conclusion, while Hammel Woods Campground might serve as a geographically convenient "camping near me" option, especially for Chicago residents or those in the immediate Shorewood area, potential campers should be fully aware of the reported drawbacks. The swarms of dipluras, the noise from the highway, the inflexible 8:30 PM lockout, and the perceived high non-resident fees for the limited amenities suggest that this campground might be best suited as a last resort or for those who prioritize proximity over a traditional, immersive, and relaxing camping experience. Local users are encouraged to seek further information and potentially explore other "camping near me" options in the wider Will County area before making a decision.

Hammel Woods Campground

Shorewood, IL 60404, USA