Emerald Trails Campground

Not bad if you like brackish water, turns your water lines black with stuff growing in them, or if you like stepping over exposed sewer lines above ground, nothing to offer except......well, renting a 2 person paddle boat to float on a polluted small pond. Other than that, the manure spreader is quaint, nice touch when (or if) it’s filled with flowers and greets you on the way in. There are much better spots in the area for the money spent here. Oh, btw, the store is a joke and so is the playground. If you shoot hoops, prepare to walk a long way to the court.

It was a great experience in the nature. We stayed 4 nights. It is pretty close to Chicago and very peaceful. Toilets and showers were very clean and trash bins were picked up daily, cleaned and putted back. There were mostly RVs but at the time we stayed there, largest tent crowd ever came to camp ground. I think they brought fun to area, maybe little loud but still fun. That was an unique and uncommon seen to the camp owners too. We would definitely go back to there when we visit Chicago again. Kim, Kevin, and Betsy

Emerald Trails Campground was my home for 5 months. I am a restoration ecologist. I worked in the dune and swale habitat here temporarily out of my camper. In the spring, Scarlet Tanangers and Egrets will grace you with their presence. There is no shortage of Great Blue Herons year round. The spring will also bring a carpet (literally) of wildflowers. There are too many spring beauties to count! The pond was the greatest source of peace for me throughout the season. I did my yoga on the little bridge leading to the trails that are filled with beautiful old growth hardwoods. And in the fall, fragrant asters will cover the woodline where perfectly placed shagbark hickories will put on a show with their bright golden leaves. If you are looking for a peaceful beautiful campground this is the place for you.nnThe owners are exceptional people. They will go out of their way to help you. I have never heard them say an unkind word about or to anyone.

Sites had plenty of room. Staff was friendly. Campgrounds nice and quiet, and tucked into the woods. It’s got a very nice pond, along with a laundry room and wash house. I stayed a few months for work and had a good experience. Would recommend to anyone, even if your just stopping by for a weekend.

Owner has a terrible attitude against fellow campers, do not recommend. They’re are way better places around. Also doesn’t allow motorcycles And dogs there.