Illinois summers are warm and humid, with daytime highs typically in the mid 80s°F to low 90s°F. Occasional thunderstorms are common, especially in July. Evenings can be cooler, so pack a light jacket. Breathable clothing and rain gear are recommended.
Most camps in Illinois run from late June through early August, with various session lengths.
Camp types include urban day camps, traditional overnight programs, and specialty camps focused on STEM and arts.
Popular camp areas are around Chicago, the Illinois River Valley, and Starved Rock State Park.
Illinois camp families commonly fly into these airports:
Drive times to camps range from 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on location.
Families typically fly to Illinois and may use rental cars or local transport to reach camps.
Nearby towns and suburbs provide a range of lodging, including hotels and family rentals.
Choosing a camp in Illinois means finding programs that match your child's interests and readiness for independence.
Consider whether day or overnight camps suit your child best based on their comfort and experience.
Illinois camps offer many options, from city-based programs to outdoor adventure experiences.
Use these resources to help:
Learn more about day camps essentials
Learn more about overnight camps essentials
Learn more about specialty camps essentials
Learn more about traditional camps essentials
You can also learn more in our guide to different types of summer camps for kids.
You can also learn about camp safety and camp accreditation to feel confident in your decision.
Illinois has a wide variety of summer camps suitable for all kinds of campers. Families can explore programs that foster fun, learning, and growth in both urban and natural settings.