Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? There’s no better place to start than the vibrant, bustling heart of the Midwest—Chicago, Illinois. When you rent a camper van from Escape Camper Vans, you’re not just getting a set of wheels; you’re securing a passport to freedom. Our Chicago hub is a launching pad for adventures that go beyond the skyline, leading you to hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Whether it’s cruising alongside the Great Lakes, winding down historic Route 66, or embracing the natural beauty of local parks, your journey starts here.
Our Chicago Rental Location
Pick up your campervan minutes from both O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport. Instructions on how to pick up your campervan will be provided with your reservation confirmation.
Camper Van Road Trip Ideas From Chicago, IL
Wondering how far the road ahead can take you? Here’s a sneak peek at some iconic destinations and the time it’ll take you to get there from our Chicago hub:
The Great Lakes
Chicago’s proximity to the Great Lakes makes it a prime starting point for a waterside adventure. Picture this: you, your crew, and your camper van parked next to a sparkling lake as the sun sets. Whether it’s kayaking in Lake Michigan or enjoying beach bonfires on Lake Erie, the Great Lakes region offers myriad experiences to make your road trip truly epic.
Route 66
If you’ve ever fantasized about cruising down America’s most iconic highway, now’s your chance. Pick up your camper van in Chicago and head off into the sunset on Route 66. From the kitsch and the quirky to the absolutely breathtaking, the “Mother Road” is an unforgettable journey through America’s heartland.
Major Destinations Near Chicago, IL
Lake Geneva, WI
Just a 1.5-hour drive from our Chicago hub, Lake Geneva is a veritable playground for water enthusiasts. From jet-skiing to paddleboarding, this lake offers a wide array of aquatic activities. Looking for a slower pace? Anchor down at a secluded spot and let the day drift away with a book in hand. For the perfect end to your day, enjoy the panoramic sunset views that this destination is famous for.
Starved Rock State Park, IL
If you’re after a more earthbound adventure, point your camper van toward Starved Rock State Park. Just two hours away, this park features 18 canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and over 13 miles of hiking trails leading to breathtaking overlooks. This is the kind of place where your camera roll fills up quickly, but the memories last even longer.
Traverse City, MI
Wine aficionados, rejoice! A 5-hour drive will get you to Traverse City, Michigan—a region peppered with vineyards producing world-class vintages. And that’s not all; the city is also renowned for its pristine beaches where you can sip the local wines as you listen to the calming sounds of the waves. Your perfect day is just a drive away.
Nashville, TN
Dust off your boots and head down to Nashville to experience its rich culture and southern charm. Music lovers can immerse themselves in the country music scene with visits to the Country Music Hall of Fame and an array of music venues featuring local talent. Whether you are drawn to the endless musical experiences or the lush landscapes of Tennessee, this is an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
Camper Van-Friendly Campgrounds Near Chicago
Illinois Beach State Park
1 Lake Front Dr, Zion, IL 60099
Imagine waking up to the tranquil sounds of Lake Michigan—this dream becomes reality at Illinois Beach State Park. Offering campervan-friendly sites, this park is just an hour’s drive from Chicago.
Kettle Moraine State Forest, WI
W7796 Kettle Moraine Drive, WI 53190
If you’re willing to cross state lines for your camping experience, Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin is well worth the trip. From hiking and mountain biking to fishing and kayaking, this campground offers a buffet of outdoor activities. And the best part? It’s camper van-friendly, ensuring you’ll have all the amenities you need.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Porter, IN 46304
Less than two hours away from our Chicago hub, Indiana Dunes National Park offers a unique blend of beach and forest. Surf Lake Michigan’s waves by day and stargaze amid the quiet rustle of forest leaves by night!
Grocery and Liquor Stores Near Chicago To Stock Up For Your Van Trip
Mariano’s
345 W Roosevelt Rd, Lombard, IL 60148
With one of its stores a short drive from our Chicago location, Mariano’s offers a vast selection of fresh produce, high-quality meats, and a delightful array of baked goods. Whether you’re looking for organic veggies, gourmet cheese, or locally sourced meats, Mariano’s is the go-to spot to fill your campervan’s pantry. Plan a stop here to ensure you’re fully equipped with everything you’ll need for your culinary road trip adventures.
Binny’s Beverage Depot
1500 16th St, Oak Brook, IL 60523
No road trip is complete without your favorite beverages to sip around the campfire. Binny’s Beverage Depot, located conveniently near our hub, offers an impressive selection of craft beers, fine wines, and spirits. From local brews to international labels, Binny’s is your libation destination, allowing you to toast to the good times ahead.
Outdoor Stores in Chicago For Your Van Adventure
REI Lincoln Park
905 W Eastman St, Chicago, IL 60642
Did you forget your portable stove or need a new pair of hiking boots? No worries. REI Lincoln Park comes packed with a comprehensive selection of top-notch outdoor gear. From cookware to clothing and everything in between, REI is the adventurer’s dream store. And if you’re a newbie to camping, their knowledgeable staff can guide you through your purchases.
Moosejaw
1901 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Situated in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, Moosejaw offers a quirky and fun environment along with top-notch outdoor gear. Whether you’re an avid mountaineer or a weekend camper, Moosejaw has a wide selection of gear for any outdoor activity. The staff is always eager to share their expertise, so you’ll not only leave with the right gear but also with a wealth of useful information for your upcoming journey. Don’t miss their climbing gear section if you’re looking to add some vertical adventures to your road trip.
How much does it cost to rent a camper in Illinois?
The typical daily cost to rent a camper in Illinois is $65-150. For $65, you’ll get a more compact camper van that will be best for those traveling with fewer than five people. As you get closer to $150, you’ll find campers that are roomier and have more premium features. These prices can vary depending on demand and the time of year. Illinois gets the most tourists and campers coming to the state in the summer when it’s the warmest, so prices to rent campers could be higher during that time of the year. You also need to consider other costs associated with renting a camper, like gas and mileage fees. Most campers have mileage fees of $0.30-0.40 cents per mile you drive.
How old do you have to be to rent a camper in Illinois?
The legal age to rent a camper in Illinois is 18. However, pretty much every company offering RV and camper rentals requires drivers to be at least 21, and in some cases, you’ll have to be at least 25. Check individual company policies before planning your camping trip. The reason why companies rarely rent campers to drivers under 21 is due to liability and insurance expenses. Younger drivers have much higher insurance premiums since they’re inexperienced and may have a tendency to drive more recklessly. Those high premiums would make it unprofitable for companies to rent to a young driver, along with the already high liability associated with vehicle rentals.
Book Your Van With Escape Camper Vans Today
At Escape Camper Vans Chicago, we aim to make your journey as smooth as possible, right from the get-go. That includes pointing you to all the essentials you’ll need along the way. Your dream road trip awaits – so book your van today!
