Good playgrounds but not great for anyone with special needs bathrooms aren't accessible

Woodhaven Lakes recently celebrated their 50th anniversary & we have been owners here for almost 20 years. It's our "happy place" for fresh air and R & R. We appreciate the planned activities but also the quiet time in nature. Disc Golf has recently been added and enjoyed by our son and his family. This weekend is the annual "Main Event" and there will be a Venetian Boat Parade & fireworks over Woodhaven Lake. read more

Woodhaven Lakes - Always feels good to enter these gates - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

This was such a cute place for a little peaceful weekend getaway! My close friend and her family own a trailer here and have been coming to Woodhaven Lakes for decades. She recently took some of us out here for a weekend and it was so much fun. It's super peaceful, open, and very green. We carved pumpkins outside, had a bonfire, and walked all over Woodhaven Lakes. You do need a pass to enter, so not anyone can just come in. I believe you have to own a trailer here, so I would double check with Woodhaven Lakes. There's a general store, recreational facilities, swimming pools, trails, and lakes for fishing and kayaking. Overall, this is a fun spot for family or friends. I'd easily come here again! read more

Woodhaven Lakes - Outside of our trailer! - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

We recently spent the weekend in Woodhaven Lakes. We had a wonderful time and there is so much to do. There are many walking trails, boating, mini golf, basketball courts, pools and the beach. There was a band on Saturday night which was a great way to be entertained while enjoying the weather. Of course, we had to have a soft service raspberry fudge ice cream to accompany the music. There is a general store and hardware store for unplanned events or stocking up. They are not open to the general public, you need to either own a place or be a guest. A wonderful place to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. read more

Woodhaven Lakes - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

What a great place to relax over a weekend. Lots of. activities for adults and kids.Gated community. Fishing..hiking..swimming..birding..crafts..mini golf..boating..kayaks..campfires..bbq..etc read more

Woodhaven Lakes - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

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My second home is located on Bass Lake in Woodhaven. I love this place. Yes, it can get a bit much with the visitors and the park safety running around enforcing rules but for the most part I have a slice of a mega-relaxing place where my city friends visit me. We always have a good time and much needed relaxing. You will love Woodhaven if you decide to buy. read more

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The whole vibes and atmosphere is amazing. Definitely makes you forget about being in Illinois and city problems.

I found this place amazing. The people there are so very friendly. Woodhaven is like its own little community. It's a true getaway from the riggers of daily live. read more

I recall the first time I came through Woodhaven. I thought it looked a bit rundown and some what sketchy. Im not going to lie, some of the properties looked down right abandoned. At the time, I couldn't imagine being an owner here let alone loving it as much as I do. I think there will always be properties that need attention, but WH is what you make of it and I've made it my weekend sanctuary. No matter what you're into or what stage of life you're in, WH has something for you. The association does a fantastic job of maintaining the public spaces and they also provide countless services to their property owners. Boating, fishing, fireworks, massages, bands, outdoor markets, kids activities and insects are all things you can look forward to if you become an owner at this amazing place! PS. I should probably tell you it's mandatory to wave at staff and fellow property owners. If you're a grouch, don't come here! Only awesome, friendly people are allowed! read more

Before I can review Woodhaven, I have to define what it is. First, Woodhaven is not a camp ground. If you're looking for a getaway weekend or a place to spend a couple of nights on vacation, they don't offer that kind of accommodation. It's also not a Trailer park, although as you drive through you will get the impression in certain portions that you are in the most upscale trailer park you've ever been in. According to Woodhaven's website they are a "private, gated recreational property owner resort" each spot is owned by the member. They have to follow the rules and regulation of the Woodhaven Association, but you own the spot.... HOWEVER you are limited to 200 overnight stays per calendar year. This is due to it not being zoned residential. I can't review this as a campground, but that's how they try to present themselves. First off there are different ways of getting a lot in Woodhaven. You can get a lot directly from them, or you can get one a government tax sale... IE the lot owner doesn't pay their taxes and the county seizes the property and sells it at auction. Once you get a lot you are now subjected to the Woodhaven Association. They have a fairly strict rules on what you can and can't do on your property or be fined. However from my experience this is inconsistently enforced. Just a quick drive around Woodhaven and you'll see what I mean. What's okay for one site is not okay for another. Last weekend while there I spoke with some of the owners (I've been a frequent guest over the last year, and was looking to obtain a lot). They've all received fines/infractions over the last year for something that seems to be subjectively enforced. IE number of buildings on property, distance to property lines, construction material, etc. Also you need permits for just about everything. However Woodhaven will work with you to get the permits. Secondly there are a lot of amenities. There are stores, restaurants, recreational facilities, swimming pools, a lake you can swim in, trails, lakes for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, etc. No boats with anything more than an electric trolling motor are allowed on the lakes. They also have special programs and activities on the weekends from movies, to crafts, fishing derbies, etc. They have what they call "Comfort Stations" basically bathrooms with shower houses. They're decently maintained, but what you would expect at a campground... but again, this is not a campground. Thirdly, they have their own security. Which is nice, but honestly some of these guys seem a little aggressive. I know they need to enforce that 15 mph speed limit, but the need to follow a car around that's site seeing seems aggressive. Also if you're taking a load of waste from site improvement to their dumpsters, you may get stopped by security questioning that you are throwing the right stuff away. Seriously guy questioned me throwing construction waste into a construction waste dumpster that's got other construction waste in it. However, if there is an issue they will show up rather promptly. Overall, Woodhaven is a fun place. It's Glamping in all of its glory. Many of the lots have "trailers" on them that look more like houses than trailers. And where it might not be camping on how I prefer to do it (see tents without someone else camped 15 feet away from me.), it's still a nice location and good for weekend getaway. Honestly, the whole place comes across as the worlds most expensive trailer park with a Home Owners Association ran by Karens. read more

Nice place to get away to and relax under the stars at night with a campfire. Basic amenities to help your stay be more comfortable.

I had a lot of fun there, the people are so nice, there are so many fun things to do there. I would definitely go back and i hope i get to go back read more

Woodhaven Lakes - sunset - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

Great place for family camping. Lots of activities provided by the campground as well as lots to enjoy in nature. Just to name a few...hiking/snowmobile trails, crafts, swimming and pools and beach, boating, fishing, music, farmers market, open markets, educational events, holiday events, nature center, family rec area, kids camps, ice cream, grocery store, hardware store, family movie nights, sporting events, and much more!!! read more

I love this place. Great place to get away for a weekend or a week long. Very kid friendly.

This is my happy place. When I leave I am planning for my next visit. Tornadoes and wind have really tried in the past few years to discourage me from my happy place But I still find my way back . Ready for a Fun 2017 season to kick off. read more

A little piece of paradise less than 2hrs from Chicago. This is a private campsite with lots to do or a lot of nothing should you just want to RELAX. More on this later .. read more

The people are very kind, events are welcoming, only downfall is the restrooms a lot of the time they don't have any toilet paper regardless it's understandable the employees can only stock so much. read more

Woodhaven Lakes - The view and sense of tranquility you get walking down the path and looking over the lake! - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

Love this home away from home! Been going there since I was a kid. So many memories made.

l love Woodhaven! I have been going to Woodhaven since I was born and I plan on going until I die. Not only does it have great surroundings, but it also has great people, which makes it perfect for a family looking for a relaxing getaway. Well I guess what I am saying is, if you are looking for a fun break from home, go to Woodhaven. read more

I am a proud owner at Woodhaven. Initially my wife and I did not consider it due to its "trailer park" likeness. After exploring the sites and all of the activities for kids, we were sold. This serves as our home away from home and gives us a chance to slow down outside of the city. I encourage anyone whom is considering buying here to look into the people posting negative reviews. Most if not all appear to only come on Yelp to bash things (Seriously, who cusses in a review?). You can see for yourself by clicking on their name. There are rules in place, some of which are strictly enforced, such as the speed limits. Having little ones I don't mind the restriction in the slightest. There are also rules about building structures, upkeep of your property, and quite hours, all of which make this a great place. If these rules were not in place it would be a free for all and not much fun. The property is well kept and clean, with tons of amenities, two pools, a beach, arts and crafts, mini golf, ice cream, pavilions, walking trails, play grounds, fishing, it goes on and on. Everyone with the association has been very friendly and informative. Overall a great place to own a little retreat for a campfire and outdoor fun. read more

Woodhaven Lakes - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

Been coming here for around 15yrs. It's been going downhill for awhile as more people show up(stricter rules) which is normal. Just kinda stinks to see. Used to be a place to get away from the craziness of Chicago and enjoy nature. Now the lakes constantly overfished and needs to be refilled with fish. Littering is quit prevalent and overcrowded pools which (people swimming fully clothed) depending on when you come up. The lake water has had bacteria issue. Your not allowed to use a boat unless wearing a life preserver. You can't swim anywhere in the lake unless your swimming in the small deviated beach zone which have even more ridiculous rules(no flips into lake, no pushing or splashing). If you violate any rule known or unknown, there's a pretty high chance of you getting fined a lot of money, or they may warn you(depends on the person yelling at you). The violations stack as does the fine for each person and each violation. It gets to a point where it went from a relaxing place and feeling free almost like an oasis from Chicago to becoming a rule and fine ridden minefield. These aren't half the problems but I'd need a book to do that, not a review. Overall, can be nice but not as nice as it was. read more

If you enjoy "camping" and having your own little getaway it's perfect. Everyone is respectful, everything you need is there, it's relaxing and it's quiet. My family has had a double lot in Woodhaven since the 70's and we all enjoy it. Great place to bring kids! read more

Woodhaven Lakes - Sign near the front entrance to Woodhaven Lakes. - Playgrounds Near Me - Sublette, Illinois

I spent six months a year here and I find the management and staff to be top rated. The grounds are well taken care of and there is a lot of activities for all ages read more

Sold my property and left - the security guards are unsure of their position. It seems they are men who were not accepted into the police academy and now they take it out on the good property owners. Further, the property inspectors roam the park, looking for anything, and I mean "Anything", to write you up for. I kept an impeccable property, it just wasn't good enough for their regime. I'm not kidding - I'm not being sarcastic. They seem to think they are "Policing" instead of guarding. Four of my family members owned property there -- they have all sold. read more

Looks like a nice place when you are looking to buy, but the realities of ownership are a totally different thing. You will find out that the association, the real estate people, etc, will tell you anything to get your money, then deny that they said it later. The security guards are all cop wannabes that think they are patrolling the inner city. They are impossible to deal with. The "architectural committee " inspectors or whatever they call themselves just go out looking for stupid things to fine you for. I got cited for having steel tape sealing the camper doors over the winter to keep vermin out of the camper . Told them if it bothered them that much just pull it off. No, I had to drive out in the middle of winter just to remove it. But they don't care about all the stuff that gets stolen from your lot. This is on my "property" that I supposedly own. Meanwhile some other lot has a garish "shrine" that's a huge eyesore but that's apparently ok (those of you that have driven through there know what I'm talking about). Association fees just go up and up. I camped at a place where I rented my lot for fourteen years and enjoyed myself. At Woodhaven after the first year nobody wanted to go anymore because it is just not a good experience. You are constantly waiting for the association or the security guards to harrass you (on your own property ) over something stupid, meanwhile on the next lot there are 20 people being loud and obnoxious and they do nothing. I go camping to relax and get away from stress, not to have more stress put on me by these losers. I'd rather just stay home. It's like they forgot camping is supposed to be fun. If you are thinking of buying here, think twice then think again. I found somebody to buy my lot and got out. It was like a giant weight was lifted off of my shoulders. I have never regretted selling. read more

What going on at comfort stations there a mess the whole janitorial staff should be fired

Love being here Spending time with family and friends . Even The dog gets excited when we say Woodhaven The pools camp fires its all really really relaxing. read more

Our friends own a plot of land here and we come to the site with them often. There are so many kids activities on the weekends and even fairs and flea markets that set up on the premises occasionally (check ahead for dates). This camp site is better than most because the neighboring plots have decent square footage, resulting in a more open feel. All the people we have come across are courteous and respectful. If we were to purchase a camper, we would keep it at Woodhaven Lakes. read more

Woddhaven Lakes is an amazing place it has many things for all ages. It's fun to just chill there are so many places near by that you can also enjoy. My family has a whole section and every year we go at least once or more a year. I can walk and it's very safe there are security that go at night to make sure it's safe a it's not to noisy. The owners are very nice and they make us feel like family. read more

Oh, I so disagree with Denise (however Im kinda glad she wont be a regular) Woodhaven is what one makes of it. Here are a few things I take away whenever I am lucky enough to hang out there. Whispering pines, fresh air, toasty campfire toes, chilly leaps off the dock, long walks with my Black Lab, quiet mornings, Tired grubby kids who've biked and ran in fields all day and forgotten their 'device's'. Jigsaw puzzles left out to pick away at. Scrabble,Scrabble,Scrabble. Hot coffee,cold Beer,cards. ......my blue Bike, smiling faces, friendly people. The drugstore in Amboy. .Gosh!, I guess I really like it there. :-) (and just for kicks and giggles.....Starved Rock is 1/2 hour South......and White Pines is 1/2 hour North) Ya know, for those who only want the 'real' woods :-o) read more

Was invited here by a friend who had a lot in this gated community and definitely glad I went. Hidden away in tiny Sublette, IL, this is such a great place to relax from everyday life. You can fish, swim, boat, grill, hike, cycle, or just lay around and nap! It's a great place to bring the family, friends, or a significant other. Since it is a gated community, you need to either get a lot for yourself (and an RV/mobile home), or tag along with someone who already has one! Realistically, there are plenty of better places around and that are all natural camping and less man-made lakes and woods but living in a state like Illinois, you don't see much forest as you see cornfields...anything, even fake, people go crazy over! It really is a quiet getaway and didn't see an unfriendly person there yet. Especially if you have kids, this is a safe and fun ways that the whole family can enjoy. If you're more of a thrill seeker who enjoys exploring the outdoors and camping out in the wilderness, this is probably not the place for you. For people who like the outdoors but may not be as comfortable staying out there, this is probably a better fit for you. read more

I. Love. Woodhaven. It's a fun, semi-permanent home away from home. There is always something going on, and even if there isn't you can just relax, put on some tunes (at a reasonable sound level), and knock a couple back with your friends (on your own property). There are two pools and a lake that are always packed in the summer, a golf course, and a hiking trail that I have yet to experience. Sure it's in the boondocks, but it's worth the drive to get away from your daily routine - as long as you or someone you know has a lot. read more

It may not be camping in thr traditional sense of going into the backwoods of Montana, pitching a tent, and catching your dinner from the raging river. However, if you are looking for a place where you can disconnect from the outside world outside of the gate and recharge, Woodhaven is it. Last year we spent 85 nights here, and it was worth every cent we have paid for our lot and yearly assessment fee. read more

It is not "real camping" this is true. I have camped without power, on islands and in woods, this certainly is camping for city slickers. I lived in Central Wisconsin for years and know the woods, Woodhaven is not that. With this said it is great in so many other ways... You own your own lot, or two, they have two pools, 7 lakes and many amenities. Most people here own and the kids get to know each other as they are always out there. My kids love it at Woodhaven as do I. I wouldn't trade it for the world. It is an RV Park if you will, but much more, it is small town living every weekend not far from home... read more

There is no real camping in this "camping resort." It's really just an RV park with some amenities. If you're looking for an RV park, this is your spot. The fishing is good, the showers are generally clean, the pool and beach are okay, and community activities are pretty good for families. HOWEVER, if you are looking to go camping or anything resembling real outdoors activities: Go Somewhere Else! The "camping" is no better than sleeping in an RV or tent in your own back yard. The "hiking trails" take you between crowded lots and playgrounds; I've had better hikes through inner-city parks. The "beach" is crowded. The community center is nice but is the same as you'd find in a well managed church basement. For what it is, it's not terribly bad. But it's not much of a camping trip. read more

I'm not a camper, however I love it here in Woodhaven lakes. Park molded with all the amenities of a home center air condition.

You would never be able to find another place to put your camper, RV or Park Model. The amenities are ample and the entire facility is well maintained. This is a year round gated 'resort'. You could not find a more reasonable place to camp with anything from a tent through a Park Model. read more

GREAT place to make great memories with family and friends! My parents became members in 1977, and I took over in 1991. We're going on three generations at WHL and it's just keeps getting better! There's always something going on, even in the surrounding towns, or you can just hang a hammock and chillax! read more

My husband and I owned a lot with a trailer some years ago. We had to leave the state for job reasons, but now we are back and we can't wait to get a place at Woodhaven again. The time we shared out there was some of the most calming, relaxing times you can imagine. The rural setting and the quiet is something you never get in the city. Also, there's a lot of things to do, if you don't care for too much quiet. You have everything you need right there in the park. The small towns within a short driving distance are quaint and you can find just about anything you need. If you are considering purchasing a lot at Woodhaven, I highly recommend it. Just take a tour with one of the ladies from Woodhaven Realty, and you can see for yourself, just how wonderful the whole place is. You won't be sorry. read more

Just bought property and a new Park Model...all with the intent to make some wonderful childhood memories for my 6 year old daughter. This weekend she turned to me and thanked me for a great trip and loved our "cottage". I highly recommend it. read more