State Taking Reservations for Campsites, Shelters

 From the Illinois Department of Natural Resources:

SPRINGFIELD, IL – With the busy spring and summer camping seasons approaching, Illinois residents and visitors can make reservations now for campsites, cabins, group campsites and shelters at many Illinois state parks by using the online Reserve America reservation system at www.reserveamerica.com.

“For a weekend getaway or an extended stay at a beautiful Illinois campground, the online reservation system is the most convenient way for visitors to our state parks, fish and wildlife and state recreation areas to ensure their campsite is waiting for them when they arrive,” said IDNR Director Marc Miller.

Reserving campsites and shelters through Reserve America’s website allows users to receive instant confirmation of their reservations at IDNR sites.  The IDNR no longer accepts camping and shelter reservations through the mail or over the phone.

The online reservation system for regular campsites and group campsites requires a $5 non-refundable reservation fee and payment of the full camping and utility fees at the time the reservation is made. MasterCard and Visa may be used to make those reservations. Camping fee information for IDNR sites is available at this link through the IDNR website.

Payment of the entire camping and utility fee amount will guarantee that the reservation will be held for the entire length of the stay. Shelter reservation fees are $25.

Campsites can be reserved for a maximum of 14 nights per 30-day period and reservations must be made at least seven days (three days at some facilities) before the campsite is needed. Reservations for some holiday weekends may require a two- or three-night minimum stay reservation, depending on the facility.

Campsite reservations through the online system are available at 67 of Illinois’ state parks and other sites managed by the IDNR.  Shelter reservations are available at 51 sites.  Campsites that are not subject to reservation at IDNR sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The IDNR is also recruiting campground hosts for some sites.  For more information on the campground host program, phone 217/785-8129 or use this link.