Illinois Camping
Illinois was a new camping state for us. Previously, we visited Chicago, but were not camping. So, we camped five nights at three different campgrounds: one was a state park and the other two were private.
The pandemic was definitely a concern, but we considered the risk and had planned ways to reduce our chance in infection, Travel Amid Covid19 for At-Risk Campers. Covid-19 greatly hampered our ability to do what we most love—taking in the local sights and experiencing local cuisine. However, we still managed to do a few things that were high on our priority list.
Eldon Hazlet State Park
Our first Illinois camping site was in Carlyle. The park was lovely with large sites and lots of shade. Unfortunately, we had one of the few that were in full sun and it was during a heat wave. Setting up our camper in that blistering heat was most unpleasant. We were drenched in sweat in no time.
Our site was very large though, with a shady backyard on the lake. Carlyle Lake is an enormous reservoir which covers 25,000 acres. Carlyle is the largest lake in Illinois and the largest lake located solely in one state. If fishing or boating is your thing, this campground is for you.
We were at Hazlet for two nights and pretty much stayed in the campground. I saw a groundhog for the first time in the wild. There were all over the campground, but they are shy creatures who would not let you get too close. I thought they were kinda cute!
Nearby Eldon Hazlet State Park
We drove to a nearby beach on the lake, but did not go swimming. I did, however, dip my toes in the water.
After the beach, we drove into nearby Carlyle, a very small town. The town was cute, but pretty much shut down. We got ice cream through the drive through at the local Dairy Queen.
Our camping experience at Hazlet was good overall. Our neighbors on one side were very nice and friendly, but on a Friday night we had very noisy neighbors on the other side that were up till wee hours in the morning. I had to restrain my husband from going to talk to them. You never know what kind a person you might encounter. We wore masks the few times we were briefly indoors and practiced social distancing. I feel we were safe.
The Land of Lincoln
We seek Presidential Libraries in our travels and were very happy that the Lincoln Library was open. For that reason, camping near Springfield was a must.
Illinois Camping at Double J Campground
Our favorite Illinois campground was Double J Campground in Chatham, which is about ten miles south of Springfield. Full hookups with lots of shade trees was nice. Immaculate bathhouses, large pool, well-appointed laundry, and Route 66-themed carpet golf sealed the deal. We loved this campground!
We had an afternoon free to enjoy the pool. Though we kept our distance, we had some nice interactions with some Illinois residents. They were very friendly.
After the pool, we took the opportunity to do a little laundry. So, we were ready to spend the next day in Springfield.
Lincoln Presidential Library
Abraham Lincoln’s life and presidency is probably the best known of all American presidents. It is certainly true for me. Because of this, there were fewer new insights at this library than there would be in one where I did not know very much about the president. I did feel a great sense of sorrow for all he went through and gratitude for what he accomplished.
There were multiple wax figures and portraits and a couple of shows.
The Lincoln Home
The Lincoln home was where he lived for seventeen years while he practiced law. It was where his children were born. I suspect he was very happy during those years. Many of the homes of his neighbors are still standing on the street, which is closed to traffic. There is information provided about his neighbors and their relationships to the Lincolns.
Sadly, the home was not open for tours because of the pandemic. I would have loved to tour it. Hopefully, we will have an opportunity to take the tour one day.
Illinois Camping at Blackhawk Valley Campground
Blackhawk Valley Campground was a one night stopover to break up the miles to our next stop. It was a pleasant campground with full hookups, but no pool.
There is a river and a tiny little beach area.
Meals in Illinois
Most of our meals were in our camper, which is not our norm. We did not eat inside any restaurant, but we did have a couple of meals where they offered outside dining. Our first meal was in Camden at a strip mall. It was hot outside, but still nice to not have to cook. Service was excellent, but we were not crazy about the food.
Our second and favorite meal was at Obed & Issac’s. It is located in the house below and we were able to snag a table on the front porch. There were only two other people on the porch and they were at least twelve feet away.
I had chicken and waffles and my husband had an omelet. The food was very good and the service was excellent. We were grateful to have been able to have this dining experience, given the circumstances.
Illinois Camping Conclusion
Overall, Illinois camping was good for us and the people were friendly and accommodating. I mourn some of the things we were unable to see and do, but am grateful for this opportunity to visit this state and travel with my sweet husband.
