The Illinois Campground Association (ICA) has expanded its annual camping guide and confirmed a new board of directors for 2025.
The 2025 edition of the Illinois camping guide has doubled in size to 32 pages, incorporating additional editorial content and detailed information on campgrounds.
According to ICA Executive Director Don Bennett, Jr., the guide’s theme, “Hit the Road…Adventure Awaits!” highlights the state’s seven scenic byways and attractions along the routes.
“Next year in 2026, the iconic Route 66 scenic byway, which originates in Chicago, will celebrate its 100th anniversary. We wanted to let readers know about that milestone so they can plan to come back again in 2026, as well as highlight all seven scenic byways in our state and the camping and attractions along the way,” Bennett added.
The guide includes map locators, detailed campground descriptions, and contact information for 48 member campgrounds and RV parks.
ICA produced 30,000 copies, distributing them at Illinois highway rest areas, RV dealerships, member campgrounds, consumer shows, and other public venues. For the first time, the public can request a free printed copy or access a digital version online at www.illinoisgocamping.com. Bulk distribution requests can be made by contacting the ICA office.
During ICA’s annual meeting in December 2024, a new board of directors was confirmed for the upcoming year. The 2025 board includes President Jamie Rogers of Mendota Hills Campground, Vice President Kate Tuxhorn of Country Bend Campgrounds, Secretary Jeff Bladdick of I-55 RV Park, Treasurer Nanette Gillan of Green River Oaks Camping Resort, Member Liaison Randy Greenman II of Double J Campground, and Past President BJ Davis of Rustic Acres Jellystone Park.
In January, ICA welcomed two new campgrounds to its membership. Crystal Lake RV Park in Rock Falls, Illinois, located two miles off Interstate 88, operates year-round with sites designed for large RVs.
Evening Star Camping Resort in Topeka, Illinois, also offers tent sites, full hookups, cabins, and amenities such as a swimming pool, mini-golf, fishing pond, and playground.
February 2025 marks one year since ICA contracted with Bennett and his team to oversee daily operations. According to Bennett, the staff and board have worked to engage current and prospective members while strengthening connections with industry suppliers.
“Our goal has been to maintain value in the association and increase our membership through our member engagement, marketing outreach, advocacy activities, and expanding member benefits and services,” said Bennett. “This association has a very active and hardworking board of directors that is doing a great service for the outdoor hospitality industry in Illinois.”
Featured image by Illinois Campground Association
