Camp Kickapoo

For us Illinoisans, when the urge to escape the urban hustle and immerse ourselves in nature strikes, a place that offers both serene beauty and a plethora of activities is truly invaluable. Camp Kickapoo, nestled within the expansive Kickapoo State Recreation Area in Summit Township, is precisely that kind of destination. This isn't just a campground; it's an outdoor playground designed to cater to every kind of adventurer, from the avid angler and the seasoned hiker to families seeking a refreshing break in the heart of our beautiful state.

Kickapoo State Recreation Area, where Camp Kickapoo is located, is a remarkable testament to nature's regenerative power. Once a turn-of-the-century surface mining operation, its 2,842 acres have been reclaimed by lush forests and transformed into a vibrant ecosystem. The area boasts 22 deep-water ponds and the scenic Middle Fork of the Vermilion River, Illinois' only National Scenic River. This unique landscape provides a stunning backdrop for a wide array of recreational pursuits, making it a truly special place for Illinois residents to explore.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to set up your tent, a convenient hookup for your RV, or an action-packed day of outdoor sports, Camp Kickapoo and the surrounding recreation area have something to offer. It’s a destination that perfectly blends the tranquility of nature with opportunities for exhilarating activities, ensuring that your Illinois outdoor experience is both rejuvenating and memorable. The commitment to providing diverse amenities and maintaining a beautiful environment makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to make the most of our state's natural treasures.

Camp Kickapoo is located within the Kickapoo State Recreation Area, which is situated near Danville in Vermilion County, Illinois. While the provided address states "Summit Township, IL 62401, USA," it's important to note that Summit Township is part of Effingham County. However, official Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) information clearly places Kickapoo State Recreation Area near Danville in Vermilion County, easily accessible via I-74. This park spans 2,842 acres (or 3,971 acres depending on the source), offering ample space for its diverse activities.

For residents across Illinois, Kickapoo State Recreation Area is conveniently accessible. Located directly off Interstate 74, it’s about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Chicago and within reasonable driving distance from other major Illinois cities like Springfield, Peoria, and Champaign. Detailed directions often involve taking Exit 210 from I-74W, then following local roads like N Oakwood St (which becomes Newtown Rd) and Glenburn Creek Rd to the park and campground entrance. This excellent road connectivity makes it an ideal spot for both short weekend getaways and longer vacations for Illinois families. The accessible location means less time traveling and more time enjoying the numerous recreational opportunities available within the park.

Camp Kickapoo, as part of the Kickapoo State Recreation Area, offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed for diverse camping and outdoor activities:

• Varied Camping Sites: The park features two major campgrounds with a total of 184 sites suitable for both tent and trailer camping.
• Electrical Hookups: Sites 1-101 offer electrical hookups, with both 30 and 50 amp service available on selected sites. Campers on electrical sites are required to pay for electricity, even if not used.
• Centralized Water Spigots: Water is available throughout the campground via central spigots, though these may be turned off during freezing temperatures.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available for RV campers' convenience.
• Two Shower Buildings: Providing access to clean showering facilities, with one building remaining open year-round for camper access.
• Concession Stand: A seasonal concession stand (Kickapoo Adventures) offers canoe, kayak, tube, and paddleboard rentals, as well as bait, ice, firewood, and a bar & grill with food and refreshments during peak summer months and on weekends in spring/fall.
• Online Reservations: Campsite reservations for the main campground are available online via ExploreMoreIL™ from May 1st to October 31st. Any camping outside this timeframe is on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Group Campsites and Shelter Reservations: The park also accommodates group camping and offers six day-use picnic areas with reservable shelters.
• Campground Host: On-site campground hosts are typically available to assist campers and ensure compliance with park rules.
• Rules and Regulations: Clear rules are in place regarding alcohol (not allowed in campground), pets (on leash), number of camping units/vehicles per site, quiet hours (10 PM to 7 AM), and check-in/check-out times.

Camp Kickapoo and the surrounding Kickapoo State Recreation Area are rich with features and highlights that make it an exceptional outdoor destination in Illinois:

• Abundant Water Recreation: With 22 deep-water ponds (totaling 221 acres) and the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River, the park is a paradise for water activities. This includes excellent fishing (for bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and seasonal rainbow trout stocking), boating (electric motors only on lakes), canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Canoe and shuttle services are available.
• Unique Scuba Diving Opportunities: Kickapoo is one of only a few state parks in Illinois that allows scuba diving, with popular spots in Inland Sea and Sportsman's Lake for certified divers.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts nearly 35 miles of trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking, catering to all skill levels from leisurely walks to challenging technical treks like the 7.6-mile "Out and Back" trail and the "Heaven and Hell Trail" for mountain bikers.
• Diverse Ecosystem: The reclaimed strip-mined land has transformed into a lush landscape of cottonwood, haw, ash, wild cherry, oaks, hickories, and more, providing habitat for white-tailed deer, raccoons, various birds (over 100 species documented), and a vibrant display of wildflowers in spring.
• Concession with Rentals: The on-site Kickapoo Adventures concession simplifies outdoor fun by offering rentals for canoes, kayaks, tubes, paddleboards, and even bicycles, along with a convenient bar & grill.
• Year-Round Access: While reservations for the main campground are seasonal, one shower building remains open year-round, allowing for off-season camping.
• Picnicking Areas: Six day-use areas equipped with tables, grills, and water, with some including playgrounds, are perfect for picnics and day trips.
• Natural Beauty and Fall Colors: The diverse mix of hardwood species ensures a "firestorm of fall color" each autumn, and spring brings an explosion of wildflowers.

For reservations, detailed inquiries about site availability, specific amenities, or information on activities at Camp Kickapoo within Kickapoo State Recreation Area, please use the following contact information:

Address: Kickapoo State Recreation Area, 10906 Kickapoo Park Rd, Oakwood, IL 61858, USA (Note: While Summit Township, IL 62401, USA was provided, the official address for the State Recreation Area is in Oakwood, IL.)

Phone: (217) 442-4915 (Kickapoo State Park Office)

For online reservations for campsites and shelters, you can visit the ExploreMoreIL™ website. For information on rentals and the on-site bar & grill, you can contact Kickapoo Adventures, typically at a different phone number (e.g., 217-446-8399).

It is highly recommended to check the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources website or call the park office directly for the most current rules, seasonal operating hours, specific campsite details, and any updates regarding trail closures or hunting seasons.

For us Illinoisans, Camp Kickapoo, as an integral part of the Kickapoo State Recreation Area, represents an unparalleled opportunity for outdoor adventure and relaxation right in our own backyard. Its remarkable transformation from a mining site into a vibrant natural haven speaks volumes about the beauty and resilience of our state's landscapes.

The sheer variety of activities available makes it exceptionally suitable for every type of local. Whether you're an avid angler keen on catching bass or trout in one of the 22 clear ponds, a paddler eager to canoe Illinois' only National Scenic River, a hiker or mountain biker ready to tackle miles of diverse trails, or even a certified scuba diver seeking unique underwater experiences, Kickapoo has it all. This diverse offering means families with varied interests can find something for everyone, ensuring a fulfilling and active getaway.

The convenience of modern amenities like electrical hookups, clean shower buildings (one open year-round!), and a sanitary dump station ensures a comfortable camping experience, whether you're in a tent or an RV. The on-site concession stand providing rentals for various watercraft and bikes, along with food and drinks, adds a layer of ease, reducing the need to pack everything from home.

Moreover, its strategic location off I-74 makes it highly accessible from major Illinois cities, meaning less time driving and more time enjoying the great outdoors. This combination of extensive recreational opportunities, comfortable facilities, and easy access truly positions Camp Kickapoo as a premier destination for Illinois residents seeking an authentic and action-packed outdoor escape. It's a testament to the fact that some of the most exciting and serene adventures can be found right here in the heart of Illinois.