Kankakee Times

State Rep. Jackie Haas (D-Kankakee) encouraged residents to explore Illinois' state parks and campgrounds.

Haas promoted the sites in a Facebook post.

"Did you know Illinois is home to a variety of amazing campgrounds and state parks?" she said. "If you're planning to explore the great outdoors this summer, you can find parks, activities, and camping spots across the state at camp.exploremoreil.com."

Illinois Beach State Park offers premium campgrounds. | Illinois Department of Natural Resources/Facebook

People can search for camping facilities at the website that Haas recommended. Parks and campgrounds are listed in the database.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources explained what sites are considered premium campgrounds on the Illinois government website. A premium campground is "a designated camping facility that has a preponderant history of consistently operating at capacity." Premium campground sites include Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park, Chain O'Lakes State Park, Kankakee River State Park, Rock Cut State Park, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, and Starved Rock State Park.

Officials also explained the duration of the camping season.

Throughout Illinois, camping season typically runs year-round, depending on the weather. Spring and summer camping is from May 1 through Sept. 30, and fall and winter camping lasts from Oct. 1 through April 30, according to the website. "As long as buildings, water, and electrical service are available, regardless of the date, the regular camping fee will appy. When cold weather requires closing down buildings and shutting off water off in Class AA, A, A-P, B/S, or B/S-P campgrounds, the fee shall be reduced commensurate with the services and facilities available for use."

Guests are encouraged to call prior to their visit for information on amenities. 

The Illinois Times recently published a report detailing locations that offer primitive campsites as well as other amenities.