Atkinson Motorsports Park

For Illinois residents passionate about off-road adventures and seeking a convenient place to stay, Atkinson Motorsports Park offers a unique blend of thrill and relaxation. Located in Atkinson, this expansive park, often referred to as "Gob Hill," provides over 200 acres of diverse terrain specifically designed for side-by-sides (SXS), ATVs, and dirt bikes. It's more than just a riding park; it features a dedicated campground, making it a complete destination for motorsports enthusiasts and their families. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Atkinson Motorsports Park, highlighting its off-road offerings, camping facilities, and why it's a suitable and exciting choice for locals across Illinois.

Illinois, known for its diverse landscapes, provides surprising opportunities for off-road recreation. Atkinson Motorsports Park stands out by transforming a former coal processing facility into an adrenaline-filled playground. The park's terrain includes everything from tight, scenic wooded trails to open desert-like riding areas, ensuring a challenge and enjoyment for riders of all skill levels. This variety is a key draw for many Illinoisans who are looking for diverse riding experiences close to home. The park's commitment to providing a space for off-road vehicles (OHV) is evident in its well-designed trail system, including hill climbs, mud bogs, and twisting wooded paths.

Beyond the exhilarating riding, Atkinson Motorsports Park also understands the needs of its visitors who want to extend their stay. The on-site campground offers a practical solution, allowing riders to make a full weekend out of their adventure. While some aspects, such as water quality and proximity to a train track, are noted in reviews, the overall value and convenience of having a campground directly connected to the riding park are significant benefits. For Illinois residents eager to combine their love for motorsports with the comforts of camping, Atkinson Motorsports Park provides an integrated experience that caters directly to their passion.

Atkinson Motorsports Park is conveniently located at 23354 US-6, Atkinson, IL 61235, USA. This strategic position in Atkinson, Illinois, makes it highly accessible for off-road enthusiasts from across the state and the broader Midwest region. Being situated directly on US-6 ensures straightforward navigation and easy access for vehicles towing large trailers and recreational vehicles (RVs). The park's close proximity to Interstate 80 (I-80) further enhances its accessibility, allowing for efficient travel from major Illinois cities and surrounding states.

Atkinson is a rural community in Henry County, offering a peaceful backdrop for the motorsports park. While the park itself is the main draw, its location provides a sense of escape from urban hustle. For those interested in local amenities, the town of Atkinson offers basic services. Furthermore, the park is conveniently located directly across the street from Shabbona Creek RV, one of the Midwest's largest RV dealers, which could be a significant advantage for RV owners needing supplies or service. Despite the presence of a train track running along the campground (as noted in some reviews), the overall convenience of access to the riding trails from the campground itself is a major benefit, allowing visitors to maximize their time on the trails without extensive commutes. This blend of remote adventure and practical accessibility makes Atkinson Motorsports Park a prime choice for Illinois off-roaders.

Atkinson Motorsports Park offers a range of services designed to enhance the experience for both riders and campers:

• Off-Road Park Access: Provides over 200 acres of trails for ATVs, UTVs (SXS), and dirt bikes, featuring diverse terrain including wooded trails, mud bogs, hill climbs, and open riding areas.
• Dedicated Campground: A 28-site campground is available for overnight stays, accommodating a variety of setups.
• RV Sites: Sites are available with electric and water hookups, with some offering full hookups (electric, water, and sewer). These sites can comfortably accommodate large motorhomes up to 40 feet or more.
• Primitive Camping: Primitive tent camping is available in the day parking area for a more rustic experience.
• Shower House: A state-of-the-art shower house with 6 private rooms, each equipped with a shower, toilet, sink, and hooks, ensuring privacy and comfort.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is located at the east end of the campground for RV waste disposal.
• Self-Service Check-in: On weekdays or when the office is closed, visitors can sign a waiver and deposit their fees in a designated slot, offering flexibility for arrival.
• Motorcross Tracks: The park features a motocross track and a children's track, catering to different skill levels and ages of riders.
• Public Use Area: A designated area with a fire pit for social gatherings, providing a space for campers to interact and share stories.
• Basic Amenities: While not an extensive store, there are basic amenities available to support daily operations.

Atkinson Motorsports Park boasts several features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for off-road enthusiasts and campers in Illinois:

• Extensive Off-Road Trails: Over 200 acres of diverse riding terrain, including wooded trails that are tight and scenic, open "desert-like" areas, mud bogs, and hill climbs, catering to various riding styles and skill levels for SXS, ATVs, and dirt bikes.
• On-Site Campground: A significant convenience for riders, allowing for multi-day adventures without the need to travel off-site for accommodation.
• Full Hookup RV Sites: Availability of sites with 30 & 50 amp electric, water, and sewer hookups for maximum comfort, capable of accommodating large motorhomes.
• Private Shower Rooms: The shower house design offers individual rooms with a shower, toilet, and sink, providing enhanced privacy compared to communal facilities.
• Family-Friendly Riding Areas: Includes a dedicated children's track, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for younger riders.
• "Gob Hill" Terrain: The unique landscape, a former coal processing facility, has created a distinct and challenging riding environment with hills, valleys, and lakes.
• Convenient Payment System: The option to pay by Venmo, check, or cash, even after hours, offers flexibility for arrivals.
• Affordable Day Use and Camping: $20 per person for daily riding and competitive camping rates ($34 for full hookup, $26 for electric/water, $20 for primitive) make it an accessible option.
• Perimeter Road: A 4+ mile perimeter road offers a more conservative riding option with scenic vistas.
• Required Safety Measures: Enforcement of helmet use for riders ensures a safer environment.

Atkinson Motorsports Park maintains a clear and competitive pricing structure for its riding and camping facilities, rather than constantly advertising flash promotions. Based on available public data, visitors can expect the following rates and considerations:

• Daily Riding Fee: $20 per adult rider, with children under 10 at $10.
• Camping Rates:
  • Electric, water & sewer (sites 1-14): $34 per night.
  • Electric and water (sites 15-28): $26 per night.
  • Primitive (in day parking area): $20 per night.
• Guest Fee: Sites are for 5 people; an extra person fee of $5 applies.
• Illinois DNR Sticker Requirement: All machines must display a current Illinois DNR OHV sticker ($11 for Illinois residents, $18 for out-of-state residents), which can be purchased at the gate.
• Weekly/Monthly Rates: While not explicitly listed, it is common for campgrounds to offer discounted rates for extended stays. It is advisable to inquire directly.

To confirm the most current pricing and any specific seasonal offers, it is highly recommended to contact Atkinson Motorsports Park directly. While the office hours may vary (with a self-service waiver and payment slot available when the office is closed), a direct phone call can provide the most up-to-date information regarding any potential specials or event-related packages that might be available for your visit.

To plan your adventure or inquire further about Atkinson Motorsports Park, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 23354 US-6, Atkinson, IL 61235, USA

Phone: (309) 502-1053

Mobile Phone: +1 309-502-1053

For specific questions regarding trail conditions, camping availability, current rates, or event schedules, direct contact by phone is highly recommended. While the park does offer a self-service waiver and payment system for daily use when the office is closed, speaking with staff can provide valuable insights, especially if you have particular needs or are planning a large group visit. It is also advisable to "Call before you haul" to check for any temporary closures due to weather or park events, as noted on their website.

For Illinois residents seeking an accessible and thrilling outdoor experience, Atkinson Motorsports Park offers a compelling package. Its extensive 200+ acres of diverse off-road trails cater to all levels of SXS, ATV, and dirt bike riders, from the challenging wooded paths to the open terrain, ensuring that every visit brings new excitement. The convenience of an on-site campground with full hookup RV sites means that the adventure doesn't have to end at dusk; visitors can easily make a weekend or longer stay out of their trip, maximizing their time on the trails.

While some aspects, such as the distinct smell of the water and the occasional train noise, are noted in reviews, the benefits of the park, particularly its affordable pricing and the ability to ride and camp in one location, often outweigh these minor inconveniences for many. The private shower rooms and the general emptiness of the campground during off-peak times add to the comfort and sense of space. For Illinois locals passionate about motorsports, Atkinson Motorsports Park provides a unique and well-equipped destination where they can pursue their hobby, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with a community of fellow enthusiasts, all within a convenient drive from home.