Camper Chris, Mount Carroll, IL

For many residents of Illinois, the call of the great outdoors is a powerful draw. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat under the stars, an adventurous weekend with the family, or a lively community experience, Illinois offers a diverse range of camping opportunities. In the scenic setting of Mt. Carroll, a hidden gem awaits those looking to immerse themselves in nature with all the comforts of a modern resort: Camper Chris, now widely known as Timber Lake Resort. This expansive campground has been a cherished destination for vacationers from across the Midwest for decades, offering a renewed spirit of hospitality and a wealth of amenities.

As an Illinois local, you understand the value of a convenient getaway that doesn't compromise on quality or activities. Timber Lake Resort, encompassing 159 acres in historic Mount Carroll, is designed to provide just that. It's a place where you can unwind by the lake, enjoy live entertainment, or embark on a hiking adventure, all within the beautiful landscapes of northwestern Illinois. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to Timber Lake Resort, detailing its prime location, the extensive services it offers, its standout features, and why it's an ideal choice for your next outdoor escape. Our aim is to provide factual and engaging insights to help you plan an unforgettable camping experience right here in your home state.

We'll explore everything from the various types of campsites and cabins available to the array of recreational activities and on-site conveniences, ensuring you have a complete picture of what makes Timber Lake Resort a premier camping destination for Illinois residents.

Location and Accessibility

Camper Chris, officially known as Timber Lake Resort and Campground, is located at 16017 IL-78, Mt. Carroll, IL 61053, USA. More specifically, the main resort address is often listed as 8216 Black Oak Rd., Mount Carroll, IL 61053. This prime location places it within the historic and picturesque town of Mount Carroll in northwestern Illinois. The region is characterized by rolling hills, wooded areas, and proximity to the Mississippi River, offering a serene backdrop for outdoor recreation.

For residents across Illinois, particularly those in the northern and central parts of the state, Timber Lake Resort offers excellent accessibility. It's conveniently located a manageable drive from major population centers: approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes from Rockford, 1 hour and 10 minutes from Davenport, and 1 hour and 11 minutes from Dubuque, Iowa. This makes it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations, as the travel time is reasonable and the journey itself offers scenic views of rural Illinois.

The location on IL-78 (or near Black Oak Road) ensures straightforward access from major highways, minimizing travel complexity. While nestled in a natural setting, the campground is still within a short drive of Mount Carroll, allowing campers to easily access local shops, restaurants, and historical sites should they need supplies or wish to explore the charming town. This blend of natural immersion and local convenience makes Timber Lake Resort a highly practical and appealing choice for Illinois campers.

Services Offered

Diverse Campsites: Timber Lake Resort offers a variety of camping options to suit every preference. These include basic tent sites (primitive with no hookups or with electric), RV sites with electric and water hookups, and premium RV sites with electric, water, and sewer hookups. Some sites also offer cable TV and 50-amp service.
Cabin Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, the resort provides rustic camping cabins (with no plumbing), and deluxe log cabin rentals, including Loft Cabins and 2-bedroom cabins.
Modern Facilities: The campground is equipped with two shower houses that are praised for their cleanliness, restrooms, and laundry facilities for registered guests.
On-site Store: A convenient camp store is available for purchasing essentials like firewood, ice, and other camping supplies.
Food Concessions: There is a food concession area on-site, providing easy access to meals and snacks.
Dump Station: A dump station is available for RV and trailer campers.
Golf Cart Rental: Golf cart rentals are available for navigating the expansive resort.
Free Wireless Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available at some sites, allowing campers to stay connected if desired.
Reservations: Campsites and cabins can be reserved online or by phone.
Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed at campsites (limit of 2 dogs per campsite), provided they are quiet, gentle, on a leash at all times, and owners clean up after them. Prior approval is needed for all pets. Pets are not allowed in buildings, common areas (playgrounds, beaches).

Features / Highlights

Timber Lake: The resort is centered around an 11-acre fishing lake, offering opportunities for fishing (registered guests only) and pedal boating. Note: swimming is not allowed in the lake.
Large Swimming Pool: A beautiful 60x30 foot swimming pool provides a refreshing option for guests, complemented by a margarita bar by the pool for adult relaxation.
Live Entertainment & Outdoor Stage: A significant highlight is the outdoor covered stage and entertainment area, which hosts live music and events, particularly on weekends. Guests rave about the vibrant atmosphere created by these performances.
Timber Lake Playhouse: Illinois' oldest professional summer stock theatre is located right next door to the resort, within easy walking distance. This offers a unique cultural experience for campers.
Recreation Hall & Activities: A recreation hall is available, along with various outdoor activities including a playground, basketball court, sand volleyball, horseshoes, and a bags area with weekly tournaments.
Hiking Trails: The resort features designated hiking trails for guests to explore the natural beauty of the 159-acre property.
Spacious & Well-Maintained Sites: Many RV sites are described as large, concrete, and level, with concrete patios. The campground is generally noted for being well-maintained and clean.
Friendly Atmosphere: Reviews frequently highlight the friendly staff and a generally welcoming environment, contributing to a pleasant stay.
Diverse Accommodation Options: The availability of tent sites, various RV hookup options, and both rustic and deluxe cabin rentals ensures that a wide range of camping preferences can be accommodated.

Promotions or Special Offers

Timber Lake Resort, also known as Camper Chris, offers various pricing tiers based on the type of site or cabin and the time of year (e.g., April, May-Oct, June-Aug, and holidays). While specific "promotions" in the form of discounts beyond standard rates are not always explicitly listed, the campground does provide certain value-added options and group rates.

Good Sam Discounts: Good Sam Club members can often receive a 10% discount on their camping rates with a valid membership.
Group Rates: Special group rates are available, typically calculated as $8 per person or a site charge, whichever is lower, primarily for organized non-profit groups such as church, Boy Scout, or Girl Scout groups.
Longer Stay Discounts: The pricing structure includes daily, weekly, and monthly rates for various hook-up sites and cabins, with weekly and monthly rates offering a better value per night for extended stays. For example, full hook-up sites are around $59/daily, $340/weekly, and $1,360/monthly (as of 2025 rates).
Package Deals: While not explicitly stated, some resorts that host summer stock theatre or live entertainment might offer package deals that combine camping with show tickets. It is worth inquiring about this directly.

It is highly recommended to visit the official Timber Lake Resort website or contact them directly to inquire about the most current rates, specific availability for your desired dates, and any potential seasonal specials or packages that may not be broadly advertised. Reservations typically require the full amount for RV and tent sites at the time of booking, with a one-night deposit for cabins, and a 2-night minimum on weekends (3 nights on holidays) between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Contact Information

For more information, to inquire about availability, or to make reservations for your next camping trip at Camper Chris / Timber Lake Resort, please use the following contact details:

Address: 16017 IL-78, Mt. Carroll, IL 61053, USA (also listed as 8216 Black Oak Rd., Mount Carroll, IL 61053)

Phone: (815) 244-1600 or (800) 485-0145 (The initial provided phone number (800) 350-2239 appears to be an older or alternative contact, while the resort's direct contact numbers are often listed as 815-244-1600 or a toll-free number of 800-485-0145.)

Email: info@timberlakeresort.com (from the official website)

Website: For online reservations and the most up-to-date information, visiting the official Timber Lake Resort website is recommended.

It is always best to contact the resort directly during their business hours to ensure you receive the most accurate information regarding rates, site availability, specific amenities, and any rules or guidelines that might impact your stay.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Illinois, Camper Chris, now officially known as Timber Lake Resort, stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Its prime location in Mt. Carroll, within a picturesque part of northwestern Illinois, offers a convenient escape from urban life without requiring extensive travel. This accessibility makes it ideal for Illinois families and individuals seeking weekend getaways or longer vacations within their home state.

The resort's suitability for locals is profoundly enhanced by its diverse offerings. Whether you own an RV, prefer tent camping, or desire the comfort of a cabin, Timber Lake Resort has an option to fit your style. The extensive list of amenities—including a large swimming pool, a well-stocked fishing lake, clean shower houses, and on-site laundry—ensures that even the most comfort-oriented campers will feel at home. Furthermore, the unique blend of outdoor recreation with cultural entertainment, such as the live music on the outdoor stage and the adjacent Timber Lake Playhouse, provides an experience that goes beyond traditional camping, offering something for every interest.

The positive reviews highlighting the resort as "Wonderfully Serene, Quiet, and Shady," a "Great hidden gem," and a "Great Place...Lots of fun" underscore its ability to deliver a satisfying and enjoyable experience. For Illinois locals, this means a reliable and enriching destination to reconnect with nature, create lasting family memories, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere right in their backyard. Timber Lake Resort is more than just a campground; it’s a full-fledged recreational hub that truly leverages the natural beauty and hospitality of Illinois.