Great Falls Campground

For Illinois residents seeking an authentic and enjoyable camping experience, Great Falls Campground, nestled within the picturesque Illini State Park in Marseilles, offers an ideal escape. This campground provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, relax by the Illinois River, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Unlike some more rustic options, Great Falls Campground is known for its well-maintained facilities and a range of amenities that enhance the comfort and convenience of your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a traditional tent camper, or looking for a comfortable cabin stay, Great Falls Campground aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Illini State Park, a 510-acre natural oasis, serves as the perfect backdrop for Great Falls Campground. The park's diverse landscape, combined with its historical significance along the Illinois River and the Illinois and Michigan Canal, offers more than just a place to pitch a tent. It's a destination where you can observe fascinating river traffic, explore trails, and connect with the rich natural and historical heritage of Illinois. The positive feedback from previous campers, particularly regarding the clean showers and the enjoyment children find in watching the barges pass by, speaks volumes about the quality of the experience offered here. Great Falls Campground truly embodies the spirit of accessible and enjoyable outdoor recreation for locals across the state.

Great Falls Campground is located at 2660 East 2350th Rd, Marseilles, IL 61341, USA, placing it within Illini State Park. This strategic location offers excellent accessibility for campers traveling from various parts of Illinois. For those coming from the Chicago metropolitan area, the park is easily reachable by taking I-55 South to I-80 West, then exiting at Marseilles. From the exit, a short drive south on LaSalle County Highway 15, across the Illinois River Bridge, will lead directly to the park entrance on your left.

If you're traveling from the Bloomington/Normal area, you can take Route 39 North to I-80 East, and then follow the same directions from the Marseilles Exit. The campground's well-marked entrance within the state park ensures a smooth arrival, allowing you to quickly settle into your campsite and begin your relaxation. Its position along the Illinois River not only provides scenic views but also offers unique opportunities to observe river navigation and enjoy waterside activities, all within convenient reach for Illinois residents seeking a local getaway.

Great Falls Campground, as part of Illini State Park, provides a range of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: Many sites within the Great Falls loop offer 20, 30, and 50-amp electric hookups, suitable for RVs and trailers. This allows campers to power their essential appliances and devices.
• Non-Electric Sites: For those who prefer a more rustic tent camping experience, non-electric sites are also available.
• Clean Shower Facilities with Flush Toilets: A highly praised feature by many campers, the shower building provides clean and well-maintained flush toilets and hot showers, a welcome amenity after a day of outdoor activities. These facilities are typically open seasonally (May 1st to November 1st).
• Sanitary Dump Station: An on-site dump station is available for RV and trailer campers, providing a convenient way to empty waste tanks.
• Water Hydrants: Water spigots are conveniently spaced throughout the campground loops for easy access to potable water.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Reservations: Campsite reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance through the ExploreMoreIL™ online reservation system, allowing campers to secure their preferred dates.
• On-Site Concession/Camp Store: A camp store is often available within the park, offering essentials like firewood, ice, and snacks, though specific hours and offerings may vary seasonally.
• Accessibility: Designated ADA accessible campsites are available, and the park strives to ensure accessibility to restrooms and other facilities.

Illini State Park, and by extension Great Falls Campground, offers a wealth of features and highlights that enhance the camping experience for visitors of all ages:

• Illinois River Views and Barge Watching: A major highlight for many campers, several sites offer outstanding views of the Illinois River. Watching large barges and recreational boats pass through the Marseilles Locks is a unique and engaging experience for both children and adults.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are found throughout the park, providing safe and fun areas for children to play and burn off energy.
• Extensive Green Spaces: The campground is characterized by its treed and grassy areas, offering a pleasant natural environment and a sense of open space around campsites.
• Hiking and Walking Opportunities: While specific trail mileage is not always detailed, Illini State Park provides natural areas and pathways suitable for walking and light hiking, allowing campers to explore the park's diverse ecosystem.
• Fishing Access: The park's location along the Illinois River offers excellent opportunities for fishing, a popular activity for many campers.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Numerous day-use picnic areas and shelters (some with fireplaces) are scattered throughout the park, ideal for day visitors or group gatherings.
• Proximity to Marseilles: The quaint town of Marseilles is just a short drive away, providing easy access to groceries, supplies, and dining options if needed.
• Winter Sports: During the colder months, the park transforms, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice skating on the frozen lakes (weather permitting).

As Great Falls Campground is part of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) state park system, specific "promotions or special offers" in a commercial sense are not typically advertised. However, state park camping is generally designed to be highly affordable, offering significant value for money.

• Affordable Nightly Rates: The camping fees at Great Falls Campground are often very reasonable, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious families and individuals seeking an outdoor getaway. Prices vary depending on the site type (electric/non-electric) and season (peak vs. off-peak).
• Online Reservation System: The ExploreMoreIL™ reservation system allows campers to book sites up to 180 days in advance. While a non-refundable transaction fee applies, this ensures your spot and avoids disappointment upon arrival.
• Seasonal Pricing: During the off-season, typically November 1st to April 30th, walk-in rates can be significantly cheaper, offering a great value for those who enjoy cooler weather camping.

For the most accurate and current information on fees and any specific policies, it's always best to check the official ExploreMoreIL™ website or contact the park directly.

For reservations, inquiries, or to obtain more information about Great Falls Campground and Illini State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 2660 East 2350th Rd, Marseilles, IL 61341, USA (This is the main address for Illini State Park, which includes Great Falls Campground).
• Park Phone: (815) 795-2448
• Primary Contact Email: DNR.Illini@illinois.gov
• Website for Reservations: camp.exploremoreil.com (Search for Illini State Park)

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for weekends and peak season dates, as popular sites can fill up quickly. Always confirm check-in and check-out times and specific rules for your campsite.

Great Falls Campground at Illini State Park is an excellent choice for locals in Illinois looking for a convenient, enjoyable, and well-equipped camping experience. Its primary appeal lies in its combination of beautiful natural surroundings, practical amenities, and easy accessibility. For families, the positive reviews highlighting clean showers, engaging barge viewing, and playgrounds confirm it as a family-friendly destination where kids can thrive in an outdoor setting. The presence of electric hookups caters to RV owners, making it suitable for a wider range of camping styles.

Moreover, being part of the Illinois State Park system ensures a level of management and maintenance that contributes to a pleasant stay. The diverse activities available within Illini State Park, from fishing to hiking and even winter sports, mean that there's always something to do, regardless of the season. For Illinois residents, Great Falls Campground offers a fantastic opportunity to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature, all within a reasonable driving distance. It's a place where affordability meets quality, providing a consistent and rewarding outdoor adventure right here in our beautiful state.