Mendota Hills Campground

For Illinois residents seeking an authentic and engaging outdoor experience, Mendota Hills Campground in Amboy stands as a true local treasure. Nestled amidst 130 acres of picturesque rolling hills, open fields, and serene oak forests, this family-owned and operated campground offers a diverse and welcoming environment for campers of all kinds. From the moment you arrive, you'll sense the dedication to creating a truly family-friendly atmosphere, where every detail is considered to ensure a memorable escape from the everyday. Mendota Hills isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a vibrant community where laughter echoes, friendships are forged, and the simple joys of nature are celebrated.

With a rich history spanning over 40 years, Mendota Hills Campground has cultivated a reputation for its exceptional hospitality and a packed schedule of activities designed to entertain every member of the family. Real customer reviews consistently highlight the welcoming nature of both staff and fellow campers, creating an inclusive and friendly ambiance. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer seasonal stay, Mendota Hills provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories under the vast Illinois sky. It’s a destination that truly understands what makes a camping trip special for local users, offering a balance of relaxation and exhilarating outdoor fun.

Mendota Hills Campground enjoys a highly convenient and accessible location for residents throughout Illinois. Situated at 642 US-52, Amboy, IL 61310, it’s strategically positioned in Lee County, making it an ideal destination for those looking for an easy drive to their outdoor escape. Amboy, a charming town in northern Illinois, provides a peaceful setting while still being within reasonable driving distance of major metropolitan areas.

For instance, Mendota Hills Campground is roughly 100 miles west of downtown Chicago, a comfortable drive that allows for both weekend excursions and longer vacations without the extensive travel time associated with more remote destinations. From the Quad Cities, the campground is approximately 80 miles east, making it equally convenient for residents in that region. Its direct access from US-52 simplifies navigation, ensuring a smooth arrival for even first-time visitors. While public transportation options directly to the campground are limited, its proximity to well-maintained state highways means that it is easily reachable by car or RV, which is the preferred mode of transport for most campers. The surrounding areas offer local amenities in Amboy and the nearby village of Sublette, including small stores, restaurants, and gas stations, ensuring that campers have access to essentials just a few miles away. This blend of rural tranquility and practical accessibility truly sets Mendota Hills Campground apart for Illinois locals.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Mendota Hills Campground offers a variety of site types to suit every camper's preference, including rustic sites (no electric), electric (20/30/50 amp) sites, and full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections. Concrete pads are available on some full hookup sites.

• Tent and RV Accommodation: Whether you prefer the traditional experience of tent camping or the comfort of an RV or pop-up, the campground accommodates all, with spacious sites designed for privacy and comfort.

• Seasonal and Annual Sites: For those who want a regular retreat, Mendota Hills offers seasonal and annual site rentals, providing a consistent "home away from home" throughout the camping season from April 1 to March 31.

• Camper Rentals: The campground provides rental campers for guests who may not own an RV but wish to experience the convenience and comfort of camper living.

• Water Activities: Enjoy a swimming beach with water toys, including a 60ft land inflatable waterslide, and three fishing lakes stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie (no fishing license needed).

• Boat Rentals: Free boat rentals are available on Bass Lake, including paddleboards, paddleboats, canoes, rowboats, and corcl boats.

• Camp Store: An on-site camp store provides essential supplies, ice cream, and other conveniences.

• Themed Weekends and Activities: The campground is renowned for its themed weekends and a packed schedule of daily activities, including hayrack rides, morning yoga, and a long-standing tradition of Sunday morning frog jumping contests.

• Recreational Facilities: Amenities include a playground, basketball court, gaga ball pit, sand volleyball pit, archery range (scheduled only), and a 60ft x 80ft RC track. There's also a giant chess set and giant Connect Four.

• Pet-Friendly: Mendota Hills is a pet-friendly campground, allowing guests to bring their beloved companions along (specific rules apply).

• On-site Church Service: The Refuge Church holds a non-denominational service every Sunday with a full-time pastor and contemporary worship team.

• Golf Cart Rentals: For easy navigation around the expansive grounds, golf cart rentals are available. Guests can also bring their own golf carts with a permit.

• LP Exchange and Fill Station: Convenient services for propane needs.

• On-site Trailer Storage and Moving Service: For seasonal campers, the campground offers trailer storage and can even move and set up your trailer for you.

• Clean Restroom and Shower Facilities: Customers consistently praise the cleanliness and well-maintained nature of the campground's facilities.

• Award-Winning Family-Friendly Environment: Mendota Hills Campground was voted "Best Family Friendly Campground in the U.S." by RVshare's Campers' Choice Awards, a testament to its welcoming atmosphere and abundance of activities for all ages.

• Extensive Activity Schedule: A major highlight is the year-round calendar of events, including 26 themed weekends during the summer months, ensuring that there's always something engaging and fun happening. This commitment to activities truly distinguishes Mendota Hills.

• Multiple Lakes for Fishing and Boating: The presence of four small lakes, three of which are stocked for fishing with free boat rentals, offers unique recreational opportunities right within the campground.

• Swimming Beach with Water Toys: The dedicated swimming beach, complete with a splash pad, a 60ft land inflatable waterslide, and other water toys, provides a fantastic way to cool off and have fun during warmer weather.

• Buds Island (Customer Favorite): As highlighted in customer reviews, the "Buds Island" area is a special treat, suggesting a unique or preferred camping spot within the campground.

• Strong Sense of Community: Reviews frequently mention the friendly nature of both staff and other campers, creating a true sense of belonging and a welcoming community for seasonal and overnight guests alike.

• Dedicated Staff and Owners: The Rogers family, who own and operate the campground across three generations, are highly praised for their hospitality and dedication to guest satisfaction, often going the extra mile to assist campers.

• Natural Beauty and Trails: Spread across 130 acres, the campground offers beautiful natural scenery with rolling hills, oak forests, and 1.5 miles of trails perfect for hiking and exploring wildlife.

While specific, real-time promotions can vary seasonally, Mendota Hills Campground is known for its value-driven approach and diverse offerings that inherently provide great benefits to campers. Prospective visitors in Illinois should keep an eye on their official website for potential seasonal discounts, early bird booking specials, or package deals for themed weekends. Given their "Best Family Friendly Campground" award, it's common for such establishments to offer family-specific promotions or deals on longer stays, such as weekly or monthly rates that are discounted compared to daily bookings. The availability of seasonal and annual sites at a discounted yearly rate compared to shorter stays is a significant long-term promotion for dedicated campers.

Additionally, Mendota Hills Campground frequently hosts themed weekends with special activities, which can sometimes come with bundled pricing or unique offerings. For the most current and accurate information on any ongoing promotions or special offers, it is always recommended to visit the Mendota Hills Campground official website or contact their friendly staff directly by phone. They can provide details on current availability, rates, and any exclusive deals that might be available for upcoming stays.

Connecting with Mendota Hills Campground to plan your next Illinois outdoor adventure is easy. The friendly staff are ready to assist with reservations, answer questions about amenities, or provide details on their upcoming activities.

Address: 642 US-52, Amboy, IL 61310, USA

Phone: (815) 849-5930

Mobile Phone: +1 815-849-5930

For the most up-to-date information on rates, availability, and their exciting schedule of events, it is highly recommended to visit their official website or give them a call directly. Their team is dedicated to ensuring you have all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

Mendota Hills Campground is an exceptional choice for Illinois locals looking for an unparalleled outdoor experience, and its suitability stems from a perfect blend of accessibility, comprehensive amenities, and a deeply ingrained family-friendly ethos. For residents across the state, its convenient location on US-52 in Amboy minimizes travel time, making even a quick weekend escape feel like a genuine vacation. This ease of access means more time enjoying the campground and less time on the road, a significant advantage for busy Illinois families.

What truly sets Mendota Hills apart for local users is its unwavering commitment to providing a rich and diverse recreational environment. The abundance of activities, particularly the renowned themed weekends and the traditional Sunday frog jumping contest, ensures that campers of all ages are constantly entertained and engaged. This focus on structured fun, combined with the freedom to explore 130 acres of natural beauty, from fishing in the stocked lakes to hiking peaceful trails, offers a versatile experience that caters to both active adventurers and those seeking pure relaxation. The consistently praised cleanliness of the facilities and the overall well-maintained grounds further enhance the comfort and enjoyment for local visitors.

Moreover, the strong sense of community, frequently highlighted in customer reviews, creates a welcoming atmosphere where both staff and fellow campers contribute to a friendly and inclusive environment. This makes Mendota Hills feel like a true retreat, a place where local families can return year after year, building traditions and making lasting memories. The option for seasonal and annual sites underscores this community aspect, allowing Illinois residents to establish a regular home base for their outdoor pursuits without the hassle of repeated setup. When considering a camping destination in Illinois, Mendota Hills Campground offers a complete package: convenience, endless entertainment, genuine hospitality, and a beautiful natural setting, making it the quintessential choice for a truly local and memorable outdoor adventure.