O'Connell's RV Campground

O'Connell's RV Campground, located in Amboy, Illinois, holds a significant place in the hearts of many Illinois campers, having been a cherished destination for families for many years. Originally operating as a popular Yogi Bear Jellystone Park, it built a strong reputation for offering a wide array of family-oriented activities and well-maintained facilities. Over time, the ownership of the campground transitioned to Equity Lifestyle, operating under the Thousand Trails brand. This change has brought about a new chapter for the park, with a shift in management and operational approach. While the campground continues to offer RV and primitive camping sites, the experience, as described by long-time patrons, has evolved. This overview aims to provide an objective look at O'Connell's RV Campground in its current form, acknowledging its rich history while presenting factual information about its present state as a camping destination in Illinois.

O'Connell's RV Campground is situated at 970 Green Wing Rd, Amboy, IL 61310, USA. This location places it within La Salle County, offering a rural setting that is characteristic of many campgrounds in Illinois. Amboy is a small city in northern Illinois, and the campground's position on Green Wing Road suggests a tranquil environment away from the immediate bustle of urban centers.

Accessibility to O'Connell's RV Campground is generally straightforward for those traveling by personal vehicle. Amboy is accessible via state routes, and the campground itself is likely reached via local roads from these routes. For campers traveling with RVs, the roads leading to the campground should be suitable for larger vehicles. While specific distances to major highways or cities are not provided, its location in northern Illinois means it is within a reasonable driving distance for residents of Chicago and other population centers in Illinois. This makes it a potential weekend getaway or a stopover point for those exploring the wider region. However, visitors should be aware that public transportation options to such a rural location are likely very limited or non-existent, making a personal vehicle essential for convenient access and for exploring the surrounding areas.

• RV and Trailer Sites: The campground provides sites suitable for RVs and trailers, likely including various hookup options (electric, water, sewer), though the specific availability of full hookups may vary by site and is not detailed in the provided information.
• Primitive Camping Sites: For those seeking a more rustic experience, primitive camping sites are available. These typically offer a more basic setup, often without direct utility hookups.
• Swimming Pools: The campground features at least one pool, described as being in the "center of the area." While pools are available, their current state of cleanliness and enforcement of rules (e.g., age restrictions for hot tubs) should be verified upon arrival or inquiry.
• Lake Access: There is a lake within the campground, with a beach area. Historically, this included an inflatable play area, but this has reportedly been removed. Activities like kayaking and canoeing have also taken a "back seat."
• Fishing Opportunities: The lake was historically stocked for fishing, though current reports suggest stocking is infrequent.
• Restroom Facilities: Primitive bathrooms are available, but recent reviews indicate concerns regarding the frequency and thoroughness of cleaning.
• Planned Activities (Historical/Limited Current): In its previous iteration, the campground offered a wide range of kid-friendly activities. While some activities may still exist, recent feedback suggests a reduction in family-oriented programming.

• Established History: O'Connell's RV Campground has a long history as a popular camping destination, having previously operated as a Yogi Bear Jellystone Park, which instilled a sense of nostalgia and loyalty among long-time campers.
• Variety of Camping Options: The availability of both RV/trailer sites and primitive camping offers flexibility for different camping preferences and needs.
• On-Site Lake: The presence of a lake provides scenic views and historically offered various water-based recreational activities such as swimming (at the beach), kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Swimming Pools: Multiple pools are available for cooling off and recreation, a desirable feature for many campers, especially during warmer months.
• Spacious Property: As a large campground, it likely offers ample space for various camping setups and some degree of separation between sites.
• Potential for Quiet Enjoyment: Despite concerns about quiet hours enforcement, the rural setting inherently offers potential for peaceful enjoyment of nature, especially in less-trafficked areas of the park.
• Legacy Appeal: For those who remember its previous glory, the campground retains a certain legacy appeal and the potential for a new ownership to restore it to its former state.

Based on the provided customer reviews, which critically discuss the annual pass system and perceived lack of value, it appears that O'Connell's RV Campground, under its current management by Equity Lifestyle/Thousand Trails, operates primarily through a membership or annual fee structure rather than traditional "promotions" for individual stays. The reviews indicate that annual fees are a significant aspect of engaging with the campground, particularly for frequent visitors.

Customers express dissatisfaction regarding the value received for these annual fees, citing amenities that are advertised but not fully functional or available. This suggests that current "offers" might be bundled into membership packages, which may or may not align with a camper's expectations based on historical park offerings. There is no public information readily available about specific, publicly advertised short-term promotions, discounts, or special offers for one-time stays or new memberships.

Prospective campers, especially those considering an annual pass or a longer stay, should directly contact O'Connell's RV Campground to inquire about their current fee structures, membership benefits, and any specific promotions that might be available for new sign-ups. It is crucial to clarify what amenities are currently operational and included in any fees to ensure expectations align with the present reality of the campground. Given the feedback, a thorough discussion of inclusions and exclusions for any membership or stay is highly recommended.

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about O'Connell's RV Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 970 Green Wing Rd, Amboy, IL 61310, USA

Phone: (815) 857-3860

It is advisable to contact the campground directly by phone during their operating hours. This will allow you to speak with staff who can provide the most current information regarding site availability, amenities, pricing, check-in/check-out times, and any specific policies or concerns you may have before planning your visit to this Amboy, Illinois camping destination.

For locals in Illinois, O'Connell's RV Campground in Amboy offers a camping destination with a complex identity, suitable for specific types of campers. Historically, it was a beloved family-oriented park, and for those who hold nostalgic memories or are looking for a large property with a variety of camping options, it might still hold appeal. Its rural setting in La Salle County provides a convenient escape from the more populated areas of Illinois, offering a chance to enjoy the outdoors without traveling excessively far.

The campground provides both RV and primitive camping sites, catering to different preferences for comfort and immersion in nature. For RV owners, the availability of hookup sites (though specific details need verification) is a fundamental convenience. Primitive campers seeking a more basic experience will find designated areas. The presence of a lake and swimming pools, despite past issues, still offers potential for water-based recreation, a key draw for many campers during the warmer months.

However, local campers should approach O'Connell's RV Campground with informed expectations, particularly concerning the current state of amenities and the shift in management philosophy under Thousand Trails. While the reviews highlight areas of concern regarding maintenance, staffing, and available activities compared to its past, the fundamental infrastructure for camping remains. For those who prioritize a location that offers both RV and primitive options, and are prepared to inquire directly about the current operational status of specific amenities, O'Connell's could still serve as a practical base for exploring the northern Illinois outdoors. Its established presence means a familiar name for many, and for those willing to embrace its current form, it continues to provide a framework for a camping getaway close to home.