Benton KOA Journey

For Illinoisans seeking a welcoming and well-equipped place to connect with nature, whether for a quick overnight stop or a longer family getaway, Benton KOA Journey stands out as a prime destination. Located in Benton, Southern Illinois, this campground offers a fantastic blend of convenience, comfort, and a wide array of amenities that cater to all types of campers, from big-rig RVs to tent enthusiasts and those looking for a cozy cabin experience. Many visitors have praised the friendly owners and staff who go "out of their way to make things better for a person," creating a truly hospitable environment.

Benton KOA Journey is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub designed for relaxation and recreation. The attention to detail in maintaining the grounds and providing diverse activities ensures that every member of the family, including furry friends, finds something to enjoy. From spacious, level sites to a large kids' play area and a serene fishing pond, this KOA is committed to making your stay in Southern Illinois memorable. It's a spot that many local campers, and those passing through, highly recommend for its cleanliness, comprehensive facilities, and the genuine warmth of its staff, making it a true gem in the Illinois camping landscape.

Benton KOA Journey is conveniently located at 1500 N Du Quoin Street, Benton, IL 62812, USA. This prime location in Southern Illinois makes it exceptionally accessible for travelers and locals alike. Situated just 1.5 miles off Interstate 57 (I-57) at Exit 71, it's an ideal stop for those embarking on cross-country journeys or exploring the natural beauty of the region. The easy on-and-off highway access is frequently highlighted by RVers, particularly those with larger rigs, making it a stress-free arrival and departure point.

For those traveling northbound on I-57, take Exit 71, bear right at the top of the ramp, turn right onto West Main, then left onto Du Quoin Street (at the Pizza Hut), and proceed approximately one mile. The campground will be on your right. If you're heading southbound on I-57, take Exit 71, bear left at the top of the ramp, turn left onto West Main, then left onto Du Quoin Street (at the Pizza Hut), and continue for about one mile. For those coming from SR 37, follow signs towards Du Quoin Street. While GPS instructions sometimes suggest Exit 77, it's advisable to use Exit 71 for the most direct route. Despite its proximity to the interstate, many campers find the setting surprisingly peaceful, especially the sites near the large pond, offering a pleasant respite after a day of travel or exploration. The town of Benton itself offers nearby dining and shopping options, adding to the convenience of the location.

• Variety of Campsites: Offers pull-through RV sites (up to 98 feet long) with full hookups (FHUs including 50, 30, and 20 amp electric, water, and sewer), premium patio sites, partial hookup sites, and tent sites (with or without water and electric).
• Cabin Rentals: Features Deluxe Cabins, ADA-accessible cabins, and Camping Cabins for those seeking a more comfortable stay.
• Wi-Fi and Cable TV: Complimentary Wi-Fi and Cable TV access are available at sites.
• Laundry Facilities: A clean and efficient laundry facility is available, with machines noted as being fast. Quarters for laundry can be obtained at the on-site store.
• Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Well-maintained and recently remodeled bathhouses provide clean restrooms and hot showers.
• Snack Bar / Food Service: A snack bar is available, with the option for fresh, hot food delivery directly to your campsite.
• Propane and Firewood: Propane refills and firewood bundles are available for purchase on-site.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RVs.
• Convenience Store: A general store on-site offers essentials and amenities for campers.
• Pet-Friendly Facilities: Includes a KampK9® pet playground, offering green space for pets.
• Late Check-in Service: Well-lit after-hours check-in service is available, with friendly staff or clear instructions for late arrivals.

• Spacious & Level Sites: RV sites, especially the pull-through options with patios, are frequently praised for being large, level, and accommodating for big rigs, offering ample space for campers and their pets.
• Friendly and Helpful Owners/Staff: Numerous reviews highlight the exceptional kindness and helpfulness of the owners and staff, who go out of their way to ensure a pleasant stay.
• Large Kids' Play Area: A substantial playground area provides entertainment for children, including various games and activities like corn hole, ladder ball, and basketball.
• Swimming Pool: A seasonal swimming pool (typically open May 15 - September 8) offers a refreshing escape during warmer months.
• Catch & Release Pond: A serene pond on the property is available for fishing, adding a peaceful recreational option. Paddle boats are also available.
• Patio Sites with Amenities: Premium patio sites often include extra-large picnic tables, fire pits, and swings, enhancing the outdoor living experience.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: The entire campground is consistently described as very well-maintained, clean, and beautiful, with ample green space.
• Proximity to Rend Lake: Located just two easy miles from the 19,000-acre Rend Lake, offering abundant recreational activities like boating, beaches, and wildlife viewing.
• Year-Round Operation: Benton KOA is open year-round, offering camping opportunities even during the off-season.
• Hair Salon: A unique amenity, the campground features a hair salon on-site.

As part of the KOA network, Benton KOA Journey often participates in various system-wide promotions and offers, in addition to any local specials they may run. These can include:

• KOA Rewards Program: Members can save 10% on daily registration rates at participating KOA campgrounds nationwide.
• Care Camps Big Weekend: KOA typically hosts an annual "Care Camps Big Weekend" where 50% of the cost of the second night at participating campgrounds is donated to Care Camps, supporting children with cancer. This usually takes place in May.
• Seasonal Discounts: Look for potential seasonal discounts, such as "SunThursDeals" offering discounts (e.g., 20% off) for midweek stays, or "Buy 2 Nights, Get 1 FREE" specials during certain periods, applicable for RV sites, cabins, and tent sites. These often have specific booking and stay periods (e.g., Father's Day, Juneteenth, July and August 2025).
• Military and First Responder Discounts: Many KOA locations, including Benton KOA Journey, offer a 10% discount for active-duty military and veterans, as well as law enforcement, firefighters, and medical personnel, upon presenting valid ID.
• Extended Stay Rates: Special rates may be available for longer stays (e.g., 30+ nights), offering savings for those planning prolonged visits.

It is highly recommended to check the official Benton KOA Journey website (koa.com/campgrounds/benton) or the KOA app for the most current and specific "Hot Deals" and promotions, as offers can vary and often require promo codes at the time of booking. Subscribing to the KOA email newsletter is also a great way to stay updated on special offers.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Benton KOA Journey, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1500 N Du Quoin St, Benton, IL 62812, USA

Phone: (618) 439-4860

Mobile Phone: +1 618-439-4860

For reservations, you can also call the KOA central reservation line at 1-800-562-8619 or visit their website at koa.com/campgrounds/benton.

For Illinois locals, Benton KOA Journey is an exceptionally suitable and appealing camping destination, offering a perfect blend of convenience, comprehensive amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere. Its location in Southern Illinois provides easy access for residents across the state, particularly those looking for a getaway within a few hours' drive. As a "KOA Journey" campground, it's designed to be a reliable and comfortable stop, whether you're just passing through or settling in for a longer family vacation.

What truly makes it suitable for locals are the numerous features that cater to diverse needs. RV owners will appreciate the "large and level" pull-through sites with "FHUs" that can accommodate big rigs, making setup a breeze. Families will love the "large kids play area," corn hole, ladder ball, basketball, and especially the "pool" and "fishing" pond, ensuring there's always something to keep everyone entertained. Even pets are considered, with ample "green grass and space" and a dedicated pet playground. The highly praised "incredibly nice and helpful" owners and staff contribute significantly to the positive experience, making visitors feel truly welcome and supported. Furthermore, its close proximity to the 19,000-acre Rend Lake, often called the "7th Wonder of Illinois," opens up a world of additional recreational opportunities, from boating and beaches to wildlife viewing. Benton KOA Journey offers a clean, well-maintained, and amenity-rich environment that provides both relaxation and adventure, making it a highly recommended spot for Illinoisans to create cherished outdoor memories right in their home state.