Lake Jacksonville Campground

For many Illinois residents, the call of the outdoors is a powerful draw, offering a chance to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in nature. Whether it's casting a line, enjoying a peaceful boat ride, or simply unwinding by a campfire, finding the right campground is essential for a memorable experience. This article focuses on Lake Jacksonville Campground, a popular outdoor destination located on the picturesque shores of Lake Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Illinois. It's a place where locals can easily access a variety of recreational activities and enjoy the serene beauty of a lakeside setting.

Lake Jacksonville Campground is part of the larger Lake Jacksonville recreational area, which centers around a beautiful 500-acre man-made lake. This makes it a significant hub for water-based activities in Central Illinois, attracting anglers, boaters, and families looking for a refreshing escape. While it's known for its many seasonal sites, there are also provisions for overnight campers, allowing flexibility for different types of visits. Understanding the various offerings and the overall environment of this campground is key for Illinois locals planning their next outdoor adventure.

Our aim with this article is to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Lake Jacksonville Campground. We will explore its specific location and accessibility, delve into the types of services and amenities typically offered, highlight its unique features, and provide essential contact information. This guide is crafted to help Hoosiers (once again, for our friends in Illinois, we are talking about you!) discover if Lake Jacksonville Campground is the perfect spot for their next fishing trip, camping weekend, or family outing in the heart of Illinois.

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Lake Jacksonville Campground is situated at 2197 New Lake Rd, Jacksonville, IL 62650, USA. This address places it just three miles south of the city of Jacksonville, Illinois, off Route 267. Jacksonville is a historic city in Morgan County, offering a blend of small-town charm with necessary urban conveniences. The campground's location on the shores of the 500-acre Lake Jacksonville is its prime asset, providing direct access to a vast body of water perfect for various activities.

The accessibility of Lake Jacksonville Campground is a significant advantage for Illinois residents. Its close proximity to Jacksonville means campers have easy access to grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and other essential services should they need to resupply during their stay. Being just a short drive from the city allows for convenient trips while still offering the feeling of a natural getaway. Furthermore, Jacksonville's location in Central Illinois makes the campground reasonably accessible from other major cities in the state, including Springfield (approximately 30 miles east) and even St. Louis, Missouri (about 90 miles southwest), making it a viable destination for a weekend trip or a longer vacation.

Upon arrival, the campground's layout and access points are designed to accommodate both RVs and tent campers. While some sites, particularly seasonal ones, are well-established, transient campers can find spots, sometimes near areas like the boat launch. While some reviews mention restrooms being a "hike" across a parking lot, they are generally noted as being clean and available for public use. The presence of multiple boat ramps on the lake further enhances accessibility for those bringing their own watercraft, making it easy to get out and enjoy the lake.

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Lake Jacksonville Campground provides a range of services designed to support both short-term overnight campers and long-term seasonal residents. Based on public information and typical campground offerings, services you can expect include:

• Campsites: The campground offers various types of sites, primarily catering to RVs, with both seasonal and overnight options available. Sites typically include water and electricity hookups (with 20 and 50 amp availability). There are also "grass campsites" for tent camping.
• Seasonal Lot Leases: A significant portion of the campground is dedicated to seasonal sites, which can be leased annually. There is a lottery process for new permanent camper lots.
• Restroom Facilities: Public restroom facilities are available for campers. While some reviews suggest they might be a walk from certain areas, they are generally reported as clean.
• Showers: Shower facilities are available for campers, offering a convenient way to freshen up after a day of outdoor activities.
• Dump Station: A designated dump station is available for RV campers to dispose of their waste.
• Trash Pick-up: Regular trash pick-up services are provided, helping to keep the campground clean and well-maintained.
• Fire Rings: Most campsites are equipped with fire rings, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires.
• Picnic Tables: Many sites also include picnic tables for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Concession Stand: A fully equipped concession stand is available at Lake Jacksonville, offering bait, supplies, and potentially food items for purchase. This is a great convenience for campers and day visitors alike.
• Boating Permits: Daily and seasonal boating permits are available for use on Lake Jacksonville. Proof of liability insurance and an IL Department of Natural Resources number are required for permits.
• Fishing: Lake Jacksonville is heavily stocked with various fish species, making fishing a primary activity. The lake has been recognized as a top fishing spot in Illinois.
• Water Service: Water services are available at campsites, though the availability of running water can be dependent on weather conditions (e.g., pipes not turned on until freezing temperatures are no longer a risk).
• Hunting Permits: The lake area also offers opportunities for deer and duck hunting, with specific permit requirements for Morgan County residents.

For the most precise and up-to-date information on site availability, specific amenities, and seasonal operating details, contacting the Lake Jacksonville Superintendent or the Concession Stand directly is recommended.

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Lake Jacksonville Campground distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that make it a popular destination for Illinois locals seeking outdoor recreation:

• Outstanding Fishing: Lake Jacksonville is renowned for its excellent fishing, often stocked with bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. It was even named the number one fishing spot in Illinois by Field and Stream in 2007, making it a dream destination for anglers.
• Versatile Water Activities: Beyond fishing, the 500-acre lake is perfect for a wide range of water activities, including boating, water skiing, and general water play. Public swimming areas and a beach are also available.
• Seasonal and Overnight Camping Options: The campground caters to both long-term seasonal campers who establish a home-away-from-home, and transient overnight campers looking for a brief stop or a weekend getaway.
• Scenic Lakeside Location: The campground's setting directly on Lake Jacksonville provides beautiful views and a tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
• Proximity to Jacksonville City: Being just three miles from Jacksonville means campers have easy access to city amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities, providing convenience without sacrificing the outdoor experience.
• Hiking and Walking Trails: The Lake Jacksonville recreational area features trails, such as the Crimson Trail and Rocket Trail, located on the south side of the lake, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating, the campground offers a variety of activities that appeal to families.
• Concession Stand On-Site: The presence of a concession stand is a major convenience, offering bait, supplies, and often food items, reducing the need to leave the recreational area for essentials.

These features collectively make Lake Jacksonville Campground a versatile and appealing option for outdoor enthusiasts across Illinois.

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Information regarding specific promotions or special offers at Lake Jacksonville Campground is not extensively advertised through general public channels, as it is managed by the City of Jacksonville's Parks and Recreation department. However, based on the nature of municipal campgrounds and recreational areas, any promotions would typically involve:

• Seasonal Permit Discounts: While not a "discount" per se, the option to purchase seasonal boating and camping permits provides a cost-effective solution for frequent visitors over the entire operating season.
• Early Bird Specials for Seasonal Leases: Payments for seasonal camping lots often have specific deadlines, and sometimes an incentive or an avoidance of late fees might act as an "early bird" benefit for timely payment.
• Special Event Pricing: During community events or specific fishing tournaments hosted at Lake Jacksonville, there might be associated camping packages or special rates for participants, though this would be announced locally.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current promotions, special offers, or specific fee structures for camping and boating, interested individuals should directly contact the Lake Jacksonville Concession Stand or the Lake Jacksonville Superintendent. This direct communication is the most reliable way to inquire about opportunities that could benefit your visit.

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For direct inquiries about Lake Jacksonville Campground, including questions regarding campsite availability, seasonal lease information, boating permits, specific rules and regulations, or to reserve a campsite, you can reach out to the relevant City of Jacksonville departments:

• Address: 2197 New Lake Rd, Jacksonville, IL 62650, USA
• Primary Contact for Reservations/Inquiries (Lake Jacksonville Concession Stand): (217) 479-4646
• Lake Jacksonville Superintendent (Brett Gilbreth): (217) 479-4646 or (217) 408-8771
• City Clerk's Office (for seasonal lot lease payments before April 1st): (217) 479-4613
• Operating Season: Lake Jacksonville typically opens for camping around April 1st and closes for the season in mid-October. Concession Stand hours vary by day (e.g., Sunday 8 AM - 4 PM, Mon-Thurs 8 AM - 6 PM, Fri-Sat 8 AM - 8 PM).

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially for reservations or if you have specific questions about seasonal availability, as many sites are leased long-term. This will help ensure that you have the most current information for your visit.

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For Illinois residents, particularly those in Central Illinois, Lake Jacksonville Campground presents an incredibly suitable and appealing outdoor recreation destination. Its convenient location just three miles south of the city of Jacksonville offers the perfect balance: a serene natural environment ideal for relaxation and recreation, yet close enough to urban amenities for easy resupply and access to services. This makes it an ideal spot for both spontaneous weekend getaways and more extended stays.

The primary draw for locals is undoubtedly the 500-acre Lake Jacksonville itself. Renowned for its excellent fishing, including being named a top fishing spot in Illinois, it's a paradise for anglers. Beyond fishing, the lake provides ample opportunities for a variety of water sports, including boating and water skiing, which can be enjoyed with daily or seasonal permits. This extensive array of water-based activities ensures there's something for every member of the family, promoting active and engaging outdoor fun.

Furthermore, the campground's setup, with options for both seasonal and overnight camping, caters to diverse needs. For those who want a consistent summer retreat, the seasonal leases provide a true home-away-from-home experience. For visitors passing through or looking for a shorter escape, the overnight sites offer essential amenities like water and electricity hookups, along with access to clean restrooms and showers. The presence of a concession stand on-site adds a layer of convenience, providing essentials and bait without needing to leave the lake area.

In essence, Lake Jacksonville Campground stands as a versatile and well-equipped outdoor haven for Illinois locals. Its combination of prime location, outstanding recreational opportunities, and practical amenities makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a refreshing and enjoyable experience in the natural beauty of Central Illinois. Whether you're an avid fisherman, a boating enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat, Lake Jacksonville Campground offers an accessible and fulfilling escape.