Discover Illinois’ Wild Side: The Ultimate Glamping Adventure

Most visitors to Illinois make a beeline for museums and dining in Chicago, or walk in Abraham Lincoln’s footsteps in the capital, Springfield. However, the state boasts fields, forests, and hundreds of species of birds and other wildlife. Therefore, with domestic travel continuing to rise, a new luxury campground is beckoning travelers deeper into the great outdoors.

Luxury Camping Experience

A 90-minute drive southwest of Chicago, Camp Aramoni was established on the site of a 19th-century brickyard and is surrounded by 96 acres of forest along the Vermilion River. Before it opened this spring, owners Jennifer and Tim Bias dedicated four years to transforming the land into the first glamping experience in Illinois. It features 11 safari tents—custom-made in South Africa—boasting hardwood floors, en suite baths, king-size beds, and decks with views of the river. Additionally, guests receive a s’mores kit to use in their individual fire pit.

“It’s truly a beautiful, comfortable space that allows you to feel like you’re in a hotel,” Jennifer explains. “However, you also have crickets and owls singing you to sleep at night, alongside deer dancing in the meadows.”

Moreover, you can hike, bike, and fish, then conclude your day with cocktails at the Burlington, a bar positioned inside a revamped 1961 Airstream. The Barn acts as the campground’s central gathering space, featuring a general store, an area for wine tastings, and gourmet dining. Each reservation includes seasonal breakfast and dinner prepared by Chicago chef Cleetus Friedman, utilizing fresh produce and eggs from on-site farms. This summer, Camp Aramoni is collaborating with other Chicago-area chefs, such as Paul Virant and Gale Gand, to host cooking demonstrations and create exciting pop-up menus.

Reasons to Visit Illinois

Illinois stretches 390 miles from north to south, providing a diverse range of geography, habitats, and nature experiences to explore. With Camp Aramoni, the Biases aspire to introduce both locals and visitors to more of the state’s outdoor treasures, such as nearby Starved Rock State Park, where you can hike past waterfalls and through majestic sandstone canyons or explore the Illinois River by boat. Southwest of Peoria lies Wildlife Prairie Park, which features roaming bison and black bears, creating a truly immersive wildlife experience. Guests can stay at the park’s Legacy Cabins, providing a unique opportunity to observe elk grazing while enjoying guided nature walks.

Exploring Southern Illinois

In the southern region, venture to Shawnee National Forest, where rugged bluffs and clear creeks are framed by moss-covered rocks. The spectacular sandstone formation known as the Garden of the Gods should not be missed. Key features include a quarter-mile observation walk leading to a stunning panoramic viewpoint, alongside a 4.2-mile trail weaving through magnificent rock formations. For a cozy stay, consider the Shawnee National Forest Cabins, which are charming treehouses equipped with kitchenettes, fireplaces, and hot tubs, nestled among the trees.

History and Nature in Northwestern Illinois

In northwestern Illinois, Mississippi Palisades State Park is rich in history. Once inhabited by Native Americans, the area features a stunning line of steep limestone bluffs along the river, earning it national landmark status in 1973. In winter, eagles can be spotted feeding there, while spring reveals the beautiful sounds of migrating songbirds. Hiking trails, such as the 3.5-mile High Point Trail and the easy 1.2-mile Sentinel Trail loop, showcase an array of plant life and stunning views, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers.

A version of this story first appeared in the June 2022 issue of iBestTravel under the headline “Wait, This Is Illinois?”