Discover Illinois’ Newest Glamping Resort: 11 Chic Tents and a Unique Airstream Bar

Driving two hours south on I-55 or I-80 out of downtown Chicago to Starved Rock State Park is a favorite weekend adventure for many Midwesterners. This 2,630-acre park attracts 2 million guests annually, according to Tripadvisor, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Moreover, visitors can now sleep under the stars at a new glamping location nearby. Camp Aramoni, situated on a former 19th-century brickyard, opened last September and launched its first full season on April 29. This stunning 96-acre property features 11 safari-style tents, each equipped with king-size beds and private baths.

Co-owner Jennifer Bias has expressed that, “When guests arrive at Camp Aramoni, we want the spot to bring a feeling of peace, excitement, and renewal.” She and her husband Tim took five years to develop this concept, which was inspired by their travels and the growing glamping trend seen in Europe. Consequently, they aimed to create an inviting atmosphere that allows guests to experience the beauty of the outdoors while enjoying the luxuries of high-end hospitality.

Additionally, guests can enjoy massages in their tents, reserve bicycles or canoes to explore the area, and engage with fellow campers through lawn games and morning yoga classes. Live-music performances are also hosted at Camp Aramoni, enhancing the overall experience. Furthermore, chef-driven, farm-to-fork breakfasts and dinners served in The Barn incorporate fresh local produce, meats, and even honey sourced from Bias’s on-site apiary.

For a delightful post-dinner treat, gourmet s’mores are available, making the camping experience even more enjoyable. An on-site restored 1971 Airstream Overlander RV, affectionately known as The Burlington, serves as a mobile bar, providing coffee and espresso drinks in the morning, as well as expertly crafted cocktails at night.

The property boasts hiking trails, ponds, wildflower fields, and scenic walks along the Vermilion River, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in nature.

In conclusion, Tim and Jennifer Bias have successfully created Camp Aramoni as a unique blend of natural beauty and luxurious comfort, celebrating the distinctive charm of the Midwest. A monthly guest-chef series will introduce local culinary talents, enhancing the dining experience with flavors that capture the essence of the region. Guests will enjoy wood-fired pizza nights, sumptuous brunches, and a diverse breakfast and dinner menu, accompanied by local wines, beers, and spirits.

Camp Aramoni is now open for the season, offering an unforgettable glamping experience.