Illinois Campground Association Hosts Spring Meetings With Strong Turnout

The Illinois Campground Association (ICA) hosted its annual Spring meetings on April 8 and 9, drawing strong attendance from both member and non-member parks. 

The gatherings took place at two locations: Rustic Acres Jellystone Park in New Douglas, Illinois, hosted by BJ and Jennifer Davis, and Green River Oaks Resort in Amboy, Illinois, hosted by Nanette Gillan.

Nine parks were represented at the April 8 meeting, while 17 participated in the April 9 session. The events also welcomed representatives from four campgrounds considering ICA membership. 

ICA President Jamie Rogers and Executive Director Don Bennett, Jr. noted the meetings marked a significant increase in attendance compared to recent years, with Rogers stating that turnout levels had not been seen in over a decade.

Bennett, who organized the meetings with support from the board of directors, provided attendees with updates on the association’s activities, legislative developments, and newly added member benefits. 

Image by Illinois Campground Association

Among these are ICA’s affiliation with Hospitality Connections and a legal services hotline provided by Goldberg Segalla.

During the meetings, key industry topics such as submetering, credit card surcharges, county-level taxation, and the broader cost of doing business were discussed. 

Guest speakers included Heidi Doyle of Utility Supply Group, Jeff and Robin Lazarus of Smart Industry Products, and attorney Christine Taylor of Goldberg Segalla.

Rogers emphasized the value of connecting with both long-time and new park owners, noting a clear desire among campground operators to engage with peers, exchange ideas, and navigate industry challenges together. 

BJ Davis echoed those sentiments, highlighting the role of the gatherings in fostering collaboration and strengthening the industry in Illinois.

Bennett also unveiled the updated 2025 Illinois camping guide. Produced by Merchantry Tourism, LLC and printed by Breese Publishing, the guide has expanded to 32 pages, with increased distribution reaching 30,000 copies. 

It includes new advertising from destination marketing organizations and has been distributed at 22 RV and consumer shows, with more planned. The guide has also been digitized and made available on the ICA’s website for the first time.

Attendees participated in presentations, networking, lunch, and tours of the host facilities. The meetings underscored a renewed energy among campground professionals and an expanding range of resources offered through ICA membership.

More information about the Illinois Campground Association and membership inquiries can be found at illinoisgocamping.com.

Featured image by Illinois Campground Association