He had fun with balls and a frisbee, making a simple wood bow and arrow set, and at night wandering around with a big torch, looking for raccoons (which we never saw). At night we made a campfire, which really does make for a special atmosphere. The weather was hot, but the shade and breeze made it bearable.
On the edge of the campground my grandson discovered a tiny baby wild rabbit, which imprinted on him and crawled on his shoe, and let him touch it. He got quite attached to it, and wanted to bring it home to take care of it. We discovered that the nest had been destroyed by the grass mower and at least one of the babies had been killed. The mother was nowhere to be seen, so this little furry creature was very vulnerable. But, it seemed better not to mess with nature’s order of things, and remove the baby, which would most likely die in our care anyway.
Park Information
It’s off IL 16, on IL 130, 7 mi south of Charleston. There’s a Walmart just past the junction of 16 and 130, or a Save-a-Lot on 16 just before 139, both useful for supplies. Charleston has many fast food places too.
It’s open all year. No alcohol. Dogs allowed. People bring bikes.
We were in site #6—a very nice one (last time #12). $15 per night camping, plus $5 reservation fee.
The campground host is an older guy who lives in a trailer on the edge of the campsite---he drives a small motorized cart, collects payment for days not covered by deposit, and sells ice and firewood.
The main office has a mini ‘museum’ with information about the park, including several fox pelts, so there must be foxes around still.