Ingersoll Scout Reservation

For Illinois residents seeking an exceptional outdoor experience that blends adventure, education, and natural beauty, Ingersoll Scout Reservation in London Mills stands as a distinguished destination. While renowned as a premier Scouting camp, this sprawling property extends a warm welcome to external groups, including youth non-profits, religious organizations, schools, and military groups, making it a versatile choice for a wide array of outdoor activities and retreats. If you're a local looking to provide a transformative outdoor experience for your youth group, plan a unique team-building event, or simply explore a well-maintained natural setting, Ingersoll Scout Reservation offers a wealth of opportunities for engagement and unforgettable memories amidst its nearly 1000 acres of woodland and prairie.

Ingersoll Scout Reservation is strategically located at 33 Knox Rd 650 E, London Mills, IL 61544, USA. This address places it in a serene, natural setting in central Illinois, approximately three miles from the town of London Mills. While offering a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, the reservation remains accessible, making it a feasible destination for groups coming from various parts of Illinois. The property spans almost 1000 acres of diverse landscape, encompassing woodlands and prairies, providing ample space for extensive outdoor activities and exploration. Its location contributes to the "excellent camp" experience often cited by visitors, offering a true escape from urban environments. The roads leading to and within the reservation are well-maintained to facilitate access for various vehicles, though it's always advisable to check current conditions, especially for larger group transportation. This central Illinois location makes it a convenient option for organizations across the state looking for a dedicated outdoor education and recreational facility without traveling excessively long distances.

Ingersoll Scout Reservation boasts a comprehensive array of services and facilities designed to support a wide range of outdoor programs and group activities:

• Diverse Campsites: The reservation offers 15 designated campsites, each equipped with two picnic tables and a fire ring. There are various types of camping options, including tent camping, and cabins (some screened-in, some with electricity) suitable for year-round use. Some cabins, like the RMS Lodge, Camp Office Annex, and Wilderness Training Center, offer heated indoor lodging with amenities like residential stoves, refrigerators, and meeting spaces, ideal for winter camping or retreats.
• Clean Shower Houses: Visitors consistently praise the "nice shower houses" and well-maintained bathroom facilities, which significantly enhance comfort during extended stays.
• Dining Hall: A large dining hall is available, suitable for hosting meals for large groups, meetings, or training sessions, featuring a large wood stove for heating.
• Waterfront Equipment Rentals: Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are available for rent for use on Lake Roberts, typically from April to May and August to October.
• Mountain Bike Rentals: Groups can rent mountain bikes to explore the camp's extensive trail system.
• Fishing Equipment: While groups can bring their own, camp fishing equipment is available at Greg's Fish Shack.
• Trained Staff and Supervision: The camp is known for its "enthusiastic, entertaining, hard-working, knowledgeable, and sincere" staff, especially during summer camp, ensuring safe and engaging program delivery. Qualified supervision is required for specialized activities like shooting and climbing.
• Facility Rentals for External Groups: Non-Scout groups can rent various facilities, including cabins, lodges, and specific program areas, making it a versatile venue for different events.
• Medical Station: A medical station is available within the Camp Office Annex, indicating a commitment to camper safety and well-being.
• Year-Round Availability: While some water amenities are seasonal, various cabins and lodges are equipped for comfortable winter camping.

Ingersoll Scout Reservation is rich with features and highlights that create a dynamic and memorable outdoor experience:

• Wide Range of Activities: The reservation offers an extensive selection of activities, including swimming, climbing (climbing tower and COPE course), Eco-Con (environmental education), Scoutcraft, Lakefront activities, STEM programs, and fishing.
• Lake Roberts: A central feature of the camp, Lake Roberts provides excellent opportunities for fishing (described as a "fish factory" producing an above-average number of fish) and various water activities.
• Cedar Creek Trail System: An extensive trail system loops around the entire camp, offering various lengths suitable for day hikes, backpacking practice, and mountain biking.
• Shooting Ranges: Dedicated ranges for Archery, Rifle, and Shotgun are available, with equipment supplied by the camp (outside equipment generally not allowed for safety).
• Summer Camp Excellence: Renowned for providing a "premier summer camp experience," offering over forty Merit Badges, nightly specialty programs, and a week-long wilderness trek for Scouts.
• Team Building and Personal Growth: Activities are designed to foster teamwork, personal growth, and leadership skills, making it an excellent environment for youth development.
• Emphasis on Safety and Fun: The camp prioritizes a safe and enjoyable environment, with daily ranger patrols and state/national certifications.
• Diverse Accommodations: From traditional tent campsites to modern lodges and screened-in cabins, offering options for different comfort levels and group sizes.
• Winter Camping Opportunities: Heated cabins like the Wilderness Training Center (WTC) and RMS Lodge make the camp viable for comfortable winter outings, even offering activities like ice fishing when Lake Roberts is frozen.
• Positive Guest Experiences: Many former scouts recount having "the best time of my life" at Ingersoll, highlighting its impact and the fond memories created.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Ingersoll Scout Reservation, please use the following contact details:

Address: 33 Knox Rd 650 E, London Mills, IL 61544, USA

Phone: (309) 673-6136 ext. 123 (Peoria Scout Service Center)

Mobile Phone: +1 309-673-6136 ext. 123

For locals in Illinois, Ingersoll Scout Reservation is far more than just a campground; it is a comprehensive outdoor education and adventure hub that provides unparalleled opportunities for youth and group development. Its reputation for "excellent camp" facilities and a "wide range of activities" means that whether you're planning a week-long summer camp for your scout troop, a weekend retreat for a church group, or a unique educational outing for a school, Ingersoll is exceptionally well-equipped to meet diverse needs. The sheer variety of programs, from aquatics like swimming and canoeing on Lake Roberts to land-based adventures like climbing and extensive hiking on the Cedar Creek Trail, ensures that every participant finds something engaging.

The commitment to cleanliness, especially in shower houses, and the presence of dedicated, enthusiastic staff contribute significantly to a comfortable and positive experience. For families and youth organizations across Illinois, the assurance of a safe environment, backed by daily ranger patrols and national certifications, is paramount. Furthermore, the camp’s ability to host external groups year-round, with heated indoor lodging options for colder months, expands its utility beyond just traditional summer camping. It's a place where children forge lifelong friendships, develop essential life skills, and create cherished memories in the heart of Illinois' natural landscape. Ingersoll Scout Reservation is truly a treasured asset for the local community, fostering a love for the outdoors and building character in the next generation.

Ingersoll Scout Reservation

33 Knox Rd 650 E, London Mills, IL 61544, USA