Jubilee College Campground

jubilee state park camping

For Illinoisans seeking a tranquil and spacious outdoor retreat, Jubilee College Campground, nestled within the expansive Jubilee College State Park near Brimfield, offers a compelling destination. This state park campground consistently receives accolades for its peaceful environment, well-spaced sites, and the welcoming nature of its staff. It's truly a "great State Park" where visitors can unwind and reconnect with nature.

One of the enduring appeals of Illinois's state park system is its commitment to providing accessible outdoor experiences. Jubilee College Campground embodies this, offering a range of camping options suitable for various preferences, from those with large RVs to traditional tent campers. As one satisfied visitor noted, if you "want a quiet, spacious place to camp, this is it." The park's dedication to cleanliness and functionality, particularly in its shower and restroom facilities, further enhances the comfort of your stay.

Whether your idea of a perfect getaway involves serene hikes through wooded trails, enjoying the quiet of your campsite, or exploring the rich natural landscape of central Illinois, Jubilee College Campground is designed to meet your needs. With its convenient layout and a focus on providing a relaxing atmosphere, it's a spot many campers eagerly anticipate returning to "in a heartbeat."

Location and Accessibility

Jubilee College Campground is located within Jubilee College State Park, with its primary access point near Brimfield, IL 61517, USA. The park's official address is often cited as 13921 W. Route 150, Brimfield, IL 61517. Situated approximately 15 miles northwest of Peoria, the campground benefits from its location in Peoria County, offering a balance between natural seclusion and reasonable proximity to urban amenities.

Access to Jubilee College State Park is convenient via I-74. For those traveling eastbound on I-74, take Brimfield Exit #75, turn left onto US Route 150, and proceed for about 4 miles to the park entrance on the left. If traveling westbound on I-74, take Kickapoo-Edwards Exit #82, turn right for 1.5 miles to Kickapoo, then left onto US Route 150 for 4 miles to the park entrance on the right. These well-marked routes ensure straightforward navigation for all types of vehicles, including RVs.

The park's location offers excellent access to a wealth of outdoor activities. With over 3,200 acres of rolling topography, meandering Jubilee Creek, and diverse ecosystems, it's a prime spot for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. While the campground itself provides a serene escape, the nearby city of Peoria offers additional conveniences such as grocery stores, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions, all within a short driving distance.

Services Offered

Jubilee College Campground provides a range of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors. The campground facilities are typically open from April 15 to November 1, with limited winter camping available in the Coyote Cove loop.

• Campsites:
  • Total Sites: The park features 107 campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs.
  • Loops: The campground is divided into three loops: A, B, and C.
    • Loops A & B: These loops are "reserve online only" and require reservations at least 3 days in advance. Loop B is particularly noted as the "only loop with showers."
    • Loop C: This loop operates on a "first come, first serve" basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
  • Site Amenities: Each site typically includes an electric hookup (30 amp on most sites, with some 50 amp available), a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill. Sites are generally graveled pads.
  • Water Access: While individual sites generally "only has electricity" and no direct water hookup, "there are a few faucets here & there" that campers can use to fill their tanks, especially if they "select a site that's close to a water faucet." Central water hydrants are available.
• Shower Building with Flush Toilets: A clean and functional shower building with flush toilets is available, primarily in Loop B, offering comfort often sought after in campgrounds.
• Trailer Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Primitive Toilets: In addition to flush toilets, primitive toilets are located throughout the campground for convenience.
• Picnic Areas: Several large picnic areas are located throughout the park, some with shelters, electricity, picnic tables, charcoal grills, water hydrants, and toilet facilities.
• Playground: Playground equipment is available in designated areas for children.
• Equestrian Camping: A separate equestrian-only camping area is located on the north side of the park, offering primitive sites (no electricity or potable water), tie lines, and a campground host. This area is not reservable.
• Winter Camping: The Coyote Cove loop is open for winter camping (Class B sites with electric and primitive privies), though running water is not available during this season.

Features / Highlights

Jubilee College Campground, as part of Jubilee College State Park, offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a desirable destination for campers in Illinois:

• Spacious and Secluded Sites: A recurring highlight from visitor reviews is that the "sites are spaced far apart," providing "lots of room" and a sense of privacy, contributing to a "quiet, spacious place to camp." This allows for a more relaxed and immersive outdoor experience.
• Friendly and Amazing Park Host: The park host receives consistent praise for being "friendly and amazing," demonstrating helpfulness by allowing site swaps and checking in on campers. This level of personal attention significantly enhances the visitor experience.
• Extensive Multi-Use Trails: The park boasts over 45 miles of multi-use trails that wind through woodlands, hills, ravines, and prairies. These trails are popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Reviewers mention doing "a couple of hikes without seeing another person," highlighting the ample space for solitude.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Leashed dogs are welcomed on the extensive multi-use trails, making it an excellent destination for campers traveling with their canine companions. Visitors noted their "dogs loved the wooded trails."
• Clean and Functional Facilities: Despite being a state park, the toilets, showers, and central water sources are described as "clean and functional," providing necessary comforts for campers.
• Natural Beauty and Wildlife: The park's rolling topography, meandering creek, and diverse natural communities (including high-quality upland forests) provide a beautiful setting with opportunities for wildlife viewing. The "cool ponds" are a particular attraction for dogs.
• Flexible Camping Options: With three distinct loops, offering both reservable electric sites and first-come, first-serve options, the campground caters to different planning styles. The availability of equestrian camping and winter camping further broadens its appeal.
• Proximity to Historic Jubilee College: The park is home to the Jubilee College State Historic Site, one of Illinois's earliest educational enterprises, adding a historical dimension to a visit.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Jubilee College Campground within Jubilee College State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: Brimfield, IL 61517, USA (Official park address: 13921 W. Route 150, Brimfield, IL 61517)

Phone: (309) 446-3758

Reservations for Loops A & B can typically be made online through the ExploreMoreIL™ (Reserve America) website. For information on Loop C (first-come, first-serve), equestrian camping, or any specific queries about park conditions and rules, it is recommended to contact the park office directly via phone or visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For Illinois residents, Jubilee College Campground within Jubilee College State Park presents an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for their camping and outdoor recreation needs. Its status as a state park ensures accessibility and affordability, while its specific features cater to a wide array of local preferences.

Firstly, the sheer spaciousness and quietude of the campsites are a significant draw for locals seeking a genuine escape from the daily grind. In a populous state, finding a place where "sites are spaced far apart" and offer a truly "quiet" experience is invaluable. This makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, fostering a sense of peaceful immersion in nature.

Secondly, the park’s extensive network of over 45 miles of multi-use trails is a major highlight for active Illinoisans. Whether you're a hiker, a mountain biker, or an equestrian, these trails provide ample opportunity for exercise and exploration. The fact that the trails are "dog friendly" is a huge bonus for pet owners, allowing the entire family to enjoy the natural beauty of the wooded paths and ponds together.

Furthermore, the clean and functional facilities, particularly the showers, provide a level of comfort that enhances the camping experience, especially for those who appreciate amenities after a day of outdoor activities. The flexible reservation system, with both online reservations for prime spots and first-come, first-serve options, caters to both planners and spontaneous adventurers among the local population. For Illinoisans looking for a well-maintained, spacious, and activity-rich state park experience close to home, Jubilee College Campground stands out as a prime choice that they would "come back in a heartbeat."

Jubilee College Campground

Brimfield, IL 61517, USA