Lasalle County 4H Campground

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For Illinoisans looking for a family-friendly camping experience that combines outdoor relaxation with exciting local events, the LaSalle County 4-H Campground in Ottawa, IL, stands out as a unique and vibrant destination. More than just a place to set up camp, this campground is famously the home of the "Best County Fair in Illinois," offering a dynamic environment that attracts visitors for both its amenities and its lively annual events. It’s a versatile spot, catering to traditional campers while also serving as a central hub for the agricultural and youth development activities that define the 4-H community.

Whether you're planning to attend the renowned LaSalle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair, looking for a convenient overnight stop with essential facilities, or simply seeking a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors, this campground provides a comfortable and welcoming setting. It's equipped with modern conveniences like air-conditioned restrooms and shower houses, making your stay more pleasant even during warmer months. Families will appreciate the recreational opportunities, from a full basketball court to playground equipment, ensuring there's always something to keep everyone entertained. The LaSalle County 4-H Campground offers a distinctive Illinois camping experience that blends rural charm with functional amenities and the excitement of community events.

The LaSalle County 4-H Campground is conveniently located on 4H Road, Ottawa, IL 61350, USA. This address places it in the heart of LaSalle County, a region of Illinois that is highly accessible from various parts of the state. Ottawa, the county seat, is strategically positioned near major interstates, including I-80 and I-39, ensuring straightforward travel for campers.

For those traveling from the greater Chicago metropolitan area, the drive to Ottawa is typically an hour to an hour and a half, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways. Similarly, residents from Rockford, Peoria, and Springfield will find the campground within a reasonable and manageable driving distance via well-maintained state and federal highways. The specific location on "4H Road" often implies a dedicated and well-marked approach to the fairgrounds and campground facilities, making it easy to navigate upon arrival.

The campground's proximity to Ottawa means campers have convenient access to local amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, fuel stations, and other essential services. Furthermore, Ottawa and the surrounding LaSalle County area are rich in natural attractions, including Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park, which are just a short drive away. This allows campers to easily venture out for hiking, exploring canyons, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Illinois River Valley. The combination of easy highway access, close proximity to urban conveniences, and a gateway to natural wonders makes the LaSalle County 4-H Campground a highly practical and appealing choice for Illinois locals.

LaSalle County 4-H Campground offers a range of services and amenities designed to accommodate various camping styles and ensure a comfortable stay:

• RV and Tent Sites: The campground provides both electric RV sites and primitive tent camping options. Electric sites come with hookups (likely 30/50 amp, common for fairground camping). Primitive tent camping is available at a lower donation rate, without electricity or water hoses at the site itself.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RV campers to dispose of wastewater, conveniently located near the shower house.
• Drinking Water: Access to drinking water is provided, though primitive tent campers should note it's not available directly at their sites.
• Restrooms with A/C & Heat: The campground features modern restroom facilities equipped with both air conditioning and heating, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. Restrooms are located on both the north and south ends of the park.
• Shower House with A/C & Heat: A dedicated shower house is available, also featuring air conditioning and heating, providing a comfortable showering experience. This facility is located on the south end of the park.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires. Fires must be contained within these rings or grills.
• Picnic Tables: Picnic tables are provided at campsites for outdoor dining. Campers needing one should contact the hostess, as supplies may be limited.
• Horse Stalls: For visitors with horses, horse stalls are available for overnight stays, a notable amenity given the campground's association with 4-H and agricultural events. Horse riding is not permitted at the fairgrounds.
• Dumpsters: Convenient dumpsters are provided for trash disposal, and campers are expected to maintain clean campsites and clean up before leaving.
• Accessibility to Fairground Facilities: Campers have access to various fairground facilities including a large kitchen with dining area, two covered pavilions, one pavilion with a stage, livestock barns, and a large enclosed pole barn building, all with electricity. These are primarily for event rentals but may be accessible during certain times.

The LaSalle County 4-H Campground offers several unique features and highlights, particularly appealing to those who appreciate a blend of traditional camping with community events:

• Home of the "Best County Fair in Illinois": This is a significant highlight, attracting many visitors specifically for the annual LaSalle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair. The campground becomes the epicenter of activity during this popular event, offering direct access to livestock shows, exhibits, truck and tractor pulls, rodeos, demolition derbies, and various family-friendly entertainment.
• Climate-Controlled Restrooms and Showers: The inclusion of A/C and heat in both restrooms and the shower house is a premium feature not always found at campgrounds, significantly enhancing comfort, especially during hot summer days or cooler evenings.
• Horse-Friendly Accommodations: The availability of horse stalls makes it an excellent choice for equestrian enthusiasts attending events or simply traveling with their horses, providing a convenient and secure overnight option.
• Recreational Amenities: Beyond fair events, the campground offers year-round recreational features such as a full basketball court and playground equipment, ensuring activities for children and adults outside of specific event times.
• Wildlife Viewing: The campground's natural setting allows for opportunities for wildlife viewing, providing a peaceful connection with nature.
• Quiet Hours Enforcement: With quiet hours from 10:30 PM to 7:30 AM and rules like a 10 MPH speed limit, the campground aims to maintain a respectful and peaceful environment for all campers outside of designated event times.
• Versatile Use: The campground serves as both a public camping destination and a venue for various events, including employee dinners, family reunions, birthday parties, club events, and livestock shows, showcasing its adaptability.
• Family and Youth-Oriented Environment: Rooted in the 4-H spirit, the campground fosters a wholesome and family-friendly atmosphere, with rules promoting safety and respect (e.g., no alcohol, children at campsites by 10:00 PM).

For inquiries or more information about LaSalle County 4-H Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 4H Road, Ottawa, IL 61350, USA

While a direct phone number for the campground operations specifically might be the general 4-H Extension office number, for camping inquiries, it is best to check the LaSalle County Extension office or the fairground's specific contact information, which is often tied to the county fair operations.

General LaSalle County Extension Office Phone: (815) 433-0707 (This number is for the 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator and can likely direct camping inquiries.)

For specific dates and details regarding the LaSalle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair, which heavily impacts campground activity, it is advisable to check the official LaSalle County 4-H Extension website or their social media pages. This will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information for planning your visit to this unique campground.

The LaSalle County 4-H Campground is an excellent choice for locals across Illinois, particularly for those who appreciate a multi-faceted camping experience that combines outdoor recreation with community engagement and family fun. Firstly, its convenient location in Ottawa, easily accessible from major interstates, makes it a practical and stress-free destination for weekend getaways or longer stays for families throughout Illinois. This allows locals to quickly escape to a welcoming environment without extensive travel time.

Secondly, for families with children, especially those involved in or interested in 4-H, this campground offers a unique opportunity. As the proud home of the "Best County Fair in Illinois," it provides direct access to a beloved annual event brimming with educational exhibits, exciting shows, and traditional fair entertainment. Even outside of fair season, the campground's amenities, including a basketball court and playground, ensure there are activities to keep kids active and engaged.

Furthermore, the inclusion of modern comforts like air-conditioned restrooms and showers significantly enhances the camping experience, particularly during Illinois's hot summers. The availability of horse stalls also caters to a specific niche within the local community, making it a valuable resource for equestrians. For Illinois residents seeking a well-equipped, family-friendly campground that offers both a peaceful outdoor retreat and direct access to vibrant community events, the LaSalle County 4-H Campground presents a compelling and convenient option right here in our own state.

Lasalle County 4H Campground

4H Road, Ottawa, IL 61350, USA