Starting this month, it costs more to stay at campgrounds on lands managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The IDNR has raised the daily utility fee for camping from $5 to $10 to offset statewide increases in electric, water and sewage rates.

For Class AA campsites, which offer full hookups, the daily camping fee would increase from $20 to $25 ($15 camping fee plus $10 utility fee).

The IDNR also proposes to raise the camping fees for Class AA, Class A and Class A Premium sites by $10, but only during the Memorial Day, Labor Day and Independence Day holidays. “Premium” campgrounds are those that operate consistently at capacity.

The 45-day public comment period on the proposed fee changes expired April 4. The Joint Committee on Administrative Rules is expected to approve the changes on May 20, said Jack Price, legal counsel for the IDNR.

The increased utility fee would take effect May 21, and the $10 increase on the premium sites would start with the Fourth of July weekend, Price said.

The fees for Class B, C and D campsites will not change. Class B and C sites do not offer hookups sufficient for motorhomes, and Class D is for tent camping.

The IDNR does not charge an entrance fee to any state-owned or operated land except Wildlife Prairie Park in Hanna City.

Approximately 2,500 FMCA members live in Illinois.