Free Camping and Admission at State Parks
No camping fee and no admission fee at Illinois state parks for 100% disabled veterans and former POWs.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Recreation & Parks — Illinois
- Who it's for
- Veterans, Spouses, Dependents
- VA rating needed
- 100% or higher
- Estimated value
- Free camping (utility fee $10 at some classes)
- Where it applies
- Illinois
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Free Camping and Admission at State Parks?
Free Camping and Admission at State Parks is a Illinois recreation & parks benefit for veterans, spouses, dependents. No camping fee and no admission fee at Illinois state parks for 100% disabled veterans and former POWs. Requires 100%+ VA disability rating. The listed value is Free camping (utility fee $10 at some classes).
Who qualifies
- Requires 100%+ VA disability rating
- Illinois residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Illinois resident disabled veterans who have: permanent loss of use of a leg(s) or arm(s) or any combination; or are so severely disabled as to be unable to move without crutches or wheelchair; or receive 100% service-connected disability compensation from the USDVA (or military disability retired pay other than TDRL). Also applies to former POWs. The veteran's immediate family (spouse, minor children, or grandchildren under 18) accompanying the veteran is also eligible for the discounts.
What Free Camping and Admission at State Parks covers
Covers
No camping fee at Illinois state park campsites. At Class A, AA, A-P, B/E, and B/E-P campsites a $10.00 utility fee still applies. At Class B/S, B/S-P, C, and D campsites no utility fee applies. Illinois resident disabled veterans and former POWs are also exempt from shelter reservation fees. Does not include rent-a-tent or cabin fees.
How to apply for Free Camping and Admission at State Parks
How to apply
Obtain a USDVA Disability Certification Card; for the state-park-specific benefit, contact an IDVA field office for the affidavit/certification.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: dnr.illinois.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about Free Camping and Admission at State Parks
Who qualifies for Free Camping and Admission at State Parks?▾
What VA disability rating do I need for Free Camping and Admission at State Parks?▾
How much is Free Camping and Admission at State Parks worth?▾
How do I apply for Free Camping and Admission at State Parks?▾
Where can I verify Free Camping and Admission at State Parks?▾
Other Illinois Recreation & Parks
Discounted Hunting/Fishing Licenses for Veterans
50% off hunting and fishing licenses for Illinois resident veterans who served abroad.
50% off license fees (free for active-duty / mobilized)
Free Hunting and Fishing for Disabled Veterans
Free hunting and fishing licenses for veterans receiving 10%+ service-connected VA compensation.
Free annually
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