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.
Who qualifies
- Requires 100%+ VA disability rating
- Illinois residency
How to apply
Free camping (utility fee $10 at some classes)
Apply through the official Illinois agency.
Open applicationDetails
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.
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
Obtain a USDVA Disability Certification Card; for the state-park-specific benefit, contact an IDVA field office for the affidavit/certification.
Always confirm current rates and rules with the Illinois state agency before applying.
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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