Bridgewater Inn 116 E Market Street Mount Carroll, Illinois 61053 815-244-0201

Bridgewater Inn continues the extensive restoration taking on character all its own. With the help and support of Linda and Len Anderson of The Mad Hatter’s Ideas N’ Designs the great antique furniture is finding a new home here at the Inn.
With all the great events moving forward we wanted to have as many accommodations available so travelers could enjoy the rich Mount Carroll experience many have come to enjoy and love.

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Country Palmer House 17035 Elizabeth Road Mount Carroll, Illinois 61053 815-244-2343

This 1911 home is nestled on a farm and includes rolling hills, open spaces and country hospitality. Featuring a full country breakfast, seasonal fruits and vegetables from our garden. Two guest rooms with private baths, fireplace in TV room, oak antiques and collectibles. Hike, bike, bird watch, hunt or relax as you watch the stars from the spa. Located close to historic Mount Carroll, Galena, Great River Bike Trail and Mississippi Palisades State Park.

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Knights Inn Thomson (formerly The Executive Inn) 800 One Mile Road Thomson, Illinois 61285 815-259-7378

Thomson is a quaint northwestern Illinois village and you’ll enjoy a stay at our Knights Inn Thomson hotel. Conveniently located off Route 84, we offer welcoming amenities such as free WiFi and parking, as well as comfortable accommodations outfitted with everything you need plus we are pet friendly. Our non-smoking property is a short distance from the Mississippi River, Mississippi Palisades State Park, and the 60-mile Great River Trail—popular with hikers and bikers. We also offer easy access to DuPont, the United States Penitentiary in Thomson, and Clinton, Iowa.

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Grandpa’s Cabin 10423 Zion Road Savanna, IL 815-273-2803

Tranquil & Unique Lodging in a Restored 1837 Log Cabin!

Come Spend the Night in Peaceful Seclusion

Situated in the rolling hills minutes from the Mississippi River, enter & step back in time. Grandpa’s Cabin was built in 1837 and was the home to many families – many generations!

Experience the ambiance of this historic & humble structure – a true work of art. Enjoy the secluded location among rolling wooded hills, hay fields, wild flowers and grasses. Savor the quiet…the wildlife…the song birds. Stroll the trails & enjoy the sunsets – Total Calm!

* Free WiFi
* Coffee
* Tea
* Mini Fridge
* Microwave
* Fireplace
* Music
* Accomodates up to 4 Adults
* Forty minutes from Historic Galena, IL. and Dubuque, IA. area
* No TV

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>Hickory Hideaway 24366 Payne Road Shannon, Illinois 61078 866-333-1333 815-864-2099

Imagine indulging yourself in the privacy of your own cabin with a full body massage (two-week lead time usually required) & lingering leisurely over breakfast in bed provided by their own caterer. For that afternoon pick me-up‚ pick your decadent chocolate dessert. Arrangements can be made for extra-loving touches added to the cabin from rose petals, flowers & music, or send a special invitation asking them to join you for a relaxing getaway. One-tank trip from Western Suburbs of Chicago. Relax in the rustic setting of their cozy cabins located on 10 wooded acres just minutes from Lake Carroll. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere besides a bonfire or hot tub! A romantic whirl-pool cabin with fireplace or country kitchenette can accommodate everything from intimate parties to family reunions. Open year-round with free WiFi.

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Inn at Molly’s, The 110 West Market Street Mount Carroll, Illinois 61053 815-684-5411

Relax in small-town comfort in charming downtown Mount Carroll.  The historic restored 1865 building features two 600 square-foot suites, combining rural charm with contemporary amenities and style.  Guests will find fresh fruit, yogurt, home-made granola, coffee and tea, as well as fruit juice in the kitchen. Spend the day exploring the historic buildings and architecture of Mount Carroll, antiques, and the beautiful pastoral landscape of the driftless area.  Then, come home to cocktails and a delicious meal downstairs at Molly’s.

Please note: their suites in this historic building are located on the second floor, accessible by stairs only.

Streetside Suite
Get away from the everyday and relax in this spacious sun-flooded suite overlooking Mount Carrol’s historic, brick Market Street. Featuring a queen-sized bed with locally-sourced hardwood slab headboard. Enjoy the large main room with kitchen and lounge area including pull-out sofa for additional guests, heavy oak kitchen table and antique chairs, natural-edged furniture made by Ryan Bess of Singular Woodworks, and restored industrial lighting by Blubulb Vintage Lighting throughout. Full bathroom with tub and shower. Our walls are adorned with paintings by local artists Dan Brinkmeier and Kate Wood, as well as large-scale black and white photographs by Michael Johnson. Free WiFi, in-room phones, and TV with DVD.

Deckside Suite
This beautiful suite includes a large private deck off the modular kitchen and dining area, with spaces that flow into each other but feel more like separate rooms. Featuring a queen-sized bed with locally sourced hardwood slab headboard. Enjoy the lounge area with full-sized pull out couch for additional guests, burr oak kitchen table and antique chairs, natural-edged furniture made by Ryan Bess of Singular Woodworks, and restored industrial lighting by Blubulb Vintage Lighting throughout. Full bathroom with tub and shower. Our walls are adorned with paintings by local artists Dan Brinkmeier and Kate Wood, as well as large-scale black and white photographs by Michael Johnson. Free WiFi, in-room phones, and TV with DVD.

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Mississippi River Lodge 5642 Riverview Circle Drive Thomson, Illinois 61285 815-273-1003

The Mississippi River Lodge is located right on the banks on the Mighty Mississippi River between Savanna and Thomson Illinois and offers awe-inspiring views from every angle. We offer 4 BR, 3 baths, LR with fireplace & big screen TV, deck with grill, a fully stocked kitchen (all you add is the food) and so much more!  If you are a river lover, this is the place for you. Fishing,water skiing, tubing,or cruising up the river, it’s all here for your enjoyment. Since they are located on Big Slough, off of the main channel of the river, you can have fun without having to deal with a lot of river traffic. Access to the main channel is easy if you want to cruise the river. Only five miles up the river is Lower Sabula Lake which offers a great sand beach.  There is a public boat launch only a quarter mile from the house and a dock is provided to moor your boat at the house. If you do not have a boat, you can fish off the dock or the bank.

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Nest at Palisades Cabins, The Scenic Ridge Road Savanna, Illinois 61074 815-273-7824

Secluded luxury cabins on secluded wooded acreage high above the Mississippi.  Designed to offer charm, quiet, luxury and romance.  Private Hot-Tub in each cabin.  Fireplaces, supplied kitchens, charcoal grille on each porch, 32″ flatscreens, CD/DVD/VCR, satellite TV.  Complimentary bicycles to ride into Mississippi Palisades State Park.  Main Street a mile down bluffs, dining, antiqueing, and the Mississippi River!  By Reservation Only.

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Prairie Path Guest House 1002 North Lowden Road Mount Carroll, Illinois 61053 815-244-3462

Three rooms where you can sleep comforted by beautiful handmade quilts or lose yourself among the antiques!  Wake up to a hearty breakfast of eggs, bacon, homemade breads, fruit, french toast or waffles, ham, and our own jams & jellies. While sitting on the wicker porch swing on the upstairs veranda, enjoy our beautiful countryside and be blessed by the song of the bluebird or call of the mockingbird.  Free Wi-Fi.

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River House, The 4008 Grandview Place Thomson, Illinois 61285 815-823-5925

Enjoy a getaway on the peaceful, quiet River House on the Mississippi River. In the mornings the only sounds you might hear are the sounds of the birds. In the summer you will watch barges and riverboats go by, and in the winter eagles are on the ice in front of the house. On this part of the river, Pool 13, there are many inlets for boating and kayaking. The area is known for its fishing tournaments, and there is a public boat launch 1 mile up the road. The wildlife and spectacular sunsets offer many outstanding photographic opportunities. The Thomson area is on the Northern Illinois Wine Trail, and it features many wineries with tasting rooms. There are many antique shops and quilting shops nearby. You can also enjoy the local orchards and live summer theater. Nearby are the Palisades State Park, the Ingersol Nature Center, the Thomson Causeway, and Eagle Point Park. Thomson is on the Illinois Bike Trail, and bikes can be rented in town.

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Roberts’ Roost Country Guest House 12143B Roberts Road Savanna, Illinois 61074 815-565-0024 or 815-656-1542

Have you ever wanted to experience the quiet, secluded, country life? Roberts’ Roost Country Guest House offers tranquil days, peaceful nights and nature’s serenity in abundance at 12143B Roberts Road in Savanna Illinois. Roberts’ Roost features private accommodations in a 900 plus sq. ft., two bedroom, living room and dining room combination, one bathroom bungalow. It is the perfect place for a family to spend quality time together away from the hustle of everyday living.

Located just minutes away from the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge and Palisades State Park, it is the perfect place to spend the weekend with nature. Surrounded by flower beds and bird feeders, Roberts’ Roost is a birder’s delight. Hiking or biking the Great River Trail is also just minutes away along with fishing and boating the Mississippi River. You can also spend the day visiting the quaint shops in historic Mt. Carroll or spend the afternoon driving our local barn quilt tour. Historic Galena, Illinois is only forty-five minutes away, (35 miles), where you can spend the day enjoying the many shops and area attractions. Stop by one of the areas many wineries and return to Roberts’ Roost for a quiet romantic evening in the country. There is something of interest for everyone in Carroll County, make Roberts’ Roost Country Guest House your place to stay to enjoy it all. I think you will find after spending a few quiet days in the country you will be able to return to your hectic life feeling renewed, refreshed, and relaxed. Please visit us on Facebook.

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Sandburr Run Resort 5020 Illinois Route 84 Thomson, Illinois 61285 815-902-6063

Looking for a great place to stay during your visit to Carroll County, Illinois? They’ve got you covered! Sandburr Run Golf Course & Resort is a renovated motel six miles south of Savanna, Illinois and three miles north of Thomson.

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Seven Eagles Resort & Campground 9734 Route 84 Savanna, Illinois 61074 815-273-7301

Seven Eagles RV Park and Campground is located on Spring Lake close to the Mississippi River in Carroll County Illinois just south of Savanna Illinois. With all new electric, sewer and water at each site you can be assured of an affordable, relaxing experience in camping.

If you’re wanting a fun weekend getaway, try out one of their cozy log cabins. Kids and adults alike will enjoy their private pond stocked with fish,then take a swim in their heated pool or you can ride the paddle boat around the pond just for fun.

If you like nature, fishing and privacy, Seven Eagles RV Park and Campground in beautiful Carroll County Illinois can be your perfect vacation or weekend getaway.

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Standish House 540 West Carroll Street Lanark, Illinois 61046 815-493-2307

Filled with antiques and collection of Early American history.  Canopy beds, continental breakfast.  Minutes from Lake Carroll in residential area located in the quaint town of Lanark.

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Timber Lake Resort & Campground 8216 Black Oak Road Mount Carroll, Illinois 61053 800-485-0145

Located deep in the woods just 5 miles from historic Mount Carroll, Timber Lake Resort offers 120 campsites including pull-thru RV sites with water, sewer, and electric hookups. We also offer deluxe log cabin rentals and beautiful lakeside rustic camping. Other amenities include a 1,800-square-foot pool, large group pavilion, recreation center, general store, lakeside deck, two spring-fed lakes, biking & hiking trails and Timber Lake Playhouse, Illinois’ oldest professional summer stock theatre, is located next door within easy walking distance.

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Trailside Inn 21-78 Lake Carroll Blvd Lake Carroll, Illinois 61046 815-493-8484

Enjoy panoramic country views from any of their 12 comfortable rooms. All include TV, A/C, refrigerator, microwave, hair dryers and complimentary continental breakfast. Jacuzzi/fireplace rooms. Browse through the General Store and Gift Loft or enjoy a fun game of mini golf. Two miles west of Route 73. Free WiFi.

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The Outback Inn
Savanna/11963A Oakton Rd
Airbnb.com

The Outback Inn vacation rental is located 2 miles from downtown Savanna & the Mississippi River. This is a fully furnished ranch style home that includes LR, dining area, kitchen, 1 BR, 1 bath, sleeper sofa in LR and wood burning stove. We offer covered parking for cars or small boats, locked indoor parking for motorcycles and we have RV hookups. We have a bonfire pit, and a 10′ X 10′ covered DOG KENNEL w/ X-lg igloo dog house – note: no animals allowed inside residence.

Whether it’s hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, biking the 62 mi Great River Bike Trail, or just relaxing on the porch swing, it’s right here and more!

We have WIFI but since we’re in the country we offer a Wilson signal booster that you can place your phone on to improve your phone reception if your carrier service is weak.

Coffee & bottled water is available at check-in as well as firewood and kindling. Go to this link for availability –  https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/29039672?guests=1&adults=1

The Outback Inn vacation rental is located 2 miles from downtown Savanna & the Mississippi River. This is a fully furnished ranch style home that includes LR, dining area, kitchen, 1 BR, 1 bath, sleeper sofa in LR and wood burning stove. We offer covered parking for cars or small boats, locked indoor parking for motorcycles and we have RV hookups. We have a bonfire pit, and a 10′ X 10′ covered DOG KENNEL w/ X-lg igloo dog house – note: no animals allowed inside residence.

Whether it’s hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, biking the 62 mi Great River Bike Trail, or just relaxing on the porch swing, it’s right here and more!

We have WIFI but since we’re in the country we offer a Wilson signal booster that you can place your phone on to improve your phone reception if your carrier service is weak.

Coffee & bottled water is available at check-in as well as firewood and kindling. Go to this link for availability –  https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/29039672?guests=1&adults=1

 

Ayers Sand Prairie Nature Preserve
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge
Airport Rd & Spring Lake Road
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-2732

Ayers Sand Prairie is a relatively large preserve containing dry sand prairie, sand dune and blowout communities typical of the Mississippi River Section of the Illinois and Mississippi River Sand Areas Natural Division. An inventory of the plants revealed 39 species of grasses and sedges, 16 species of woody plants and 96 forbs. The dominant herbaceous species are little bluestem, June grass and hairy gramma grass. Carolina anemone, sandcress, puccoon and sand primrose are typical sand prairie species. Black oak and cottonwood occur in the blowouts along with scattered clones of aromatic sumac. Resident mammals include deer, skunk, rabbit, mole, shrew and western harvest mice. Summer resident birds occurring here include upland sandpiper, loggerhead shrike, western meadowlark, grasshopper sparrow and dickcissel. A number of the characteristic reptiles found in sand prairies occur at Ayers Sand Prairie.

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French Bluff Illinois State Recreational Nature Area
2911 Scenic Bluff Road
Thomson, Illinois 61285
815-273-2731

French bluff is characterized by steep hillsides, ridge tops, and terrace benches that are almost entirely covered by forest. Located east of Thomson, IL and just north of Argo Fay Road, this large contiguous forest tract is the southern most forest area in the Driftless Area. You can hike on unmarked trails through the site. An excellent birding site for interior forest birds as well as a good site to view spring wildflowers. Hiking, hunting, and birding.

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Frog Pond
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge
Doty Road & Route 84
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-2732

Frog Pond is a small recreational area situated along Plum River. Located just south of Savanna, IL and immediately off Route 84, one of its big features is a wheel chair accessible fishing platform. Not only good for fishing, but an excellent place to view floodplain forest birds during spring and fall migration. Birding, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking.

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Great River Trail

Great River Trail Map PDF

The Great River Trail recreational path extends 62 miles from Savanna, through the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge, to the Quad Cities and  provides fantastic biking, hiking, running, and walking opportunities.

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Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge
7071 Riverview Road
Thomson, Illinois 61285
815-273-2732

Fifty-five thousand acres with biking, birding, boat launches, canoeing, fishing, gift shop, hiking, hunting, picnicking, and wildlife observation.

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Lost Mound Unit
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge
3700 Army Depot Road
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-3184

Lost Mound is a 7,000-acre tract on the Mississippi River located on an old munitions testing army base that closed in 2000. Unique features of this site include sand prairie remnants, forests, backwater wetlands, old military buildings, Indian burial mounds and the largest sand dune in Illinois. Biking, birding, hiking, Prickly Pear and Black Oak Dune scenic overlook area.

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Marquette Park
Wayne King Drive & Randolph Street
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-4487

Seven acre park on the Mississippi River, boat launches, canoeing, fishing, picnicking, restrooms, & parking.

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Mississippi Palisades State Park
16327A Route 84
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-2731

As its name suggests, this 2,400-acre park sits on lofty steep bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, with river access below. The park offers beautiful scenery, biking, birding, boat launches, camping, canoeing, fishing, hiking, scenic overlooks, and seasonal cross-country skiing.

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Monument Park
Main Street
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-2722

This small area describing early settlement in Savanna hosts the monument commemorating the Aaron Pierce family, the first settlers of Savanna.

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Old Mill Park
9621 US Highway 52
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-4487

Old Mill Park is 85 acres located on the northeast side of town featuring ball diamonds, tennis courts, basketball court, playground equipment, concession stand, two restroom buildings (one newly built accessible), and shelter houses. There is also a nature trail, walking trial, and plenty of green space for relaxing and picnicking. Open from April 15 through October 31. It is open to walk-in traffic after October 31 during the daylight hours. Persons who wish to walk or ‘play’ in the park may park at the front entrance near the Park Superintendent’s home.

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Point Rock Park
182 South Mill Street
Mount Carroll, Illinois 61053
815-244-4424

Point Rock is a 25 acre city park that stretches along the banks of the Waukarusa River. One of the walking trails leads to the Oak Hill Cemetery, which has graves dating back to the Revolutionary War. Biking,  fishing, frisbee golf course, hiking, parking, restrooms.

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Portland Skate Park
1500 Portland Avenue
Savanna, Illinois 61074
815-273-2722

Professional skate park. Open to all skaters, dawn to dusk daily. Helmets are mandatory.

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Spring Lake
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge 
9496 Route 84
Thomson, Illinois 61285
815-273-2732

This site provides scenic views of both Spring Lake as well as the Mississippi River. Most notable is the 8.7 mile gravel path that runs along the edges of Spring Lake with two observation decks. Biking, birding, fishing, hiking, picnicking.

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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Big Slough Recreational Area
5836 Riverview Road
Thomson, Illinois 61285
815-259-3628

Mississippi River boat launching, canoe access, fishing, restrooms, and parking.

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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Thomson Causeway Recreation Area
Lewis Avenue and Main Street
Thomson, Illinois 61285
815-259-2353

At 64 acres, Thomson Causeway is the largest Army Corps of Engineers recreation area on the Mississippi River. Located at a wide spot on the river, it offers unobstructed views of the more than three mile wide main channel and of Potters Marsh. On the Great River Trail. Biking, birding, boat launches, camping, canoeing, fishing, hiking.

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The communities of Carroll County feature a wide variety of lodging accommodations. Whether you desire a quaint bed breakfast, a rustic log cabin with a hot tub, a great campsite with all the amenities, a comfortable hotel with an 18 hole miniature golf course, or a beautiful rental home, Carroll County has what you need for an Illinois weekend getaway vacation. So bring your bike, boat, fishing pole, golf clubs, or sense of adventure, and cruise on into Carroll County to enjoy the simple things in life!

Grandpa’s Cabin 10423 Zion Road Savanna, IL 815-273-2803

Tranquil & Unique Lodging in a Restored 1837 Log Cabin!

Come Spend the Night in Peaceful Seclusion

Situated in the rolling hills minutes from the Mississippi River, enter & step back in time. Grandpa’s Cabin was built in 1837 and was the home to many families – many generations!

Experience the ambiance of this historic & humble structure – a true work of art. Enjoy the secluded location among rolling wooded hills, hay fields, wild flowers and grasses. Savor the quiet…the wildlife…the song birds. Stroll the trails & enjoy the sunsets – Total Calm!

* Free WiFi
* Coffee
* Tea
* Mini Fridge
* Microwave
* Fireplace
* Music
* Accomodates up to 4 Adults
* Forty minutes from Historic Galena, IL. and Dubuque, IA. area
* No TV

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>Hickory Hideaway 24366 Payne Road Shannon, Illinois 61078 866-333-1333 815-864-2099

Imagine indulging yourself in the privacy of your own cabin with a full body massage (two-week lead time usually required) & lingering leisurely over breakfast in bed provided by their own caterer. For that afternoon pick me-up‚ pick your decadent chocolate dessert. Arrangements can be made for extra-loving touches added to the cabin from rose petals, flowers & music, or send a special invitation asking them to join you for a relaxing getaway. One-tank trip from Western Suburbs of Chicago. Relax in the rustic setting of their cozy cabins located on 10 wooded acres just minutes from Lake Carroll. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere besides a bonfire or hot tub! A romantic whirl-pool cabin with fireplace or country kitchenette can accommodate everything from intimate parties to family reunions. Open year-round with free WiFi.

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Nest at Palisades Cabins, The Scenic Ridge Road Savanna, Illinois 61074 815-273-7824

Secluded luxury cabins on secluded wooded acreage high above the Mississippi.  Designed to offer charm, quiet, luxury and romance.  Private Hot-Tub in each cabin.  Fireplaces, supplied kitchens, charcoal grille on each porch, 32″ flatscreens, CD/DVD/VCR, satellite TV.  Complimentary bicycles to ride into Mississippi Palisades State Park.  Main Street a mile down bluffs, dining, antiqueing, and the Mississippi River!  By Reservation Only.

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Seven Eagles Resort & Campground 9734 Route 84 Savanna, Illinois 61074 815-273-7301

Seven Eagles RV Park and Campground is located on Spring Lake close to the Mississippi River in Carroll County Illinois just south of Savanna Illinois. With all new electric, sewer and water at each site you can be assured of an affordable, relaxing experience in camping.

If you’re wanting a fun weekend getaway, try out one of their cozy log cabins. Kids and adults alike will enjoy their private pond stocked with fish,then take a swim in their heated pool or you can ride the paddle boat around the pond just for fun.

If you like nature, fishing and privacy, Seven Eagles RV Park and Campground in beautiful Carroll County Illinois can be your perfect vacation or weekend getaway.

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Timber Lake Resort & Campground 8216 Black Oak Road Mount Carroll, Illinois 61053 800-485-0145

Located deep in the woods just 5 miles from historic Mount Carroll, Timber Lake Resort offers 120 campsites including pull-thru RV sites with water, sewer, and electric hookups. We also offer deluxe log cabin rentals and beautiful lakeside rustic camping. Other amenities include a 1,800-square-foot pool, large group pavilion, recreation center, general store, lakeside deck, two spring-fed lakes, biking & hiking trails and Timber Lake Playhouse, Illinois’ oldest professional summer stock theatre, is located next door within easy walking distance.

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The communities of Carroll County feature a wide variety of stimulating recreational activities. Whether you enjoy bicycling, bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, motorsports, or swimming, Carroll County has what you need for an Illinois weekend getaway vacation. So bring your bike, binoculars, boat, camping gear, fishing pole, golf clubs, or sense of adventure, and cruise on into Carroll County to enjoy the pleasant things in life!

Golfing	Boating
Swimming	Bicycling
Motorsports	Fishing and Hunting
Bird Watching	Hiking

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And that’s just for starters…

Here is a more extensive list of things to see and do in Carroll County.

Outdoor Activities

• Year-round Activities
  • Sightseeing, bird watching, campfires, geotracking, wildlife viewing, exploring, and more
• Spring, Summer, and Fall
  • Bicycling, festivals and fairs, canoeing, golfing, ATV riding, tours, hiking, stargazing, Jetski riding, nature trails, kayaking, picnicking, motorcycling, tubing, miniature golf, fishing, hunting, jogging, motocross, camping, waterskiing, rafting, 4-wheeling, outdoor concerts, and more
• Winter
  • Ice fishing, snowmobiling, ice skating, snow skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and more

Indoor Activities

• Wine tasting, dancing, live music, bowling, dining, massage & spa, live theatre, movies, antiquing, shopping, lazer tag, museum, arts & crafts, and more

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Carroll County Offers Something for Everyone

Looking for a reason to get in the car and enjoy a splendid day in the country? Look no further than Carroll County, Illinois. With so much to see, experience, and do, there’s no better reason, or season, to discover the hidden treasures and pleasures of this region than now! Come spend a day, a weekend, or a week. We are sure you will enjoy your stay.

Nestled among the rolling hills and lush forests of beautiful northwest Illinois, Carroll County is a world away from your demanding workweek. The county encompasses four hundred sixty-six square miles of friendly smiles, genuine outdoor adventure, and charming villages that punctuate a landscape nourished by the mighty Mississippi River. Scenic byways, rich history, and outstanding special events make Carroll County the preferred destination for many visitors each year.

Courtesy of the Carroll County Hotel Motel Tax Board

Our local historic villages boast outstanding shops offering antiques or artisan works, a professional summer stock theatre, roadside stands featuring vine-fresh melons, homegrown produce, and delectable morel mushrooms. Visitors revel in a schedule of special events throughout the year, ranging from Mount Carroll’s Mayfest, Milledgeville’s June Days, and Savanna’s Haunted Forest Festival to Lanark’s Old Settler’s Days and Chadwick’s Hometown Christmas.

Whether you desire a family outing, a great escape, or a romantic getaway, Carroll County offers unique opportunities that are certain to fulfill those needs. Come, visit Carroll County and discover our special place in the pines!

Do Everything or Nothing at All

Carroll County oozes history, mystery, and natural beauty. Mile after magnificent mile, the rolling plains, towering woodlands, charming small towns, wonderful attractions, and expansive vistas will have you returning to visit season after season.

Outdoor Recreation

If the great outdoors are calling your name, then Carroll County has you covered. Here you’ll discover a region overflowing with recreational outdoor activities. Carroll County is filled with opportunities for wildlife viewing, camping, hiking, biking, boating, hunting, fishing, shopping, antiquing, and exploring our nation’s rich history, or just sitting under an old shade tree to devour a good book.

From local parks and wildlife reserves to exceptional golf courses, from miles of beautiful boating to great fishing on the “Mighty Mississippi”, you’ll find it here in Carroll County. From catfish and muskie to trout, local streams, rivers, and lakes provide anglers with the perfect opportunity for their next big fish story.

The real beauty of Carroll County is found in simple natural wonders. Such pleasures give pause from the hectic pace of modern life. The elegance of a falling autumn leaf, the majesty of a foraging deer, or the alluring warmth of a crackling fire are irresistible invitations that draw visitors to this special place.

Barn Quilt Trail
Barn quilts enhance the beauty of the countryside and are enjoyed by those who pass by. Carroll County is very fortunate to have many “Barn Quilts” already in existence throughout its countryside. We have compiled a list of our local barn quilts and  a map.

We certainly would like to see “Barn Quilt Fever” continue to grow in Carroll County. Our end goal, is to promote agri-tourism and attract visitors to our rural community.

History & Culture

History lovers find a new home in Carroll County. Here a treasure trove of museums, monuments, and historical sites capture the imagination.

Explore the stone arch bridge where Abraham Lincoln camped as a private during the Black Hawk War or discover the tragic tale of an historic steamboat, “The Sultana”.

Shopping

Retail therapy enthusiasts applaud the various shopping opportunities that abound in Carroll County. Local shops offer everything from eclectic hand-crafted gifts and quaint artisan works to antique treasures and coveted collectibles. In Carroll County, you’ll always be greeted by friendly shopkeepers who still understand the art of authentic small-town hospitality.

Whether you’re seeking a day trip, a weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, discover excellent restaurants and diverse lodging choices that range from primitive campsites or rustic cabins to pampering B&Bs, comfortable country inns, and award-winning hotels. With gentle rolling hills and lush countryside, Carroll County is a great escape from the concrete and asphalt of a big city. All this and more is waiting for you a trifling 90 minutes from the Greater Chicagoland Metropolitan Area. Come for a visit and experience a weekend getaway the way it used to be!