5 Diamond Campgrounds has been awarded the April 2024 Small Business of the Month by the RiverBend Growth Association (RBGA).
The campground has become a destination for both tourists and transient workers, offering 49 well-equipped spaces for campers and RVs, complete with necessary utilities such as water, sewer, and electric hookups, according to a press release.
Established in October 2020 by co-owners Brian Campbell and Matt Diamond, 5 Diamond Campgrounds is strategically located next to the Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower, off Illinois Route 3 at Hartford.
Aside from its prime location, 5 Diamond Campgrounds offers a unique advantage—a small convenience store situated at Colman’s Country Campers, also owned by Campbell and Diamond.
Operating year-round, the campground provides flexible accommodation options on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for transient workers, notably those engaged in projects at the Wood River Refinery, offering them a hassle-free residential option.
According to Campbell, the campground fulfills a critical need by providing a secure and convenient lodging solution for workers moving from one job to another.
“There was such a need for a campground to house transient workers. Providing a safe space for families coming to our area, for work or pleasure, has been one of the greatest opportunities in running this business,” Manager Susie Sweetman said in the press release.
Over the years, the campground has not only expanded its operations but also its role in the community. Initially starting with a single employee, it now supports three full-time staff members.
“We offer great customer service and a clean campground. And we always work with our campers to accommodate their needs while they’re staying with us,” Sweetman added
RBGA, serving as the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization for the 11 communities known as the Riverbend, has a longstanding tradition of recognizing member businesses that exhibit outstanding community leadership and effort. The Small Business of the Month Committee, comprising members such as Brenda Eardley, Vicki Hake, Vickie Hopkins, Amy Roady, Martha Schultz, and Amy Smith, played a critical role in identifying deserving businesses like 5 Diamond Campgrounds.