The Illinois Department of Agriculture has officially announced the opening of online registration for those looking to secure a camping spot for the upcoming eclipse weekend at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds.
This announcement, made on Monday, February 26, offers outdoor enthusiasts and eclipse chasers a unique opportunity to experience the solar eclipse from a prime location.
As per a Paducah-Cape Girard KFVS-TV report, located within 20 miles of the solar eclipse’s path of totality, the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds presents an ideal viewing site for the celestial event scheduled for Monday, April 8. The eclipse, expected to last four minutes and nine seconds, is not just a momentary spectacle but is anticipated to have a significant economic impact on the region.
Jerry Costello II, director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, emphasized the dual benefits of the event, stating, “This area of southern Illinois is ideal for observing the eclipse, and the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds are making camping accommodations convenient and affordable with our special pricing and online registration.” He further highlighted the broader implications for the local economy and the outdoor recreation industry, noting the partnership with Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale and other local organizations to enhance the visitor experience.
The fairgrounds are offering a four-night stay from Friday, April 5 through Tuesday, April 9, at a cost of $100 for a campsite measuring 50 feet by 20 feet. This initiative not only caters to the immediate needs of eclipse viewers but also underscores the growing trend of integrating outdoor recreational activities with significant astronomical events.
In collaboration with NASA, SIU Carbondale is set to host the Southern Illinois Crossroads Eclipse Festival, a series of events and activities leading up to Eclipse Day at Saluki Stadium. This festival is part of a broader effort to attract visitors from around the globe and showcase the natural beauty and recreational potential of southern Illinois.
The Du Quoin State Fairgrounds camping package is designed to welcome tourists and ensure an enjoyable eclipse experience. By offering convenient and affordable accommodations, the fairgrounds aim to encourage more people to explore the outdoors and engage with the local community.
Reservations for the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds camping can be made online at dqf.illinois.gov. This streamlined process makes it easier for families, individuals, and groups to plan their eclipse weekend well in advance.
As the eclipse approaches, the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds and the surrounding southern Illinois region are poised to become a focal point for those seeking to combine their love for the outdoors with the awe-inspiring experience of a solar eclipse.