Monmouth city officials in Illinois are considering an increase in campground fees at Citizens Lake following a recent city council meeting.
According to an article by Tri States Public Radio, the proposed adjustments would raise the per night fee from $25 to $40, the per week fee from $125 to $135, and the per month fee from $350 to $450, effective at the start of the 2025 camping season.
These fees include access to water, sewer, and electricity, along with amenities such as a bathhouse, fishing, and a playground.
The last fee increase occurred over three years ago. Monmouth City Administrator Lew Steinbrecher noted that council members felt the current rates were below market standards.
For comparison, Riverside Campground in Keithsburg charges $25 per night and $430 per month, while Timberview Lakes Campground in Bushnell charges $35 per night and $450 per month.
Steinbrecher explained that the campground does not operate as a profit-generating entity. Instead, the fee increase aims to help cover maintenance costs associated with Citizens Lake.
“We don’t treat the campground as a self-sustaining cost center or an enterprise fund,” Steinbrecher said, adding that tracking all expenses against revenue would likely show it as unprofitable on its own.
The proposal to raise campground fees will be reviewed at the next Monmouth City Council meeting on July 1. Citizens Lake, located on the west side of U.S. Route 34, offers seasonal fishing, outdoor pavilions, and camping facilities, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities.
This fee increase reflects a broader trend in the campground industry where municipalities and private operators are adjusting prices to align with market conditions and maintenance costs.
Sustainable pricing strategies are crucial for the upkeep and enhancement of campground facilities, ultimately improving the experience for RVers and campers.
Understanding these local pricing adjustments offers valuable insights into market dynamics and helps anticipate their impact on camper behavior and campground utilization.
