Kankakee South KOA Holiday Blog
Your home base for exploring Chicago and Route 66. Now booking for 2026!
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Plan ahead to avoid major headaches later. GPS is great, but often sends drivers on routes not equipped for tow vehicles. To avoid gravel roads and rural areas not suited for trailers, see below.
From Champaign, Chicago, and Illinois points North or South:
- Stay on I-57 until Exit 308.
- Turn South onto US 45/52.
- Follow US 45/52 South for 3 miles to 6000S Rd.
- You will see our sign on the Left. Turn Left onto 6000S Rd for 1 mile.
From Michigan, Elkhart, and points Northeast:
- Stay on I-80 until Exit 12.
- Take the exit onto I-65 South.
- Stay on I-65 until Exit 230.
- Turn West onto IN-10. This will become IL-114 then merge with IL-17. Stay on IL-17 to I-57.
- Take I-57 South until Exit 308.
- Follow US 45/52 South for 3 miles to 6000S Rd.
- You will see our sign on the Left. Turn Left onto 6000S Rd for 1 mile.
From I-55, West I-80 and Iowa points West:
- Stay on I-80 until Exit 112.
- Turn South onto IL-47.
- From IL-47, turn East onto IL-113.
- Take I-57 South until Exit 308.
- Follow US 45/52 South for 3 miles to 6000S Rd.
- You will see our sign on the Left. Turn Left onto 6000S Rd for 1 mile.
From the Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and points Southeast:
- Stay on I-65 North until Exit 201 (NOT EXIT 220). (Depending on where you are coming from, you may be approaching from US-41. If so, skip to the next step.)
- Turn West onto US-24. This will merge with US-45/52. Stay on US-45/52.
- Turn Right onto 6000S Rd for 1 mile. You will see our large entrance sign on the Left.
Note: All dates are for 2026. This list is based on announced dates and is subject to change. Check official event websites before making firm travel plans.
April 30: Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off - Satellite City Celebration (Joliet, IL)
Joliet has been selected as one of the official "Satellite" locations across the country for the national kickoff event, which will be celebrated at the historic Old Joliet Prison. Expect a special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial year.
May (Multiple Dates): Red Carpet Corridor Festival (Joliet to Bloomington)
This multi-community event celebrates the start of the iconic road trip with various live events, food, and fun across the historic towns along the original route.
June 15 – 19: The Route 66 Centennial Great Race (Starts in Springfield, IL)
A major vintage car rally featuring approximately 120 antique automobiles (1911-1974 model years) that will kick off in Illinois and head west. Spectators can interact with the drivers and teams at various stops.
June 23 – 24: "Main Street of America" Centennial Caravan (Illinois Portion)
This nationwide caravan of core cars and enthusiasts, traveling from California to Illinois, concludes its journey by traversing the Illinois portion of the Mother Road. Catch them as they approach the official starting point!
August 13 – 23: Illinois State Fair (Springfield, IL)
The state's premier summer event is expected to feature a special Route 66 Experience and expanded Legends Neon Sign Park exhibits to celebrate the centennial.
September 25 – 27: 25th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival (Springfield, IL)
The classic, fan-favorite festival returns with a special centennial tribute, bringing hundreds of cool cars, live music, and non-stop nostalgia to historic downtown Springfield.
October (Multiple Dates): Last 100 Miles of Route 66 Festival (Southwest Illinois)
A celebration of the final stretch of the road in Illinois before it crosses the Mississippi River, with events planned across towns like Collinsville, Staunton, and Litchfield.
October (Multiple Dates): Miles of Possibility Conference (Springfield, IL)
The annual gathering for Route 66 historians, preservationists, and tourism professionals, focusing on the cultural impact of the road.
November 11: Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Statewide Conference & Epic Centennial Celebration (Springfield, IL)
The official date of Route 66's designation (November 11, 1926). This full day includes a conference focusing on preservation and economic development, an awards gala, and a grand public celebration with live entertainment and classic cars at Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum.
Route 66 isn't just a highway; it's a living museum of classic Americana. It's about neon signs, quirky roadside attractions, classic diners, and the spirit of adventure. Not sure where to start? No worries, KOA has you covered! Check out their Route 66 in 6 Parts Travel Itinerary here.
When you book your stay at Kankakee South KOA Holiday, you're not just planning a vacation—you're preparing to write the first chapter of your own unforgettable Route 66 story.
Book your spot today and ensure your Route 66 journey starts on the right tire!
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