Hammock Haven Campsite

*** Please read ALL info before sending messages/booking requests. Most FAQ can be answered in the descriptions below ***

--SITE INFO-- This site has a picnic table, a spool 'table', and extra logs for seating. There is a fire pit with a grate that you can use to cook over. There is plenty of space to pitch up to three tents in this area, so it can accommodate groups of up to 6 people. In addition to tenting space, a great feature of this site is the fact that there are plenty of ideal places to string up hammocks. Enclosed by sturdy apple trees, this site is tucked away in the back corner of the old orchard. Come hang here for a weekend!

--ABOUT CSC-- The CSC land project lies adjacent to the private residential community of Stelle (Google search Stelle Community). Located about a 1.5 hours drive south from Chicago, it has for years been an attractive destination for stargazers, permaculturists, and folks from the community looking to enjoy a little oasis of green amongst the rural Illinois cornfields. Midwest Permaculture is located in Stelle and is guiding the ongoing permaculture design of CSC's 8.7 acres (Google search Midwest Permaculture).

--LOCATION INFO-- Once you get off the highway, you will be driving in seemingly the middle of nowhere. We promise, you are in the right place! The road will take you through stretches of corn and soybean fields, and as you approach Stelle you will be driving through the Kelly Creek Wind Farm. There is a map of pathways and sites in this listing's photos. A detailed explanation of where to park and how to get to your site will be in your arrival instructions. 

Note that Stelle is a private community, and access is by resident invitation only. If you need anything don't hesitate to contact us through the app for assistance.

The CSC land project borders an organic livestock farm (Mint Creek Farm) on the south edge, so sometimes, if the animals are nearby, you can hear the sound of sheep, chickens and cows.

--TOILET INFO-- A very short distance from your tent site is a well-maintained composting toilet we retrofitted into a former "porta-potty" structure. The toilet is tucked into the trees on the east side of the orchard, just off of the main driveway. There are instructions inside on how to use it. It’s extremely simple to use, and for all practical purposes it is odor free when used properly. It is sanitized between guests. 

--PET POLICY-- We do allow well-behaved pets, but we ask that you keep them on a leash, and clean up after them promptly. We want to ensure the site stays clean and comfortable for future guests.

--GARBAGE DISPOSAL INFO-- On the south side of the green building you parked at, you will find three designated containers for waste disposal. The yellow container is for compostables (Food scraps, non-glossy paper products), the blue container is for recyclables (Glass, aluminum, plastics), and the taller bin is for any other trash.

--BOOKING COSTS-- The tent site is $35 dollars a night to book for up to 2 guests on weekends. There is a $10 fee per night per additional guest (Children under 10 are free, so no need to add them as additional guests.) Weekday booking costs are reduced to $30/night.

--ADD ONS-- There is no water setup on site, so you should supply your own drinking water. We'll have several gallons of water for you in a container for washing dishes, faces and hands. The site comes with a complimentary container of firewood each night which you can refill from the nearby wood pile.

Upon request we also offer tours of the CSC land project. The tour will cover the thought process behind the project, the permaculture design of the project elements, the history and succession of the property. If you would like a tour during your stay please let us know.

We propagate and sell a variety of our favorite perennial plants that we cultivate on the CSC land. Ask if you are interested in purchasing plants!

--ADDITIONAL SAFETY INFORMATION-- Cell service at this location is limited. Usually Verizon has has the best luck with coverage, but it is not unusual for all carriers to have patchy service in this area.

We do have some goats that are housed on the CSC land property. They are friendly, but be careful of the electric fence that they are contained by. We ask that you don't allow children inside or around the fence.

In the southwest corner of the CSC land project there is an old bridge spanning the creek. It is roped off, as It is unsound and we prohibit guests from using it. To go back and forth from the pond area to the orchard area please use the road instead.

--ATTRACTIONS AND NEARBY ACTIVITIES-- Since we are far enough from Chicago to escape light pollution from the city, the stars here are on full display and absolutely gorgeous. We actually have hosted astronomer excursions here for years, so we suggest you bring your telescopes!

Our small pond is a hit amongst the kids for catch and release fishing. Just be mindful, there is a snapping turtle that resides there. It usually stays in the pond but watch your step. :-)

The straight, paved, quiet country roads around Stelle are great for bicyclists and joggers, but if you feel like taking a drive we are about 30 minutes from the Kankakee River Trail which is also great for biking. We are also about 35 minutes from the Braidwood Dunes and Savanna Nature Preserve, which is a gorgeous spot for trail walking and wildlife observation.

The nearest town is Herscher, which is about 15 minutes from Stelle. There you can find a small grocery store, restaurant, and gas station. 30 minutes away in Kankakee there is a weekly farmer's market, movie theatre, and shopping district. However, it is also great to just unwind here in the peaceful quiet by the campfire.

We would love to have you come and stay. CSC is dedicated to providing educational experiences that awaken/deepen our connections to nature and our fellow people--our hope is that this land will spark and support that greater connection in others. Please check out our website at centerforsustainablecommunity.com for our events/workshop schedule. 

Cheers... The Folks at CSC