Luxury Camping and Local Spirits in Illinois: Podcast Episode + Travel Tips
The luxury camping or “glamping” experience at Camp Aramoni in Illinois and tasting locals spirits with Star Union Spirits. Join Darley in the midwest by listening to the podcast and reading her travel tips.
On this Travels with Darley Podcast episode, Darley takes listeners on a journey to Camp Aramoni, a luxury camping (or glamping) destination in LaSalle County, Illinois, complete with a local spirits tasting just down the road at Star Union Spirits. Listen to more great podcasts by searching for the “Travels with Darley” podcast on iHeart, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, and more.
Podcast Episode:
If you’re seeking a blend of nature, history, and luxury in your travel experience, look no further than Camp Aramoni in LaSalle County, Illinois. Nestled just southwest of Chicago and close to the renowned Starved Rock State Park, this unique destination offers a getaway in nature with great food and drinks.
Travelers who visit this campsite can stay in safari style tents and have happy hour out of an Airstream trailer! Darley joined owner Jennifer Bias on a guided tour of the camp with exploring the lavish glamping accommodations. Complete with king-sized beds, full bathrooms, and posh décor, these tents offer a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. One of the coolest things about this camp is not only the barn where guests can congregate and dine, but also the Airstream trailer, which serves as a campsite bar with an array of beverages including coffee, cocktails, wine, and beer.
Jennifer took Darley around the camp in her Polaris Ranger UTV to tour more of the property. They drive up a trail and through the woods to Bricks and Stones, a wedding and event venue housed in an 150-year-old building at Camp Aramoni. Camp Aramoni was built on top of a brickyard, and this area is where workers used to make the bricks. They pass remnants of industry by the outdoor pavilion, used for weddings and events.
The journey continues at The Barn, a luxe gathering hub on the campground. Here, Darley and Jennifer indulge in The Barn’s generous food spread, with delectable bites such as charcuterie, local honey, coconut shrimp, loaded potatoes, and much more.
No visit to LaSalle County would be complete without sampling the local spirits, and Camp Aramoni makes it easy with its partnership with Star Union Spirits, located just down the road. Owner Bob Windy welcomes Darley for a tasting of Illinois corn-based spirits in intricately decorated bottles. She tastes a traditional brandy Old-fashioned. She learns about Bob’s journey from home-brewing to opening the first licensed distillery in Peru, Illinois in over a century.
More Facts and Travel Tips for Your Camp Aramoni/Star Union Spirits Adventure:
Camp Aramoni:
- You can choose from 11 safari-style tents, which were all imported from South Africa. There are 6-person tents, 4-person tents, and some 2-person honeymoon tents (called ‘Flora and Fauna’)
- Each tent is equipped with an electronic keypad and safe for added security
- Inside the tent are a fireplace, mini fridge, and coffee maker
- Your stay at Camp Aramoni includes gourmet breakfast and dinner
- While Camp Aramoni is an ideal destination all year round, Jennifer particularly loves the camp in the summertime. The vibrant wildflowers are in full bloom, and guests can leave their tent flaps open throughout the night to hear the relaxing sounds of nature while they sleep
- In the outdoor pavilion, three out of twenty-three brick kilns remain from the Brickyard, some of which were repurposed into fountains!
Star Union Spirits:
- Star Union Spirits was built in the 1900s, originally as a clock and watch manufacturer.
- Star Union Spirits makes Brandy, Whiskey, Rum, Grappa, and even Absinthe, which are used in their traditional and non-traditional cocktails.
- The building has a whole wing of arts-oriented businesses. Visitors are able to taste the spirits, then explore the other places the building has to offer
- Bob Windy recommends purchasing the navy-strength Rum and the 75-25 Whiskey
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or simply looking to unwind in style, this hidden gem in Illinois has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable experience at Camp Aramoni.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Travels with Darley, where we’ll explore street art, canoeing, and more hidden gems along the Illinois River!
Listen and subscribe to the “Travels with Darley” podcast on iHeart, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, Spotify, Podchaser, Podcast Addict, Jiosavvn, Castbox, Audible, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcast!
