Top 10 National Parks for a Thanksgiving RV Trip in and around Illinois


For families near Oglesby, Illinois, Thanksgiving is the perfect excuse to escape the city and savor a holiday meal surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re seeking forest trails, mountain views, or riverside retreats, these national parks and scenic destinations are within a drivable distance and offer ideal settings for a unique Thanksgiving. Bon Voyage Storage in Oglesby, Illinois makes storing and accessing your RV a snap, with secure storage and easy access so you can focus on what matters – making memories on the road. 1. Shawnee National Forest, Illinois Distance: ~5 hours from Oglesby Known for its rugged cliffs, wooded trails, and beautiful Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Forest is a perfect Thanksgiving destination. With RV camping available, you can enjoy your holiday feast surrounded by Illinois’ most stunning natural landscapes. 2. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana Distance: ~1.5 hours from Oglesby Indiana Dunes offers a unique blend of sand dunes, beaches, and scenic woodlands. Camp with your RV and enjoy Thanksgiving by the lake, surrounded by beautiful views and plenty of hiking and bird-watching opportunities. 3. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois Distance: ~30 minutes from Oglesby Just a stone’s throw from Bon Voyage Storage, Starved Rock features canyons, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Enjoy Thanksgiving in a cozy RV campsite after exploring the park’s many trails and beautiful rock formations – perfect for a close-to-home holiday adventure. 4. Mississippi Palisades State Park, Illinois Distance: ~2.5 hours from Oglesby With towering cliffs and river views, Mississippi Palisades offers picturesque scenery perfect for an autumn holiday. RV camping spots near the Mississippi River make for a peaceful and scenic Thanksgiving retreat. 5. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota Distance: ~8.5 hours from Oglesby For families looking for a longer journey, Voyageurs National Park offers a unique, water-based experience with lakes, forests, and islands to explore. The park offers RV-friendly campgrounds where you can set up for a tranquil Thanksgiving surrounded by water and wildlife. 6. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan Distance: ~5 hours from Oglesby Known for its sandy dunes, crystal-clear waters, and stunning vistas, Sleeping Bear Dunes is ...


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November 14th, 2024

Store Your Boat or RV with Bon Voyage Storage and Deck Out Your Yard for Halloween!


Halloween is almost here, and it’s time to go all out with your decorations! But if your boat or RV is taking up valuable space in your driveway or yard, your spooky setup might be getting cramped. No worries—Bon Voyage Storage to the rescue! Park with us and reclaim your space for all those ghosts, goblins, and giant pumpkins! Storing your boat or RV at Bon Voyage Storage not only frees up your yard for epic Halloween décor, but it also keeps your ride safe, secure, and ready for your next adventure. Whether you’re planning a graveyard scene or a haunted house, you’ll have all the room you need to create the perfect eerie atmosphere. Get Spooky! With your yard cleared, it’s time to let your creativity flow. Hang those cobwebs, place the skeletons, and light up your jack-o-lanterns without worrying about squeezing decorations between your RV and driveway. Plus, you’ll be the envy of the neighborhood with the most decked-out yard in town. ...


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October 15th, 2024

Seasonal Camping Guide for Northern Illinois


Camping in Northern Illinois is an adventure for all seasons, each offering its own unique charm. From the scenic beauty of Starved Rock to the peaceful trails around the Chicago suburbs, there’s no shortage of fantastic spots to explore. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a weekend adventurer, this guide will help you make the most of your camping trips year-round. Before heading out on your next adventure, ensure your boat, RV, jet ski, kayaks, canoes, and camping gear are securely stored at Bon Voyage Storage. With our premium amenities and top-notch security, you can rest easy knowing your equipment is safe, accessible, and ready whenever you are. Summer Summer in Northern Illinois is all about long days, warm nights, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re near Chicago or exploring further west, there are countless spots to pitch your tent or park your RV. Top Destinations: Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby, IL): Known for its beautiful waterfalls and great hiking trails. Matthiessen State Park (Oglesby, IL): Perfect for exploring canyons and lush forest trails. Chain O’Lakes State Park (Spring Grove, IL): Ideal for water sports and lakeside camping. Checklist:• Get your RV or camping gear inspected and serviced. Pack sunblock, hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing. Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.•Don’t forget insect repellent! Keep an emergency kit and first aid supplies on hand. Special Considerations: Prepare for hot days and cooler nights. Be aware of local wildlife and follow safety guidelines. Book popular campsites in advance. Research local rules and regulations. Activities: Beach Camping: Ideal for water lovers, especially around the Great Lakes. Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Boating: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or fishing in the Chain O’Lakes area. Biking: Discover scenic routes in and around the Chicago suburbs. Fall Fall brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage, making it an ideal time for camping in Northern Illinois. The vibrant colors and crisp air make outdoor adventures truly special. Top Destinations: Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby, IL): Offers breathtaking fall scenery and hiking trails. Buffalo Rock State Park (Ottawa, IL): Enjoy beautiful views of the Illinois ...


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September 16th, 2024

How To Prepare Your RV and Boat for Severe Weather


Image of Heavy rains and cars with the heading: Protect Your Boat and RV

Severe weather in Oglesby, Ottawa, Peru, Hennepin and surrounding communities can pose significant challenges for boat and RV owners. Ensuring the safety of your valuable assets is crucial. Here’s a quick guide on how to prepare and protect your boat and RV during severe weather at Bon Voyage Storage to keep your vehicles secure. Storing Your RV and Boat: Documentation: Remove all essential documents from both your RV and boat, storing them in a watertight container off-site. Include a recent photo of your vehicle for insurance purposes. Secure Storage: Park your RV and boat in a safe, sheltered location like Bon Voyage Storage, away from trees and potential hazards. RV-Specific: Retract slide-outs and awnings, close and lock all openings, and use a protective cover. Cover tires and propane tanks. Boat-Specific: Remove or secure equipment, disconnect electrical systems and batteries, document valuable items, and cover the boat for protection. Clear the Area: Remove loose items from both the RV and boat areas that could become projectiles in high winds. If Storing on a Trailer: Ensure tires, wheel bearings, and axle are in good condition. Lash the boat and place wheel chocks on all sides. Why Choose Bon Voyage Storage? Our facility is strategically built on elevated ground with superior drainage systems, ensuring your boat and RV remain safe even during heavy rainfall and potential flooding. While our enclosed and canopy units are not watertight, they offer substantial protection from the elements. Our sturdy buildings are designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris, providing reliable shelter for your valuable assets. By choosing Bon Voyage Storage, you ensure that your valuable assets are in the best hands when severe weather hits Oglesby, Ottawa, Peru, Hennepin and surrounding communities. We also offer onsite winterization and summarization for maximum protection and convenience, giving you peace of mind no matter the weather. ...


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August 19th, 2024

Tips on Preparing Your Vehicle for Storage: A Guide for Boat and RV Enthusiasts


White side of building that says "BON VOYAGE" to name the boat and RV storage facility

Storing your vehicle in Illinois’ climate extremes - whether it’s a boat, RV, car, or motorcycle - requires careful preparation to ensure it remains in optimal condition during its period of inactivity. For boat and RV enthusiasts, understanding how to prepare for storage is essential to preserving the longevity and performance of your investment. Proper preparation prevents damage, mitigates maintenance costs, and ensures that your vehicle is ready to hit the road or water when you are. In this blog, we will explore comprehensive tips on preparing your vehicle for storage at Bon Voyage Storage, a premium facility tailored specifically for boat and RV enthusiasts that serves Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, Ottawa, Peru and surrounding communities. We also offer these services as part of our winterization and summerization packages. Clean Thoroughly Before storing your boat or RV at Bon Voyage Storage, it’s crucial to clean it thoroughly both inside and out. This step is essential for preventing rust, mold, and pest infestations. Exterior Cleaning: Wash the exterior of your boat or RV to remove dirt, salt, and grime. For boats, make sure to remove any plant matter or soil from the hull to prevent corrosion. Interior Cleaning: Vacuum the interior and remove any food or debris that could attract pests. Use appropriate cleaners to sanitize surfaces and prevent mold growth. For boats and RVs, check for any water leaks and repair them to avoid moisture buildup. Fluids Check and Maintenance Properly maintaining your vehicle’s fluids is crucial for preventing engine damage during storage. Top Up Fluids: Ensure all fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, are topped up to the recommended levels. Change Oil: Consider changing the oil before storing your vehicle at Bon Voyage Storage. Fresh oil helps prevent corrosion inside the engine and ensures that your vehicle starts smoothly after the storage period. Battery Care The battery is a critical component that requires special attention during storage to prevent drainage and extend its lifespan. Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining over ...


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July 17th, 2024

Safe Harbor: Exploring the Advantages of Secure Boat and RV Storage Solutions


White RV at the edge of a river at sunset

Owning an RV or boat in the Starved Rock State Park area involves finding the right storage facility to safeguard your valuable rig. These vehicles are typically large, posing challenges in terms of space and maintenance. Proper storage prolongs the appearance and extends the lifetime of your vehicle. Here are six advantages of using a specialized RV and boat storage facility like Bon Voyage Storage in Oglesby, Illinois: Enhanced Security: Facilities like Bon Voyage Storage offer high-security measures such as 24/7 camera recording, gated access, and illuminated grounds, safeguarding your vehicles against theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access. Environmental Protection: Enclosed and canopy storage helps protect your RV or boat from harsh weather, including damaging sunlight, rain, and extreme temperatures, with options like covered storage to prevent rust, fading, and water damage. Convenience and Amenities: Bon Voyage Storage offers valet pick-up and drop-off from our secure holding lot. We also can also winterize and summerize your boat or RV and shrink wrap it if you want to store it in outside or in our three-sided canopy building. Preserve Vehicle Value: Storing your RV or boat in an enclosed or canopy unit helps maintain its condition and value by protecting it from environmental damage and pests, ensuring it remains in top shape for resale or trade-in. Space Optimization at Home: Utilizing Bon Voyage Storage frees up significant space at your residence, allowing for better use of your driveway, yard, or garage for other activities or features. Regulatory Compliance: Offsite storage prevents potential fines and neighborhood disputes related to local regulations or homeowners' association rules whether you live in Peru, Ottawa or even as far away as Chicago, making it a hassle-free solution for vehicle storage. By opting for a specialized storage facility like Bon Voyage Storage in Oglesby, IL, you ensure that your RV or boat is securely and efficiently stored, freeing you to enjoy your adventures ...


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June 20th, 2024

Navigating Oglesby, Illinois: A Luxury Getaway for Boat and RV Enthusiasts


Map of five local attractions in Oglesby Illinois

On behalf of Bon Voyage Storage, we’d like to welcome you to Oglesby, Illinois, a hidden gem nestled in the scenic landscapes of North Central Illinois. Whether you're captaining your vessel along the Illinois River or cruising in your RV, Oglesby offers a retreat that perfectly blends adventure with serenity. Here are the top activities and attractions in the area for an unforgettable getaway. 1. Explore Starved Rock State Park Starved Rock State Park is a paradise for both boating and RV enthusiasts. Moor your boat at the nearby marina or park your RV in one of the many spots designed for easy access to the park's 18 canyons. Hiking, fishing, and wildlife photography are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in this breathtaking natural setting. 2. Navigate the Illinois River Take your boat out on the Illinois River for a day of water sports or a peaceful cruise at sunset. The river's accessible boat ramps and clean, wide stretches of water make it perfect for all kinds of aquatic adventures. The serene waters and lush surroundings provide an ideal backdrop for your boating pleasure. 3. Golfing at Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club For a leisurely day on land, visit Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club. Located just a short drive from the heart of Oglesby, the club offers a challenging course with beautiful greens and a welcoming clubhouse. Enjoy a round of golf and then relax in the upscale dining room. 4. Visit the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center Learn about the rich history of the Illinois waterway and its ecological importance at this informative center. It's a great spot for educational family fun, with interactive exhibits and a viewing area to watch barges and boats navigate the locks. Dive into the story of this vital waterway and enhance your knowledge of the local area. 5. Dine and Shop in Downtown Oglesby Experience the local flavor of Oglesby with a visit to its charming downtown. Here, you can enjoy delicious dining options, quaint shops, and friendly locals. ...


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April 15th, 2024

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