This small city of 1,113 began when John Miller and his wife, Charlotte, deeded ninety rods square of land to develop the county seat of Stark County, Illinois. Incorporated as a village in 1858, then as a city in 1909, Toulon was named after a town in Tennessee that was named for Toulon, France.
In the beginning, Toulon consisted of only around 16 blocks, but several significant additions were quickly added. There was no further expansion until the late 1950s when coal strip mining came to town, and the last subdivision was added.
An interesting historical fact about Toulon, Illinois is that both Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas gave speeches in the small town before the presidential election of 1860. In 1858, Douglas arrived by carriage because the railroad had not yet arrived in Toulon. His arrival was greeted by a few of the loyal Democratic Party members. That night, he gave his speech and held the audience captive for over an hour.
The next day, Lincoln’s carriage was greeted with such a rambunctious cheer that it frightened the horses enough to put the carriage occupants in danger. Once the horses were calmed, a procession was formed, which escorted Lincoln to the Virginia Hotel. Later that night, in the same spot Douglas had given his speech the previous evening, the people of Toulon stood in the pouring rains and listened to their future president.
This small municipality is centrally located, allowing travelers to visit a wide array of restaurants, city parks, museums, and state and national parks without traveling too far. If you want to stay local, the Toulon City Park is an excellent option for a summer picnic. It also has a playground for children to release extra built-up energy. After playing in the park, you can grab a bite to eat at Connie’s Country Kitchen, Julie’s Café Market, or R Bar. You can also travel 31 miles to Peoria, Illinois, and enjoy one of its many restaurants.
During the month of July, the Stark County Junior Fair welcomes visitors with a variety of activities, including Peewee Shows, a Queen Pageant, and a Small Animal Costume Class.
If you visit during the first week of September, you can experience the carnival, parade, mud volleyball, and other activities at Kewanee Hog Days.
Old Settlers Days in August include family activities such as a Kids Pedal Tractor Pull, pageants, fireworks, a 5k run/walk, and a Craft Show and Flea Market.
RV dump stations can be found all around the Toulon area. For example, Carl Spindler Marina and Campground is located in Peoria. This site offers free dumping for guests and charges $5 to the public. Auburn Travel Center in Divernon, Illinois and offers free dumping services.
Indiana Dunes National Park is located approximately 170 miles east of Toulon. This site has been considered sacred by the local Indiana residents for many years. The park is located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing.
Located around 210 miles from Toulon, Illinois, Gateway Arch National Park consists of 91 riverside acres. The 630-foot arch marks the start of the 19th-century Lewis and Clark expedition. While visiting this park, be sure to ride the elevator to the top for an amazing view of the Mississippi River. You can also visit the venue of the Dred Scott case, the Old St. Louis Courthouse, while at the Arch.
The 530-mile drive is worth it to visit the Isle Royale National Park. This park is unique because no cars are allowed on the island. Visitors must either walk or take a boat to access the area's wonders. You will be able to observe red foxes, beavers, mink, gray wolves, and moose. If visiting between June and August, investigate the wide array of scheduled events at the park.
Jubilee College State Park RV & Campground offers 3,200 acres of enjoyment. While visiting, you can explore the Jubilee College State Historic Site and enjoy horseback riding, camping, and other recreational activities.
Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area RV & Campground is divided into three distinct areas. These areas can be located on either side of the Illinois River. Whether hiking, picnicking, or boating, this area is an excellent option for your enjoyment.
Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area is a 2,900-acre park located near the Illinois River. With over 2,400 acres of this park being water, it is a fisherman's dream. You can also enjoy camping, hiking, duck hunting, and bird-watching when visiting.
Willis Tower stands over 1,700 feet above the Chicago landscape, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks.
Navy Pier is a landmark filled with family-friendly activities including gardens, carnival attractions, and a pier.
Dana Thomas House is a gorgeous example of organic architecture. You can find the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright objects in this house.
Carl Spindler Campground and Marina is one of the various RV parks and campgrounds that can be found nearby Toulon, Illinois. Located on the banks of the Illinois River, this park offers 78 RV sites, full hookups, and 30/50-amp sites with daily, weekly, and monthly rates.
Mt. Hawley Mobile Home Park can be found in nearby Peoria, Illinois. This site has full hookups and cellphone reception, and it allows pets.
Also located near Peoria, Kamp Komfort RV Park is a hub for gas, supplies, groceries, laundry, and other essentials. It offers visitors a pool, showers, and cell reception.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Toulon, IL, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Toulon?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Toulon from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Toulon?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
