Complete this sentence: Camping at the Illinois State Fair is _____.

A. a mixed bag.
B. a minor nightmare to arrange.
C. wet.
D. really enjoyable and convenient after you’re there and set up.
E. all of the above, in varying amounts.

I think you probably know where I’m going with this.

We’ve hauled our camper to the Illinois State Fair for the past three years. Twice, we’ve been back in the trees and grass near the bath house. Once, we were out on the asphalt. We complained bitterly about that one, right up until 5inches of rain fell and just ran right off that asphalt. Then we were all, “Never mind about that. The asphalt’s fine!”

There’s no rhyme or reason; we’ve faxed in our request, we’ve driven it down, we’ve sent it with friends. All three methods got us a spot. Every spot has been different.

The deadline is slightly different this year, thanks to the Easter holiday, and the Illinois Department of Agriculture wants to make sure you know about it. Mark your calendars, because applications will be available online and in the Emmerson Building on April 2. They will begin taking applications at 8 a.m. on April 6.

Further — and this is the biggie — you can do it all online this year. Really. Anyone who’s ever camped out in line, perhaps in the rain, to get a camping spot knows this is a big deal. The Department of Ag does, too. They tell me they’re hopeful this will prevent people from driving clear to Springfield to wait in line overnight at the Emmerson Building, just to get a spot.

The process, it appears, will be straightforward. Visit this page on April 2, and download the camping reservation application. Then on April 6, submit it online or in person at the Emmerson Building. Applications cannot be submitted via fax or email. Additional information from IDOA: “Camping assignment is on a first come, first served basis, with priority given to vendors/concessionaires and livestock entrants staying 6 nights or longer. Campsite preference is not guaranteed. All campsites will be assigned at the discretion of the Credentials Office.

So. This is where we’re at for 2018. Let’s hope it all works as flawlessly as possible.