Arcola’s Rockome Gardens resort may be getting some friendly competition with Ashmore’s new camping resort.

Lincoln Springs Resort, opening in mid-May, is a new destination created for family vacations and daytime outings.

Even though Rockome is a resort with a similar concept to Lincoln Springs, David Kirsch, the chief operations officer for Lincoln Springs, doesn’t foresee Rockome Gardens to have any decline in business.

“We see each other as increasing the amount of tourists by advertising each other,” Kirsch said. “Their theme is totally different and it gives everyone something new to see.”

Besides being home to a giant statue of Abraham Lincoln, Lincoln Springs also offers many outdoor adventures for students and families on its 130-acres of land.

Lakes for fishing, paddle boating or canoeing will be available with rental equipment for each guest.

Food, beverages and bait will be available by the lake.

The resort also includes a Civil War-themed paintball course. Guests can bring their own equipment or use rental equipment. Any team who claims victory gets a certificate and a photo taken with famous Civil War generals.

Visitors can walk through Abe’s Garden, featuring a conservatory with small kiosks that explain different stages of Lincoln’s life.

“There is a lot of Lincoln History in Coles County so a lot of things are about or relate to his era,” Kirsch said.

Activities like mini golf and an 18-hole professional course are available to golf enthusiasts. The landscape includes gradual hillsides, streams and waterfalls.

Inside is a family center located in the front of the resort complete with a gaming room with a computer, console games and stations.

An Internet Cafe is also available to keep in touch with friends and family via e-mail. Guests can dine at Lincoln Springs’ restaurant, The Stovepipe Grill, while staying at the resort. The Grill is a place to stop in and grab a snack and drink or for sit-down dining.

For students or any guests that may have traveled to the resort and forgotten something, Lincoln Springs’ Country Store offers anything from camping supplies to ice and sundries.

Other projects in progress include a water park that will include a zero-depth pool, waterslides and bumper boats.

Go-karts and a petting zoo are also on the agenda as well as part of the expansion of the resort.

“We are expecting to open attractions as construction is completed,” said Sarah Miller, the Marketing Coordinator for Lincoln Springs.

Lincoln Springs is hoping to give Eastern students a place to have fun on the weekends.

“I can’t wait until Parent’s Weekend. My family loves camping so this is such a great opportunity,” said Amanda Meyers, a junior early childhood education major.

For more information or details on events and attractions call (217) 345-3424.