Overview & Suitability

The Coalfield Rest Area, located at mile marker 64 on I-55 near Raymond, IL, serves as a vital public facility for travelers on this major north-south interstate. The site is divided into distinct northbound and southbound facilities, both of which are designed to accommodate a wide range of vehicles, including standard passenger cars, commercial semi-trucks, and recreational vehicles (RVs). It acts primarily as a high-utility transit stop rather than a private campground or commercial RV park.

Access, Dimensions & Clearance

The facility provides direct, easy-access ramps from I-55, designed for high-volume interstate traffic. Navigation is straightforward for large vehicles, including semi-trucks and motorhomes, with generous turning radii. While specifically engineered to meet the needs of long-haul logistics and road-tripping families, drivers should remain aware of standard interstate clearance heights at nearby bridge overpasses. No specific height restrictions beyond federal interstate standards are enforced.

Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking

Parking at the Coalfield Rest Area is free of charge and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no requirement for pre-booking, registration, or payment, as this is a state-maintained public infrastructure facility.

Security & Amenities

The site is designed for traveler comfort and safety, featuring:

• Dedicated zones for oversized vehicles and trucks.
• Outdoor lighting throughout the parking area to enhance nighttime visibility.
• On-site restrooms and public infrastructure.
• Educational and historical exhibits, including information on the region's coal mining history, which function as mini-museums for travelers.
• Pet-friendly walking areas.
• RV dump station facilities available at the site.

Strategic Alternative

This location serves as a critical strategic stop for travelers commuting between the St. Louis, MO, and Chicago, IL, corridors. It is effectively positioned as a mid-journey break roughly 25 miles south of Springfield, offering a reliable, no-cost alternative to private truck stops or commercial service centers for drivers needing a safe place to rest, conduct safety checks, or perform minor vehicle maintenance before continuing their journey.