State Representative Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis) has advanced legislation to safeguard one of Southern Illinois’ most enduring traditions—the 9-Day Trail Ride, a nearly 60-year-old event that draws visitors from across the region each summer.

House Bill 4300 updates Illinois law to ensure the annual event can continue uninterrupted. The measure revises the statutory definition of “campground,” increasing the threshold from 6 to 10 days of operation per calendar year. The change became necessary following a change in campground ownership that created a potential regulatory issue for the event.

Without this fix, the 9-Day Trail Ride—typically held in late July in the Shawnee National Forest—could have faced uncertainty about its future.

“The Shawnee Forest is a vital natural resource and a major tourism destination that supports local jobs and small businesses,” Windhorst said. “When questions arose about whether the 9-Day Trail Ride could continue under current law, it was clear we needed to act. This legislation ensures this long-standing tradition can carry on for future generations.”

Windhorst thanked his colleagues in the Illinois House for their unanimous support of the measure, highlighting the event’s importance to the region’s economy and cultural heritage.

House Bill 4300 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.