DNR - Lake Le Aqua Na Concession

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking vendors to operate the concession at the Lake Le Aqua Na State Recreation Area through an Invitation for Bid (IFB) solicitation. The successful vendor will be authorized to sell and/or rent food, beverages, tobacco products, souvenirs, newspapers, boats, canoes, paddle boats, bait, firewood, hunting/fishing licenses and stamps. The vendor must have the concession open daily from April 1 through October 31, with optional hours from January 1 through March 31 and November 1 through December 31. The initial contract term is from the Governor's signature through December 31, 2027, with up to four additional five-year renewal options. Vendors must have at least two years of experience managing/operating a restaurant, and any subcontractors must have an office within 100 miles of the concession location. Bids are due electronically via the BidBuy procurement system by May 11, 2023.

The solicitation includes small business and minority/women/disabled vendor participation requirements. Video gaming is not allowed at the concession. The vendor will pay a percentage of gross receipts into a reserve account, with a minimum of 0.5% for 2024 and 1% for subsequent years. Historical revenue information from 2002 to 2010 shows annual revenue ranging from $10,000 to $56,416 for the concession. Interested vendors must submit a completed Vendor Disclosure and IPG Active Registered Vendor Disclosure form along with their bid.