Boot camp programs in Illinois incorporate a substance abuse education and treatment component and aftercare. Due to the documented drug and alcohol abuse histories of most criminals, the emphasis is on a continuum of substance abuse treatment. Boot camp participants are categorized according to levels: (1) inmates with no probable substance abuse problem who receive 2 weeks of education; and (2) inmates who are considered to be probable substance abusers and who receive more extensive education and treatment services. Upon release from the boot camp, offenders participate in an intensive community supervision program. This aftercare supervision is designed to closely monitor the offender's activities so that controls can be tailored for diversion from previous criminal activity. Electronic detention is employed in some cases to gradually release the offender from the boot camp's totally structured and controlled environment to the community. Planning is key to the operation of boot camps in Illinois and elsewhere. In the course of the planning process, attention should be paid to staffing, the need of boot camp participants for adequate program information and orientation, housing, media coverage, and program evaluation. In addition, the development of boot camp programs usually requires changes in State or local statutes. The evaluation of boot camp programs based on recidivism and the cost-effectiveness of boot camp programs are discussed. 20 references and 3 photographs