Best Camping near Golconda, IL

Are you in need of a campground near Golconda, IL? Golconda is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Golconda, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Golconda, IL (137)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    1. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    52 Reviews
    208 Photos
    494 Saves

    One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

    The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

    Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead). Pets are allowed only on a leash. Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm. Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails. Camp only at designated sites in the campground. Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail. Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    2. Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    32 Reviews
    142 Photos
    305 Saves

    Bell Smith Springs is one of the most beautiful recreation areas the Shawnee National Forest has to offer. It contains a series of clear, rocky streams and scenic canyons bordered by high sandstone cliffs and an abundance of vegetation unique to Illinois. The trail system consists of eight miles of interconnected trails featuring strange and wonderful rock formations, such as Devil's Backbone, Boulder Falls and a natural rock bridge. Hiking this system of trails is a favorite activity because of the rock features, scenic overlooks, hidden springs and lush flora and fauna.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground

    3. Shawnee Forest Campground

    32 Reviews
    55 Photos
    190 Saves

    Located in the Middle of Southern Illinois just Off I-24 it is a great place to stay while you explore all the the Shawnee Forest. From Giant City to Garden of the Gods. The Tunnel Hill bike trail is a half mile away and Cache River is just down the road. We have 60 Full Hook up sites. Large pull through sites up to 120 feet long. We have Shower Houses and Laundry Facilities. Our Campground is Open Year Round.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls

    4. Jackson Falls

    20 Reviews
    66 Photos
    417 Saves

    Jackson Falls offers many opportunities for technical climbing and is a beautiful scenic area of the Shawnee National Forest. It is in the general forest area located east of the small town of Ozark, IL. This non-developed area has a small trailhead with a vault toilet. A short trail leads from the trailhead to the top of Jackson Falls. There are high dangerous bluffs in the area, visitors should be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Camping is allowed here at no cost, since this is part of the general forest area and not a developed campground. Access: A narrow gravel road leads to the Jackson Falls Trailhead, but then the road becomes dirt and deadends past the trailhead.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    5. Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    15 Reviews
    78 Photos
    106 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $12 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    6. Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    43 Photos
    173 Saves

    Lake Glendale If you are looking for a place in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, then Lake Glendale Recreation Area is for you. Its central location makes it easy to visit main attractions on either side of the forest or any place in-between. Surrounded by tall pine trees and mixed hardwood forests, Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a wide range of recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, swimming, boating, fishing and bicycling. The picnic area has a large picnic shelter near the lake with party grills for group gatherings. Recreation Area brochure/map Lake Glendale Campgound Map

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground

    7. Hillman Ferry Campground

    36 Reviews
    97 Photos
    148 Saves

    Hillman Ferry Campground offers 374 well-defined lake front and wooded sites capable of handling a variety of camping units from tents to large motor homes. Basic, electric, water, and sewer sites are available. Campers have access to modern facilities, including a large swimming area, archery range, ball field, bike trails, campfire amphitheater, hiking trails, two boat ramps, fishing dock, picnic tables, and fire rings. During the summer season we offer recreation programs for all ages.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge

    8. Pine Ridge

    17 Reviews
    62 Photos
    82 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    9. Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    14 Reviews
    33 Photos
    64 Saves

    Primarily RV and campers. Limited tent sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cave-in-Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave-in-Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave-in-Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave-in-Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave-in-Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave-in-Rock State Park

    10. Cave-in-Rock State Park

    13 Reviews
    68 Photos
    128 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 137 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Golconda

Recent Reviews In Golconda

788 Reviews of 137 Golconda Campgrounds


  • Ai-Ai T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Demumber's Bay

    Extreme bug activity - late August

    Pulled in around dusk and there was a deserted camper there, about 4 pull in sites for rooftop campers. The bugs were insane and 40 must’ve flown into my car when i opened the door for a split second. Other than that, good stop for dispersed campers. Bathrooms were vault.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Bay Campground
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Sugar Bay Campground

    Swimming in the lake and eat lunch on the campsite

    Only stay for several hours,haven't spent the night yet,that will be planned next

  • Wanda E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outback RV Resort
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Outback RV Resort

    Great stay

    This park was very quiet, easy to access and owners were very friendly. The grounds we very well kept. Showers and bathrooms immaculate. We will definitely stop again in the future.

  • Twan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Stellar Illinois

    This is a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF - about 30min from Marion, down a beautiful country road before nestling among the trees around the lake. The drive is paved/gravel the whole way, so very easily drivable for anyone in anything. Plenty of camp sites, both with electric and non-electric, double and single. Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks. Beautiful lake, beautiful biking trails, etc. Firepits w/ grates are spacious and nice, fees are online. 1 bar verizon at camp, can get up to 3 bars within the area.

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Campground
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Nice stop

    Stopped here for the night driving through the area. Nice campground, clean, safe, and right off the interstate.

  • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Taylor Bay Campground

    Beautiful LBL site

    This is lakefront with a vault toilet and no running water. On a Wednesday night everything was quiet and peaceful. It is a self serve campground.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great place to camp!

    We stayed 4 days and had a great time. The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful and was more than happy to offer places to visit in the area, places to eat and provide assistance as needed. The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk (twice around the lake from our site was 3 miles). :) We plan to visit again!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aurora Oaks Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Aurora Oaks Campground

    Nice, quiet and clean

    We stayed here in our tent. The lady who checked us in was exceptionally nice and the campsites were clean quiet and shady. The restrooms were spick and span. We would certainly stay here again.

  • Denton T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union County Fair
    May. 22, 2024

    Union County Fair

    Kentucky Bike Ralley

    I stayed here and camped for a bike rally. I think you can only camp during an event. And cost is different from each event. Nice place

  • Dante V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    May. 9, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Solar Eclipse Crossroads

    We camped here during the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse and it was also the overflow site which at that time was the side of the camp entrance road. Fast forward to April 7,8 & 9 2024 We are again on overflow campground where this time was their group camping site which was much better than the side of the road. The overflow site has 4 unisex bathrooms but no showers (showers are at the main campground) there is dining (open) pavilion with a fireplace and a filtered well water system. We had a blast watching the Total Solar Eclipse.

  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    May. 8, 2024

    Jackson Falls

    Love this place!

    This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds that you can drive up to. Great hiking around the area. 

    The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine.  Sprinter vans would be fine. Was pretty dry when we visited, could see the road getting a little sketch after big rain.  Definitely not gonna be fun for even small RV's. Tough turnarounds for large trailers or 5th wheels.

  • Jon H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point Campground
    May. 6, 2024

    Oak Point Campground

    Nice national park campground

    Location is everything and this is well in the middle of a great area in Shawnee National Forest. Garden of the gods, Bell Smith springs, Ferne State park, and on and on. You can spend a week here and not see everything.
    There are primitive and electric (with water) sites. There are no sites with sewer hookup. There is a dump station at the entrance.

    Sites are generally level and well kept. Very large rigs (35+) will be challenging, but I've seen them - more towards the front. There are some lake front spots that can be had. Sites are first come and there are no reservations taken. During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy.

    Large lake with swimming, fishing, kayaking. Also has a bike trail around it - maybe 2 miles.

    Shower houses are kept clean, but as of this posting, they need some maintenance work.

    All in all, this is a must stop if you want to enjoy what the area has to offer.

  • steven B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground
    Apr. 27, 2024

    Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground

    No frills campground

    This is a no frills campground just off of I-69/I-24. Check in was completed online and our site was marked with our name. All sites are full hook up with concrete pads. The county has a trail system that begin just a few hundred feet down the road that is a nice stretch of the legs. The skeleton on the motorcycle welcoming you was interesting, maybe we were really early or really late for Halloween. The campground is in need of some TLC of the grounds. There also seems to be a lot of long term residents.

  • Steve G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    Apr. 24, 2024

    Crab Orchard Lake Campground

    Excellent Lakeside Campgrouind

    Getting there: Easy access off Illinois 13 East of Carbondale 

    Check in and staff: Campground is now under the egis of recreation.gov& reservations through them are a must. This is new& when planning the trip the website said“first come first serve” so we arrived on a Friday evening(4pm) with no reservation. The sign said RV sites all taken. The host was wonderful! He has been here 9 years and steered us to a nice site for the one night we will be here. The online experience with recreation.gov was not pleasant, impossible in fact. So I had to call. This took quite awhile. Once I got a real live person it was great, and we got our site with no problems. 

    Amenities: Bathrooms: clean, paper towels& air dryers. 

    Site: A-35. In the middle of the A loop and therefore not on the water. Still, very nice. After all, beggars can’t be choosers! Sites are somewhat spacious, but not terribly private.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground
    Apr. 24, 2024

    COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground

    Nice campground, disgusting bathroom.

    Primitive campground with electric and water, who knew. Nice sites well kept. Showers were disgusting, drain had accumulated crud. Sinks also gross.

  • lowrent0321
    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
    Apr. 9, 2024

    Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access

    Quite, Private.

    Very nice campground, better than what I expected. We stayed at site 20 with a 36' travel trailer we had to actually drive all the way to the end of the campground to turn around so we could back into the site.  Cravens Bay is secluded and about a 2 mile drive off the main road running through LBL.

    There is a attendant at the site that you have to check in with first who will let you know what sites are available and pay after you have chosen your site and settled in.  The attendant station did have some snacks for sale as well ice, also in the event that you may need assistance with any problems at you camp site or even with your camper the attendant more than likely has the tools to help you.

    The road leading into the campsite is paved but narrow, the roads at the campsite are well hard packed gravel and very narrow.  Cravens Bay basically breaks down into two areas, the low ground (first sites upon entering) and the high ground (sites further in at the top of the hill), there are some sites scattered in-between these two areas but for the most part the largest campsites areas are the high and low ground sites.  The sites in-between the two high and low ground areas are very private and two are definitely secluded.

    We stay three days and during that time other than the occasional fisherman or the attendant driving by it was definitely very private and quite.  There were some seasonal campers there who were very helpful and friendly (even cut up some timber for us to burn).  

    If you don't mind not having any hook ups and dry/boon docking with your camper Cravens Bay has a lot to offer in terms of privacy, peace, boating, fishing, and swimming.  Defiantly for the nature lovers out there, nothing like seeing a Bald Eagle hunting fish while drinking coffee first thing in the morning.

  • Angela C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    Great overnight!

    We called from the road to get an overnight stop - the staff were super nice both on the phone and in person. When we arrived, the lady who checked us in gave me a coupon for the drive-in movie theater that was literally down the road. Normally, when we camp we arrive so late it’s impossible to take advantage of area attractions so we decided to go and can I tell you, it was awesome!!! The theater accommodated our camper and the food (cheese fries especially) at the snack stand was great. As far as the campground, our site was a bit hilly but we had a nice view of the lake and close proximity to the playground. My kids also enjoyed the pool. Solid place to overnight!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from LBL FS-326
    Apr. 7, 2024

    LBL FS-326

    Lovely, quiet spot!

    This was a fantastic dispersed camping spot! A few cars went by looking for whatever, but the road dead ends at Energy Lake. It was quiet most of the time. Occasionally heard some obnoxious people across the lake where I believe a campground is located. Also heard a sound during the night, possibly coyotes. Otherwise, I felt safe and had a great time here!! The ground was flat and there was a lot of room. We were just passing through and needed somewhere quiet to sleep after two days of driving. There is a lot to do in this area! I hope I got the location right… it wouldn’t let me add the exact coordinates I saved when I was there.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trail of Tears State Forest
    Apr. 6, 2024

    Trail of Tears State Forest

    Not free but worth the $8/night

    Surprised to find nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others. Potable water and camper registration (but had a boil water warning but that was not normal). 30 min into Cape Girardeau and 15 min to Anna. Nice picnic table and raised fire ring/ grill.



Guide to Golconda

Camping near Golconda, Illinois, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Easy walking distance to the observation trail that is the highlight of this park."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Gun Creek. A camper noted, "Excellent park but many sights aren’t flat. Not all have water, septic. Clean facilities."
  • Kayaking: Take your kayak to Energy Lake Campground for a relaxing day on the water. One reviewer said, "The lake itself is man-made, and motorized watercraft are not permitted, making it great for swimming."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. At Hillman Ferry Campground, a visitor remarked, "The bathrooms were very clean. The staff were friendly and helpful."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Shawnee Forest Campground said, "The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the stunning views. One reviewer at Giant City State Park Campground shared, "The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "There is no potable water on site."
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds on weekends. A camper at Harmonie State Park Campground advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday."
  • Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor to Jackson Falls noted, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. At Harmonie State Park Campground, one reviewer said, "In addition to the campground with at least 2 playgrounds, there are trails, picnic areas, and a boat ramp."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. A camper at Energy Lake Campground mentioned, "We went horseback riding and canoeing!"
  • Safety: Keep an eye on kids near water. A visitor at Hurricane Creek noted, "Some sites can be hard to back into, especially #39 where I broke the stabilizer jack."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Not all sites are level. A camper at Gun Creek advised, "Not all spots are level. Electric on most but not all have water."
  • Book Ahead: Make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Hillman Ferry Campground said, "We moved to D which was in a tighter 'camper subdivision.'"
  • Bring Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A camper at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground mentioned, "The $10 per night fee is done via honor system dropbox at the entrance to the campground."

Camping near Golconda, Illinois, has something for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying nature, you'll find a spot that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions