If you're looking for a place to park your RV near Shawnee National Forest, look no further. With The Dyrt, it's easy to find campgrounds near Shawnee National Forest for RVs. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the woods or a place near local attractions, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect spot for your motorhome.
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.
$10 / night
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.
$15 / night
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.
$40 / night
Giant City State Park Campground is a gem nestled near Makanda, IL. This place is a haven for campers who appreciate a mix of comfort and nature. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy its beauty in any season. With amenities like electric hookups, showers, and toilets, it caters well to both tent and RV campers. Pets are welcome, and you can even enjoy a cold one by the fire since alcohol is allowed.
The campground is known for its well-maintained sites and friendly camp hosts. Visitors often rave about the cleanliness of the facilities, including the fire pits and pit toilets. The park itself is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with several hiking trails that showcase stunning sandstone formations and lush forest scenery. Even in winter, the trails offer a serene and picturesque experience.
One of the highlights of staying here is the Giant City Lodge. It’s a cozy spot with excellent food and panoramic views that make for a memorable dining experience. The family-style fried chicken dinner comes highly recommended.
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the park offers various trails, some of which are perfect for families with young children. The playground and picnic areas add to the family-friendly vibe. If you're into fishing, there's a pond near the primitive camping site.
In summary, Giant City State Park Campground offers a blend of convenience and natural beauty, making it a fantastic spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Whether you're hiking, relaxing by the fire, or exploring the nearby wineries, there's something here for everyone.
Deer Ridge campground is a well-shaded Class A facility offering gravel pads with electricity, picnic tables and cooking grills. Drinking water, showers, flush toilets and a sanitary dump station complete the setting for campers who prefer to include a few comforts of home with their outdoor adventure.
Welcome to Pine Ridge Campground, nestled in the heart of Shawnee National Forest near Junction, IL. This spot is a gem for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some basic comforts. Open from April 1 to December 15, Pine Ridge offers a mix of tent, RV, and glamping accommodations.
The campground is known for its spacious and private rustic sites, perfect for those who appreciate a bit of solitude. If you need electric hookups, there's a loop with 50/30/20 amp options, though you'll need to bring your own water and sewer solutions as these aren't available on-site. Vault toilets are clean and well-maintained, but don't expect showers.
One of the standout features here is the stargazing. With minimal light pollution, the night sky is a breathtaking sight. The campground also boasts a two-mile loop road that leads to a beach access point on a gorgeous lake, ideal for a leisurely walk with your dog or a peaceful afternoon by the water.
Visitors have praised the campground for its proximity to hiking trails and natural attractions. The nearby Pounds Hollow Recreation Area offers a scenic lake perfect for kayaking and picnicking. For a bit of adventure, check out the Rim Rock Trail, which features historical sites and stunning rock formations.
At just $10 a night, Pine Ridge is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on natural beauty. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, you'll find plenty to love about this serene spot in Shawnee National Forest.
$10 / night
Dixon Springs State Park Campground, nestled near Golconda, IL, offers a mix of natural beauty and practical amenities. This spot is open year-round and caters to tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and those looking for cabin stays. The campground is big rig friendly and provides electric hookups, making it a convenient choice for RV travelers.
One of the standout features here is the swimming pool with a slide, which is a hit with families, especially during the warmer months. There's a small fee to use the pool, but it's worth it for a refreshing dip. The campground also has a sanitary dump station and allows campfires, so you can enjoy a classic camping experience with s'mores and stories around the fire.
The surrounding area is rich with hiking trails, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna. The tall trees provide ample shade, making it a pleasant place to set up camp even in the summer heat. For those traveling with pets, you'll be glad to know that pets are welcome here.
Visitors have noted that the campground is generally clean and well-maintained, with friendly and helpful hosts. However, it's a good idea to know your campsite number before you arrive to make navigation easier. The nearby town of Golconda is just a short drive away, offering a grocery store and gas station for any last-minute needs.
Overall, Dixon Springs State Park Campground is a solid choice for a family-friendly camping trip with plenty of natural beauty and convenient amenities. Just watch out for ticks and poison ivy, and you'll have a great time.
Welcome to Crab Orchard Lake Campground, nestled near Carbondale, IL. This spot is a favorite for many, offering a mix of tent and RV sites, some right on the water. If you're into lakeside views, you're in for a treat. The sunsets here are something else, and the lake itself is a sight to behold.
The campground operates from April 1 to October 31, and it's got a solid reputation with a rating of 4.4 out of 5. One thing folks appreciate is the spaciousness of the sites, though privacy can be a bit hit or miss. If you're lucky, you might snag one of the more secluded waterfront spots.
Amenities here are pretty decent. You've got electric and water hookups, showers, and toilets. The bathrooms are generally clean, though some visitors have noted they could use a bit of TLC. There's also a sanitary dump and sewer hookups for RVs, making it a convenient stop for those traveling in larger rigs.
Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just keep an eye out for wildlife—raccoons, geese, and even the occasional snake have been spotted around the campground.
For activities, the lake is a big draw. Whether you're into fishing, boating, or just lounging by the water, there's plenty to keep you occupied. There's even a small beach area for swimming, though it's seasonal.
Overall, Crab Orchard Lake Campground offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful lake views and a good mix of amenities. It's a great spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
$10 - $25 / night
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change througout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern illinois.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
South Sandusky Campground is situated around Sandusky cove on Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With nicely spaced campsites and plenty of activities easily accessible from the campground, South Sandusky is an excellent destination for camping at Rend Lake. Wildlife in the area includes white tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year.
South Sandusky Beach Rend Lake Visitors Center Rend Lake Project Office
$18 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular rv campsite near Shawnee National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular rv campground near Shawnee National Forest is Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 52 reviews.
What is the best site to find rv camping near Shawnee National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 90 rv camping locations near Shawnee National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
