Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Shawnee National Forest? Finding a place to camp in Illinois with your tent has never been easier. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.
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
Turkey Ridge is for campers who want a serene outdoor experience. It is a Class C walk-in campground that includes camp pads, picnic tables, cooking grills and showers. Drinking water and toilets are located near the parking lots.
$18 / night
f 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 accessible picnic area has a large picnic shelter near the lake with party grills for group gatherings.
$10 - $20 / 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Shawnee National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent 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 tent camping near Shawnee National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 97 tent camping locations near Shawnee National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
