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Facilities

Established Camping

High Knob Campgrounds

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High Knob Campgrounds, near Shawnee National Forest in Illinois, is a unique spot primarily catering to horse lovers. This campground is all about equestrian adventures, with extensive trails winding through hilly and rocky terrain, perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors on horseback.

The facilities here include stalls and tie-outs, making it easy for horse owners to set up camp. Visitors have mentioned that the shower houses could use a little TLC, but the clean potty areas are a plus. As one camper noted, “The trails are great, and maps are available,” ensuring you won’t get lost while soaking in the beautiful scenery.

If you’re not bringing a horse, don’t worry—there are options for tents, RVs, and even cabins. The campground serves as a solid base for exploring the nearby Shawnee National Forest, with several trailheads just a stone's throw away. Many campers appreciate the shaded sites, which provide a nice respite after a day of riding or hiking.

While some folks have pointed out that this is strictly a horse camp, the quiet atmosphere and available amenities like showers and a small store make it a comfortable place to unwind. Whether you’re an equestrian or just looking to enjoy the trails, High Knob Campgrounds offers a welcoming environment for your next outdoor adventure.

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Location

High Knob Campgrounds is located in Illinois

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.60098647 N
88.33350618 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group
  • Cabins
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Water Hookups

Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 14, 2020

Horse camp only

They do not accept tents, this is strictly a horse camp, they will rudly tell you so if you call.

Reviewed Aug. 12, 2018

Lots of trails

deffinitly caters to equestrians, my only complaint is the shower houses. The potty area is clean but showers are usually kinda gross. Love the sites most have a little shade and the stallsa are nice and safe. The trails are great maps available some trails need marked a bit better.

SiteBack part
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of High Knob Campgrounds by Alicia  B., August 12, 2018
  • Review photo of High Knob Campgrounds by Alicia  B., August 12, 2018
Reviewed Jun. 21, 2018

The way to travel

High Knob is a Horse campground in Shawnee National Forest near Garden of the Gods off Il1. The entire area has extensive trails through some awesome, hilly, rocky, cliffy areas. There are some excellent things to see. The trail traverses some of the River to River trail that meanders through the area. There used to be an annual ride through “One Horse Gap” I don’t know if it’s still a thing. 

The campground has options in addition to sleeping in your rig, cabins, travel trailers and a “hotel” . There’s also stalls and tie outs in the area you park in. A good staging area for Shawnee NF treks with several trailheads to pick from. Groups can set up in here and either stage or use it as base camp. Quiet , depending on who you are camping with, all amenities available on site too. (showers, laundry, store)

We enjoyed the trails though we went no where near as far as the horse people do. (There is so much to see, we have been going to Shawnee NF for over 20 years but I still find something or somewhere new almost every visit.)

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of High Knob Campgrounds by Shelly S., June 21, 2018
  • Review photo of High Knob Campgrounds by Shelly S., June 21, 2018
  • The trailhead below Garden of the Gods , horse accessible
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does High Knob Campgrounds have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, High Knob Campgrounds has water hookups.

  • Are fires allowed at High Knob Campgrounds?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at High Knob Campgrounds, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.