Buck Ridge Campground

Water access enthusiasts will find Buck Ridge Campground positioned within the Shawnee Purchase Unit, though recent conditions require careful planning. The Forest Service facility operates from March through December, but access involves navigating progressively smaller roads that can present challenges. One camper noted the deceptively smooth road surface gives way to sudden ruts and water crossings, with creek overflow affecting the route.

The wooded setting provides a natural backdrop, though a locked gate currently restricts entry to the main camping area. Visitors should verify current access conditions before making the drive, as the road infrastructure may impact larger RVs or those unfamiliar with backcountry forest routes.

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Map & DirectionsBuck Ridge Campground is located in Illinois near Goreville

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

37.58100062 N
88.88400036 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/12/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 14 users
    Last on 6/12/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 6/12/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/12/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 14 users
    Last on 6/12/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 6/12/26

Access

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Features

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General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews1 Camper Review - Buck Ridge Campground

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3.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2020

Closed (2019) but may open again

The drive quickly takes you down smaller and smaller roads. We didn’t see campground signs but there are small signs pointing the way to the Egyptian Hills Recreation area. Seeing a couple pyramids by mailboxes enticed us to continue. Online reviews said it was a good camp. 

The road is deceptively smooth. Ruts and water crossings appear suddenly. The creek looks like it overflowed. This is why I’m assuming that they will reopen. 

We drove until the locked gate kept us out. The area looks wooded and beautiful. It’s a spot to check out when they open again.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Buck Ridge Campground by Art S., February 4, 2020
  • Review photo of Buck Ridge Campground by Art S., February 4, 2020
  • Review photo of Buck Ridge Campground by Art S., February 4, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buck Ridge Campground a primitive camping site?

Buck Ridge Campground appears to offer more primitive camping experiences. The campground's remote location down smaller roads suggests a more rustic setting away from developed areas. While specific amenities aren't detailed, the nature of the approach and setting indicates this is not a highly developed campground with extensive facilities. Campers should prepare accordingly for a more basic camping experience, bringing necessary supplies including water and proper waste disposal options.

Where is Buck Ridge Campground located in Southern Illinois?

Buck Ridge Campground is located in Southern Illinois within the Egyptian Hills Recreation area. The campground is situated down a series of progressively smaller roads that lead to the recreation area. While the campground itself may not have prominent signage, there are small directional signs pointing to Egyptian Hills. The route is notable for decorative pyramid features near mailboxes along the way, which serve as distinctive landmarks for visitors navigating to this Southern Illinois camping destination.

How close is Buck Ridge Campground to Lake of Egypt?

Buck Ridge Campground is located in the Egyptian Hills Recreation area, which places it in proximity to Lake of Egypt. While the exact distance isn't specified, the campground's position within this recreation zone suggests it's reasonably close to the lake. The Egyptian-themed decorations (pyramids) noted along the approach road further confirm the campground's connection to the Lake of Egypt region. For precise distance information, contacting the campground directly or checking with the recreation area management is recommended.