Best Dispersed Camping near Grantsburg, IL

Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Shawnee National Forest near Grantsburg, Illinois. Jackson Falls offers free primitive camping with approximately 60 climbing areas along sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders. Lake Glendale Recreation Area provides more developed options with electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities. Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest and Dutchman Lake Camp offer additional primitive camping alternatives for those seeking solitude.

The access roads to Jackson Falls require careful navigation, particularly after rainfall. According to reviews, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy" with several water crossings that can become challenging during wet conditions. Most campsites have basic fire rings, but no picnic tables or campfire grills. Campers must pack out all garbage and bring their own drinking water as no potable water sources exist at primitive sites. Cell phone service is typically unavailable in these remote areas.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact the camping experience. The waterfall at Jackson Falls may be reduced to a trickle during dry periods, particularly in late summer and fall. Spring visits offer the best chance to see the falls at full flow. Several campers noted that Jackson Falls can become "very crowded on nice days due to its proximity to the college campus" and is "popular with rock climbers and people on horseback." For greater solitude, consider hiking further from the main parking areas or visiting during weekdays. Ticks and poison ivy are common throughout the area, so appropriate precautions are necessary. Trail markings can be minimal, requiring good navigation skills or detailed maps.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Grantsburg, Illinois (8)

    1. Jackson Falls

    22 Reviews
    Shawnee National Forest, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-2111

    "We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading.

    We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible."

    "Jackson offers some of the best rock climbing in southern Illinois. There are about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders, with multiple routes."

    2. Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Grantsburg, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 949-3807

    $12 - $44 / night

    "This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many"

    "There is a longer wine trail further west in Shawnee National Forest.

    When I entered Lake Glendale, Cardinal Bay boat launch was the first area I visited."

    3. Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest

    1 Review
    Grantsburg, IL
    4 miles

    "It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway."

    4. Dutchman Lake Camp

    3 Reviews
    Buncombe, IL
    11 miles

    "Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway"

    5. Trail of Tears State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Jonesboro, IL
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 833-4910

    "Excellent for tent camping when you want relatively easy access and still feel a bit of solitude."

    "Surprised to find nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others."

    7. Demumber's Bay

    5 Reviews
    Grand Rivers, KY
    43 miles

    "Denumbers is considered a back country campground in Land Between the Lakes. The road going back into the campground is paved, and the roads in the campground are compacted gravel."

    "There are multiple dispersed camping spots available along the way (closer to the bay mostly). There are a couple on the water and some in the woods close by."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Grantsburg, IL

12 Photos of 8 Grantsburg Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Grantsburg, IL

46 Reviews of 8 Grantsburg Campgrounds



Guide to Grantsburg

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Grantsburg, Illinois, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots to explore.

Scenic Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience the stunning hiking opportunities at Jackson Falls, where you can find private and semi-private sites that are perfect for setting up camp after a day on the trails.
  • The area around Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a variety of trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, ideal for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
  • For those seeking rugged terrain, Panther Den Wilderness features trails marked for adventure, surrounded by beautiful sandstone walls and diverse wildlife.

Relaxing Water Activities for Free Campers

  • Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing or kayaking at Dutchman Lake Camp, where the scenic views and tranquil waters create a perfect backdrop for relaxation.
  • The Demumber's Bay area is great for those who love water sports, offering easy access to the lake for kayaking and fishing, all while enjoying the serenity of dispersed camping.
  • At Barge Island Public Use Area at Birmingham Point, you can set up camp near the water and take advantage of the boat ramp for a day of fun on the lake.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities for Nature Lovers

  • The Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest is a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts, with easy access to open forest areas where you can observe various species in their natural habitat.
  • At Trail of Tears State Forest, you can enjoy the solitude of nature while keeping an eye out for deer, songbirds, and other wildlife that frequent the area.
  • The diverse ecosystems at Lake Glendale Recreation Area provide ample opportunities for spotting local wildlife, making it a great choice for those who appreciate nature's beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Grantsburg, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Grantsburg, IL is Jackson Falls with a 4.2-star rating from 22 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Grantsburg, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Grantsburg, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.