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Best Campgrounds near Ava, IL

483 Reviews

Camping in the Ava, Illinois area centers around the Shawnee National Forest region with several established campgrounds offering varied experiences. Johnson Creek Recreation Area and Sharp Rock Falls Recreation provide options for tent and RV camping, with some sites such as Lake Murphysboro State Park also offering cabin accommodations. The surrounding public lands feature a mix of developed campgrounds with basic facilities and more primitive sites scattered throughout the forested landscape within driving distance of Ava.

Public land campgrounds in the region typically operate seasonally, with many sites closing during winter months. Johnson Creek Campground specifically operates from March 15 to December 15, while some sites like Lake Murphysboro State Park remain open year-round. Road conditions vary, with some campgrounds requiring travel on gravel roads that may challenge larger vehicles. Visitors should be prepared for basic facilities at many locations, as several campgrounds offer only vault toilets and limited amenities. "We took a short ride to nearby Ava and checked out Scratch Brewery. Delicious and unique little place that is off the beaten path. Only open on weekends, but highly recommend," noted one visitor regarding local attractions.

Most developed campgrounds in the area feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to vault toilets, with several offering proximity to water features. Kincaid Lake provides fishing and paddling opportunities for campers staying at Johnson Creek, while other sites connect to hiking trails throughout the Shawnee National Forest. Campers frequently mention wildlife encounters in reviews, particularly noting owl calls at night. Several visitors highlighted challenges with trail maintenance at some properties, noting overgrown paths and limited swimming access despite maps indicating beach areas. The camping experience ranges from quiet forest settings to more social campgrounds with multiple loops, allowing visitors to choose between solitude and community depending on preference and season.

Map showing campgrounds near Ava, IllinoisExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Ava, Illinois (88)

    1. Turkey Bayou Campground

    13 Reviews
    Gorham, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 687-1731

    "We took a chance camping here since we hang hammocks but we found a site that had some trees nearby. We were pleasantly surprised to see a port-a-pottie at the campground."

    "Stayed during the eclipse so crowds were intense but the hosts lets us camp where we could find room, the site was clean and the pond was beautiful (as always bring the bug spray when camping near the"

    2. Johnson Creek

    5 Reviews
    Ava, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 253-7114

    "single, double, and triple camping spots set up on three loops in this small campground nestled in the corner of shawnee national forest. there's a central bath house located near check in. only amenities"

    "The site was fairly secluded, and right on Kincade lake."

    3. Pyramid State Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Ava, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 357-2574

    "Much enjoyed driving around exploring this large state park in IL. Seems to be awesome for fishing as there are many lakes. Great access to the lakes for canoe & kayak."

    "The park office is a pretty long drive from the north end campground. The hiking is limited but the campground was peaceful and close to the lakes. Probably covered in bugs in the summer."

    4. Lake Murphysboro State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Murphysboro, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 684-2867

    "We had pit toilets, but had to drive elsewhere for showers. I would come back again."

    5. Sharp Rock Falls Recreation

    1 Review
    Ava, IL
    3 miles
    +1 (618) 763-5511

    "Ava Illinois 1 618-318-6734 Text your name and number of people on your campsite to reserve your spot.

    The Solar Eclipse Event "PARK @ THE MOON"

    Extended or early arrivals welcome."

    6. Johnson Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Ava, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 253-7114

    "As with all of southern Illinois it’s very senic rock formations neat trails and fishing."

    7. Lake Campalot

    2 Reviews
    Percy, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 497-2942

    "We got a nice little spot to ourselves across the lake to put our tent. Its like a little community. I loved it. If your wanting out in the wilderness this is not for you."

    8. Randolph County State Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    Chester, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 826-2706

    "Located five miles northeast of Chester, Randolph County SRA lies in the rolling hill country of southern Illinois."

    "This campground is located on a small lake in Southern Illinois and managed by the department of natural resources. Good place for Camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking and boating."

    9. Giant City State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Makanda, IL
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 457-4836

    "There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp. There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here."

    "Each site has electricity and access to water. Some have more.
    All the hiking in the park is some of the best in Illinois. The visitors center has a lot of great information."

    10. Crab Orchard Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bargerville, IL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 997-3344

    $10 - $25 / night

    "Wthat a nice find in southern Illinois just outside of Marion. Very big roomy and grassy sites. Some right on the lake shore."

    "Getting there: Easy access off Illinois 13 East of Carbondale  Check in and staff: Campground is now under the egis of recreation.gov& reservations through them are a must."

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Recent Camping Photos near Ava, IL

66 Photos of 88 Ava Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ava, IL

483 Reviews of 88 Ava Campgrounds

  • H
    Oct. 11, 2025

    South Marcum Campground

    Quiet and peaceful

    The view in the tent area of covey point is breathtaking. The campground is clean, quiet, and peaceful

  • David D.
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Fort Kaskaskia State Park Campground

    Awesome campground!

    The views over the Mississippi River are calandar-worthy! Very scenic from up atop the bluffs. A very old and historic cemetery is next to the campground. There is electric hookups 30 and 50 amp. No water/sewer but does have a dump station. Vault toilets.

  • Mandi G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    North Sandusky Campground

    Gorgeous views

    Very well maintained campgrounds. Most sites are pretty sloped but there are some level sites. Flush toilets. Bring binoculars for egrets and herons on the lake.

  • Katie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Dutchman Lake Camp

    Great stop for the night

    We pulled in around midnight and left at 8 am. There’s a large turnaround that could fit many vehicles, but someone was already parked there and we didn’t want to disturb them and also wanted our privacy. There a space for a vehicle to pull off and walk around some boulders to set up a camp, complete with a fire ring. Some bike-packers were already set up there. Close to the lake there is another spot for one or two vehicles. The lake surface had a lot of bug activity - no thanks! We ended up choosing a grassy space next to the curve in the road in between our neighbors. Very peaceful! No bugs.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Lake Girardeau Campground

    Clean and free

    Stayed here in September. Had the campground to myself. It's run by Missouri Dept. of Conservation so there's no charge. Each site has concrete picnic tables, grill and lantern hook.

  • Jessica T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great spot for location

    Overall we’ve really enjoyed our stay. Came over the Labor Day weekend and staying a week. Super friendly camp host, conveniently located off the interstate and feels pretty secure and tranquil. I will say some of the gravel was washed out which is surprising given how dry it’s been. A little noisy at night with the interstate in the distance but we’d expected that. Only thing we wish we would’ve known about was the paving of the road happening directly outside of the park. They obviously can’t control that but a heads up would’ve been helpful. One day we couldn’t get out for a bit and thankfully we had flexible plans. Overall- it’s a great park with decent proximity to a lot of nature. Anna, Marion and Harrisburg are your best bets for restaurants and grocery etc. Vienna only has a dollar general and a few restaurants- a diner, longhorn cafe, Mexican restaurant and Family Pizza- we tried the last one and it was good! Prepare for a 40 min wait time if picking up and it gets packed if you want to dine in. Would def stay here again to visit Shawnee.

  • Chip
    Sep. 2, 2025

    World Shooting and Recreational Complex

    Lot's of full hookups

    This was our first camp in our new to us travel trailer. Not many trees.  Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue.  This is the site of the American Trap Shooters Association "Grand" Event.  During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full.  We were here last weekend in August. Only one other camper within sight of our spot Friday night and they were gone Saturday morning.  There is a shower house I believe but could not access a couple of the doors I tried.  I imagine they had some unlocked but I didn't try all the doors when I was there.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Gun Creek

    Nice!

    Nice, large, well thought out campground. Lots of trees, paved sites, bathrooms, showers, and well maintained. Offers full hookups, partial or none. Convenient to I64. Only stayed 1 nite, but would definitely come back.

  • A
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Lake Perry Campground

    His Website is a Total Lie

    I had a Reservation for a month long stay. I get there and he said that he would have to guide me to the Site. He guided me for sure right into another Camper. It did over $3,000.00 Dollars of Damage to my Camper. I don't know what the Claims Adjuster paid for Damages to the Camper that the Campground Owner guided me into. His sites are not 25-40 feet wide and 35-100 feet long. If the campsites were that big, the owner wouldn't have had to guide me to my site. I'm going to get a Lawyer and Sue the Campground for all of my Damages to my Camper and the Camper the owner guided me into.

Guide to Ava

Camping near Ava, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hawn State Park Campground. Reviewers mention, "There are several hiking trails and an overlook," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: At St. Joe State Park Campground, visitors enjoy "close access to the river for fishing and kayaking." It’s perfect for those looking to cast a line or paddle around.
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campers appreciate the wildlife in the area. One reviewer at Trail of Tears State Park Campground noted, "The views of the river are great," and you might spot some local critters while you’re at it.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers at Shawnee Forest Campground rave about the cleanliness, with one saying, "The camp was clean and well maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground hosts. For instance, a visitor at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area mentioned, "The hosts were nice and very helpful!"
  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Gun Creek. One reviewer said, "Very well kept, friendly staff, very convenient from interstate," emphasizing the spaciousness.

What you should know

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Giant City State Park Campground, where families can enjoy "great hiking, seeing the sandstone walls that make the area famous."
  • Plan Activities: Campers at St. Francois State Park Campground enjoyed "two great trails in the park," making it easy to keep kids entertained.
  • Safety First: One reviewer at Shawnee Forest Campground mentioned, "The staff are very friendly and helpful," which is reassuring for families needing assistance.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: RV campers at Gun Creek noted that "not all spots are level," so it’s wise to check site dimensions before booking.
  • Electric and Water Hookups: Make sure to confirm the availability of hookups. A visitor at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area mentioned, "Our site only had electric hookup," which is important for RVers.
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Campers at St. Joe State Park Campground found that "the dump station backs up for up to an hour on Sundays," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Ava, Illinois, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at campgrounds in Ava?

Campgrounds around Ava offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. South Marcum Campground provides some of the most comprehensive facilities, with both wooded and lakeside sites, plenty of bathrooms, and shower facilities. For those seeking recreation opportunities, Randolph County State Recreation Area features a fishing lake alongside well-maintained gravel sites, most with shade. Many campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water, while larger facilities might include electric hookups, dump stations, and shower facilities. The amenities typically vary based on whether you're at a state park, recreation area, or private campground.

Where can I find camping sites near Ava, Missouri?

Several quality campgrounds are available near Ava. Little Ole Opry Campground offers convenient overnight stays, with easy access though you'll want to follow specific directions rather than GPS. In the broader region, Ferne Clyffe State Park provides camping options within the beautiful Shawnee National Forest area, making it worth the drive for nature enthusiasts. There are also several campgrounds around Rend Lake that make excellent destinations for those willing to travel slightly farther for waterfront camping experiences.

When is the best season for camping in Ava?

The ideal camping season around Ava is late spring through early fall. Little Grassy Lake Campground is particularly beautiful during these months, offering a cozy experience with access to nearby hiking trails. Late spring (April-May) brings comfortable temperatures and blooming landscapes, while early fall (September-October) offers colorful foliage and cooler nights perfect for campfires. Summer camping is popular at Washington County State Recreation Area, where you can enjoy the wooded surroundings and pretty lake, though be prepared for higher temperatures. Winter camping is less common due to colder temperatures, though some hardy campers enjoy the solitude of off-season visits when facilities remain open.

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