Best Dispersed Camping near Ava, IL

Dispersed camping in the Ava, Illinois region includes several primitive options within Shawnee National Forest. Trail of Tears State Forest offers remote tent camping with minimal amenities, while Dutchman Lake Camp provides primitive sites with no facilities. The Panther Den Wilderness area in Shawnee National Forest allows free camping with hike-in access. These public lands permit primitive camping with varying levels of accessibility and amenities, giving campers seeking solitude several options within driving distance of Ava.

Access to these dispersed camping areas varies considerably by location. Trail of Tears State Forest sites are accessible by both vehicle and foot, with sites that accommodate tent camping in a forest setting. The forest charges $8 per night, contrary to typical dispersed camping, but provides basic amenities like porta-potties at some sites, picnic tables, and fire rings. Dutchman Lake Camp features drive-in and walk-in access suitable for tent camping. Panther Den Wilderness requires hiking in, with no vehicle access to campsites. Most areas permit fires but provide no drinking water, making water supply planning essential.

The dispersed camping experience near Ava offers a sense of remoteness while maintaining reasonable accessibility. Trail of Tears State Forest provides a balance of solitude and basic amenities. A visitor noted the forest has "nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others" along with "potable water and camper registration." Dutchman Lake Camp sites are described as "beautiful little spots" that are "quiet and easy to get to." The area also provides "lots of nice scenery and decent fishing." Cell service is available in some locations, with one camper mentioning "Verizon works well" at Dutchman Lake Camp. Panther Den Wilderness likely offers the most secluded experience for those willing to hike in with their gear.