Shawnee National Forest surrounds Ava, Illinois with rolling hills, sandstone formations, and oak-hickory forests at elevations between 300-700 feet. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures frequently above 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for glamping near Ava. Campgrounds in this region typically operate from March through November, with select locations offering year-round accommodations.
What to do
Hiking through sandstone formations: Giant City State Park Campground offers unique geological features for day hikes. "There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains. The geology is much like the Missouri area near the other bank of the Mississippi river," notes Michael M., who recommends fall camping for optimal conditions.
Water activities at Rend Lake: South Marcum Campground provides lake access for boating and swimming. "The campground gives campers plenty of room to spread out, lots of open space for the kids to play, and not crowded when we stopped by late July," reports Chris B. Most waterfront sites feature fire rings, picnic tables, and electric hookups.
Rock climbing options: Technical climbing routes exist within a 30-minute drive from Ava. Josh M. mentions, "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else." Sites typically require personal equipment and proper experience.
What campers like
Spacious lake-view sites: South Sandusky Campground receives praise for its waterfront camping spots. "Many of the sites are wooded with space between them, and many have lake views. They are not very level so some adjustments were needed," explains Joel R., noting the availability of both electric and full hook-up sites.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at Crab Orchard Lake. "Showers and restrooms are nice. Ones in Loop A are not new (Loop Bs are new) but still nice. Lots of hot water," reports Tracie E. The campground maintains flush toilets and regularly cleaned shower facilities.
Seasonal displays: Fall colors transform the glamping experience near Ava with vibrant foliage. Kyle K. from Giant City shares, "Quiet, perfect for spring or autumn. Campground here has both electric sites for campers and primitive sites for tents. All are shaded and quiet." Most sites feature mature oak and hickory trees that provide natural shade.
What you should know
First-come, first-served policies: Several campgrounds don't accept reservations. According to Never Sitting S., "This is a quiet family campground, most spots are lake side. Very spacious and lots of trees. First come first serve, and the park was full most of the time we were here." Arrive early, especially on summer weekends.
Site levelness varies significantly: Many glamping sites require adjustment equipment. MickandKarla W. notes about Shawnee Forest Campground, "Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps. There are some nice sites in this CG but we were not offered one of the better ones."
Highway noise at some locations: Interstate proximity affects some glamping experiences. Jamey W. mentions, "A little noisy at night with the interstate in the distance but we'd expected that... It's a nice place. We would definitely stop here again if we're ever around. But we wouldn't stay long."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Gun Creek Campground provides recreational facilities for children. "Gun Creek has many sites for all campers. For cheap you get a simple site with electric or for not too much more there are sites with water and sewage dump," explains Dave S. The campground includes open play areas near many sites.
Beach options: Sandy swimming areas offer alternative recreation. Missy D. shares, "We love the large beach. The campsites have a nice set up and are a decent size. The kids loved the playground. There were kids everywhere and everyone was very friendly!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites provide nature observation chances. Gina J. describes her experience: "We love tent camping at South Sandusky. Many of the site are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous. They have quiet hours from 10-6 and the bathrooms and showers are always really clean."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Perryville RV Resort provides full-service sites with specific hookup placement. MickandKarla W. describes their experience at another campground: "The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice. The water pressure was good around 50 psi."
Seasonal closures: Most RV campgrounds in the region have limited availability from November through March. Joel R. notes, "South Marcum Campground is a Corp of Engineers campground just off I-57 in southern Illinois with over 100 reservable campsites. Sites have 30 & 50 amp Electric hookups." Operations typically run March 28 to November 2.
Site privacy considerations: Different loops offer varying experiences. Greg S. observes, "The sites are spacious and have picnic tables and fire rings. Full hookups is a plus. Super convenient to 24 but not too close that it is loud. The sites are loose gravel and not level front to back, so you need to unhook."
