Southern Illinois offers diverse dispersed camping options within an hour of Benton, with the Shawnee National Forest providing the primary backdrop for outdoor recreation. Jackson Falls features free dispersed camping popular with rock climbers and hikers, offering primitive sites with fire rings but minimal amenities. Lake Glendale Recreation Area provides more developed options with electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities. Trail of Tears State Forest and Dutchman Lake Camp round out the options with varying levels of accessibility and amenities, from basic tent sites to RV-compatible areas with picnic tables and toilets.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, particularly at Jackson Falls where water crossings can challenge vehicles without adequate clearance. As one camper noted, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long and a little bumpy, but we had no problem in a 4x4. Sprinter vans would be fine, but definitely not fun for even small RVs." Spring rains can make access difficult, while summer drought often reduces waterfalls to a trickle. Cell service is limited or nonexistent in many areas, particularly in the more remote sections of Shawnee National Forest. Most dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while Lake Glendale offers reservations.
Campers consistently highlight the natural features that make this region distinctive. The sandstone bluffs and climbing routes at Jackson Falls attract outdoor enthusiasts, with one visitor noting there are "about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders." Lake Glendale receives praise for its shaded sites and beach access, with reviewers describing it as "tucked into the tall pines" with sites that "back right up to Lake Glendale." Holiday weekends bring crowds to the more accessible areas, particularly at Jackson Falls where sites near the parking area fill quickly. Ticks and poison ivy are common in warmer months, and campers should be prepared with adequate supplies as drinking water is not available at many sites.
"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."
"A few miles down a dirt road this is a beautiful campsite with great volunteer hosts."
"Though no trash or showers--only porta-potty."
"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."
from $12 - $44 / night
"This hidden gem is worth the visit. It’s off the highway down Amish/Dutch country. It has a maintained gravel road beautiful lake and in June it’s covered with lightening bugs."
"Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway"
"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."
"It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway."
GuideThis hidden gem is worth the visit. It’s off the highway down Amish/Dutch country. It has a maintained gravel road beautiful lake and in June it’s covered with lightening bugs. Lots of wild flowers and the sunset- WOW! On the trail there is a sign to set up for selfies. With a dog it wasn’t as easy as I’d hope to capture the moment. Ha
GuideI started coming to this campground once a year as a child with my family 50 years ago. This place will always have a special place in my heart. Lots of memories and lots left to be made. I am thankful that the hosts have done their best with the up keep. The last visit we rented the Goose Bay Picnic area for a group of 8 of us. Beautiful place. Typically quiet during the week. Best sites IMO are 51, 52, 54, 13
LegendPicked a spot that unknowingly left me a sitting duck for tornadoes later that evening. Great view, though. And never saw a single person. Moved to the spillway the second night... little less vulnerable.
LegendNothing here but an open field and an old barn like structure. Just isolated.
TravelerOur family had a great time camping here! The road leading into the campsite is mostly gravel with a few rough patches. There are a few shallow creek crossings to reach the more remote spots (water levels may vary depending on rainfall).
4x4 isn’t necessarily required, but I’d highly recommend it—along with a high-clearance vehicle. We brought our Jeep Wrangler, and it handled everything like a champ. We didn’t even need to engage 4x4 the entire way in.
There are a few campsites you can access without crossing the creeks, but the dispersed site we stayed at was surprisingly clean. We only found a couple small pieces of trash—otherwise, it was spotless. Previous campers left some firewood and kindling near the rock fire ring, and we made sure to do the same for the next group.
We camped during the weekdays, and it was nice and quiet. As we were leaving on Friday, more people were starting to show up, so I’d assume weekends get pretty busy. That said, most campers didn’t go past the first creek, so the farther back you go, the fewer people you’ll run into.
One thing to note: I have Verizon, and I was on SOS the entire time—so don’t expect reliable service out there if you have Verizon.
TravelerThere is tent camping in the area of the bath house that doesn’t require any creek crossing. Now, getting to the more remote spots can be sketchy if you have a small or very loaded vehicle. There are two small creeks to cross and are somewhat rough to get through. I made it through in my minivan, but dragged through the second creek.
There are hiking trails that run through, but that’s about all I can say about that.
I had no Verizon cell service unless I walked about 2/10 of a mile up a hill to an opening and only then I could make a phone call, but I couldn’t access the Internet.
GuidePlenty of dispersed camping on a well maintained dirt road. There’s fire pits all over and no shortage of spots.
GuideWe 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.
GuideCampground was not crowded during the weekdays. Nice shaded sites w electric and water hookups. Campground hosts were very engaged. $19 a night electric w Sr Pass.
There are several historical sites to visit. Ill Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods and Trail of Tears segments on
ATT cell service was spotty but I drove to Dixon Springs SP where there was a cell tower. An easy 3 mile hike around the lake
There are several historical sites in area. Illinois Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods , and segments of the Trail of Tears
Primitive camping near Benton, Illinois offers access to the Shawnee National Forest, which contains over 280,000 acres of protected woodland with elevations ranging from 350 to 1,064 feet. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and high humidity, while winter overnight lows often drop below freezing. Several campgrounds feature sandstone formations characteristic of southern Illinois's unique geological history.
Rock climbing at Panther Den Wilderness: The wilderness area contains numerous sandstone bluffs and boulders ideal for climbing enthusiasts of various skill levels. The area requires a short hike to access camping spots, making it perfect for those seeking seclusion away from developed areas.
Fishing at Dutchman Lake: The 68-acre lake provides good fishing opportunities for bass, crappie and bluegill. "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing," reports Jonathan H., who visited Dutchman Lake Camp.
Hiking through historical areas: Several trails in the region trace portions of the original Trail of Tears route. "30 min into Cape Girardeau and 15 min to Anna. Nice picnic table and raised fire ring/grill," notes Bill C. about Trail of Tears State Forest, which offers both historical significance and modern amenities.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the ability to find secluded spots away from other visitors. "Excellent for tent camping when you want relatively easy access and still feel a bit of solitude," says Bob P. about Trail of Tears State Forest, highlighting the balance between accessibility and isolation.
Easy access from highways: Several primitive sites can be reached with minimal travel from major roads. Matthew Z. describes Dutchman Lake Camp as a "Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway," making it convenient for travelers passing through the area.
Lake access for recreation: Multiple sites offer direct access to water features. "There a space for a vehicle to pull off and walk around some boulders to set up a camp, complete with a fire ring... Close to the lake there is another spot for one or two vehicles," explains Katie B. regarding the layout at Dutchman Lake.
Variable road conditions: Access roads can change dramatically with weather conditions. "Gravel Road getting there was a bit rough for my Ram Promaster. Hill down to trail head could get slick if wet weather. Was a little nervous getting out after it had rained," warns Jeremy R. about Jackson Falls.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most dispersed camping areas offer minimal or no amenities. "Bring everything you need, there is no water source and bring lots of wood. We scavenged wood from the hills around but ultimately had to leave and purchase wood," advises a camper identified as AC about Jackson Falls.
Seasonal variations in crowds: Holiday weekends can transform otherwise peaceful areas. "Unimpressive and crowded... All the campsites are one on top of the other without any cover in between or from the trail. They were all taken and incredibly packed during the Memorial Day weekend," reports Marta S. describing Jackson Falls during a busy period.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between sites. At Lake Glendale Recreation Area, "They have recently improved the shower houses, the kids love the playground, and there is SO much shade!" according to Chelsea D., making it more suitable for families than primitive sites.
Water activities: Swimming opportunities provide important recreation for children. "The beach and swimming area was so nice for us enjoy," mentions Jenny O. about Lake Glendale Recreation Area, which offers a designated swimming area unlike many primitive sites.
Wildlife precautions: Families should be prepared for abundant wildlife encounters. "Also, important to note that there are lots of ticks and poison ivy everywhere," warns Marta S., highlighting the need for proper preparation when bringing children to primitive sites.
Size restrictions at primitive sites: Many dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. "Love this spot! It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway," notes Rodarius S. about the Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest near Herod, one of the few primitive areas accommodating various vehicle sizes.
Water crossings evaluation: Stream crossings can challenge RVs after rainfall. "We run a 28ft RV and we're able to cross the first water wash without problem. We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible. The further sights will require crossing several wash outs," explains Tom L. about Jackson Falls, suggesting that evaluating crossings before proceeding is essential.
Cell service limitations: Communication capabilities vary throughout the region. "Lost cellphone service immediately upon entering reserve, FYI," reports Casie A., while Mark F. notes, "it's worth mentioning that I didn't have T-Mobile cellphone reception" at Jackson Falls, indicating the importance of planning for limited connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Benton, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Benton, IL is Jackson Falls with a 4.1-star rating from 24 reviews.
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