RV campgrounds near Buncombe, Illinois sit within the Shawnee National Forest area at elevations between 400 and 600 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winters can drop below freezing with occasional snowfall. Most camping facilities in this area of southern Illinois remain open from March through November, with limited year-round options for travelers.
What to do
Hiking trails from campsite: Ferne Clyffe State Park's Deer Ridge Campground offers direct trail access from the campground. "Great covered spots, trails to and from the campground all across the park, great personnel, accessibility throughout the park, scenic locations within a mile walk from the campground (Ferne Clyffe Waterfall)," notes one camper. Several hiking paths connect to the limestone cliffs within a short distance.
Fishing opportunities: Cypress Lakes RV Park provides fishing access at their small on-site lake. According to one visitor, "Has a little Lake in it to fish. Not far off the interstate makes it handy. Very popular spot." The campground maintains this fishing area specifically for registered guests, requiring no additional permits beyond the standard Illinois fishing license.
River watching: Birdsville Riverside RV Park offers prime Ohio River viewing. "Our campsite was right on the river bank. We enjoyed a quiet and relaxing stay at this wonderful park. Watching the barges go up and down the river along with an occasional recreational boat or 2," shares one reviewer. Many sites are positioned directly on the riverbank for optimal viewing of commercial and recreational river traffic.
What campers like
Spacing between sites: Birdsville Riverside RV Park features well-spaced waterfront sites. "All the spots are spaced out too," notes a reviewer. This contrasts with more crowded parks in the region and allows for greater privacy between camping units.
Clean facilities: The Landing Point RV Park maintains well-kept shower facilities. "Some of the nicest shower houses I have seen in my travels so far," reports one camper. The park regularly cleans these facilities throughout the day during peak season months.
Night sky viewing: Cape Camping & RV Park offers unobstructed views for stargazing despite being near highways. While primarily a transit stop, its location away from major light pollution provides unexpected opportunities for astronomy enthusiasts. The open layout with minimal tree cover creates clear sightlines to observe constellations.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Birdsville Riverside RV Park operates on a limited schedule. "Our season runs from March 1 to November 30," the park confirms. Campers should book well in advance for the opening and closing months as these transition periods fill quickly with seasonal travelers.
Highway noise levels: Duck Creek RV Park sits alongside busy roads with noticeable traffic noise. "It sits along a very busy road," mentions one reviewer. The highway-adjacent sites experience continuous traffic sounds throughout the day and night, while interior spots may offer slightly reduced noise levels.
Varying site conditions: Ferne Clyffe State Park offers different camping experiences based on site selection. "There's one campground for RVs with electric hookups and another campground for more primitive camping. $8/night for primitive. The primitive sites require that you park your vehicle and carry in your equipment (less than 100 feet)." Specific sites offer direct vehicle access while others require short walks.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: The Landing Point RV Park provides basic play facilities. "Has a out dated swing set not in great shape that's the only reason for not 5 stars," notes one camper. However, "Water park close by (5 minute drive) that was great for the kids on a hot day" offers an alternative recreation option during summer months.
Dog-friendly areas: Marion Campground includes dedicated pet spaces. "Small playground and an unfenced dog area," mentions one reviewer. Several campgrounds in the region provide designated pet relief areas, though most require leashes throughout the property.
Wildlife viewing for kids: Ferne Clyffe State Park offers exceptional firefly displays in summer months. "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" reports a camper. The peak viewing season runs from late May through June, with activity beginning approximately 30 minutes after sunset.
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly options: Boomland RV Park & Campground offers economical full hookup sites. "This place is nice for $15 easy pull in, full hook ups, nice gift shop and gas really close as right off the freeway," states a reviewer. The no-frills campground provides basic necessities at lower rates than neighboring facilities.
Site accessibility: Cape Camping & RV Park provides easy-access concrete sites. "Nice place to pull off I-55 and rest, or stay if you are in the area for sports or other events," notes one RVer. The level concrete pads accommodate larger rigs without requiring extensive stabilization or leveling.
Water drainage issues: Some campgrounds in the region experience flooding during heavy rains. At Duck Creek RV Park, campers report that "The last night of our stay there was a rainstorm and we woke up to ankle-deep water pooled around our trailer." Low-lying areas throughout the region may experience similar issues, particularly during spring and fall rainy seasons.
