Dispersed camping sites near Karbers Ridge, Illinois provide access to southern Illinois' unique sandstone geography. The region sits within the Shawnee National Forest at elevations between 400-600 feet, creating a distinctive ecosystem where eastern hardwoods meet western prairie plants. During summer months, temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions between 60-75°F.
What to do
Waterfront recreation: Tower Rock Campground sits directly on the Ohio River, offering excellent fishing access and scenic views. "A short walk from the campground is Tower Rock that was an old CCC path and over look of the Ohio River... It is a rock cliff that is, I don't know 100 feet above the river. In my opinion it is worth a look," notes Christopher H.
Swimming options: Pine Ridge Campground at Pounds Hollow Recreation Area provides a small beach for summer cooling. "The USDA Forest recreational area includes Pounds Hollow Lake that is nestled into a beautiful ridge. While the lake can get busy, and was at times while we were there, the campground was very quiet," reports Jason F.
Scenic hiking: Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs offers multiple trail connections from the campground. "Just around the corner (or down the trail at the start of camp) is a network of hiking trails. They scurry around cliffs, falls and ravines. We found small pools perfect for a summer dip. Half the hikers were carrying towels so it must be a common plan," explains Art S.
What campers like
Quiet locations: Camp Cadiz Campground provides a secluded alternative to busier campgrounds. "Motorcycle camping across America and I wanted to see grades of the gods. What I didn't want was to camp on top of someone else... Cadiz was spacious, quiet, and the other campers wanted to camp not party," shares Jeremy G.
Fishing opportunities: Saline County State Conservation Area provides waterfront sites with fishing access. "This was a great campground with fantastic views of the lake," notes Don N., who stayed in October 2021.
Swimming holes: Jackson Falls offers natural swimming spots when water levels permit. "It was fun climbing down to the bottom of the falls, even with small kids. The site is popular and there was a good amount of people on Labor Day weekend, however secluded camp sites were easy to find, isolation was achieved," reports Casie A.
What you should know
Water availability: Many primitive sites require bringing your own water. At Pine Ridge Campground, a visitor notes "the drinking water pump is broke so you must bring your own water. You can get firewood from the garden of the gods outpost."
Road conditions: Pounds Hollow Recreation Area offers better road access than some other areas. One camper reported, "Headed here after garden of the gods was full. This place is very close to where you need to be. Outpost in between sells food, firewood, ice etc."
Cell service limitations: Service varies dramatically across the region. At Bell Smith Springs, one visitor observed, "I had no service and it was pitch black at night. The only amenities are a vault toilet and water." Similarly at Saline County, Don N. mentioned, "The only drawback is that we had no cell service, although a quick trip to the ridge behind the campsite (1-2 minute drive)" restored connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: For families wanting water recreation, consider Saline County State Conservation Area. "It is a beautiful area with a lot to do! You can fish here and even put in a boat or other water toys if you own one," notes M E.
Easy hiking options: Bell Smith Springs offers family-friendly exploration. "Plenty of hiking right from your site. 10 minute walk or 2 minute drive to the river where you can hike, swim or wade. Even if it seems crowded, just walk down the river a ways for some privacy," suggests Kate B.
Wildlife awareness: Watch for ticks and snakes during warm months. At Jackson Falls, locals warned visitors about wildlife: "Locals warned of poisonous snakes. We never saw any, but it's a good idea to keep a lookout, especially since they can swim too," shared Tommy S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Cave-in-Rock State Park, RV sites offer good spacing. "The sites are decent size. It can be a bit of a walk to the bathroom. It does have a restaurant and small store on site," notes Chris Y.
Hookup availability: Pounds Hollow provides electric hookups on selected sites. One visitor explained, "The left loop has power 50/30/20 amp hook ups but no water or sewer on the campsite. Great location for hiking trails and it's exactly 23 Miles to Walmart. And it was only $10 a night!!!"
Access considerations: For RVers seeking more level terrain, choose carefully. At Pine Ridge Campground, one camper advised, "I can't promise this is the best campground for the large RV crowd, due to the undulating nature of the sites, but for tent lovers, this might be one of the best."
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