RV campgrounds near Carbondale, Illinois span across rolling hills and hardwood forests in the Shawnee National Forest region. Most sites sit between 400-600 feet elevation with moderate summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F. Seasonal camping options operate primarily April through October, with limited year-round facilities maintaining water systems during winter months when temperatures regularly dip below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Crab Orchard Lake Campground provides direct lake access with multiple fishing spots. "We love to fish and camp on Crab. Great Lake. We camp at Blue Heron Campground in Carterville, right on Crab Orchard Lake. Places to eat and shop close by. Pizza can be delivered to campground," notes one camper.
Hiking trails: Giant City State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks through unique rock formations. "There's about 80 total sites, ranging from electrical hookups to primitive (there's about 15 of these). You can reserve, or walk-in. I went in October and didn't need a reservation. I also chose primitive. Showers and bathrooms are available to all, and sites have fire pits."
Nature viewing: Wildlife observation opportunities exist throughout the region's parks. "The whole place also smells like dead fish. We saw a raccoon go right through our campsite so be careful what you leave out, also tons of geese and saw two baby copperheads."
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Many sites at Crab Orchard Lake Campground provide direct water access. "We stayed at site B8, which had a massive yard right and on the lake. The interior sites had full hookups (but were still just a short walk to the water), while the exterior (lake-side) sites had water and 50A electric."
Shade coverage: Mature trees throughout campgrounds provide cooling relief. "There are a ton of big trees and it is really shady. We love our time here," reports one visitor to Perryville RV Resort.
Pet amenities: Archway RV Park includes dedicated pet areas. "Nice doggie park area fenced off too!!" mentions one reviewer, while another notes "there is a nice playground and dog park as well as a pond at the location."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most RV campgrounds in Carbondale, Illinois use recreation.gov for bookings. "Campground is now under the egis of recreation.gov & reservations through them are a must. This is new & when planning the trip the website said 'first come first serve' so we arrived on a Friday evening(4pm) with no reservation."
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds experience road noise. At Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney, one camper noted: "The bad parts of this place was the fact that rules didn't seem to apply. Someone was playing loud music till at least 1130pm when we went to bed. We also witnessed dogs being left outside unattended and barking for 20 minutes straight starting at 735am. The highway is also extremely close and can be heard at all times."
Site spacing variations: Campgrounds offer different privacy levels. "Sites are nice, although all sites face each other meaning you will be 5-10 feet from your neighbors if you are sitting out front. Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection so if you are using 30 make sure you have a 50/30 adapter."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds provide dedicated play areas. "The property itself is beautiful. Spots are intermingled in the trees and it is spectacular in the morning. The pool is better then most hotels and the giant trampoline looked like it would be my daughters favorite thing if she were with us."
Family activities: The Landing Point RV Park offers access to nearby attractions. "Water park close by (5 minute drive) that was great for the kids on a hot day. Camping spots was all nice and level. looked like all the spots was full hook ups. Had a nice fenced in area for dogs to run and play at."
Educational options: Ranger programs operate seasonally. "Friendly staff sometimes host little educational presentations for kids. They are currently working on some improvements on the campground, so you may see or hear some construction going on."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Saline Creek RV Park and Campground provides full-service sites. "We found this Rv campground while cruising through MO on to FL. We enjoyed this place! Beautiful, and quiet. New sites, tables, and a beautiful creek. A couple of pony's too."
Overnight convenience: Several parks cater to travelers seeking quick stops. "We travel between Charleston,SC and Omaha, NE several times a year and always stay here on return trip. Long first day drive, but so handy and staff couldn't be more accommodating to our late arrivals. Just far enough from Interstate so noise isn't an issue."
Site specifications: Preparation for specific electrical needs helps avoid issues. "Very well kept and clean campground. Great big trees, very shaded, great store. Decorated for Halloween and very kid friendly. Spots are tight (wouldn't want to be here when the park is full)."
