Top Tent Camping near Cave-In-Rock, IL

Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Cave-In-Rock? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Cave-In-Rock's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Cave-In-Rock, IL (25)

    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls

    1. Jackson Falls

    20 Reviews
    66 Photos
    418 Saves

    Jackson Falls offers many opportunities for technical climbing and is a beautiful scenic area of the Shawnee National Forest. It is in the general forest area located east of the small town of Ozark, IL. This non-developed area has a small trailhead with a vault toilet. A short trail leads from the trailhead to the top of Jackson Falls. There are high dangerous bluffs in the area, visitors should be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Camping is allowed here at no cost, since this is part of the general forest area and not a developed campground. Access: A narrow gravel road leads to the Jackson Falls Trailhead, but then the road becomes dirt and deadends past the trailhead.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cadiz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cadiz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cadiz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cadiz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cadiz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cadiz Campground

    2. Camp Cadiz Campground

    6 Reviews
    22 Photos
    64 Saves

    This campground is the site of an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) work camp. Somewhat off the beaten path Camp Cadiz is usually quiet and rarely do the campsites fill up; with the exception of turkey and deer hunting seasons. The campsites are level and each has a fire ring with grill and picnic table. __Equestrian camping is allowed.__Recreation Area brochure/map

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Tower Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tower Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tower Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tower Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tower Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tower Rock Campground

    3. Tower Rock Campground

    6 Reviews
    28 Photos
    47 Saves

    Located along the banks of the Ohio River, Tower Rock Campground offers beautiful scenery and close proximity to water activities like fishing and boating. The 1/4 mile trail can be accessed near the boat launch. Be aware this area is prone to flooding when river levels fluctuate.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Saline County State Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Saline County State Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Saline County State Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Saline County State Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Saline County State Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Saline County State Conservation Area

    4. Saline County State Conservation Area

    2 Reviews
    15 Photos
    62 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mauzy East
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mauzy East

    5. Lake Mauzy East

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    20 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    6. Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    16 Reviews
    47 Photos
    9 Saves

    Turkey Ridge is for campers who want a serene outdoor experience. It is a Class C walk-in campground that includes camp pads, picnic tables, cooking grills and showers. Drinking water and toilets are located near the parking lots.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access

    7. Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access

    7 Reviews
    29 Photos
    63 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay

    8. Demumber's Bay

    5 Reviews
    22 Photos
    64 Saves

    You may camp almost anywhere in Land Between the Lakes (LBL). A Basic Camping Permit is required for each person 18 and over when camping in Basic Camping Facilities. A Dispersed Camping Permit is required when camping in non-designated areas of the recreation area. Both permits currently cost $50 for annual permit and $10 for a three-day permit and can be purchased https://www.landbetweenthelakes.us/reservations/ or any LBL facility. Please note that these permits do not apply when camping at Self-Service Campgrounds.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground

    9. Taylor Bay Campground

    8 Reviews
    49 Photos
    60 Saves

    The campground is located at the edge of the Environment Education Waterfowl Refuge on Taylor Bay of Lake Barkley. Called a "back country" campground, it is primarily used by hunters and anglers and features great waterfowl watching. Boats can be tied up at some of the lakefront sites. The campground has two sections. One section is to the right of campground's entrance and features very shady sites tucked into a heavy stand of mixed hardwood trees stretching up the hillside. The second section is to the left and has more open sites scattered around a loop. These sites are along the shore and have a view of Taylor Bay. Seasonal camp site leases are available for some sites through an annual, open-to-the-public, lottery. Contact LBL for more information. Possible day trips are the North and South Welcome Stations, Golden Pond Visitor Center, the Planetarium, Elk and Bison Prairie, Woodlands Nature Station, and The Homeplace.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground

    10. Twin Lakes Campground

    2 Reviews
    10 Photos
    8 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Cave-In-Rock

643 Reviews of 25 Cave-In-Rock Campgrounds


  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Bay Campground
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Sugar Bay Campground

    Swimming in the lake and eat lunch on the campsite

    Only stay for several hours,haven't spent the night yet,that will be planned next

  • Twan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Stellar Illinois

    This is a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF - about 30min from Marion, down a beautiful country road before nestling among the trees around the lake. The drive is paved/gravel the whole way, so very easily drivable for anyone in anything. Plenty of camp sites, both with electric and non-electric, double and single. Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks. Beautiful lake, beautiful biking trails, etc. Firepits w/ grates are spacious and nice, fees are online. 1 bar verizon at camp, can get up to 3 bars within the area.

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Campground
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Nice stop

    Stopped here for the night driving through the area. Nice campground, clean, safe, and right off the interstate.

  • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Taylor Bay Campground

    Beautiful LBL site

    This is lakefront with a vault toilet and no running water. On a Wednesday night everything was quiet and peaceful. It is a self serve campground.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great place to camp!

    We stayed 4 days and had a great time. The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful and was more than happy to offer places to visit in the area, places to eat and provide assistance as needed. The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk (twice around the lake from our site was 3 miles). :) We plan to visit again!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aurora Oaks Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Aurora Oaks Campground

    Nice, quiet and clean

    We stayed here in our tent. The lady who checked us in was exceptionally nice and the campsites were clean quiet and shady. The restrooms were spick and span. We would certainly stay here again.

  • Denton T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union County Fair
    May. 22, 2024

    Union County Fair

    Kentucky Bike Ralley

    I stayed here and camped for a bike rally. I think you can only camp during an event. And cost is different from each event. Nice place

  • Dante V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    May. 9, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Solar Eclipse Crossroads

    We camped here during the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse and it was also the overflow site which at that time was the side of the camp entrance road. Fast forward to April 7,8 & 9 2024 We are again on overflow campground where this time was their group camping site which was much better than the side of the road. The overflow site has 4 unisex bathrooms but no showers (showers are at the main campground) there is dining (open) pavilion with a fireplace and a filtered well water system. We had a blast watching the Total Solar Eclipse.

  • Jon H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point Campground
    May. 6, 2024

    Oak Point Campground

    Nice national park campground

    Location is everything and this is well in the middle of a great area in Shawnee National Forest. Garden of the gods, Bell Smith springs, Ferne State park, and on and on. You can spend a week here and not see everything.
    There are primitive and electric (with water) sites. There are no sites with sewer hookup. There is a dump station at the entrance.

    Sites are generally level and well kept. Very large rigs (35+) will be challenging, but I've seen them - more towards the front. There are some lake front spots that can be had. Sites are first come and there are no reservations taken. During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy.

    Large lake with swimming, fishing, kayaking. Also has a bike trail around it - maybe 2 miles.

    Shower houses are kept clean, but as of this posting, they need some maintenance work.

    All in all, this is a must stop if you want to enjoy what the area has to offer.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground
    Apr. 24, 2024

    COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground

    Nice campground, disgusting bathroom.

    Primitive campground with electric and water, who knew. Nice sites well kept. Showers were disgusting, drain had accumulated crud. Sinks also gross.

  • lowrent0321
    Camper-submitted photo from Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
    Apr. 9, 2024

    Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access

    Quite, Private.

    Very nice campground, better than what I expected. We stayed at site 20 with a 36' travel trailer we had to actually drive all the way to the end of the campground to turn around so we could back into the site.  Cravens Bay is secluded and about a 2 mile drive off the main road running through LBL.

    There is a attendant at the site that you have to check in with first who will let you know what sites are available and pay after you have chosen your site and settled in.  The attendant station did have some snacks for sale as well ice, also in the event that you may need assistance with any problems at you camp site or even with your camper the attendant more than likely has the tools to help you.

    The road leading into the campsite is paved but narrow, the roads at the campsite are well hard packed gravel and very narrow.  Cravens Bay basically breaks down into two areas, the low ground (first sites upon entering) and the high ground (sites further in at the top of the hill), there are some sites scattered in-between these two areas but for the most part the largest campsites areas are the high and low ground sites.  The sites in-between the two high and low ground areas are very private and two are definitely secluded.

    We stay three days and during that time other than the occasional fisherman or the attendant driving by it was definitely very private and quite.  There were some seasonal campers there who were very helpful and friendly (even cut up some timber for us to burn).  

    If you don't mind not having any hook ups and dry/boon docking with your camper Cravens Bay has a lot to offer in terms of privacy, peace, boating, fishing, and swimming.  Defiantly for the nature lovers out there, nothing like seeing a Bald Eagle hunting fish while drinking coffee first thing in the morning.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Burdette Park
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Burdette Park

    Older campground

    Smaller campground with many older run down campers that are likely full time living here. All sites are pull through, and within 2 feet of the drive. Good spacing between sites, I didn’t feel like I was right up on my neighbors

  • Angela C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    Great overnight!

    We called from the road to get an overnight stop - the staff were super nice both on the phone and in person. When we arrived, the lady who checked us in gave me a coupon for the drive-in movie theater that was literally down the road. Normally, when we camp we arrive so late it’s impossible to take advantage of area attractions so we decided to go and can I tell you, it was awesome!!! The theater accommodated our camper and the food (cheese fries especially) at the snack stand was great. As far as the campground, our site was a bit hilly but we had a nice view of the lake and close proximity to the playground. My kids also enjoyed the pool. Solid place to overnight!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from LBL FS-326
    Apr. 7, 2024

    LBL FS-326

    Lovely, quiet spot!

    This was a fantastic dispersed camping spot! A few cars went by looking for whatever, but the road dead ends at Energy Lake. It was quiet most of the time. Occasionally heard some obnoxious people across the lake where I believe a campground is located. Also heard a sound during the night, possibly coyotes. Otherwise, I felt safe and had a great time here!! The ground was flat and there was a lot of room. We were just passing through and needed somewhere quiet to sleep after two days of driving. There is a lot to do in this area! I hope I got the location right… it wouldn’t let me add the exact coordinates I saved when I was there.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from LBL FS154 - Dispersed
    Mar. 28, 2024

    LBL FS154 - Dispersed

    Several Nice Spots

    I stayed at two difderent spots in March 2024. You might need 4wd; it had rained all day before I got here and there were some rough/sloppy patches in the road. The pit toilt at the entrance is about a 10-12 minute drive away. Both spots had fire pits

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Mar. 25, 2024

    Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    Friendly, well kept, just off I24

    This is a convenient and pleasant campground, just off exit 3 on I24 in Paducah. The staff was friendly and walked us to our site and showed us the hookups. He gave us a lovely spot in the shade by the little lake. Have not used the showers yet so can't comment on that. We stayed on a Sunday night. The park was about half full. Seems to be a nice quiet family place. 

    They are across the street from a Mexican restaurant. There is a liquor store next door. Other businesses nearby.

    Noise from the nearby traffic may bother some, but we didn't mind it and it was not loud enough to hear inside our RV.

    It is a good place for us to stop on our way from MN to visit friends in FL. Also convenient for visiting the National Quilting Museum. We will stop here again.

  • Tonya B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Mar. 18, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great Place!

    Stayed here on the way to and from Florida (home in Minnesota). Very nice campground. Well maintained, big sites for our 40ft fifth wheel, great sunrise/sunset views, and the bathrooms are very clean and well lite. The gentleman/host that greeted us at the office upon arrival was polite and helpful. Will definitely stay again!

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Mar. 7, 2024

    Energy Lake Campground

    Serene bliss at the lake

    We had so much fun at Energy Lake Campground. We were only able to stay one night but it was the reset we needed. Our pups loved it too! Bathrooms were clean, electricity worked great and the view was STELLAR! Super easy check in and check out.

  • W
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park
    Feb. 25, 2024

    Cypress Lakes RV Park

    Looks are deceiving

    Mostly seasonal and permanent with a few spots for weekly and overnight. All sites are level, gravel with concrete patios and fire rings. The staff makes you feel like a friend immediately. Laundry is 1.50 per machine and the showers are large and clean. Interstate 24 is half a mile from this campground and some of the best restaurants in the area are within walking distance.



Guide to Cave-In-Rock

Camping near Cave-In-Rock, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails around the area. Many campers rave about the trails at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground, with one visitor saying, "Easy walking distance to the observation trail that is the highlight of this park."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes. Campers at Oak Point - Lake Glendale appreciate the lake's beauty, with one reviewer noting, "Good hiking, kayaking, and fishing."
  • Exploring caves: Visit the nearby Cave-in-Rock State Park. One long-time visitor shared, "I have been coming here for a really long time... I just love it here."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs mentioned, "The grounds and pit toilets were remarkably clean, and I saw no trash or broken glass anywhere."
  • Spacious sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Pine Ridge. One visitor said, "The rustic sites are well spread out so they feel very private."
  • Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers find the tranquility of the area appealing. A reviewer at Jackson Falls stated, "This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor noted, "There is no potable water on site."
  • Busy weekends: Expect larger crowds on weekends, especially at popular spots like Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground. One camper advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday."
  • Road conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor at Jackson Falls mentioned, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long and just a little bumpy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose quieter times: To avoid crowds, consider visiting during the week. A family at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs suggested, "Too many people, mostly day hikers... Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday."
  • Bring entertainment: With limited amenities, it's good to have games or activities. One camper at Pine Ridge mentioned, "Great location for hiking trails."
  • Pack snacks: Since some campgrounds lack markets, it's wise to bring your own food. A visitor at Oak Point - Lake Glendale noted, "They have firewood available for $4 a bundle."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park mentioned, "The sites are very small but spread out."
  • Bring extra cords: Some sites have shared electric pedestals, so bring long cords. A visitor at the same campground noted, "Sites on outer perimeter have water and electric, just bring enough hose and cords to hook up."
  • Plan for rough roads: Be prepared for bumpy access roads, especially at places like Jackson Falls. A camper shared, "The road getting there does vary in surfaces but our van made it fine."

Camping near Cave-In-Rock, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying nature, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cave-In-Rock, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cave-In-Rock, IL is Jackson Falls with a 4.2-star rating from 20 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Cave-In-Rock, IL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 25 tent camping locations near Cave-In-Rock, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.