Camping opportunities near Equality, Illinois extend throughout Shawnee National Forest at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet. The region's terrain features sandstone formations, dense woodlands, and numerous waterways that create diverse camping environments. Fall and spring typically offer the most comfortable camping conditions with moderate temperatures, while summer humidity levels frequently exceed 80%.
What to do
Hiking at Garden of the Gods: Visit the unique rock formations along the observation trail, offering scenic views across the forest. "The formations are amazing!! We love to hike here in the fall when it's cooler outside and when the leaves are changing it's absolutely beautiful," notes a visitor to Pharaoh - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground.
Rock climbing: Jackson Falls serves as the primary climbing destination in southern Illinois with over 60 established routes on sandstone bluffs. A climber mentioned that "Beautiful location. Definitely off the beaten path. There was another group of campers but they camped on the trail," when visiting Jackson Falls.
Water activities: Pounds Hollow Recreation Area includes a swimming beach and fishing opportunities on its 25-acre lake. "A 2 mile loop road goes around the whole campground and down to a beach access point for a gorgeous lake. That was a perfect little walk with the dog. Spectacular," according to a camper at Pine Ridge.
What campers like
Natural privacy: Many campsites offer substantial spacing between sites, providing a sense of seclusion. At Pine Ridge Campground, a visitor observed that "The rustic sites are well spread out so they feel very private. The hookup sites were closer together and did not look as well spaced."
Affordability: Most campgrounds in the region maintain low fees compared to other recreational areas. One camper at Camp Cadiz Campground mentioned it was a "Great alternative" for those looking to avoid crowded areas, adding, "Motorcycle camping across America and I wanted to see Garden of the Gods. What I didn't want was to camp on top of someone else."
Swimming holes: The region features several natural swimming areas beyond the developed beaches. A visitor to Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area shared: "There is a spring/large swimming hole, with a few places to jump off of, but check with the locals to make sure the water is deep enough. Water levels were low when we were there."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception varies dramatically throughout the region. At Saline County State Conservation Area, a camper noted, "We had no cell service, although a quick trip to the ridge behind the campsite (1-2 minute drive)" would restore connectivity.
Water availability: Many campgrounds have limited potable water sources. At Pine Ridge Campground, a camper warned "the drinking water pump is broke so you must bring your own water."
Seasonal pest management: Ticks and poison ivy are common throughout the area. A visitor to Garden of the Gods mentioned, "We camped in the backcountry along the River to River trail adjacent to Garden of the Gods. The camping area we found was great, about 7 miles down the River to River trail, but there was poison ivy everywhere along the trail."
Site reservation systems: Most campgrounds operate on a first-come basis, requiring early arrival for preferred spots. At Pharaoh Campground, a camper advised: "Only downside is that there are only 12 sites, and they are first come, first serve... so you might want to have a second option on a weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Choose campgrounds with swimming options during summer months. A visitor to Cave-in-Rock State Park shared: "I have been coming here for a really long time. My parents always brought me and my two younger brothers here since we were very young. We would buy fresh caught catfish right here and have a great picnic with all the trimmings."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Cave-in-Rock State Park, facilities include a playground near the shower house and a pond located behind it.
Educational opportunities: Many recreation areas include interpretive trails explaining local geology and ecology. One visitor to Redbud Campground noted: "We found some beautiful hiking and water holes," making it an excellent destination for families seeking both recreation and learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: For RVs requiring power, sites with electrical service are limited in number and often fill quickly. A camper at Fiedlerland RV Park and Campgrounds reported, "FHU & water & electric sites. Shower house too," making it one of the few options with full hookups in the area.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. At Pine Ridge Campground, an RVer mentioned, "Trying out my recently purchased 17' clipper travel trailer. Loved the area and the campsites are very roomy, especially for a small camper. The left loop has power 50/30/20 amp hook ups but no water or sewer on the campsite."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. A Camp Cadiz visitor warned that "It's down a gravel road a bit but nothing too hard to find. The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents."
