Best Campgrounds near Equality, IL
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds Equality, Illinois, providing numerous camping options within a short drive. Saline County State Conservation Area offers spacious campsites with lake views and is rated highly by visitors seeking both tent and RV camping opportunities. Other nearby options include Pine Ridge Campground near Pounds Hollow Recreation Area and Pharoah Campground at Garden of the Gods Recreation Area. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of amenities from primitive sites to those with electric hookups, drinking water, and toilet facilities.
Access to camping areas varies significantly by season, with some sites like Pine Ridge operating only from April to December, while others such as Saline County State Conservation Area remain open year-round. Most campgrounds feature vault toilets, though shower availability is limited to select locations. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly in lower-elevation areas near water. "We were able to get cell signal on the campsites up the hill but not in any down by the water, which is why we stayed up the hill," noted one visitor to Saline County State Conservation Area.
The developed campgrounds near Equality are known for their natural beauty and proximity to outdoor recreation. Many sites are nestled among trees providing ample shade, and several are located near lakes offering swimming and fishing opportunities. Campers particularly appreciate the spaciousness of sites in this region. A visitor to Saline County described it as having "very roomy" campsites, while another mentioned that "the campground was very quiet" even during weekend visits. Pine Ridge Campground receives praise for its rustic feel and private sites, with one camper noting it's "excellent for tent lovers" and "might be one of the best we have done outside of dispersed camping." For those seeking more remote experiences, Jackson Falls offers free dispersed camping with basic amenities like toilets and trash disposal.
