Camping opportunities near Equality, Illinois include several established areas within the Shawnee National Forest at elevations between 350-700 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow. Fall camping is particularly popular when temperatures moderate to 50-70°F and humidity drops, making hiking more comfortable.
What to do
Hiking unique formations: Explore the ancient rock formations at Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground. "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. The views are some of the best around," notes Robin M.
Swimming options: Visit Pine Ridge Campground for water recreation. "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.
River exploration: Take a ferry ride to Cave-in-Rock State Park for additional water activities. "If you're coming from the Kentucky side first there is Amish country to visit... Next there is the ferry ride across. If you've done it a lot no big deal, but my kids used to love it every time," shares Shelly S.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Campers appreciate the affordability at Pounds Hollow Recreation Area. "Great 10$ campsite. 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. Very basic campsite for drive up," says Brennan M.
Secluded atmosphere: The quieter camping spots at Jackson Falls offer more seclusion. "Off the beaten path and wasn't sure what to expect but once there it was nice... also a few down the path if you want a little remote. Cool views of the Bluffs 1/4 mile down the path," shares Rebekah.
Cell service considerations: Some areas provide better connectivity than others. "Not great for starlink but very moderate t mobile a slightly better Verizon. Lots of tents and vans. Not many spots. Beautiful," explains Dena P. about Garden of the Gods Rec Area.
What you should know
Water availability: Bring your own water to some campgrounds. "It's a great area with the small beach nearby and garden of the gods so close, the only problem is the drinking water pump is broke so you must bring your own water," advises Joseph W. about Pine Ridge Campground.
First-come, first-served policies: Many sites don't take reservations. "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," warns Erick S. about Garden of the Gods.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Pounds Hollow Recreation Area is open from April 1 to December 15, while others like Saline County State Conservation Area remain open year-round.
Local wildlife awareness: Campers should watch for poison ivy and ticks. "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," cautions Jen E.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly recreational facilities. At Harmonie State Park, "there are 3 playgrounds throughout the campground. They have various events through the summer season with a big Halloween event in the fall," notes Olivia S.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Equality: For those bringing pets, be aware of varying accommodations. "People were very respectful, very dog friendly. Great places around to hike," reports Brennan M. about Pounds Hollow Recreation Area.
Swimming options for kids: Several areas feature swimming spots. "They have a nature center in the middle of the campground that is open Thursday-Sunday in the summer... Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions," explains Olivia S. about Harmonie State Park.
Educational opportunities: Consider campgrounds with nature centers for family learning. "Definitely worth a look after taking the ferry across from Amish country enroute to GOG. Camping area is well kept and usually not crowded," shares Shelly S. about Cave-in-Rock State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. "I'm not sure if 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 we have done outside of dispersed camping," explains Jason F. about Pine Ridge Campground.
RV length limitations: Smaller RVs fare better at most campgrounds. "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," shares Rick C.
Pet-friendly RV options near Equality: Multiple campgrounds accommodate RVers with dogs. "My wife, 2 grandkids and our dogs were at site 22... camping in a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108 TB. This was a great campground with fantastic views of the lake," notes Don N. about Saline County State Conservation Area.
Electrical hookups: Several campgrounds offer electrical connections. "Great location for hiking trails and it's exactly 23 Miles to Walmart. We will definitely stay here again. Fall foliage was kick'n too. And it was only $10 a night!!!" adds Rick C. about Pounds Hollow Recreation Area.
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