Dispersed camping near Simpson, Illinois offers primitive sites throughout the Shawnee National Forest area. Many locations sit at elevations between 400-600 feet, with seasonal creek access that's typically higher in spring. The region's dense forest coverage creates natural shade at many sites, with sandstone formations visible from select camping locations.
What to do
Hiking at Ferne Clyffe State Park: Access multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. According to a camper at Turkey Ridge Campground, "There are a lot of hiking trails and we really enjoyed them all! The tent camping accommodations were less than stellar, simply because of the 'outhouses'. There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night."
Fishing at Dutchman Lake: Cast for bass, crappie, and catfish at this 78-acre lake with primitive camping access. A visitor noted, "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing." Dutchman Lake Camp provides easy access without facilities, requiring campers to bring their own supplies.
Explore limestone formations: Visit the natural rock formations throughout the region. At Backpack Campground, one camper reported, "I love Ferne Clyffe State Park - the walk up primitive sites are secluded, wooded, and within a pit toilet and water source. Make sure you take time to explore the waterfall and other short trails nearby."
Boating on Lake of Egypt: Launch from nearby marinas for lake access. A Buck Ridge visitor shared, "Lake Egypt so peaceful and relaxing." Lake access points are available within a 20-minute drive from Simpson.
What campers like
Privacy and spaciousness: Camp Cadiz offers larger sites with room to spread out. A camper noted, "My favorite part about this campground was that there were only 8 campsites so it was very quiet and remote. I arrived at 7pm on Friday and snagged the last site. The fire pit had a grate large enough to cook on and I didn't need to use my extra grate that I keep in my camping kit."
Wildlife viewing: Many sites provide opportunities to observe local animals. A Turkey Ridge visitor commented, "There is a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night. Overall the grounds are quite nice."
River access: Tower Rock Campground provides Ohio River views and access. According to a reviewer, "Clean, quiet, and great river views! Campground is smaller but the sites are spread out well, most have fire ring with grill stand and table, firewood available to gather onsite when I was there, vault toilets, right on the river so may be closed during flood seasons."
Ease of finding firewood: At several locations, gathering deadfall is permitted. A Backpack Campground visitor shared, "Not a lot of tent sites, but enough. Nice wooded primitive sites with easy access to water and toilets. Had my pups with, and no problems at all. Nice trails for different hiking skill sets."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most tent camping sites have minimal facilities. At Dutchman Lake Camp, a visitor reported, "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too." Bring all supplies needed for your stay.
Cell service varies: Reception can be spotty throughout the region. At Saline County State Conservation Area, a camper noted, "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."
Road conditions: Many access roads are gravel with occasional water crossings. A Camp Cadiz visitor stated, "This camp ground is only about 10 min from Garden Of The Gods. It's down a gravel road a bit but nothing too hard to find."
Seasonal closures: Flooding affects availability at several sites. A Tower Rock reviewer mentioned, "Right on the river so may be closed during flood seasons."
Limited water sources: Not all sites have potable water. A Camp Cadiz visitor shared, "There is well water, a bathroom (open septic tank) for pit and picnic table at each site. No heavy traffic on the gravel road so it's very quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Short trails for kids: Ferne Clyffe State Park offers family-friendly hikes. One visitor said, "Really, this state park is a must for anyone who lives nearby or is driving through. It's just that gorgeous! The campground is wonderful! There are lots of well maintained trails to hike... hikes that include bluffs, caves, creeks, etc. Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
Sites with space for multiple tents: For best tent camping near Simpson, Illinois with families, choose larger sites. A Camp Cadiz visitor noted, "The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents."
Plan for bathroom situations: Some sites have basic facilities only. At Turkey Ridge, a camper reported, "The tent camping accommodations were less than stellar, simply because of the 'outhouses'."
Check for seasonal activities: Turkey Ridge offers different experiences throughout the year. A visitor shared, "Camped end of April and park was full. Very nice hiking trails with waterfalls and beautiful bluffs. Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most sites near Simpson accommodate smaller rigs only. At Turkey Ridge Campground, a visitor stated, "There were several hiking trails that looked pretty, but we didn't get a chance to walk them. Overall, this is a nice and quiet campground. We would definitely stay again. We camped at Ferne Clyffe State Park in a Motorhome."
Site selection matters: Choose locations based on your specific needs. A Saline County visitor reported, "My wife, 2 grandkids and our dogs and were at site 22 from 10/10/21- 10/15/21 camping in a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108 TB. This was a great campground with fantastic views of the lake."
Bring extra water: Many sites have limited water access. One visitor noted that while some sites have water spigots, it's wise to fill tanks before arrival.
