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Best Dispersed Camping near Golconda, IL

51 Reviews

Shawnee National Forest near Golconda, Illinois offers several free backcountry camping options. Jackson Falls features drive-in and walk-in primitive sites with fire rings but no picnic tables or drinking water. The gravel access road has multiple potholes and may require crossing streams, making it challenging for sedans. A review noted, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine."

Dutchman Lake Camp provides tent camping with fire permissions but no facilities. For more remote off-grid camping, Forest Service Road 343 in neighboring Kentucky requires permits but offers free sites suitable for tent camping. These areas typically have vault toilets at trailheads but campers must pack out all garbage and bring their own water. Cell service is limited or nonexistent in most dispersed areas, creating a true wilderness experience.

Map showing campgrounds near Golconda, IllinoisExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Golconda, Illinois (11)

    1. Jackson Falls

    22 Reviews
    Shawnee National Forest, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-2111

    "We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading. We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible."

    "Jackson offers some of the best rock climbing in southern Illinois. There are about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders, with multiple routes."

    2. Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Grantsburg, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 949-3807

    $12 - $44 / night

    "This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many"

    "There is a longer wine trail further west in Shawnee National Forest. When I entered Lake Glendale, Cardinal Bay boat launch was the first area I visited."

    3. Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest

    1 Review
    Grantsburg, IL
    10 miles

    "It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway."

    4. Dutchman Lake Camp

    4 Reviews
    Buncombe, IL
    25 miles

    "Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway"

    "We pulled in around midnight and left at 8 am."

    5. Demumber's Bay

    5 Reviews
    Grand Rivers, KY
    32 miles

    "Denumbers is considered a back country campground in Land Between the Lakes. The road going back into the campground is paved, and the roads in the campground are compacted gravel."

    "There are multiple dispersed camping spots available along the way (closer to the bay mostly). There are a couple on the water and some in the woods close by."

    6. Forest Service Rd 343

    8 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    48 miles

    "A secluded lakeside spot with a fire pit. We saw three other spots on the way in which looked nice as well. The road coming in is a little washed out but not too pitted."

    "There is dispersed and standard. The standard has a fee but the dispersed is free"

    7. Barge Island Public Use Area at Birmingham Point

    1 Review
    Grand Rivers, KY
    35 miles
    Website

    8. LBL FS154 - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 525-7077

    "This site is quite remote feeling, but for a dispersed site, it is absolutely the BEST, which is why it is sometimes difficult to secure it, being it is first come first served."

    "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."

    9. LBL FS-326

    1 Review
    Cadiz, KY
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 525-7077

    "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."

    10. Trail of Tears State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Jonesboro, IL
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 833-4910

    "Excellent for tent camping when you want relatively easy access and still feel a bit of solitude."

    "Surprised to find nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Golconda, IL

24 Photos of 11 Golconda Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Golconda, IL

51 Reviews of 11 Golconda Campgrounds

  • Stacia R.
    Apr. 27, 2019

    Jackson Falls

    Popular dispersed camping area

    This is dispersed camping within the Shawnee National Forest. The area can be tricky to find if you are unfamiliar with the area. It can also get very crowded on nice days due to its proximity to the college campus. It is also very popular with rock climbers and people on horseback. I found the trails to be somewhat confusing and not well marked. I was here Easter weekend and the weather was great, so there were a lot of tents set up right near the parking area. If you don’t mind hiking in a bit, peace and quiet can be found.

  • tom L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 5, 2025

    Jackson Falls

    Jackson Falls Dispersed

    We run a 28ft RV and we’re able to cross the first water wash without problem. We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading.

    We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible. The further sights will require crossing several wash outs. The terrain is hard rock and any capable 4x4 should be able to navigate to the furthest sight’s. .

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2020

    Jackson Falls

    Waterfalls, hiking, climbing, and FREE camping

    Jackson offers some of the best rock climbing in southern Illinois. There are about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders, with multiple routes. Most of the routes here are sport routes, though there are a number of trad routes.

    There are primative campsites on both sides of Glen Street Falls Road near the trailhead. You can drive right up and park next to your campsite. If those campsites are full, there are additional campsites further down the road.

    Most campsites have fire rings. There are no picnic tables or campfire grills there. There are also no garbage cans. You must pack out all of your garbage. You also need to bring your own drinking water as there is no fresh water there.

    There's a single outhouse at the trailhead that is well maintained and pretty clean.

  • J K.
    Sep. 3, 2019

    Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    Our IL #1

    This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many that back right up to Lake Glendale. The sites are mostly private and have water hookups as well as electric. A nearby beach is available to enjoy during the summer as well as hiking trails. While this campground is certainly off the beaten path it is perfect for those that want to get away and enjoy some quiet time. No reservations though so you’ll want to get there ahead of time to ensure yourself a spot If you enjoy a very

  • Marta S.
    Jun. 13, 2021

    Jackson Falls

    Unimpressive and crowded

    The campsite is considered to be primitive, which is fine, but it is right along the trail without any cover. All the campsites are one on top of the other without any cover in between or from the trail. They were all taken and incredibly packed during the Memorial Day weekend and honestly seemed very messy and unpleasant. I would not feel comfortable leaving my equipment and gear here unattended at all. I'm not sure if it's any better the further along the trail you go, but the areas we hiked it didn't appear there were additional primitive/dispersed camping spots available other than the ones near the trail head. Also, important to note that there are lots of ticks and poison ivy everywhere.

    I have camped in backcountry locations and have done dispersed/primitive camping and enjoy it quite a bit, but I would have been miserable at this location.

  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2024

    Jackson Falls

    Love this place!

    This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds that you can drive up to. Great hiking around the area. 

    The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine.  Sprinter vans would be fine. Was pretty dry when we visited, could see the road getting a little sketch after big rain.  Definitely not gonna be fun for even small RV's. Tough turnarounds for large trailers or 5th wheels.

  • R
    Sep. 4, 2022

    Jackson Falls

    Great campground

    Off the beaten path and wasn’t sure what to expect but once there it was nice…just a parking lot with a vault lock toilet and a few campsites you see right away… also a few down the path if you want a little remote. The bathroom was stocked with tp but you will want to bring hand sanatizer or water. None available there. Cool views of the Bluffs 1/4 mile down the path and a bridge that would go over a waterfall if it wasn’t so dried up…would probably real pretty to see in the spring. Drove my Hyundai Elantra thru just fine, but it is a rough road and your car will get dirty.

  • Shawn M.
    Sep. 21, 2018

    Jackson Falls

    Gorgeous Winter hiking

    Jackson Falls is popular with climbers and has many marked routes. You are able to camp right along the water near the parking pull out and if you don't mind hikers passing by, it is a beautiful location. We were out in spring after a mid-march snow fall and melt which meant good water. I would love to come back in warmer weather to get wet. I would imagine warmer weather brings crowds.

  • Matthew Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2024

    Dutchman Lake Camp

    Road trip break

    Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway

Guide to Golconda

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Golconda, Illinois, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the crowds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Golconda

  • Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore at Jackson Falls, known for its stunning views and rugged terrain.
  • Rock climbing is a popular activity at Jackson Falls, making it a perfect spot for adventure seekers looking to challenge themselves.
  • Enjoy peaceful fishing opportunities at Dutchman Lake Camp, where the serene environment enhances the experience.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Lake Glendale Recreation Area

  • The Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers well-maintained sites with access to drinking water and showers, making it a comfortable choice for dispersed camping.
  • With a sandy beach and rental options for paddle boats and kayaks, Lake Glendale Recreation Area is perfect for those looking to enjoy water activities.
  • The area is surrounded by other parks and attractions, providing ample opportunities for exploration beyond your campsite at Lake Glendale Recreation Area.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers at Panther Den Wilderness

  • The Panther Den Wilderness is renowned for its breathtaking sandstone formations, offering a unique backdrop for your camping experience.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse fauna in the area, with sightings of deer, coyotes, and various bird species near Panther Den Wilderness.
  • The trails in this wilderness area range from moderate to rugged, providing a challenge for hikers looking to immerse themselves in nature at Panther Den Wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Golconda, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Golconda, IL is Jackson Falls with a 4.2-star rating from 22 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Golconda, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Golconda, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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