Dispersed camping options near Golconda, Illinois range from riverside sites to remote woodland locations throughout the Shawnee National Forest region. The area sits along the Ohio River at approximately 350 feet elevation, experiencing humid summers and mild winters with occasional flooding during spring months. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s while summer days reach the 90s with high humidity.
What to do
Hiking access from campsites: Camp Cadiz serves as the eastern trailhead for the River to River Trail with additional shorter trails nearby. As one camper noted, "This is the Eastern trailhead for the River to River trail, there is also a shorter trail, Beaver. Good one to practice your backpacking skills on."
Wildlife viewing: Dutchman Lake Camp offers quiet shoreline camping with good wildlife watching opportunities. "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too," reports a recent visitor to Dutchman Lake Camp.
Fishing access: Saline County State Conservation Area provides good fishing access with lakeside campsites. A camper mentioned, "This was a great campground with fantastic views of the lake."
What campers like
Solitude and small crowds: Camp Cadiz maintains a small, quiet camping area that rarely fills except during hunting seasons. A camper shared, "My favorite part about this campground was that there were only 8 campsites so it was very quiet and remote."
Ohio River views: Tower Rock Campground offers direct river access and views across to Kentucky. A camper described it as having "sites with fire ring with grill stand and table, firewood available to gather onsite when I was there, vault toilets, right on the river."
Historic features: The region contains remnants of Civilian Conservation Corps structures. At Tower Rock, a camper explains: "A short walk from the campground is Tower Rock that was an old CCC path and over look of the Ohio River. Last time I was there it is a bit of a pain to find the old path, but basically from the boat landing go UP... follow the terrain and you will find it."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several tent campsites near Golconda, Illinois face temporary closures due to river conditions. A camper reports about Tower Rock: "We drove down to camp here and found this campground closed. We walked in past the locked gate to scout it out and there was a line of debris left behind from when the river was higher."
Limited phone service: Cell reception varies dramatically between campsites, with higher elevations typically offering better connectivity. At Ferne Clyffe State Park, primitive tent sites are secluded but within reach of water and toilet facilities, making them suitable for those wanting to disconnect.
Road conditions: Many access roads to tent camping areas require careful driving. A visitor to Camp Cadiz noted, "The road is deceptively smooth. Ruts and water crossings appear suddenly."
Tips for camping with families
Consider proximity to facilities: Turkey Ridge Campground at Ferne Clyffe offers family-friendly trails. A visitor explained, "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids."
Wildlife encounters: Family camping at Turkey Ridge Campground provides natural wildlife observation opportunities. One camper mentioned, "There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night."
Activity planning: Combine camping with local exploration of unique sites. A camper visiting Tower Rock shared, "A short walk from the campground is Tower Rock that was an old CCC path and over look of the Ohio River."
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Most tent-focused sites have limited RV access due to narrow, rough roads. At Camp Cadiz, campers report, "The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents," but the gravel road access requires caution.
Water and dump station options: RVers seeking facilities can find basic services at Fishing Pier across the river in Kentucky. A visitor noted, "State park with minimal facilities. Lots to do nearby if you don't like fishing! Ranger came through and was very friendly & helpful."
Generator usage: Be aware that most tent campgrounds near Golconda restrict generator use. One Tower Rock visitor observed the issue with extended stays: "Very small, on the river, vault toilets, seems like people 'live' there and run a generator all night long."
