Dispersed camping near Gorham, Illinois offers primitive experiences within Shawnee National Forest, where elevations range from 320 to 1,064 feet across varied terrain. The area receives approximately 45 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F, creating humid conditions during camping season. Forest access roads throughout the region can become challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Dutchman Lake Camp provides easy access to fishing with "decent fishing" according to Jonathan H., who enjoyed a "weekend at the lake." The lake is accessible directly from the camping area without requiring additional travel.
Rock climbing: Jackson Falls attracts climbers with its sandstone formations. The area features "forests and great big, moss covered boulders" with opportunities for "climbing down to the bottom of the falls, even with small kids," as noted by Casie A.
Hiking trails: Lake Glendale offers a 3-mile trail circling the entire lake. Donald S. describes it as "an easy 3 mile hike around the lake" with access to "several historical sites in area" including "Illinois Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods, and segments of the Trail of Tears."
Seasonal waterfall viewing: Water levels at Jackson Falls vary significantly throughout the year. During dry periods, visitors may find "no falls since it hasn't rained in a while" as AC noted, but the area still offers "great hike around" opportunities regardless of water flow.
What campers like
Privacy options: Trail of Tears State Forest offers secluded camping with "nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others," according to Bill C. The campground provides separation between sites for a more private experience.
Convenient location: Dutchman Lake Camp earns praise for accessibility, described as a "great little spot right off the interstate" by Jonathan H. Katie B. adds it's a "great stop for the night" with multiple parking options including "a large turnaround that could fit many vehicles."
Night sky viewing: The remote locations offer excellent stargazing opportunities. Jackson Falls provides dark skies away from light pollution, though campers should note there's "no cellphone service immediately upon entering reserve," as mentioned by Casie A.
Water access: Lake Glendale Recreation Area features sites with direct lake access. According to Annie C., "if you pick a water side site it is a short walk to the lake trail and I saw several personal watercraft sitting on the shore for use."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Jackson Falls Dispersed requires careful navigation. Jeremy R. warns "Gravel Road getting there was a bit rough" and "Hill down to trail head could get slick if wet weather." Another visitor, Rebekah, added: "it is a rough road and your car will get dirty."
Water availability: Most dispersed sites lack drinking water. At Jackson Falls, AC advises "bring everything you need, there is no water source" while Trail of Tears State Forest sometimes has potable water but with "a boil water warning" according to Bill C.
Varying site quality: Site conditions and cleanliness can vary widely. At Jackson Falls, Marta S. found some areas "right along the trail without any cover" where "all the campsites are one on top of the other" during holiday weekends.
Navigation challenges: Reaching some sites requires careful planning. Shelby B. notes Jackson Falls "is popular with climbers, but I'm not one and had a rough time locating this place. The roads weren't marked the same way they are on the website's map." Daniel S. simply advises: "Be sure to make sure you set the correct location into GPS."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly features: Despite being primitive, several areas accommodate families. At Jackson Falls, Casie A. found that "it was fun climbing down to the bottom of the falls, even with small kids" and notes that while busy during holiday weekends, "secluded camp sites were easy to find."
Seasonal planning: Summer brings increased insect activity. Katie B. observed at Dutchman Lake Camp that "the lake surface had a lot of bug activity" but found camping in grassy areas away from water to be "very peaceful! No bugs."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for common forest wildlife encounters. Ticks are prevalent in warmer months, and poison ivy grows throughout the region, requiring appropriate clothing and regular checks.
Supply preparation: Limited services require advance planning. Tyler S. recommends visitors to Jackson Falls "bring your own firewood. From inside the state of IL of course" and notes that while primitive, "the hiking is incredible."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle accessibility: RV access varies significantly between sites. At the Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest near Herod, Rodarius S. notes it's "easily accessible by all rig types" and "backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway."
Water crossings: Jackson Falls has water crossings that may challenge larger vehicles. Tom L., who runs a 28-foot RV, reports "we were able to cross the first water wash without problem" but cautions "the further sights will require crossing several wash outs" and recommends "any capable 4x4 should be able to navigate to the furthest sight's."
Campsite selection: RV campers should assess individual sites carefully. Mark F. notes at Jackson Falls that "there was a shallow creek crossing right before the camping areas" but found "it was not a big deal even for 2WD vehicles" despite initial concerns.
