Vincent S.
Ranger
RangerTrail of Tears State Forest
Remove from free dispersed. $8 a night. Not free.
Dog-Friendly Camping near Gorham, IL
2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Turkey Bayou Campground offers free pet-friendly camping with spacious sites along the water. Campers report clean, well-maintained areas where pets can enjoy the outdoors alongside their owners. Several pet-allowed campgrounds in the Gorham area provide various amenities, from basic facilities at Turkey Bayou (porta-potty only) to more developed options at Giant City State Park and Lake Murphysboro State Park, which both welcome pets at their campgrounds and cabins. Most campgrounds maintain standard leash policies. Volunteer-maintained Turkey Bayou remains particularly popular among pet owners seeking a rustic experience, with multiple visitors noting the peaceful setting is perfect for camping with dogs despite minimal amenities.
The surrounding Shawnee National Forest area provides numerous pet-friendly hiking opportunities, including the highly-rated Little Grand Canyon trail near Turkey Bayou. Dogs should remain leashed on all trails to protect wildlife. Many campgrounds feature shoreline access where pets can cool off, though swimming quality varies. Several miles of gravel roads lead to Turkey Bayou, requiring slow driving with larger rigs, especially those with pets inside. Seasonal considerations affect pet comfort, with some reviewers noting bug activity near water areas requires appropriate repellent for both humans and animals. The region's wineries, including those near Wine Trail Wilderness campground, often welcome leashed pets at outdoor seating areas, creating additional recreation options for campers traveling with dogs.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Gorham (87)
1. Turkey Bayou Campground
"We took a chance camping here since we hang hammocks but we found a site that had some trees nearby. We were pleasantly surprised to see a port-a-pottie at the campground."
"Stayed during the eclipse so crowds were intense but the hosts lets us camp where we could find room, the site was clean and the pond was beautiful (as always bring the bug spray when camping near the"
2. Giant City State Park Campground
"There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp. There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here."
"Each site has electricity and access to water. Some have more.
All the hiking in the park is some of the best in Illinois. The visitors center has a lot of great information."3. Lake Murphysboro State Park Campground
"We had pit toilets, but had to drive elsewhere for showers. I would come back again."
4. Trail of Tears State Park Campground
"PRO Senior discount saving $6
Able to reserve on-line 365 days prior to arriving
Very friendly and helpful camp host
Unobstructed view of the Mississippi River
Great dark sky viewing
No highway"
"As close to camping next to the Mississippi river as you can get"
5. Johnson Creek
"single, double, and triple camping spots set up on three loops in this small campground nestled in the corner of shawnee national forest. there's a central bath house located near check in. only amenities"
"The site was fairly secluded, and right on Kincade lake."
6. turkey bayou campground Illinois
"Often empty, free, great hiking near by. Known to flood but it’s volunteer run and you will have to check local weather reports to know."
7. Wine Trail Wilderness
"Surrounded by wineries, hiking places, historic sites, close to town for dining out, visiting for special events. Whatever you may schedule."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $50 / night
8. Crab Orchard Lake Campground
"Wthat a nice find in southern Illinois just outside of Marion. Very big roomy and grassy sites. Some right on the lake shore."
"Getting there: Easy access off Illinois 13 East of Carbondale Check in and staff: Campground is now under the egis of recreation.gov& reservations through them are a must."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 - $25 / night
9. Pine Hills
"Overall good location and an occasional train but overall great spot."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
10. Devils Backbone Park
"There are 21 miles of trails throughout the park and a large lake. The attractions are all relatively close to the road (cave, "hidden" spring, and trout streams)."
Drive Time
- 41 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 20 min from Paducah, KY
- 1 hr 39 min from St. Louis, MO
- 2 hrs 13 min from Evansville, IN
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Gorham, IL
57 Photos of 87 Gorham Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Gorham, IL
637 Reviews of 87 Gorham Campgrounds
- WWendy
TravelerGun Creek
This is a 100 site campground on Rend Lake in Illinois. Lots of trees. Level paved sites unless you book right by the lake. Some are very steep. Bring lots to level with! We are in site 92. Away from the lake but beautiful sunshine.
- Ronald C.
GuideGun Creek
Great place easy on off the hyw sites are old so you may need to block up your RV to level it . Some sites only have electric so be careful when you book it. Heard some road noise from the HYW but the campsite had plenty of room
- MickandKarla W.
LegendWhittington Woods Campground
Decent Campground
We had never stayed at Whittington Woods, but several of our camping friends have stayed here over the years while traveling through the area. At a recent RV open house, we talked with the campground (CG) owners and decided to switch our reservation from another private CG to Whittington Woods to check it out. The owners suggested sites 92 or 97, and we were able to reserve back-in site 92 with FHUs for our two-night stay. Site 92 is one of the better sites, with a large yard and good separation from neighboring sites. The CG was easy to find off I-57—follow your GPS or the signs. Check-in was quick, and we were escorted to our site. Unfortunately, one of the CG’s regular guests had set up in our reserved site 92 instead of site 93. After a brief discussion between our owner/escort and the guest, moving him was clearly not going to be a quick process. We were offered a couple of other available sites and decided to take site 93. Site 93 was a significant downgrade, with only a sliver of yard and very little separation from site 94. The sewer and electrical connections are near the center of the gravel pad, while the electrical breaker is on the opposite side of site 94. The water connection is at the very back, requiring more than 30 feet of hose for our rig. The owners were very nice, probably too nice when dealing with their“regulars,” and made the situation more tolerable by giving us a good discount for site 93. We received two bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile. We normally get good performance from our T-Mobile internet with two bars, but download speed was only 41.2 Mbps. The CG Wi-Fi was better at 69.3 Mbps download. There are a lot of mature trees, so satellite/Starlink reception could be iffy depending on the site. The CG is conveniently located near I-57 and right off IL-37, although there was quite a bit of highway noise that was manageable for us. The property provides plenty of room for walking, especially with a dog, and has a decent-sized dog park. There are quite a few full-timers and regulars, with some keeping their sites well maintained and others not so much. We also saw some of the same latitude given to“regulars” when it came to keeping dogs on a leash and picking up after them. They have 5 pull throughs that are mainly used for overnighters that are handy but close together. We understand why several of our friends regularly stay here for a night or two while traveling to and from Florida. Whittington Woods is conveniently located off I-57 and offers FHUs, making the CG a practical overnight stop. Our home base is only about an hour and a half away, however, and we have better options in the area when we need a final stop to flush tanks before heading home.
- MickandKarla W.Legend
Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday
Different than Most KOA Holidays
We were heading back to our home base and decided to check out this new KOA Holiday and dump our tanks before heading home. The campground (CG) was approximately 10 miles and 20 minutes off I-57 on southern Illinois backcountry roads. Along the way, we encountered a suspiciously low power line that our 13.5'-high rig cleared. Small KOA signs guided us all the way in. We've stayed at many KOAs and particularly enjoyed KOA Holidays for their service and amenities, but this CG was not what we expected. We arrived at a large gravel parking area and found a check-in room at the end of a warehouse, with envelopes on a bulletin board and a phone number to request an escort. Since the RV sites were down a steep hill, we checked our assigned Creek Side site 26 before moving our rig. Sites 23–26 sat in a bowl at the bottom of the CG, with little room to maneuver our 41' fifth wheel and F450. The escort number went to voicemail, but we reached the manager using the CG brochure number. He agreed our rig wouldn't fit and moved us to back-in site 18 on the hill. All RV sites were back-ins. Creek Side sites appeared better suited for smaller RVs, although larger rigs might fit sites 23 and 24. We later discovered the main KOA office near the marina, which handled cabin check-ins, food, and boat rentals. Sites 1–19 were former pull-through motorcoach sites converted to back-ins, with utilities on the opposite side to accommodate other RVs. Our site 18 was exceptionally wide but close to neighboring sites. We positioned our rig toward the right side of the gravel pad (facing the site) to maintain reasonable access to hookups. The electrical pedestal was at the far back, requiring approximately 35' of power cord to accommodate our toy hauler's rear deck. The wide pad provided plenty of parking for a tow vehicle or boat. However, the CG brochure listed a $75 fee for parking boats or trailers at sites, and a marina sign listed a $50 launch fee. We couldn't determine how these fees applied. Water pressure was excellent, so use a regulator. CG Wi-Fi delivered 20.9 Mbps, Verizon had two bars, and T-Mobile had three. Our T-Mobile Home Internet delivered 358 Mbps, allowing us to stream golf and football. With no trees around the RV sites, satellite reception shouldn't be a problem. Some sites had limited lake views, but don't expect panoramic views or direct lake access. The CG had undergone considerable improvements, including attractive cabins, several right on the lake. KOA cabins were mixed with privately owned cabins, while lake access was concentrated near the small marina and swimming area. We expected more direct lake access and walking trails, but neither was available from the RV sites. A standard fenced KOA dog park was available, but longer walks with our pup were limited to a short path around the fishing pond, gravel areas, and CG roads. Considerable work and investment had gone into this CG, but our experience didn't entice us to return.
- DDavid B.Traveler
General Watkins Conservation Area
Nice quiet little spot. 4 spots. Have fire rings and picnic tables.
- Ronald C.Guide
South Marcum Campground
Large site
Great campsite very large easy to get in and additional parking for your truck right next to your trailer
Scott M.GuideCOE Rend Lake North Sandusky Recreation Area
Excellent campground
What started as a one-night camping trip quickly turned into a three-night stay—I just didn't want to leave! Most of the campsites feature beautiful lake views and are well-shaded by tall trees. Each spot is equipped with an electric hookup, a fire pit, and a picnic table, plus having access to hot showers made the stay super comfortable. To top it off, our cats loved taking walks with us around the campground!
Randy H.
ScoutGun Creek
Great Digs
Rend Lake, in Whittington, Il is just a great place to camp. From primitive to full hook ups they have what you need for a Corps of Engineers campground.
Guide to Gorham
Turkey Bayou Campground sits along the water in Gorham, Illinois where the Big Muddy River flows through the Shawnee National Forest. The campground elevation ranges between 350-400 feet above sea level with typical southern Illinois topography featuring forested hills and floodplains. Weather patterns vary seasonally with hot, humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Numerous campers report excellent fishing conditions at Turkey Bayou Campground. "There seems to be someone living there, and some fishermen were abit loud... overall we loved it though," notes Ethan B. who gave the campground 4 stars. Another visitor mentioned, "We could hear the fish jumping all night" at Turkey Bayou Campground.
Hiking trails: The Little Grand Canyon trail is accessible from several campgrounds in the area. "We pulled in to see many of the large sites available and picked the one with a tree for shade looking over the river. We pitched our tents and then drove to the Little Grand Cayon for a quick hike before dusk," writes Bernadette H. about her stay at Turkey Bayou. Giant City State Park provides multiple trail options ranging from easy walks to more challenging terrain. "Lots of amazing, beautiful hikes in this park, especially if you're into bluffs and large boulders," according to Kyle K.
Water activities: While swimming quality varies throughout the region, many campgrounds provide water access. At Crab Orchard Lake Campground, "There is a swimming beach (though it was closed till Memorial Day - and too cold anyway!), some older but functional and clean shower houses," writes Melissa H. Boating is also popular, with several campgrounds offering boat launches into local lakes and rivers.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many campers appreciate the less crowded aspects of camping in the Gorham area. At Johnson Creek, "The campground is scattered throughout the woods, with pit toilets and there is no shower. Water is available at the entrance. But, for $10 a night it is pretty good," notes Joel R. Similarly, at Turkey Bayou, one camper mentioned, "Middle of the week in June and the campground was about half empty. Very peaceful place."
Budget-friendly options: Multiple campgrounds in the region offer free or low-cost camping. "Perfect campground. Clean, right next on the water, only 2 other groups (~20 sites total), and FREE. Though no trash or showers--only porta-potty," writes Kevin about Turkey Bayou. At Johnson Creek Recreation Area, Stacia R. points out "Camping is $10 a night - self check in. No need to worry about finding firewood, as it is plentiful within the forest."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We stayed up listening for awhile. In the middle of the night we were startled awake by a pair of owls in the tree right above us. We were not sure if they were fighting or mating, but it sure was loud!" relates Joel R. about Johnson Creek. At Crab Orchard, another reviewer noted seeing "herons, geese, turtles, and deer."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds offer minimal amenities. "Nobody here. Bring a fishing pole. No services except a porta potty," warns Jordan A. about Turkey Bayou. Similarly, at Pine Hills, "This is a very basic campground with some shade. No hookups, really good for tent camping," notes Chelsea D.
Seasonal considerations: Water access and facilities change seasonally. "We camped here mid-April and the campground water spigots had not been turned on yet," reports Stacia R. about Johnson Creek Recreation Area. Weather impacts campground conditions significantly, with summer humidity requiring appropriate preparation.
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the area. At Turkey Bayou, one camper reported, "I went camping alone and there weren't too many people here but I know if I screamed there would be people that heard me lol spectrum Mobile works out here and the lake is beautiful." For those needing reliable service, Crab Orchard offers better connectivity: "We have AT&T and had full bars (we also have a booster, which may have contributed to a strong signal)."
Tips for camping with families
Pavilion access: Some campgrounds provide covered areas for activities during inclement weather. Pine Hills offers "Clean toilets and a covered pavilion for getting out of the rain when needed," according to Bob P. The "new picnic shelter is beautiful and there is seating around a fire pit," notes Chelsea D.
Playground options: Lake Murphysboro State Park Campground provides play areas for children. "People kept cutting through our campsite on their way to the playground, which is whatever, but some people are bothered by that kind of thing," notes Chelsea D., indicating the popularity of these facilities with families.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer learning experiences. "Friendly staff sometimes host little educational presentations for kids," mentions one reviewer about Crab Orchard Lake Campground. These programs typically focus on local wildlife, geology, and history of the Shawnee National Forest region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have varying site sizes and accessibility. At Trail of Tears State Park Campground, "Sites that back to the river very close to each other. We stepped out our door onto the neighbors stinky slinky. Insufficient space to deploy awning," warns Napunani. Consider requesting specific sites when making reservations.
Leveling challenges: Terrain in the region can present challenges for larger rigs. "Site 6 not level side-to-side," notes one RVer about Trail of Tears State Park. Come prepared with leveling blocks and equipment.
Dump station access: Infrastructure for RVs varies significantly between campgrounds. At Johnson Creek, one camper noted, "It appears that the dump station hasn't worked in years." Plan accordingly for waste management if staying multiple nights in the Gorham area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near Gorham, IL?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Gorham, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Gorham, IL is Turkey Bayou Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 15 reviews.
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dog-friendly camping near
Gorham, IL?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Gorham, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 87 dog-friendly camping locations near Gorham, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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