Johnson Creek Recreation Area sits on the western edge of the Shawnee National Forest at approximately 450 feet elevation. The area features rolling hills with limestone formations characteristic of southern Illinois topography. Equestrian camping opportunities near Grand Tower, Illinois offer direct trail access from campsites to forest trails during seasonal periods from spring through fall, though summer humidity can make riding conditions challenging.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: At Giant City State Park Campground, riders can access dedicated equestrian trails separate from the main campground. "There are currently 25 equestrian camp sites in this park in a different area than the normal RV and Tent campground... There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here," notes Michael M.
Fishing access: Multiple lakes provide fishing opportunities throughout the region. At Randolph County State Recreation Area, campers can fish at the 65-acre lake. "This campground is located on a small lake in Southern Illinois and managed by the department of natural resources. Good place for Camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking and boating," reports Joel R.
Rock climbing: For experienced climbers, the limestone formations provide technical challenges. "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else," advises Josh M. about Giant City State Park.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers appreciate lakeside locations for overnight stays. "My wife and I camped here one weekend in early fall. The site was fairly secluded, and right on Kincade lake. The campground is in the Shawnee National Forrest, and We heard several owls calling in the trees around us when we went to bed," writes Joel R. about Johnson Creek Campground.
Diverse wildlife viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities to observe native species. "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!" describes Joel R. at Johnson Creek Campground.
Primitive camping options: Some campers prefer more rustic experiences away from developed areas. "We came down for a spontaneous camping trip to explore SNF and found Giant City to be a great place to stay. We stayed in the primitive camp site, while there were others there, everyone was dispersed far enough that it felt private," reports Sunshine Z.
What you should know
Variable trail conditions: Trail maintenance can vary throughout the season. At Deer Ridge Campground, "The trails were VERY unkept and there was poison ivy at nearly every step," warns Mari K.
Water access limitations: Not all advertised water features remain accessible. "The entry map shows a beach- there might have been 5 years ago but now absolutely nothing that even resembled a place to swim," notes Mari K. regarding outdated information at some facilities.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal variations. "The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else," advises Josh M. about climbing conditions after precipitation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Easy walk to the lake with a gorgeous view, 2 different playgrounds walkable distance from campground," notes Shirlee A. at Randolph County State Recreation Area.
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forest setting provides educational experiences. "Cute little forest bunnies running around!" mentions Shirlee A., highlighting natural encounters children might enjoy.
Firefly viewing: Seasonal insect activity creates natural light shows. "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" reports Stephanie S. about evening experiences at Deer Ridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps," reports MickandKarla W. at Shawnee Forest Campground.
Dump station locations: Some facilities have specific access points for sanitary services. "Make sure you fill up at the dump station before you get to the campground because there's no easy way to turn around if you miss it. It's approximately a mile before the campground on your left," advises J K. at Randolph County Recreation Area.
Electric options: Hook-up availability varies significantly between horse campgrounds near Grand Tower. "No water hook up at each site, only electricity," clarifies Shana D. about the Giant City State Park facilities, important information for those planning extended stays with horses.
