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Tent Camping near Grantsburg, IL
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Shawnee National Forest surrounds Grantsburg, Illinois with numerous tent camping options, particularly in the eastern section where primitive tent sites can be found. Ferne Clyffe State Park, located about 20 miles southwest of Grantsburg, offers dedicated tent-only areas including Turkey Ridge Campground and Backpack Campground with walk-in tent sites. Camp Cadiz Campground, situated at the eastern trailhead of the River to River Trail in Shawnee National Forest, provides backcountry tent camping with basic amenities. Tower Rock Campground near Elizabethtown offers riverside tent camping with seasonal availability from May through mid-December.
Most tent campsites in the Grantsburg area feature basic amenities on natural surfaces. Sites typically include fire rings with cooking grates, and some offer picnic tables. Vault toilets are standard at established campgrounds, though cleanliness varies seasonally. Potable water is available at some locations like Camp Cadiz and Ferne Clyffe, but many primitive sites require campers to bring their own water supply. Cell service is limited or non-existent throughout much of the region, particularly at riverside and remote forest locations. During hunting seasons, especially turkey season in spring, campgrounds may fill quickly with hunters. A 14-day stay limit applies at most public land campsites.
Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for hiking the extensive trail networks. One visitor noted that Ferne Clyffe's walk-up primitive sites are "secluded, wooded, and within reach of a pit toilet and water source," with nearby waterfalls worth exploring. At Camp Cadiz, campers appreciate the quiet setting despite its proximity to a gravel road. According to reviews, the campground's eight sites provide ample space for multiple tents. Weekday visits typically offer greater solitude, with one camper reporting they were "the only tent campers, so it was nice and peaceful" at Turkey Ridge during a September weekday. Fall tent camping near Grantsburg brings cooler temperatures and spectacular foliage, while summer offers full shade from mature oak and sycamore trees at many sites.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Grantsburg (18)
1. Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
"There are a lot of hiking trails and we really enjoyed them all! The tent camping accommodations were less than stellar, simply because of the “outhouses “."
"It was easy to find firewood with out having to go very far, becareful there is a good amount of poison ivy. The only trail I hiked was Happy Hollow."
Check Availabilityfrom $18 / night
2. Dutchman Lake Camp
"We pulled in around midnight and left at 8 am."
"It’s off the highway down Amish/Dutch country. It has a maintained gravel road beautiful lake and in June it’s covered with lightening bugs. Lots of wild flowers and the sunset- WOW!"
3. Backpack Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
"Not a lot of tent sites, but enough. Nice wooded primitive sites with easy access to water and toilets. Had my pups with, and no problems at all. Nice trails for different hiking skill sets."
"Ferne Clyffe State Park is in the Shawnee National Forrest near Goreville, IL., south of Carbondale."
5. Fishing Pier
"Good primitive"
"Lots to do nearby if you don't like fishing! Ranger came through and was very friendly & helpful."
6. Buck Ridge Campground
7. Camp Ondessonk
Check Availabilityfrom $6 - $16 / night
8. Tower Rock Campground
"Campground is smaller but the sites are spread out well, most have fire ring with grill stand and table, firewood available to gather onsite when I was there, vault toilets, right on the river so may be"
"There is a pit toilet, but no water. "
9. Saline County State Conservation Area
"There is a dump station and potable water at the entrance to the campground. There are also some water spigots sprinkled throughout the campground."
"This was a great campground with fantastic views of the lake. We also hiked Garden of the Gods and Burden Falls in the Shawnee National Forest. The hikes were great."
Check Availabilityfrom $8 / night
10. Willow Springs Campground
"We're honored that Robyn has chosen to list her property on our platform. Come here to find peace and embrace nature. Surrounded by greenery, this is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and reconnect."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $125 / night
Drive Time
- 28 min from Paducah, KY
- 1 hr 6 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 46 min from Evansville, IN
- 2 hrs 5 min from Owensboro, KY
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Grantsburg, IL
10 Photos of 18 Grantsburg Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near Grantsburg, IL
782 Reviews of 18 Grantsburg Campgrounds
MickandKarla W.
LegendMarion/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.
- MickandKarla W.Legend
Columbus-Belmont State Park
Nice Surprise
Columbus-Belmont State Park is a bit of a drive on country roads, but well worth the effort. We originally reserved site 28, but a large tree and its low-hanging branches presented clearance problems for our 40' fifth wheel. We spoke with the very friendly camp host, who moved us to back-in site 25 with full hookups (50/30/20 AMP). The sites are positioned at 90 degrees to the CG road, but there was enough room to maneuver our big rig into the site with a few adjustments. Our site and several others had some slope and pitch to the pads, so additional leveling blocks may be necessary. The extra effort was well worth the trouble. Water pressure was okay. We had one bar on Verizon and two bars on T-Mobile. The CG did not provide Wi-Fi, but our T-Mobile Home Internet worked exceptionally well, with download speeds of 345 Mbps. There were numerous large, mature trees throughout the CG, so satellite reception, including Starlink, could be challenging depending on the site and whether you can reposition the dish to find a clear view of the sky. We've stayed at hundreds of campgrounds over the years, but until Columbus-Belmont, we'd never used the word"immaculate" to describe one. The CG sits on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, and our site 25 had a beautiful river view from our toy hauler's deck. The park also has plenty of interesting Civil War history to explore. Barge operations along the river below the CG generated some daytime noise, but nothing we found particularly bothersome. Between the immaculate grounds, beautiful setting, and historical significance, Columbus-Belmont was well worth the drive and a place we'd gladly return to.
- SSamuel B.
ScoutTwin Lakes Campground
Excellent primitive sites with fire ring and picnic table right on the water.
- ttim O.
GuideCamp Cadiz Campground
Quiet clean campground, 8 sites, one water spigot, pit toilets, hiking and biking, 9 miles to Garden of the Gods. Campground is right next to road. Local traffic is minimal, most sites will accommodate 30ft trailer or motor home.
- MMark V.Traveler
Fern Lake Campground
I’m not sure where the good reviews come from. Ive tried to find another Fern Lake to make sure I was at the correct one. Bath facilities have half doors so you are shitting in public. Your kids get the nice look over by any of the weird full timers living junk squaller. The power poles are only standing by the shear strength of all the cobbled together wires and electric tape. It’s not safe. It’s fucking dangerous. Most the fire “pits” are shitty rings from 60 years ago at least. There is zero maintenance here. It’s very loud next to the freeway. Sites are small and on top of each other. Lots are small. Not level. And little gravel. The cinder blocks keep you from backing in too far. Most of the water posts are “shared” because others don’t work. Picnic tables are a fucking joke. Rotten. Lead paint and worthless. The water retaining POND has a grass path around it so you can admire what recycled concrete can create where there was once no POND. One star is extremely generous. Just like the generous $10 a bundle for wood. Keep on trucking. It’s not far to go to find something worthwhile. This is a 100% pass. Before you think I’m some kind of pre Madonna, I will say we are a minimalist family that camps in unimproved spots and boondocks all the time. This place is gross. And disturbing that anyone reviews it for more than a 1 star. Most of the reviews are flat out lies. One talks about the clean bathrooms, hot showers, and one mentions a fucking pool! Wtf? Shitting in your own fire ring is more private. Pictures sooooo under tell the story of what a shot hole this place is. It’s off the freeway very close. And there is a Mexican restaurant across the street and a Casey’s essentially attached. If that’s what you like. Have fun. But any great reviews are from either someone who came and went in the dark. Or are from the owners.
- 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!
RJ B.TravelerPisgah Point - DFWR
Pretty, but Surprisingly Busy
We chose this spot to camp because it seemed out of the way and was hopefully quiet. We're not sure whether it was the beauty of the spot or the time of the year (Thursday before Columbus Day/fall break), but this spot was so busy!! We arrived early afternoon and there was someone driving in (most left again) every 10 minutes for the entire day!! Not the peaceful spot we were hoping for. We intended to stay a second night, but it was just too busy for us. Not a repeat site for us unfortunately.
We set up camp on the east side near the woods. It was a little challenging to find a flat area. The vault toilet was central to the area. We saw several large birds catching fish in the lake, so there must be decent fishing. There was a picnic table or two on the west side of the area and several fire pits (only one on the east side where we were). The 2 mile gravel road leading to Pisgah Point was pretty rough and washed out at points.
Guide to Grantsburg
Tent camping opportunities in Grantsburg, Illinois thrive in an area dominated by oak-hickory forests and sandstone bluffs reaching up to 320 feet in elevation. The region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 89°F and moderate rainfall, creating humid camping conditions between June and September. Winter camping remains possible with average lows of 20°F in January, though fewer campsites remain accessible.
What to do
Hiking the Beaver Trail: Located near Camp Cadiz Campground, this shorter trail provides a perfect opportunity to practice backpacking skills. "Stayed here in March 2020... There was potable water from a spigot and lots of kindling around to get fires going," notes camper Hannah F., who appreciated the trail access from this eastern trailhead of the River to River Trail.
Mushroom hunting: Spring camping trips coincide with morel mushroom season. Art S. observed at Camp Cadiz that "it was also morel mushroom time so some people were hunting for them." The oak forests surrounding Grantsburg provide ideal conditions for mushroom foraging in April and May.
Rock climbing: The limestone bluffs offer climbing opportunities throughout the region. Joel R. mentioned that near Backpack Campground, "there are several limestone bluffs, great for climbing, naturally forested woodlands, cliff caves, and several small waterfalls."
Fishing on the Ohio River: The riverside location of Tower Rock Campground provides direct water access. One camper noted, "Campground is smaller but the sites are spread out well... right on the river so may be closed during flood seasons." The Ohio River supports catfish, bass, and crappie fishing.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: At Turkey Ridge Campground, camper David H. appreciated "#35 is a nice location. Large yard and not super close to other campers. #53 is smaller but very private." These sites accommodate multiple tents per site.
Historical CCC structures: Camp Cadiz features stone fireplaces built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Chelsea D. writes, "I love this campground. It's super quiet despite the gravel road nearby... I love the CCC stonework."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting creates natural habitat for diverse wildlife. Gina J. at Turkey Ridge Campground noted, "There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night."
Off-the-beaten-path solitude: Many campsites in the region offer seclusion from crowds. Jeremy G. chose Camp Cadiz over Garden of the Gods camp because "Cadiz was spacious, quiet, and the other campers wanted to camp not party. Stayed an extra day because of it."
What you should know
Hunting season impacts: Turkey hunting season significantly affects campground availability and atmosphere. Art S. observed at Camp Cadiz: "Camp filled up with hunters who started generators at 3 in the morning to get ready to head out for turkey." Spring turkey season runs April-May, with additional seasons in fall.
Toilet facilities vary widely: Vault toilets are standard but conditions fluctuate. TJ V. noted at Turkey Ridge that "There are 'out houses' close by. Although they were pretty bad my buddy said 'storm of flies came shooting out the hole like a tornado.'"
Road conditions can be challenging: Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. Art S. described the approach to Tower Rock Recreation Area: "The road is deceptively smooth. Ruts and water crossings appear suddenly."
Flooding closures affect riverside sites: Campsites near the Ohio River experience seasonal closures. J C. noted about Tower Rock: "right on the river so may be closed during flood seasons." Spring camping requires checking current conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes for children: Family-friendly trails accommodate younger hikers. David H. recommends "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids" near Turkey Ridge Campground, with well-maintained, less strenuous paths.
Cave exploration opportunities: Ferne Clyffe State Park offers natural caves kids can safely explore. Dani B. shares, "Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
Watch for poison ivy: When gathering firewood or hiking with children, be aware of abundant poison ivy. Ryan P. warns at Camp Cadiz, "The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents... becareful there is a good amount of poison ivy."
Quick access from Interstate: For families needing easily accessible tent camping, Dutchman Lake Camp offers convenience. Matthew Z. called it a "Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-suitable sites: Most tent camping areas near Grantsburg accommodate small trailers but not larger rigs. David H. noted a successful stay at Turkey Ridge: "Stayed here 3 nights in travel trailer. Water available to fill your holding tank and in couple of locations in campground."
Water fill stations: RVers should fill tanks before setting up camp. Joel H. recommended, "A short walk from the campground is Tower Rock... from the boat landing go UP... follow the terrain and you will find it. It is a rock cliff that is, I don't know 100 feet above the river."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Grantsburg, IL?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Grantsburg, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Grantsburg, IL is Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 16 reviews.
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tent camping near
Grantsburg, IL?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Grantsburg, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Grantsburg, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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