Tent campsites near Harrisburg, Illinois sit within the eastern portion of the Shawnee National Forest region, where elevations range from 320 to 1,064 feet above sea level. This area typically receives 46 inches of precipitation annually, creating seasonal waterfalls after heavy rains. Camping areas often feature secondary-growth hardwood forest with oak and hickory trees predominating around campsites.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Turkey Ridge Campground, campers can access multiple waterfall trails varying in difficulty. "Really, this state park is a must for anyone who lives nearby or is driving through. It's just that gorgeous! There are lots of well maintained trails to hike... hikes that include bluffs, caves, creeks, etc. Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail," notes camper Dani B.
Fishing opportunities: Saline County State Conservation Area offers lake fishing with shoreline access near camping areas. One visitor reports, "You can fish here and even put in a boat or other water toys if you own one!" The lake supports bass, crappie, and catfish populations according to local angler reports.
Bird watching: North Marcum Day Use Area serves as an important bird habitat. Camper Jill R. states, "The lake is an important bird habitat making it a great place for my fellow bird watchers to go!" Spring migration (April-May) brings the highest concentration of observable species.
Mushroom hunting: During spring months, the forest areas surrounding Camp Cadiz Campground become a destination for morel enthusiasts. A reviewer noted, "It was also morel mushroom time so some people were hunting for them." Morels typically emerge from mid-April through early May when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F.
What campers like
Privacy at select sites: At Backpack Campground, campers appreciate the seclusion of walk-in sites. Merry L. confirms, "The walk up primitive sites are secluded, wooded, and within a pit toilet and water source." Sites require a short walk of approximately 100-300 feet from the parking area.
Lake views: Saline County Conservation Area campers value the water proximity and scenery. One camper reported, "We stayed here for 1 week in October. There weren't that many sites that were taken so there were a lot of good sites to choose from!" The lake views are particularly praised from hillside sites, which also offer better cellular reception.
Spacious campsites: Turkey Ridge Campground offers larger than average camping areas. David H. notes, "#35 is a nice location. Large yard and not super close to other campers. #53 is smaller but very private." Most sites accommodate two tents with room for hammocks between trees.
Cell signal availability: For those needing connectivity, Tower Rock Campground provides varying reception based on campsite location. Christopher H. advises, "A short walk from the campground is Tower Rock that was an old CCC path and over look of the Ohio River." The higher elevation at this overlook (approximately 100 feet above the river) provides better signal strength.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and flooding: Tower Rock Campground operates from May through mid-December with potential closures during high water. Art S. warns, "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."
Hunting seasons impact: During turkey hunting season (spring and fall), Dutchman Lake Camp and other areas become busier. One camper at Camp Cadiz noted, "Camp filled up with hunters who started generators at 3 in the morning to get ready to head out for turkey." Spring turkey season typically runs mid-April through mid-May.
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack modern amenities. At Backpack Campground, camper Tye K. points out, "Nice wooded primitive sites with easy access to water and toilets. Had my pups with, and no problems at all. Only issue I found at all was firewood is surprisingly difficult to come by."
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds involves gravel roads with variable maintenance. Hannah F. describes Camp Cadiz: "Stayed here in March 2020. My favorite part about this campground was that there were only 8 campsites so it was very quiet and remote."
Tips for camping with families
Best trails for children: Turkey Ridge offers family-friendly hiking options. Camper David H. recommends, "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids." This trail runs 0.3 miles and features minimal elevation change, making it suitable for younger children.
Beach access for swimming: North Marcum Day Use Area provides a clean swimming beach. "This is an beautiful little beach on Rend lake. The beach is also tidy and free of alot of trash, perfect for the youngsters to play in," notes Jill R.
Cave exploration opportunities: Several sites in the region offer safe cave experiences for children. At Turkey Ridge, Dani B. shares, "Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
Wildlife viewing for young naturalists: Multiple campgrounds offer wildlife observation opportunities. A visitor to Camp Cadiz noted, "Very dark at night, bring your headlamp," while others mention abundant birds, frogs, and occasional deer sightings that interest children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: At Saline County State Conservation Area, RVers should choose hill sites for better reception. Don N. advises, "My wife, 2 grandkids and our dogs and were at site 22 from 10/10/21-10/1/21 camping in a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108 TB. This was a great campground with fantastic views of the lake."
Water and dump access: Saline County provides essential RV services. A camper reports, "There is a dump station and potable water at the entrance to the campground. There are also some water spigots sprinkled throughout the campground."
Backup parking options: When established campgrounds fill, some RVers use alternative locations. One reviewer mentions, "We drove in through Shawnee national forest. The road went through some small towns with gas and food but not much else."
Road clearance considerations: Access roads to many campgrounds require adequate vehicle clearance. J C. at Tower Rock notes, "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."
