Shawnee National Forest surrounds Herod, Illinois, providing multiple camping areas across diverse terrain. Pharoah Campground at Garden of the Gods Recreation Area serves as a central camping hub with primitive tent sites and limited RV accommodation. Jackson Falls offers free dispersed camping options for those seeking more remote experiences. The region includes both established campgrounds with basic amenities and backcountry sites accessible via hiking trails, particularly along the River to River Trail system that traverses the forest.
Campground availability follows seasonal patterns, with most facilities open from spring through fall. Pharoah Campground operates year-round while nearby Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area's Redbud Campground closes from December through mid-March. Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-pay stations. Facilities generally offer basic amenities including vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, but limited drinking water access. The terrain features significant elevation changes with rocky outcroppings and forested areas. According to one visitor, "We showed up at 4:00 and had a selection of about 6 spots... the rest filled up shortly after. It's no surprise this place is beautiful."
Campers consistently highlight the unique sandstone formations and scenic overlooks as primary attractions. Garden of the Gods observation trails provide accessible hiking from campsites with spectacular vistas. Several campgrounds in the area feature proximity to water features, including Pounds Hollow Recreation Area and Lake Glendale Recreation Area, which offer swimming opportunities during warmer months. Sites situated along ridgelines and cliff areas tend to receive higher ratings for their views and natural setting. A camper noted, "The sites to choose from are cliff side (don't wander around in the dark) and the inner area. Good space between sites and several secluded ones to choose from." Mixed-use trails accommodate both hikers and horseback riders throughout the forest, with dedicated horse facilities at some trailheads. Backcountry sites typically offer more seclusion but require proper preparation for primitive conditions.
$10 / night
"This is a stunning but small campground on top of a crazy high ridge surrounded by cliffs. I had no idea landscapes like this existed in Illinois and was pleasantly surprised."
"We headed down Indian Point Trail and within 50 yards or so we came upon the first site. An offshoot trail headed off to the right and ended at a nice campsite with a set fire circle."
$15 / night
"However, by Saturday morning (Easter weekend) all but 5 sites had cleared out and we had the place nearly to ourselves for the rest of the stay. "
"This campground is super remote and is near a couple trails with waterfalls."
$10 / night
"The main draw for us was the hiking trails. If you go over to the Pounds Hollow Rec Area you can find picnic areas and a pond to explore by boat."
"A great, centralized location for quite a few natural wonders and a hop, skip, and a jump away from quite a few more!"
"Jackson offers some of the best rock climbing in southern Illinois. There are about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders, with multiple routes."
"We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading. We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible."
$10 - $20 / night
"Our favorite in all of Illinois!!"
"Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many that back right up to Lake Glendale."
"On a gravel road, in the back country like most everything else on this side of Illinois , fill your gas tank up and your food locker or you will be driving back out a ways to refill. "
"It's super quiet despite the gravel road nearby. The vault restroom is kept very clean. It has easy access to the River to River trail, and I love the CCC stonework."
"General: I was a bit apprehensive about this state park because it did not take reservations, so we made sure to arrive by 11 am but we had no reason to worry – compared to other Illinois campgrounds"
"Signage will greet you as soon as you exit the ferry and Cave in Rock city has several small businesses you might want to visit. Plus a bunch of painted bikes..."
$12 - $44 / night
"Lake Glendale is a true southern Illinois gem. They have recently improved the shower houses, the kids love the playground, and there is SO much shade!"
"Ill Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods and Trail of Tears segments on ATT cell service was spotty but I drove to Dixon Springs SP where there was a cell tower."
"High Knob is a Horse campground in Shawnee National Forest near Garden of the Gods off Il1. The entire area has extensive trails through some awesome, hilly, rocky, cliffy areas."
"The trails are great maps available some trails need marked a bit better."
$40 / night
"We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go."
"Super friendly camp host, conveniently located off the interstate and feels pretty secure and tranquil. I will say some of the gravel was washed out which is surprising given how dry it’s been."
GuideNo showers, although listed among the amenities. Vault toilets are loaded with spiders and mud daubers with the exception of the one near the entrance. No sign of the camp hosts. Might be because of the time of year. There are some good spots along the water but not very RV friendly. Plenty of others away from the water and well spaced.
GuideReally great spot! Big rig friendly and pet friendly. There are lots of ticks and mosquitoes so make sure your furry friends are protected. You can park on the few paved spots on the top of the hill or the huge grassy area by the lake. Easy kayak launch for a day on the water! You do need a permit for parking and the ranger does stop by on weekends to check so just get one. It’s super cheap for what you get. Bathroom and dumpster on site too. There’s a bunch of attractions in Land Between the Lakes within a 10-20 minute drive. It’s a really cool place. Totally worth it to stay a few days.
ScoutNice lake, and paved trails for biking or walking. Quiet during the week
GuideNothing here but an open field and an old barn like structure. Just isolated.
TravelerTwo bathouses with two private bathrooms each. More geared for self-contained RVs. Toilet didn't flush.. Friendly host. All sites are pull through and very nice. 1/4 mile from interstate.
ScoutFriendly hosts, great views, awesome for kayaking and hiking the 3 mile loop around lake!
TravelerI stayed on a Sunday late April. With only 12 sites and it being first come first serve, I was nervous we wouldn’t be able to secure a spot. To our surprise, there were 4 open sites, so we had the perfect amount of privacy. The campground is a short walk from what I believe is the most popular trail in the park. Would 109% stay again.
ScoutWell maintained, friendly staff, peaceful, gorgeous campground! Does not have sewer hookups and water pedestal is every 2 spots so you need a very long hose to connect. But even with those disadvantages, I’d live here!
GuideI stayed in the primitive area but it did have water and electric at the campsite and it’s close to the bathroom. There are showers there too
Camping spots near Herod, Illinois sit primarily within Shawnee National Forest, which ranges in elevation from 310 to 1,064 feet. The region receives approximately 47 inches of rainfall annually, creating seasonal creek systems that can impact trail and campsite access during spring months. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights frequently drop below freezing.
Hiking to natural bridges: At Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area, campers can explore unique rock formations. "There's a natural rock arch formation, and lots of dramatic cliffs. I was curious as to what 'Boulder Falls' was like, but I never made it there," notes one visitor who enjoyed the network of trails.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Oak Point - Lake Glendale provides fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "Nice sites, and decent fishing and beach for swimming," reports a camper. The 3-mile lake trail loops around the water and provides multiple access points.
Climbing at Jackson Falls: This area attracts rock climbers of various skill levels. "Jackson Falls is popular with climbers, but I'm not one and had a rough time locating this place," shares a visitor, emphasizing the need for proper directions. The sandstone formations offer over 60 climbing routes ranging from beginner to advanced.
Natural swimming holes: Many campsites provide access to natural swimming areas. As one Bell Smith Springs visitor explained, "There is a spring/large swimming hole, with a few places to jump off of, but check with the locals to make sure the water is deep enough. Water levels were low when we were there, so you couldn't jump from the highest ledge at this time."
Secluded tent locations: Jackson Falls offers free dispersed camping for those seeking more isolation. "Secluded camp sites were easy to find, isolation was achieved, garbage was very minimally found, and the trails were long and winding," reports one camper who visited during Labor Day weekend.
Affordable pricing: Most campgrounds in the area maintain low fees. A Pine Ridge visitor noted, "Trying out my recently purchased 17' clipper travel trailer. Loved the area and the campsites are very roomy, especially for a small camper. And it was only $10 a night!!!"
Cell phone coverage limitations: Most camping areas have minimal or no service. According to one Cave-in-Rock State Park visitor, "Write your directions down for this whole area, the cell phone coverage is spotty and it will keep frustration down." Multiple campers report complete service loss when entering forest areas.
Seasonal concerns: Tick activity peaks between April and September. "There was poison ivy everywhere along the trail which made for a stressful hike, trying to keep ourselves on the trail without rubbing against the poison ivy. Next time we'll try to go early in the year, before it's so thick."
Bathroom facilities vary: While some campgrounds offer showers, many have vault toilets only. A Jackson Falls camper advised, "The bathroom was stocked with tp but you will want to bring hand sanitizer or water. None available there."
Beach access for children: Lake Glendale Recreation Area includes a swimming beach with designated areas. "The family that takes care of the campground was very nice and accommodating, and the sites were well-maintained. The beach and swimming area was so nice for us enjoy," shares one visitor.
Kid-friendly trails: Several areas offer shorter hiking options suitable for young explorers. "Good hiking and great camp site. No shower but the springs offer a refreshing soak after a long day of hiking. Water is easily accessible and clean," reports a Bell Smith Springs camper.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. A visitor to Oak Point noted, "The concessionaire stocks ice and wood, folks drive nice and slow for the kids, and there is a little playground for the kids to play on as well. Each campsite is surrounded by trees and it is nice and quiet."
Limited hookup availability: Camp Cadiz Campground and other primitive sites typically lack electric and water connections. "This camp ground is only about 10 min from Garden Of The Gods. The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents. There is well water, a bathroom for pit and picnic table at each site," explains a visitor.
Access road challenges: Several campgrounds have gravel entry roads that can be difficult after rain. A Jackson Falls visitor noted, "Grave Road getting there was a bit rough for my Ram Promaster. Hill down to trail head could get slick if wet weather. Was a little nervous getting out after it had rained."
Water crossing considerations: Some camping areas require traversing small streams. "There was a shallow creek crossing right before the camping areas that I was worried about when I arrived at night, but I realized in the morning that it was not a big deal even for 2WD vehicles," reports a Jackson Falls camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping in Herod, Illinois?
Herod is ideally located in southern Illinois with several excellent camping options nearby. Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground offers primitive camping with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. For more amenities, Oak Point - Lake Glendale is a favorite spot tucked into tall pines with water and electric hookups, plus sites backing right up to Lake Glendale. Additional options include Tower Rock Campground for primitive sites with pit toilets, Camp Cadiz for backcountry camping, and Ferne Clyffe State Park's campgrounds which feature limestone bluffs and scenic surroundings.
What outdoor activities are available near Herod, IL?
The Herod area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities in the heart of Shawnee National Forest. Jackson Falls provides some of southern Illinois' best rock climbing with approximately 60 climbing areas along sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders. Little Grassy Lake Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby trails while still being close to attractions like Giant City State Park. Water activities abound at Rend Lake's campgrounds where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming. Hiking trails wind throughout the region, with notable routes at Garden of the Gods offering spectacular views across the forest landscape.
When is the best time of year to visit Herod, Illinois for camping?
The optimal time to visit Herod for camping is spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate and the Shawnee National Forest displays either spring wildflowers or vibrant autumn colors. Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park offers welcome shade during warmer months. Summer (June-August) brings higher temperatures but full access to water recreation at South Sandusky Campground on Rend Lake. Popular sites like Garden of the Gods are heavily used in summer and early fall, so visiting during off-season provides more privacy. Winter camping is possible but facilities may be limited and weather unpredictable.
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