Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area provides year-round camping with both primitive and electric hook-up sites. Located about 20 miles south of Pana, Illinois, and 40 miles northwest of Highland, the park spans 1,980 acres around a 53-acre lake. Winter temperatures average 32°F while summer months typically reach 85-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing from the shore or by boat. "Great for fishing, trails and memories waiting to be made," notes camper Travis.
Hiking trails: Explore the trail system at Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area where multiple loops connect camping areas to the marina. According to Tracie E., "Main trail was nice but could be better marked. Lost our way a few times but still a good hike."
Water activities: Several area lakes support boating, kayaking and swimming. At Stephen A. Forbes, "The lake is big enough for ski boats but nice for kayaks also. Swim beach is not well maintained due to the budget but also doesn't cost anything," states Jennifer G.
Trail riding: Equestrian trails at Ramsey Lake accommodate riders of various skill levels. The park offers specific horse campgrounds near Highland, Illinois with wide, maintained trails though some visitors note improvements could help navigation.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at Dam West Spillway. According to heather S., "Big, spacious campsites with really pretty, big trees for lots of shade."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and shower facilities receive positive reviews at most campgrounds. At Dam West Spillway, one visitor noted, "The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. They smell like the laundry facilities as well."
Lakefront access: Sites with water views are highly sought after. Jacqueline F. writes about Dam West: "The sites that overlook the lake are absolutely gorgeous! We didn't land one but had lots of room where we were in site #24."
Budget-friendly pricing: Horseshoe Lake State Park offers exceptional value according to WanderlustDu0: "5 ⭐ in my opinion simply because of the overnight price and privacy." Another camper confirms, "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing spots in advance is recommended. At Dam West Spillway, Jacqueline F. observed: "When we tried to book online, all were taken but saw they had a few sites that were first come. Luckily, we got one of the last two."
Limited services: Some equestrian camping areas offer basic amenities only. At Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area, Alicia B. points out: "Biggest draw back is no electricity in equestrian sites. There's is water and toilets trails aren't marked real well but very wide nicely maintained to."
Cell reception: Signal strength varies significantly between campgrounds. At Stephen A. Forbes, Tracie E. reports: "Cell service was only 1-2 bars LTE with AT&T but able to stream with hotspot to the SmartTV with only 1 bar so not bad."
Seasonal closures: Some facilities operate on limited schedules. Jennifer G. notes about Stephen A. Forbes: "The store/restaurant has been closed for a year or two now because of the Illinois budget."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: World Shooting and Recreational Complex offers family-friendly amenities according to Christi L.: "Huge campground with a lake to boat, kayak or fish from the bank. Quiet but can be dry and hot in the summer. Fun place to gather with friends."
Educational programs: Some parks offer nature programs for children. At Dam West Spillway, Chris B. shares: "They have outdoor informational presentations about plants and animals geared toward children."
Safety considerations: Campground security varies by location. J N. from Ramsey Lake reports: "Shut down some karaoke party in a loop around 9pm," indicating staff monitoring of noise levels and activities.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds feature recreational options for various age groups. Chris B. notes that Dam West Spillway is "very clean and safe for young children" with "paved bike paths with views of the lake."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: At Dam West Spillway, Jeanie H. reports: "The campsites have sewer and water on some sites, as well as other sites with electricity available. Many of the sites are blacktopped and large RV's will fit on the sites."
Site levelness: Look for paved sites if traveling with larger rigs. According to Annie C., "Campsites are nice and flat with the standard picnic tables and fire rings," at Horseshoe Lake.
Distance to supplies: Consider proximity to towns when planning your stay. About Ramsey Lake, Jareth C. notes: "The only downside is that it's somewhat far from supply stores."
Seasonal considerations: The World Shooting and Recreational Complex hosts major events that affect availability. One reviewer advises: "During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full. We were here last weekend in August. Only one other camper within sight of our spot Friday night."
