Best Campgrounds near Jonesboro, IL

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground providing amenities for tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabin accommodations. The region includes both developed facilities with full hookups and more remote sites where visitors can experience Alaska's natural beauty. Several campgrounds feature waterfront locations along lakes and rivers, while others are nestled in forested areas providing access to hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Road conditions can vary significantly, with some campgrounds requiring travel on gravel or unpaved roads. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer months when tourism is at its highest. Weather patterns can change rapidly, and campers should be prepared for mosquitoes, which are mentioned in multiple reviews. As one visitor noted, "In mid August the little nats were horrible but that's camping in Alaska!"

Campers consistently highlight the spectacular mountain and glacier views as key attractions at many Alaska campgrounds. Proximity to fishing opportunities is another frequently mentioned benefit, with several campgrounds providing access to popular salmon fishing locations. Wildlife viewing opportunities, including bears, are common near many camping areas, particularly those near salmon streams. Several visitors mentioned the cleanliness of facilities as a positive feature. A review of Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site stated it was "very clean" with "a beautiful view with the lake right there and the beavers are very active." While some campgrounds offer modern amenities like showers and flush toilets, others provide a more rustic experience with vault toilets and hand-pumped water, allowing campers to choose their preferred level of comfort while experiencing Alaska's remarkable landscapes.

Best Camping Sites Near Jonesboro, Illinois (112)

    1. Giant City State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Makanda, IL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 457-4836

    "There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp. There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here."

    "Each site has electricity and access to water. Some have more.

    All the hiking in the park is some of the best in Illinois. The visitors center has a lot of great information."

    2. Trail of Tears State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    McClure, MO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 290-5268

    "PRO 

    Senior discount saving $6 

    Able to reserve on-line 365 days prior to arriving 

    Very friendly and helpful camp host 

    Unobstructed view of the Mississippi River 

    Great dark sky viewing 

    No highway"

    "As close to camping next to the Mississippi river as you can get"

    3. Shawnee Forest Campground

    35 Reviews
    Vienna, IL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-0619

    $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."

    "This use to be a golf course and the cart paths are now walking trails. Be careful as the paths are in poor condition with cave ins in some areas and they arent blocked off."

    4. Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    16 Reviews
    Goreville, IL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 995-2411

    $18 / night

    "Had very nice trails, very clean. Forest is beautiful. We camped at the primitive area spot 11. Spots are pretty dam close to each other. There is camping you can walk off to."

    "Great campground away from roads and noise. Goreville is small local town with grocery store and service station for supplies. South LOOP sites 1-23 are first come sites."

    5. Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    15 Reviews
    Goreville, IL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 995-2411

    "Ferne Cliffe State Park is situated in the Shawnee National Forest, in the southern part of Illinois."

    "Dog friendly, pretty well spaced out campsites but some are used as paths with to get to farther back campsites. Good set up, not too close to neighbors and it’s heavily wooded in between."

    6. Turkey Bayou Campground

    13 Reviews
    Gorham, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 687-1731

    "We took a chance camping here since we hang hammocks but we found a site that had some trees nearby. We were pleasantly surprised to see a port-a-pottie at the campground."

    "Stayed during the eclipse so crowds were intense but the hosts lets us camp where we could find room, the site was clean and the pond was beautiful (as always bring the bug spray when camping near the"

    7. Pine Hills

    4 Reviews
    Alto Pass, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 253-7114

    $10 / night

    8. Trail of Tears State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Jonesboro, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 833-4910

    9. Little Grassy Lake Campground

    7 Reviews
    Makanda, IL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 457-6655

    $15 - $35 / night

    " We've been wanting to explore southern Illinois for a long time, but it's a six hour (min)  drive from our home."

    "The lake is quiet and clean. A nice hidden gem located a short drive from beautiful hiking trails. We will definitely be back."

    10. Touch of Nature Education Center

    5 Reviews
    Makanda, IL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 453-1121

    "Camp Amenities include: lodges, cabins, shelters, parking, fire pits/ fireplaces all with wood supplied, amphitheater s, fishing along Little Grassy Lake, trails, swing set."

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Showing results 1-10 of 112 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Jonesboro, IL

638 Reviews of 112 Jonesboro Campgrounds



Guide to Jonesboro

Camping near Jonesboro, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Easy walking distance to the observation trail that is the highlight of this park."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Gun Creek, where one camper noted, "Clean facilities. Self check-in. Golf onsite, clubhouse with food."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Jackson Falls, a reviewer shared, "Great hiking around the area," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "There is no potable water on site."
  • Busy Weekends: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. One reviewer at Hawn State Park Campground advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday."
  • Road Conditions: Access to some campgrounds, like Jackson Falls, can be rough. A camper noted, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long and just a little bumpy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Giant City State Park Campground, where one family said, "The playground was good," making it suitable for kids.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A visitor at Shawnee Forest Campground mentioned, "Came to this campsite with my boyfriend and I as well as our two dogs."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks handy can keep the kids happy. One camper at Gun Creek noted, "Clean facilities. Self check-in."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Not all sites are level, so check reviews before booking. A visitor at South Sandusky Campground mentioned, "Not all sites are very level."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, consider campgrounds like Hawn State Park Campground, which offers electric hookups.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, such as Pine Ridge, have poor cell service. A camper noted, "You can get some cell service but only in choice areas."

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Jonesboro, IL!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Jonesboro, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Jonesboro, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 112 campgrounds and RV parks near Jonesboro, IL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Jonesboro, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Jonesboro, IL is Giant City State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 24 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Jonesboro, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Jonesboro, IL.

What parks are near Jonesboro, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Jonesboro, IL that allow camping, notably Shawnee National Forest and Rend Lake.