The Shawnee National Forest region near Junction, Illinois sits at elevations between 300-1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for outdoor recreation. Summers average 85°F while spring temperatures range 50-70°F with frequent rainfall that feeds seasonal waterfalls. Weather conditions change rapidly in this region, particularly during spring when Ohio River flooding can affect lower elevation campsites.
What to do
Hiking to hidden sites: The Backpack Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park connects to multiple hiking options. "There are several limestone bluffs, great for climbing, naturally forested woodlands, cliff caves, and several small waterfalls," notes Joel R., who appreciates the diverse terrain. Trails accommodate different skill levels, with Tye K. mentioning there are "nice trails for different hiking skill sets."
Fishing the Ohio River: Tower Rock Campground provides direct river access. "Good if you like free, being close to the ferry, and or fish," explains Kate B. The area attracts serious anglers, with Christopher H. adding, "A short walk from the campground is Tower Rock that was an old CCC path and over look of the Ohio River... It is a rock cliff that is, I don't know 100 feet above the river."
Paddling options: Many lakes in the region permit small watercraft. Lake Mauzy East offers calm water for kayaking and canoeing. "Lake mauzy is very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondocks this is a great place," according to Tammy, highlighting its peaceful setting for water activities.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Dutchman Lake Camp offers dispersed camping away from crowds. "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too," writes J A., who values the solitude. Another camper, Matthew Z., adds it's a "beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway," making it convenient yet peaceful.
Dark night skies: The minimal light pollution around Camp Cadiz Campground creates exceptional stargazing. "This is a campground you wanna use if you like being off the beaten path out on your own... Very dark at night, bring your headlamp," recommends Shelly S. The remote setting provides astronomical viewing rarely found in more populated areas.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites. At Turkey Ridge Campground, David H. notes, "#35 is a nice location. Large yard and not super close to other campers. #53 is smaller but very private." Scott N. agrees: "The sites are large and include a cooking grate. It was easy to find firewood without having to go very far."
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access: Several campgrounds close during winter or flooding periods. Tower Rock operates from May 1 to December 15 and may close when the Ohio River rises. Art S. reports, "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."
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. At Saline County State Conservation Area, Don N. notes: "The only drawback is that we had no cell service, although a quick trip to the ridge behind the campsite (1-2 minute drive)" restored service. Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information beforehand.
Toilet conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs significantly between sites. Hannah F. from Camp Cadiz observes, "Bathrooms were not super clean but they were fine." At Turkey Ridge, TJ V. encountered more challenging conditions: "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.'"
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Turkey Ridge Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park offers accessible hiking for all ages. Dani B. recommends, "Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!" David H. adds, "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids," making it perfect for family outings.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer natural encounters children enjoy. Across Ferne Clyffe State Park, Gina J. observed "a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night." At Saline County State Conservation Area, families can fish and observe lake wildlife.
Swimming areas for hot days: Several locations feature designated swimming areas. North Marcum Day Use Area on Rend Lake provides a clean beach environment. "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," according to Jill R.
Tips from RVers
Water access points: For RVers dry camping, North Marcum Day Use Area provides reliable water hookups. Jim L. notes, "the Corp of Engineering's really take care of these camp grounds, very clean, most have new showers." Similarly, at Saline County State Conservation Area, M E. explains, "There is a dump station and potable water at the entrance to the campground. There are also some water spigots sprinkled throughout the campground."
Road condition warnings: Many forest roads become challenging for larger vehicles. At Camp Cadiz, Art S. warns, "Every vehicle that went by generated dust which then coated everything in our camp. If you come here, we suggest taking the site that is furthest from the road." Christopher H. adds that for Tower Rock Campground, "In Cave in Rock you take W Clay St to the left. It turns into Cave in Rock Rd which will get you there... if you miss the turn it will be a minute before you can turn around."
Site selection strategy: Don N. recommends a specific approach at Saline County: "We were able to get cell signal on the campsites up the hill but not in any down by the water, which is why we stayed up the hill." For best tent camping near Junction, Illinois, scout available sites early as "In order to get a spot you will need to look around and choose a site then put your tent or RV on it to save it."
