Turkey Bayou Campground offers free primitive camping with direct water access, just 20 miles west of Makanda in southern Illinois. The Shawnee National Forest region features sandstone bluffs and densely wooded terrain, with elevations ranging from 375 to 1,064 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking at Giant City: The park features multiple trail options ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes. "The Giant City Nature Trail and Devils Standtable were really pretty, easy strolls. The Trillium Trail is a little more rugged for those who prefer less crowded, slightly tougher trails," notes Shana D. after camping at Giant City State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Bring fishing gear to take advantage of the numerous lakes and waterways. "Lots to see and do. We love to fish and camp on Crab. Great Lake. We camp at Blue Heron Campground in Carterville, right on Crab Orchard Lake," shares Joel H. from Crab Orchard Lake Campground.
Stargazing: The rural setting offers excellent night sky viewing. "Due to the somewhat rural location you could not beat the view of the stars at night," according to Josh M. who visited Giant City during winter.
Rock climbing: For more adventurous visitors, the area provides climbing options. "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else," advises Josh M.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Many campsites offer direct water access. At Turkey Bayou Campground, Kevin remarks, "Perfect campground. Clean, right next on the water, only 2 other groups (~20 sites total), and FREE. Though no trash or showers--only porta-potty."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting allows close encounters with animals. "Lots of amazing, beautiful hikes in this park, especially if you're into bluffs and large boulders," says Kyle K. about Giant City. Elisha S. adds about Turkey Bayou, "I went camping alone and there weren't too many people here... spectrum Mobile works out here and the lake is beautiful."
Firefly displays: Seasonal visitors can witness impressive natural light shows. "Clean open campground with little privacy. Well kept bathrooms and water pumps throughout. Short trail leads from campground to the limestone cliffs. Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" shares Stephanie S. about Deer Ridge Campground.
Quieter weekdays: For those seeking solitude, mid-week visits offer more privacy. "Middle of the week in June and the campground was about half empty. Very peaceful place. We could hear the fish jumping all night," Sheryl P. notes about Turkey Bayou.
What you should know
Varying shower facilities: Bathroom quality differs between campgrounds. At Little Grassy Lake Campground, a visitor reported, "The restrooms and showers are pretty centrally located. They were clean but basic."
Seasonal challenges: Different times of year present unique conditions. "We stayed Easter Weekend here in the campground and had a great time. The campground is clean and maintained. Some sites are gravel and some are asphalt," says Shana D. about Giant City.
Site spacing concerns: Some campers note proximity issues. "Sites are kind of close together in my opinion, and most don't have trees or other dividing features between them. Not so great if you want privacy, but fantastic if you like a sense of community," Matthew L. explains about Little Grassy Lake.
Elevation variations: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. "Site 6 not level side-to-side," mentions one camper about Trail of Tears State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. "There is also a little beach for campers to enjoy. Friendly staff sometimes host little educational presentations for kids," shares Chelsea D. about Crab Orchard Lake Campground.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer learning experiences. "Visitor Center has small museum (no admission fee) on the Trail of Tears Native American tribal migration," reports a camper at Trail of Tears State Park.
Pet-friendly trails: For families traveling with dogs, nearby hiking paths welcome four-legged visitors. "Giant City is a great place for hiking and wildlife viewing," says a visitor, noting that leashed pets are allowed on most trails.
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide play areas. "Camp Amenities include: lodges, cabins, shelters, parking, fire pits/fireplaces all with wood supplied, amphitheaters, fishing along Little Grassy Lake, trails, swing set," shares James M. about Touch of Nature Education Center.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water options vary by campground. "There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp," notes Michael M. about Giant City, while another camper adds, "Sites are flat and most are pull through. Giant City has great hiking and wildlife viewing."
Lake access considerations: Waterfront sites may require advance planning. "Around $30/night In 2019 for lake front with RV hookups," reports Daniel P. about Little Grassy Lake.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. "Sewer connection was high above ground so drainage was up hill. Camp host warned us upon arrival we may need to use dump station to get tanks totally drained," warns a camper about Trail of Tears.
Site levelness: Prepare for potential adjustments at some campgrounds. "Sites that back to the river very close to each other. We stepped out our door onto the neighbors stinky slinky. Insufficient space to deploy awning," notes one RVer about riverside camping.
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