Tent camping near Mason, Illinois provides access to the diverse landscapes of the Shawnee National Forest. The area features limestone bluffs, hardwood forests, and small bodies of water with elevations ranging from 350 to 700 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s with high humidity, while spring and fall maintain more moderate 60-70°F daytime temperatures ideal for tent camping.
What to do
Hiking waterfalls trails: At Turkey Ridge Campground, visitors can explore numerous waterfalls and bluffs. "There are several hiking trails that looked pretty, but we didn't get a chance to walk them. Overall, this is a nice and quiet campground," notes one camper who stayed in a motorhome.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Girardeau Conservation Area offers excellent fishing, particularly for those with boats or kayaks. One visitor shared: "Nice little primitive campground with about 8 small spots. Has a nice sized lake good fishing if you are using a boat, or kayak."
Cave exploration: The area features limestone formations with accessible caves for beginners. "The campground is wonderful! There are lots of well maintained trails to hike... hikes that include bluffs, caves, creeks, etc. Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
Wildlife viewing: The diverse habitats support abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night," reported one camper at Turkey Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Backpack Campground offers more private tent camping options. According to one visitor: "I love Ferne Clyffe State Park - the walk up primitive sites are secluded, wooded, and within a pit toilet and water source."
Easy highway access: Some campgrounds provide convenient access for travelers. At Dutchman Lake Camp, one camper noted: "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing."
Well-maintained facilities: Most established campgrounds have basic but functional amenities. "The tent camping accommodations were less than stellar, simply because of the outhouses. There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night."
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous site dimensions. "The sites are large and include a cooking grate. It was easy to find firewood without having to go very far, becareful there is a good amount of poison ivy."
What you should know
Toilet conditions vary: Vault toilets at some locations receive mixed reviews. At Apple Creek Conservation Area, facilities are minimal. "It's a level spot with gravel, so it's a clean place in damp weather. Not much right there, but Apple Creek is a very short distance north on the gravel road."
Cell reception: Some campsites maintain decent cellular connectivity. "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too. Verizon works well," reports one Dutchman Lake Camp visitor.
Seasonal closures: Many tent camping areas around Mason close during winter months. Buck Ridge Campground operates from "March 15 to December 15," according to official information.
Firewood challenges: Some campers note difficulty finding wood on-site. "Not a lot of tent sites, but enough. Nice wooded primitive sites with easy access to water and toilets. Had my pups with, and no problems at all. Nice trails for different hiking skill sets. Only issue I found at all was firewood is surprisingly difficult to come by."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Fishing Pier and surrounding areas offer activities beyond fishing. "State park with minimal facilities. Lots to do nearby if you don't like fishing! Ranger came through and was very friendly & helpful."
Cave exploration for children: Some trails specifically accommodate younger explorers. "Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours! Also in this park is a little lake and a gorgeous waterfall."
Trail difficulty ratings: Campgrounds often feature paths suitable for various ability levels. "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids," notes a visitor discussing hiking options.
Wildlife education opportunities: The abundant natural setting provides chances to observe and learn about local species. "There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups available: Most tent camping areas near Mason lack RV amenities. Lake Girardeau Conservation Area camper mentioned: "The campground area here is very small. There is no running water. There is one bathroom. It is secluded and nice to just get away, but each campsite is very close to each other."
Site spacing considerations: At Willow Springs Campground, the 100 available sites provide various spacing options. However, at other locations, "Spots are pretty dam close to each other. There is camping you can walk off to."
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. "The road is deceptively smooth. Ruts and water crossings appear suddenly. The creek looks like it overflowed."
No-wake lakes: Several water bodies in the region maintain peaceful conditions for non-motorized watercraft. "It is a good area for fishing, kayaking or canoeing. It is a no-wake lake."
