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Equestrian Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park features designated horse camping areas with access to drinking water, shower facilities, and toilet access. Located near Goreville, Illinois, approximately 25 miles from McClure, this campground is designed specifically for those traveling with horses. Reservations are required for the equestrian sites, which allow overnight camping with horses in a dedicated section separate from the standard campgrounds. The facilities are well-maintained and adequately shaded for campers and horses alike. While no dedicated horse corrals are listed in the amenities, the Class C Equestrian Campground section accommodates tent camping with horses. The campground maintains reasonable policies for horse owners, including guidelines for waste management and designated areas for horses.
The Shawnee National Forest surrounding the equestrian campgrounds provides extensive trail riding opportunities through diverse terrain. Riders access miles of interconnected bridle paths directly from the campground, allowing for day-long excursions without trailering horses to separate locations. The campground's location provides strategic access to forest trails that wind through sandstone formations and hardwood forests characteristic of southern Illinois. Trails range from easy paths suitable for novice riders to more challenging routes for experienced equestrians. Primitive horse camping is also available in select areas of the Shawnee Forest, though amenities are limited compared to established equestrian campgrounds. Water access for horses is available at certain points throughout the trail system, though riders should carry sufficient water during summer months. The surrounding public lands offer additional riding opportunities, making this region a notable destination for horse camping in Illinois.
"There are currently 25 equestrian camp sites in this park in a different area than the normal RV and Tent campground."
"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."
"We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go."
"Super friendly camp host, conveniently located off the interstate and feels pretty secure and tranquil. I will say some of the gravel was washed out which is surprising given how dry it’s been."
from $40 / night
Check Availability"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."
"There are 21 miles of trails throughout the park and a large lake. The attractions are all relatively close to the road (cave, "hidden" spring, and trout streams)."
"We pulled in around midnight and left at 8 am."
"It’s off the highway down Amish/Dutch country. It has a maintained gravel road beautiful lake and in June it’s covered with lightening bugs. Lots of wild flowers and the sunset- WOW!"
"This is a quiet family campground, most spots are lake side. Very spacious and lots of trees. First come first serve, and the park was full most of the time we were here."
"Overall the campground was full but not very many people around. Appears many locals take spots on the weekends & then hold onto them during the week."
"You have to walk from the parking lot into the basic sites but they are super close. Trying here was nice, and campsites a quiet and well taken care of."
"single, double, and triple camping spots set up on three loops in this small campground nestled in the corner of shawnee national forest. there's a central bath house located near check in. only amenities"
"The site was fairly secluded, and right on Kincade lake."
from $30 - $90 / night
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GuideI stayed at a walk-to tent site for which the price was $8 per night. Pretty solid Verizon cell signal. Clean showers and well kept. The place did sound pretty loud as far as older partiers, though around 9pm, it was near silent. I'd definitely stay here again.
GuideCampground was quiet and peaceful when I was there. Numerous trails within the park and I had them to myself while out hiking.
GuideWe were on our hike in Shawnee National Forest, and we found this campground. And it was an amazing experience. It has a beautiful view of the sunset, and there are ponds. There are horses on the property, and it’s very cheap for tent camping. The staff was amazing. She showed us around with her 4x4 the whole property, the horses, and the pony or a donkey. The showers were pretty decent and cleaned
I would recommend this place for everyone
GuideThis hidden gem is worth the visit. It’s off the highway down Amish/Dutch country. It has a maintained gravel road beautiful lake and in June it’s covered with lightening bugs. Lots of wild flowers and the sunset- WOW! On the trail there is a sign to set up for selfies. With a dog it wasn’t as easy as I’d hope to capture the moment. Ha
LegendPicked a spot that unknowingly left me a sitting duck for tornadoes later that evening. Great view, though. And never saw a single person. Moved to the spillway the second night... little less vulnerable.
ScoutUpon entering at about 3:30pm on a random Wednesday, there were three deer just hanging out just a hop before the sites you are not able to reserve (we easily switched our site over there- just a side note). The wildlife on that side is ruthless though! We gained an evening visitor (and I got the Blackstone pre cleaned every night!) but the lil critter stole the marshmallows and pizza crust from the small storage tent!
TravelerTwo bathouses with two private bathrooms each. More geared for self-contained RVs. Toilet didn't flush.. Friendly host. All sites are pull through and very nice. 1/4 mile from interstate.
ScoutI have camped here for several years even the non potable water has been disconnected for a couple years now. There are no camping spots on or near the lake they are all uphill.
GuidePlenty of dispersed camping on a well maintained dirt road. There’s fire pits all over and no shortage of spots.
The Shawnee National Forest area surrounding McClure, Illinois offers horse camping opportunities across 280,000 acres of public land. Trail systems connect through sandstone formations and hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 350 to 700 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-45°F while summer averages 75-95°F with high humidity.
Trail riding access: At Giant City State Park Campground, equestrians find extensive trail networks. "There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here. The geology is much like the Missouri area near the other bank of the Mississippi river," notes Michael M. "This one and Wolf Creek on Lake Shelbyville are the best parks in Illinois for horse trails."
Fishing opportunities: Johnson Creek provides access to Lake Kincaid with multiple fishing spots. "The site was fairly secluded, and right on Kincade lake. The campground is in the Shawnee National Forrest," explains Joel R. Some campgrounds stock small ponds for catch-and-release fishing within walking distance of campsites.
Exploring nearby towns: Take short trips to surrounding communities for local culture. "Make the quick drive to Makanda and explore the little hippy town. Don't forget to take a stroll through the secret garden!" recommends Shana D. Many small towns within 30 minutes of McClure offer weekend farmers markets and local restaurants.
Reasonable rates: Budget-conscious riders appreciate affordable equestrian camping options. "It really is a reasonable rate for forest camping," notes Tabitha R. about Johnson Creek, which charges $10 per night with self-check-in. Golden Pass holders can receive discounted stays at some federal recreation areas.
Clean facilities: Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park maintains well-kept restroom facilities. "Clean open campground with little privacy. Well kept bathrooms and water pumps throughout," reports Stephanie S. The park offers both modern shower facilities and vault toilets depending on which camping loop you select.
Wildlife viewing: Nighttime brings opportunities to hear and see local wildlife. "We heard several owls calling in the trees around us when we went to bed, so we stayed up listening for awhile. In the middle of the night we were startled awake by a pair of owls in the tree right above us," shares Joel R. Spring and early summer visitors often report firefly displays: "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!"
First-come, first-served: Many equestrian camping areas don't accept reservations. "Most you can spend here is 14 days, which lots of locals do," explains Never Sitting S. about Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR. During peak summer weekends and holidays, arrive early to secure spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near McClure, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near McClure, IL is Giant City State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near McClure, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 equestrian camping locations near McClure, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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