Camping opportunities near Metropolis, Illinois cluster along the Ohio River and extend into the nearby Shawnee National Forest region. The area sits at elevations between 300-400 feet above sea level, with terrain characterized by rolling hills transitioning to the river valley. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Lake Glendale Recreation Area features a swimming beach and clear waters perfect for cooling off in summer. "The hiking and swimming area is very interesting... There is a spring/large swimming hole, with a few places to jump off of, but check with the locals to make sure the water is deep enough," notes a visitor to Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs.
Fishing in stocked waters: Multiple ponds and lakes throughout the region offer fishing opportunities. Shawnee Forest Campground provides "a small lake and two ponds for fishing" according to a reviewer, while West Kentucky WMA offers a "field with a small pond" for more secluded fishing.
Hiking forested trails: A network of trails winds through the region, particularly in the Shawnee Forest. A camper at Lake Glendale Recreation Area remarked, "Trail around lake just beautiful... An easy 3 mile hike around the lake," highlighting the accessible nature trails.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots with natural separation. A camper at Oak Point - Lake Glendale noted, "This campground is an absolute gem... Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many that back right up to Lake Glendale."
Clean bathroom facilities: Newer and well-maintained facilities enhance the camping experience. One reviewer of Fern Lake Campground mentioned, "The bathroom was super clean and the shower had great pressure and instant hot water," highlighting comfortable amenities despite the campground's rustic setting.
Accessible lake views: Sites overlooking water features consistently rank among campers' favorites. A visitor to Dixon Springs State Park observed, "Beautiful campground with plenty of room between sites. Most are shaded with rings or fire pits. Great family friendly place."
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: The region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters with occasional ice or snow. During summer, many campers recommend water activities. "We'd seen signs for Shawnee Forest Campground many times as we headed out and back from our St. Louis home base... The water pressure was good around 50 psi," reported one visitor.
Reservation requirements vary: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate on a first-come basis. For Fort Massac State Park Campground, "There is an on-line reservation system, but you have to make reservations 3 days in advance. We just showed up and the camp host helped us find a site."
Wildlife precautions: Ticks and poison ivy are common in the region, especially during warmer months. A camper at Lake Glendale Recreation Area warned, "LOTS of poison ivy and ticks. Luckily, we expected this and came prepared with tweezers, tick remover, insect repellant, and poison ivy wipes."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. A reviewer at Dixon Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "We have a smaller travel trailer and it fit just fine, but the sites are on the smaller side. There were plenty of trees for hanging out hammocks, and lots of grassy areas for the kids to run around."
Swimming options: Public beaches and swimming holes provide relief from summer heat. According to one camper, "We hiked the trail and it took us about 2 hours total. They were very well maintained. The bathrooms were out toilets, but they were immaculately cleaned!"
Educational opportunities: Historical sites and nature centers offer learning experiences. A camper observed, "There are several historical sites in area. Illinois Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods, and segments of the Trail of Tears," providing context for family activities beyond camping.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and leveling: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. A visitor to Shawnee Forest Campground noted, "The sites are spacious and have picnic tables and fire rings. Full hookups is a plus. Super convenient to 24 but not too close that it is loud. The sites are loose gravel and not level front to back, so you need to unhook."
Hookup availability: Electric service is common, but water and sewer connections vary by campground. One RVer shared, "We chose site 21. The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21. The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice."
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds vary in quality and width. A visitor cautioned, "We'd know where to ask for a site. They have a small lake and two ponds for fishing. There's no formal dog area, but there are paved trails around the large CG area, which made it nice to walk our dogs."
