Equestrian camping opportunities surround the Shawnee National Forest region near Harrisburg, Illinois. Located in the southern portion of Illinois, this area features rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and densely forested terrain with elevations ranging from 300-1,000 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 20°F to 40°F, while summer months see averages between 70°F and 90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Shawnee Forest Campground serves as a convenient base for accessing multiple trail systems. "It's a great park with decent proximity to a lot of nature. Anna, Marion and Harrisburg are your best bets for restaurants and grocery etc," notes Jessica T. who visited Shawnee Forest Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds provide direct lake access for fishing enthusiasts. "They have a small lake and two ponds for fishing," reports MickandKarla W. about their stay at Shawnee Forest Campground.
Hiking networks: Campers can enjoy various hiking trails throughout the region. "There are some excellent things to see. The trail traverses some of the River to River trail that meanders through the area," mentions Shelly S. from her experience at High Knob Campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campsites typically offer ample room for equestrian setups. "Campsites are spacious and can accommodate very large rigs with high lines behind sites. Stalls can be reserved," shares dana W. about Little Lusk Trail Lodge & Campground.
Convenient access: Many locations provide easy highway access while maintaining natural settings. "Super convenient to 24 but not too close that it is loud. There is no playground or pool. The sites are loose gravel and not level front to back, so you need to unhook," Greg S. mentions about Shawnee Forest Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good shower and restroom facilities. "The bathrooms were a short walk across the road and up the slope from site 30," notes Susan L. about Gun Creek campground, while another camper mentions, "Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions vary significantly throughout the year. "It's sometimes pretty rocky in the water so we usually wear water shoes," advises Gina J. about swimming at South Sandusky Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "When we arrived after our 15 hour drive, someone decided to park in our site. Once they moved we were able to start putting up our tent," reports Tori P. at Shawnee Forest Campground, highlighting the importance of confirmed reservations.
Limited cell service: Some areas have restricted connectivity. "Very little cell phone signal," notes Olivia S. about her camping experience, making it important to download maps or information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. "There are 3 playgrounds through out the campground. They have various events through the summer season with a big Halloween event in the fall," shares Olivia S. about Harmonie State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Lakes and pools provide cooling options during summer months. "Nice clean campground. Most sites are pretty large. Nice pool with water slide," mentions Kristene B. about Harmonie State Park.
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. "Our only problem was 1 or more raccoons kept coming into our site. We shooed them away but they kept coming back," warns Barbie G. about her family's experience camping in the region.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campsites require adjustment for RV parking. "Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps," notes MickandKarla W. about their experience at Shawnee Forest Campground.
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when selecting sites. "The water and electric (50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice," shares MickandKarla W. about Deer Ridge Campground.
Quiet time enforcement: Campgrounds maintain quiet hours for peaceful stays. "They have quiet hours from 10-6 and the bathrooms and showers are always really clean," reports Gina J. about South Sandusky Campground.
