The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Murphysboro. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Murphysboro and user-submitted reviews.
"There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp. There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here."
"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 took a chance camping here since we hang hammocks but we found a site that had some trees nearby. We were pleasantly surprised to see a port-a-pottie at the campground."
"Stayed during the eclipse so crowds were intense but the hosts lets us camp where we could find room, the site was clean and the pond was beautiful (as always bring the bug spray when camping near the"
$10 - $25 / night
"Wthat a nice find in southern Illinois just outside of Marion. Very big roomy and grassy sites. Some right on the lake shore."
"Getting there: Easy access off Illinois 13 East of Carbondale
Check in and staff: Campground is now under the egis of recreation.gov& reservations through them are a must."
"We had pit toilets, but had to drive elsewhere for showers. I would come back again."
$15 - $35 / night
" We've been wanting to explore southern Illinois for a long time, but it's a six hour (min) drive from our home."
"The lake is quiet and clean. A nice hidden gem located a short drive from beautiful hiking trails. We will definitely be back."
"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."
"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."
"Quite quaint and easy access to campground."
"This campground is family friendly and right on the lake. We were lucky to come on a cooler weekend and get a more private campsite."
$20 - $50 / night
"Surrounded by wineries, hiking places, historic sites, close to town for dining out, visiting for special events. Whatever you may schedule."
"Much enjoyed driving around exploring this large state park in IL. Seems to be awesome for fishing as there are many lakes. Great access to the lakes for canoe & kayak."
"The park office is a pretty long drive from the north end campground. The hiking is limited but the campground was peaceful and close to the lakes. Probably covered in bugs in the summer."
GuideBeautiful park and really comfortable with kids. Many different camp options with different prices and amenities.
Clean shower and laundry room too.
GuideWe came on Memorial Day weekend, almost backed out due to rain but very glad we didn’t. We stayed in the basic campground, spot 50. There was hardly anyone else here. Spot was secluded and quiet. There’s a short hiking trail down to the lake, fun walk through nature in the area. Beautiful look out over the Mississippi River. Park ranger drove through the campsite around 9:30pm, I really liked that, made it feel safer. Had a cute furry friend make a visit a few times during the night. Didn’t catch any fish in the lake but we probably didn’t bring the right bait. Very enjoyable experience, bathrooms were extremely clean. Only downside was the shower house being closed. Really recommend this spot!
LegendUsing your GPS of choice, you can reach this campground off I-57 via Benton or the IL-154/Sesser exit. The area includes both North Sandusky and South Sandusky COE campgrounds, clearly marked and easy to find. We arrived around 2:00 PM and found the check-in gate closed, but since we had a reservation, we proceeded directly to our back-in site 123 with full hookups. Most sites here offer water and electric (50/30/20 AMP), while the Dogwood loop features several full hookup sites in its upper section. Note that the loop has low-sloping ditches on both sides of the road, so precise backing is needed to land on the asphalt pad. There’s one full hookup pull-through site in the Dogwood loop—a long, slightly curved pad with sewer and power connections on the yard side, and water on the standard side. Both North and South Sandusky COE campgrounds offer a wide variety of site types, including lake views, varying utility setups, and well-spaced sites. Paved bike trails run throughout the area. We've been coming here for years, and this campground remains one of our favorites close to home.
ScoutConvenient, clean, trails from Campground.
ScoutWe run a 28ft RV and we’re able to cross the first water wash without problem. We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading.
We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible. The further sights will require crossing several wash outs. The terrain is hard rock and any capable 4x4 should be able to navigate to the furthest sight’s. .
TravelerLots of interstate noise. Many sites are very off level. CHECK carefully
ScoutBacks up to lake. Short walk to clean restrooms. Will come back.
TravelerOff season privacy and electric. Nicely wooded too!
GuideNot a large state park, but the campgrounds, small lake with swimming area, and the views of the Mississippi River valley are good. There are a few larger towns within about 10 miles where you can get all the supplies you need for camping.
Camping near Murphysboro, Illinois, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Murphysboro, Illinois, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Murphysboro, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 97 campgrounds and RV parks near Murphysboro, IL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Murphysboro, IL is Giant City State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 24 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Murphysboro, IL.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Murphysboro, IL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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