Equestrian camping near Norris City, Illinois offers diverse terrain options within the Shawnee National Forest region. The area features several horse-friendly campgrounds within 40-60 miles of Norris City, situated in a landscape characterized by rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and hardwood forests. Water sources include numerous lakes and ponds, with Rend Lake being the largest body of water at 18,900 acres and offering extensive shoreline for camping and water access.
What to do
Trail riding from Gun Creek: Access miles of trails around Rend Lake, with paths suitable for various experience levels. "Great rates and even better campsites. We got there late and had no problems finding a great campsite right next to the lake," notes Jonathan W. about Gun Creek.
Fishing at South Sandusky: Cast a line directly from lakefront campsites. "Full hookups to tent camping and spacious sites. This is a Corps of Engineer Campground so bring your America the Beautiful pass! Well maintained on beautiful Rend Lake in southern Illinois," suggests Mary F. at South Sandusky Campground.
Hiking to historical sites: Explore hidden gems throughout the forest. "We even hiked down the forest road and found a hidden cemetery tucked away. The river to river trail heads out from camp too," mentions Art S. about the trails accessible from Camp Cadiz.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse rigs: Campers appreciate room for trailers and equipment. "Campsites are spacious. May places for large groups to camp when they put multiple sites together," shares Dave C. about Harmonie State Park Campground, which is popular with equestrians.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer excellent wildlife spotting. "Reservations made through Reserve America, this allowed us to have this part of the park almost to ourselves. We had 3 of the sites closest to the lake with only electric. The campground is well kept," explains Tina J. at Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground.
Quiet, remote atmosphere: The less developed areas provide peaceful camping. "Motorcycle camping across America and I wanted to see grades of the gods. What I didn't want was to camp on top of someone else... Cadiz was spacious, quiet, and the other campers wanted to camp not party," writes Jeremy G. about Camp Cadiz.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate with limited services outside summer. "New Harmony is a great place to vacation with family. The state park is gorgeous. The small town had several antique shops and local owned restaurants," Jamie B. mentions about the area around Harmonie State Park.
Reservation requirements: Some equestrian campgrounds have specific booking procedures. "Gary and his family are very polite and very happy to be helpful. Great prices. Burn pit and cooking grill above the pit at every site I visited. Clean Air condition in the bathroom," notes David N. about Shawnee Forest Campground.
Water level variations: Lake access can change throughout the year. "It was a good view, also pretty RV heavy, but tent friendly. Grassy area, fire pit, stone table. Because of the lake there are tons of mosquitos, plan accordingly!" warns Brennan M. about Gun Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer family amenities. "We love the large beach. The campsites have a nice set up and are a decent size. The kids loved the playground. There were kids everywhere and everyone was very friendly!" reports Missy D. about South Sandusky.
Halloween events: Fall brings special programming at several locations. "We stayed the weekend before Halloween. They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot and although there weren't a ton of vehicles, it was definitely enough for the kids to have fun trick or treating," shares Nichole M. about seasonal activities at Deer Ridge Campground.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with beach access. "Clean open campground with little privacy. Well kept bathrooms and water pumps throughout. Short trail leads from campground to the limestone cliffs. Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" reports Stephanie S. about Ferne Clyffe State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require adjustment for RVs. "Overall a great stay, very busy as it was full the entire time we were there while the state park down the road was empty. Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline," advises Never Sitting S. about Gun Creek.
Utility placement: Note hookup locations when selecting sites. "We'd seen signs for Shawnee Forest Campground many times as we headed out and back from our St. Louis home base. The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice," explains MickandKarla W.
Cell service variability: Signal strength varies throughout the region. "Harmonie State Park is a nice campground. It is located back in the hills, far off the highway. Very little cell phone signal. Very relaxing and enjoyable," notes Olivia S. about reception at Harmonie State Park.
