RV parks near Goreville, Illinois offer varied camping options within the Shawnee National Forest region. The area receives approximately 47 inches of rainfall annually with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Most campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 400-600 feet, creating moderate hiking conditions with occasional steep sections on surrounding trails.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Ferne Clyffe State Park features several accessible trails leading to scenic limestone formations. "The campground is small, situated on a limestone bluff which is cut by a small rivulet and some seasonal small waterfalls. The area is really a hidden gem - one has to hike down to discover the natural canyon with the awesome sites," notes Anton T. from Deer Ridge Campground.
Bird watching: Ohio River shoreline at Birdsville provides excellent opportunities for spotting migratory birds. Campers at Birdsville Riverside RV Park can observe river traffic while wildlife watching. "This little gem is off the beaten path but well worth it! All open sites waterfront, 30 or 50 amp, sewer and water hookups. Right on the Ohio river!" reports Beth H.
Fishing: Small lake access at Ferne Clyffe State Park permits fishing without a special license. Marc H. shares that Turkey Ridge Campground offers "a small fishing lake and a few hiking trails" making it convenient for campers who want to fish without traveling far from their sites.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Birdsville Riverside RV Park earns praise for its riverfront locations. "Our campsite was right on the river bank. We enjoyed a quiet and relaxing stay at this wonderful park. Watching the barges go up and down the river along with an occasional recreational boat or 2," explains Eileen T.
Clean facilities: Shower facilities at many Goreville area campgrounds maintain good standards. Charles W. notes, "Beautiful site on the Ohio River. Magnificent sunsets. Sites alternated pull in and back in sharing water and electric pedestals. Lots of space on door side of TT. Trash picked up daily from end of the site."
Wildlife viewing: Evening nature displays enhance the camping experience. At Turkey Ridge Campground, Stephanie S. observed "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" The campground's natural setting attracts various wildlife species visible from campsites.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many rv parks near Goreville transition to different reservation systems during off-peak months. At Deer Ridge Campground, "You take an open spot and pay the park ranger or host when they come around," according to Glenda, who also notes "Water only available at few spots and you would need a really long hose to attach if open faucet available."
Site spacing varies significantly: Marion Campground & RV Park and other facilities have tighter arrangements. Melissa H. mentions, "Right off the freeway with very tight spots, even for the pull-through sites. Loud freeway noise," though she acknowledges it's "Relatively inexpensive ($45ish), full hookups, and felt safe for a quick stopover."
Campground terrain: Turkey Ridge offers walk-in tent sites with variable distances from parking. TJ V. reports, "We camped at the primitive area spot 11. Spots are pretty dam close to each other. There is camping you can walk off to. We stayed for 1 night at the Turkey Ridge, so we stayed closer to the parking."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Several short hikes accommodate young hikers. "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids," advises David H. about Ferne Clyffe State Park.
Cave exploration opportunities: Natural formations provide memorable adventures. "Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours! Also in this park is a little lake and a gorgeous waterfall," shares Dani B. about the family-friendly activities at Turkey Ridge.
Limited playground facilities: Most Goreville area campgrounds offer minimal dedicated children's areas. At The Landing Point RV Park, a reviewer observed it "has a out dated swing set not in great shape that's the only reason for not 5 stars... Water park close by (5 minute drive) that was great for the kids on a hot day."
Tips from RVers
Interstate proximity: Several rv parks Goreville, Illinois provide convenient highway access for travelers. The Landing Point RV Park offers "large sites with level concrete. Staff is helpful and friendly," according to Lulu Z., making it suitable for overnight stays.
Site selection strategy: At Birdsville Riverside RV Park, Beth H. advises, "The odd number sites are back in, even numbers are pull in (or if you had cords and hoses long enough you could also back in knowing that you'd have to go under your camper to hookup). Also easy for buddy sites if you could arrange side by side sites."
Cellular connectivity: AT&T users report variable signal strength in the region. According to Melissa H., who stayed at Marion Campground & RV Park, "We have AT&T and had full bars (we have a booster which may have contributed to strong signal)."
